Transgender Therapists in Key Biscayne, FL

Photo of Cindy Camaraza-Suarez - Cindy Camaraza- Author, Holistic Psychotherapist, License, MFT, MS, CHHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cindy Camaraza- Author, Holistic Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, License, MFT, MS, CHHC
Verified Verified
Key Biscayne, FL 33149  (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Clients! Welcome! I am a Seasoned Holistic Psychotherapist. AUTHOR and Founder of www.simplycindy.com, with over 10 years of experience..Connection is KEY! In any therapeutic process there MUST exist a deep level of Trust . I am here to support you! Finally at the point to try a powerful and unique approach to therapy that will not only heal from the root but will do so in half the time of traditional talk therapies?If you keep doing what you have always done, you will keep getting what you have always gotten. My Integrative approach to therapy includes CBT, DBT, Solution focused therapy and more.
Now Accepting New Clients! Welcome! I am a Seasoned Holistic Psychotherapist. AUTHOR and Founder of www.simplycindy.com, with over 10 years of experience..Connection is KEY! In any therapeutic process there MUST exist a deep level of Trust . I am here to support you! Finally at the point to try a powerful and unique approach to therapy that will not only heal from the root but will do so in half the time of traditional talk therapies?If you keep doing what you have always done, you will keep getting what you have always gotten. My Integrative approach to therapy includes CBT, DBT, Solution focused therapy and more.
(561) 258-9530 View (561) 258-9530
Photo of Miriam Frances Abety, PsyD, LMHC, EAP-C, Counselor
Miriam Frances Abety
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, EAP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Key Biscayne, FL 33149
Empowerment is key in therapy. I have more than 25 years' experience in the field, and am ready to heal the psychological issues in your life. Call me. Let me guide you as far as you are motivated to heal. I have strategies to help you work through whatever is keeping you away from wellness and joy. My expertise is in women's issues, LGBT, trauma, substance abuse, crisis counseling, and all chronic disorders including depression, bi-polar, anxiety and addiction. Also, my mother had Alzheimer's for whom I was the caretaker. I know about the family issues which surface.
Empowerment is key in therapy. I have more than 25 years' experience in the field, and am ready to heal the psychological issues in your life. Call me. Let me guide you as far as you are motivated to heal. I have strategies to help you work through whatever is keeping you away from wellness and joy. My expertise is in women's issues, LGBT, trauma, substance abuse, crisis counseling, and all chronic disorders including depression, bi-polar, anxiety and addiction. Also, my mother had Alzheimer's for whom I was the caretaker. I know about the family issues which surface.
(786) 420-4211 View (786) 420-4211
Photo of Elsa M Orlandini - Miami Psychology Group, PsyD, CST, Psychologist
Miami Psychology Group
Psychologist, PsyD, CST
Verified Verified
Key Biscayne, FL 33149
We at the Miami Psychology Group (MPG) believe in providing effective, kind and supportive treatment. All our professionals participate in ongoing training to maintain the highest standards in our field. We encourage all clients to participate in initial interviews to see if the practice professionals can meet your needs and most importantly help heal, address and consult on the presenting reason or reasons for attempting treatment. We do not participate in insurance and can provide information on how to have your insurance cover some of the cost if that option is available to you through your insurance.
We at the Miami Psychology Group (MPG) believe in providing effective, kind and supportive treatment. All our professionals participate in ongoing training to maintain the highest standards in our field. We encourage all clients to participate in initial interviews to see if the practice professionals can meet your needs and most importantly help heal, address and consult on the presenting reason or reasons for attempting treatment. We do not participate in insurance and can provide information on how to have your insurance cover some of the cost if that option is available to you through your insurance.
(305) 676-9667 View (305) 676-9667
Photo of Dr. Silvina Nancy Belmonte, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Dr. Silvina Nancy Belmonte
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Key Biscayne, FL 33149
One or more of these issues may be affecting you: Depression, Stress and Anxiety, Love and Intimacy, Sexual Dysfunctions, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Low Self Esteem/Lack of Self Confidence, Low Self Image, Relationship Concerns, Guilt, Loneliness. I offer you a confidential and safe place to explore and process what is emotionally affecting you. Let's Talk! I can Help!
One or more of these issues may be affecting you: Depression, Stress and Anxiety, Love and Intimacy, Sexual Dysfunctions, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Low Self Esteem/Lack of Self Confidence, Low Self Image, Relationship Concerns, Guilt, Loneliness. I offer you a confidential and safe place to explore and process what is emotionally affecting you. Let's Talk! I can Help!
(305) 982-7961 View (305) 982-7961
Photo of Melissa DaSilva - East Coast Mental Wellness, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
East Coast Mental Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Key Biscayne, FL 33149  (Online Only)
Immediate Openings are Available! At East Coast Mental Wellness, we take pride in ensuring you are receiving the right care and treatment. We try our best to accommodate every client's need and offer a safe and comfortable environment. Telehealth sessions are based on client interest and clinician availability.
Immediate Openings are Available! At East Coast Mental Wellness, we take pride in ensuring you are receiving the right care and treatment. We try our best to accommodate every client's need and offer a safe and comfortable environment. Telehealth sessions are based on client interest and clinician availability.
(786) 480-1115 View (786) 480-1115
Photo of Diana Robinson, LMHC, Counselor
Diana Robinson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Key Biscayne, FL 33149  (Online Only)
Find your strengths in the "HERE and NOW" by being Kind and Gentle with Yourself. How can you love others if you don't love yourself first? You are worthy of love and attention. Our innate being can often be suppressed by stress, doubt, or pain. You are Precious and Irreplaceable! Therapy isn't about 'fixing' oneself; rather a journey from insight to integration, a recovery of what you may have lost along the way, finding a practice of gentleness, and a return to wholeness. Therapy is about creating a sense of your own story. I invite you to take hold of this chance for yourself on this journey inward into self-discovery.
Find your strengths in the "HERE and NOW" by being Kind and Gentle with Yourself. How can you love others if you don't love yourself first? You are worthy of love and attention. Our innate being can often be suppressed by stress, doubt, or pain. You are Precious and Irreplaceable! Therapy isn't about 'fixing' oneself; rather a journey from insight to integration, a recovery of what you may have lost along the way, finding a practice of gentleness, and a return to wholeness. Therapy is about creating a sense of your own story. I invite you to take hold of this chance for yourself on this journey inward into self-discovery.
(561) 800-3226 View (561) 800-3226
Photo of Silvina Belmonte - Soul Gate, Inc, PhD, LMHC
Soul Gate, Inc
PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Key Biscayne, FL 33149
(786) 765-5762 View (786) 765-5762

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of L Charlie Janski-Ogunfidodo (Hehim) - Charlie JO Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charlie JO Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130
During my career, I have worked with both individual and group settings, including adults with people living with HIV, veterans, incarcerated people and transgender/gender variant individuals. These populations included people with depression, bi-polar disorder, personality disorders, anxiety, PTSD and depression. I co-facilitated a group for trans youth and co-coordinated it for 6 years. As a proud bisexual, trans man, I love to work with my LGBT communities. I celebrate kinky and poly people. I strive to be an imperfect ally to non-binary trans people and people of color.
During my career, I have worked with both individual and group settings, including adults with people living with HIV, veterans, incarcerated people and transgender/gender variant individuals. These populations included people with depression, bi-polar disorder, personality disorders, anxiety, PTSD and depression. I co-facilitated a group for trans youth and co-coordinated it for 6 years. As a proud bisexual, trans man, I love to work with my LGBT communities. I celebrate kinky and poly people. I strive to be an imperfect ally to non-binary trans people and people of color.
(786) 841-2939 View (786) 841-2939
Photo of Pamela J. Albert, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Pamela J. Albert
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33102  (Online Only)
SUPPORT: Are you a spouse, partner, parent, child or friend of someone who has identified as transgender or nonbinary? When a person begins a gender transition, family and friends may also experience unknowns.
Now accepting new clients! My specialty area is working with folks who are transgender/nonbinary/gender fluid or not sure, as well as people in the LGBTQ+ community. I see teens ages 14 and up, and adults. If you or a loved one is struggling with gender identity, sexuality or how to navigate through gender transition, please contact me. Although reaching out to a therapist can be scary, you’ve already taken the first step. Together we can create an individual plan to help you become the best, and most authentic, version of you. I have experience working with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
SUPPORT: Are you a spouse, partner, parent, child or friend of someone who has identified as transgender or nonbinary? When a person begins a gender transition, family and friends may also experience unknowns.
Now accepting new clients! My specialty area is working with folks who are transgender/nonbinary/gender fluid or not sure, as well as people in the LGBTQ+ community. I see teens ages 14 and up, and adults. If you or a loved one is struggling with gender identity, sexuality or how to navigate through gender transition, please contact me. Although reaching out to a therapist can be scary, you’ve already taken the first step. Together we can create an individual plan to help you become the best, and most authentic, version of you. I have experience working with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(321) 978-0981 View (321) 978-0981
Photo of Anagloria Mora, PhD, LMHC, CCS, Counselor
Anagloria Mora
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CCS
Verified Verified
Pinecrest, FL 33156  (Online Only)
As a Board Certified Clinical Sexologist I specialize in Gender Identity ( Gender Dysphoria) and Sexual Orientation.
Professional dedicated to the enhancement of life quality. Gender Identity & Sexual Orientation Specialist. LGBTQ Oriented. Clinical Sex Therapy.
As a Board Certified Clinical Sexologist I specialize in Gender Identity ( Gender Dysphoria) and Sexual Orientation.
Professional dedicated to the enhancement of life quality. Gender Identity & Sexual Orientation Specialist. LGBTQ Oriented. Clinical Sex Therapy.
(305) 981-6971 View (305) 981-6971
Photo of Aeron DeGroat, MA, LMHC, MCAP, Counselor
Aeron DeGroat
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MCAP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33146
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.
(954) 737-5692 View (954) 737-5692
Photo of Terry Ann Dornak, PsyD, Psychologist
Terry Ann Dornak
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
I am passionate about helping transgender clients process and navigate the transition journey.
It is my goal to provide you with a safe, therapeutic space to unload and explore your needs, worries, and fears whatever they may be. The path to healing is unique for each of us. We will work collaboratively towards meeting your goals and needs, and in doing so, make your life more comfortable and satisfying. It is my hope that each person who meets with me feels accepted, as I respect each individual's culture, gender, race, religion, and sexual identity.
I am passionate about helping transgender clients process and navigate the transition journey.
It is my goal to provide you with a safe, therapeutic space to unload and explore your needs, worries, and fears whatever they may be. The path to healing is unique for each of us. We will work collaboratively towards meeting your goals and needs, and in doing so, make your life more comfortable and satisfying. It is my hope that each person who meets with me feels accepted, as I respect each individual's culture, gender, race, religion, and sexual identity.
(847) 532-3007 View (847) 532-3007
Photo of Patricia Rodriguez Gilmore, LMHC, Counselor
Patricia Rodriguez Gilmore
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coral Gables, FL 33146
Based on my experience in Miami and New York, I work primarily in a psychodynamic way with adults experiencing depression and anxiety; gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender issues; substance abuse; grief issues; relationship concerns; and unresolved childhood wounds.
I am a psychoanalyst and psychotherapist specializing in talk therapy. My clients often come to me feeling angry, depressed and disappointed with their relationships, careers and their lives and are at a loss as to how to live a fulfilling life. Working together with clients within a supportive relationship, I help them articulate their feelings more authentically and uncover unconscious conflicts that get in the way of living life with vitality. I have found that when people truly engage in the process of therapy, they can experience healing, acceptance of themselves, stress reduction, personal growth, and increased fulfillment.
Based on my experience in Miami and New York, I work primarily in a psychodynamic way with adults experiencing depression and anxiety; gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender issues; substance abuse; grief issues; relationship concerns; and unresolved childhood wounds.
I am a psychoanalyst and psychotherapist specializing in talk therapy. My clients often come to me feeling angry, depressed and disappointed with their relationships, careers and their lives and are at a loss as to how to live a fulfilling life. Working together with clients within a supportive relationship, I help them articulate their feelings more authentically and uncover unconscious conflicts that get in the way of living life with vitality. I have found that when people truly engage in the process of therapy, they can experience healing, acceptance of themselves, stress reduction, personal growth, and increased fulfillment.
(305) 834-4373 View (305) 834-4373
Photo of Haley Ferguson, LMHC
Haley Ferguson
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130
Hi all! I'm a Licensed Therapist in Florida and I truly enjoy working with adolescents & adults struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, social issues, and oppressive issues. Over the last few years, I've been lucky enough to work with a diverse population of clients, including those experiencing mental health concerns, houselessness, racial oppression, and gender dysphoria. This has helped me develop a number of creative, client-centered, and community-centered techniques designed to help clients identify their current strengths & challenges, and to develop treatment plans that allow them to track progress throughout treatment.
Hi all! I'm a Licensed Therapist in Florida and I truly enjoy working with adolescents & adults struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, social issues, and oppressive issues. Over the last few years, I've been lucky enough to work with a diverse population of clients, including those experiencing mental health concerns, houselessness, racial oppression, and gender dysphoria. This has helped me develop a number of creative, client-centered, and community-centered techniques designed to help clients identify their current strengths & challenges, and to develop treatment plans that allow them to track progress throughout treatment.
(954) 737-3109 View (954) 737-3109
Photo of Michelle Gaede, LMHC, Counselor
Michelle Gaede
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33142  (Online Only)
I am comfortable treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, gender dysphoria, adjustment issues, and grief and loss.
My name is Michelle Gaede (she/they) and I am a licensed mental health counselor. I'm here to provide a safe space for you to navigate whatever challenges are coming up in your life. I work side by side with you to ensure you're heard, seen, and gain the tools you need to be successful. I have over 10 years of experience working with a variety of clients. I specialize in work with the LGBTQ+ community, as well as long-term trauma, parenting issues, and navigating general life stressors.
I am comfortable treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, gender dysphoria, adjustment issues, and grief and loss.
My name is Michelle Gaede (she/they) and I am a licensed mental health counselor. I'm here to provide a safe space for you to navigate whatever challenges are coming up in your life. I work side by side with you to ensure you're heard, seen, and gain the tools you need to be successful. I have over 10 years of experience working with a variety of clients. I specialize in work with the LGBTQ+ community, as well as long-term trauma, parenting issues, and navigating general life stressors.
(786) 882-1097 View (786) 882-1097
Photo of Jordan Boehler - Mind Mechanic Rapid Resolution Therapy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mind Mechanic Rapid Resolution Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33109  (Online Only)
I also provide evaluations and letters to ESAs and Gender Dysphoria diagnoses.
If you could let go of anything, what would it be? I provide short-term, intensive therapy that resolves the cause of your issue. I am a practitioner of Mimetic Therapies. This means I facilitate profound and transformational experiences in the resolution of Trauma/PTSD and Grief/Loss, as well as panic, depression, phobia, and pain for anyone- regardless of background- interested in feeling better. My ideal client is done talking about it, done doing workbooks, done understanding the cause. I connect deeply and directly with the parts of you that have been trying so hard to protect and heal your self and cause them to collaborate.
I also provide evaluations and letters to ESAs and Gender Dysphoria diagnoses.
If you could let go of anything, what would it be? I provide short-term, intensive therapy that resolves the cause of your issue. I am a practitioner of Mimetic Therapies. This means I facilitate profound and transformational experiences in the resolution of Trauma/PTSD and Grief/Loss, as well as panic, depression, phobia, and pain for anyone- regardless of background- interested in feeling better. My ideal client is done talking about it, done doing workbooks, done understanding the cause. I connect deeply and directly with the parts of you that have been trying so hard to protect and heal your self and cause them to collaborate.
(727) 295-4919 View (727) 295-4919
Photo of Julie M Basulto, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie M Basulto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33146
Specialized in the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety as well as working with the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ+) community in a variety of issues; specifically with adolescents, caregivers of LGBTQ+ youth, adults, and couples.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist focused on providing individual, family and couples counseling. Specialized in the treatment of trauma as well as depression, anxiety, stress management, and working with the LGBTQ+ community (adolescents, adults and couples). The ideal client is motivated in accomplishing their treatment plan goals and is always willing to learn new things to benefit their personal growth. It has been rewarding in working with survivors of sexual trauma because they are strong willed in overcoming their issues related to their trauma in order to heal themselves mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
Specialized in the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety as well as working with the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ+) community in a variety of issues; specifically with adolescents, caregivers of LGBTQ+ youth, adults, and couples.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist focused on providing individual, family and couples counseling. Specialized in the treatment of trauma as well as depression, anxiety, stress management, and working with the LGBTQ+ community (adolescents, adults and couples). The ideal client is motivated in accomplishing their treatment plan goals and is always willing to learn new things to benefit their personal growth. It has been rewarding in working with survivors of sexual trauma because they are strong willed in overcoming their issues related to their trauma in order to heal themselves mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
(786) 833-7390 View (786) 833-7390
Photo of Renee L. McFarland, LMHC, MA, MS, Counselor
Renee L. McFarland
Counselor, LMHC, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33106  (Online Only)
My area of emphasis is working with young children, adolescents, adults, transgender/non-conforming individuals, & families, as they move through challenging life transitions.
Hi! I welcome you to contact me at Time Out Counseling, I am a dedicated counselor working in collaboration with you, tailoring therapy to fit your needs! I know that there are many mental health care challenges, specifically now with our political times; sometimes difficult to manage on your own. I believe you must bring your whole self to the table if you want to create change in your life; your passion, personality, sense of humor, and most importantly your heart will be the impetus for change! All of these interpersonal elements brought me here, to be the voice and advocate for those who need my help. I would like to help you!
My area of emphasis is working with young children, adolescents, adults, transgender/non-conforming individuals, & families, as they move through challenging life transitions.
Hi! I welcome you to contact me at Time Out Counseling, I am a dedicated counselor working in collaboration with you, tailoring therapy to fit your needs! I know that there are many mental health care challenges, specifically now with our political times; sometimes difficult to manage on your own. I believe you must bring your whole self to the table if you want to create change in your life; your passion, personality, sense of humor, and most importantly your heart will be the impetus for change! All of these interpersonal elements brought me here, to be the voice and advocate for those who need my help. I would like to help you!
(239) 237-3206 View (239) 237-3206
Photo of Rennie Manning, MACP, LMHC, Counselor
Rennie Manning
Counselor, MACP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130
I welcome LGBTQ, transgender and gender dysphoria clients.
Is past trauma keeping you stuck? Does depression, anxiety and worry keep you from enjoying the life you want and deserve? Do you feel trapped in your marriage or relationship? Are you a teen trying to navigate middle or high school? I can help. I have 30 years of experience helping my clients improve communication, resolve conflicts, increase marital satisfaction, and letting go of things that no longer serve. I combine cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment, and compassion focused therapy. Many of us carry shame and guilt and seem blocked from forgiving ourselves. I teach compassion for self.
I welcome LGBTQ, transgender and gender dysphoria clients.
Is past trauma keeping you stuck? Does depression, anxiety and worry keep you from enjoying the life you want and deserve? Do you feel trapped in your marriage or relationship? Are you a teen trying to navigate middle or high school? I can help. I have 30 years of experience helping my clients improve communication, resolve conflicts, increase marital satisfaction, and letting go of things that no longer serve. I combine cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment, and compassion focused therapy. Many of us carry shame and guilt and seem blocked from forgiving ourselves. I teach compassion for self.
(904) 421-9710 View (904) 421-9710
Photo of Kristen R Weick, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Kristen R Weick
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33156  (Online Only)
I love working with lesbian, bisexual/pansexual, gay, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, & asexual clients (those who are gender and/or sexually expansive), as well as polyamorous folks, people going through or considering making life changes, introverts, feminists of all genders, activists, & Highly Sensitive People (HSP).
Are you looking for a safe & affirming space to explore your sexuality and gender? Are you going through life changes &/or making life decisions & need someone to talk to outside of your family & friends? Are you in an open, polyamorous, or other non-monogamous relationship format & want guidance & tools either before opening up &/or how to have healthy relationships, in general, either via individual therapy or couples/marriage/relationship counseling? Do you need support as a partner or family of an LGBTQ+ person? Do you need a non-judgemental place to process life? If so, I would be honored to walk with you as your path unfolds.
I love working with lesbian, bisexual/pansexual, gay, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, & asexual clients (those who are gender and/or sexually expansive), as well as polyamorous folks, people going through or considering making life changes, introverts, feminists of all genders, activists, & Highly Sensitive People (HSP).
Are you looking for a safe & affirming space to explore your sexuality and gender? Are you going through life changes &/or making life decisions & need someone to talk to outside of your family & friends? Are you in an open, polyamorous, or other non-monogamous relationship format & want guidance & tools either before opening up &/or how to have healthy relationships, in general, either via individual therapy or couples/marriage/relationship counseling? Do you need support as a partner or family of an LGBTQ+ person? Do you need a non-judgemental place to process life? If so, I would be honored to walk with you as your path unfolds.
(321) 320-6393 View (321) 320-6393

See more therapy options for Key Biscayne

Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.