LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Melbourne Beach, FL
![Photo of Maria Silva, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca4d8f9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Silva
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Melbourne Beach, FL 32951 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello and welcome! I am Dr. Silva. I am currently taking adult, child, and adolescent clients who are experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, irritability, grief, relationship, and anger difficulties. At times we find ourselves struggling to maintain a healthy balance between all the roles and demands life requests of us. I am here to provide support, guidance, and expertise in facilitating the changes you wish to make and assist in managing your current difficulties.
Hello and welcome! I am Dr. Silva. I am currently taking adult, child, and adolescent clients who are experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, irritability, grief, relationship, and anger difficulties. At times we find ourselves struggling to maintain a healthy balance between all the roles and demands life requests of us. I am here to provide support, guidance, and expertise in facilitating the changes you wish to make and assist in managing your current difficulties.
![Photo of Diane Mary Digeronimo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3eacd2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Diane Mary Digeronimo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Melbourne Beach, FL 32951
I AM AN EXPERIENCED, RESULTS ORIENTED THERAPIST. I HAVE BEEN IN PRIVATE PRACTICE SINCE 1990 HERE IN FLORIDA. I BELIEVE EVERYONE WISHES TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN LIFE. THERAPY IN MY OFFICE IS AN EFFECTIVE JOURNEY TO ASSIST YOU TO DEVELOP THE SKILLS TO BE SUCCESSFUL. SMALL STEPS =SUCCESS.
I ATTEMPT TO MAKE YOUR THERAPY A UNIQUE AND ENGAGING EXPERIENCE. I GIVE ONGOING FEEDBACK TO CREATE THE CHANGES THAT YOU HAVE COME FOR.SMALL STEPS=CHANGES YOU ARE SEEKING.
MY YOUNGEST CLIENT HAS BEEN 2 YEARS OLD, AND MY OLDEST, 91 YEARS OLD. I HOPE TO INCLUDE YOU IN THE ENJOYMENT OF THIS IMPORTANT TEAM WORK.
I AM AN EXPERIENCED, RESULTS ORIENTED THERAPIST. I HAVE BEEN IN PRIVATE PRACTICE SINCE 1990 HERE IN FLORIDA. I BELIEVE EVERYONE WISHES TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN LIFE. THERAPY IN MY OFFICE IS AN EFFECTIVE JOURNEY TO ASSIST YOU TO DEVELOP THE SKILLS TO BE SUCCESSFUL. SMALL STEPS =SUCCESS.
I ATTEMPT TO MAKE YOUR THERAPY A UNIQUE AND ENGAGING EXPERIENCE. I GIVE ONGOING FEEDBACK TO CREATE THE CHANGES THAT YOU HAVE COME FOR.SMALL STEPS=CHANGES YOU ARE SEEKING.
MY YOUNGEST CLIENT HAS BEEN 2 YEARS OLD, AND MY OLDEST, 91 YEARS OLD. I HOPE TO INCLUDE YOU IN THE ENJOYMENT OF THIS IMPORTANT TEAM WORK.
![Photo of Suzi Marsh Meffen, BBA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f49a2ad1-24ed-40d1-9b57-d1afe9df1bee/1/320x400.png)
Suzi Marsh Meffen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne Beach, FL 32951
Welcome to The Center for Codependency Recovery! It is possible to face and change addictive and unfulfilling relationships with the compulsive or emotionally ill. If you struggle with depression or anxiety, a relationship concern, or, you or someone you love has an emotional illness or an addiction problem this type of counseling may be ideal for you. If you find yourself feeling sad, depressed, anxious and unmotivated and want a guide to give you a plan for tackling your issues or if you want to be free of negative thoughts and self doubt , give us a call! Be joyful and at ease with yourself and others again!
Welcome to The Center for Codependency Recovery! It is possible to face and change addictive and unfulfilling relationships with the compulsive or emotionally ill. If you struggle with depression or anxiety, a relationship concern, or, you or someone you love has an emotional illness or an addiction problem this type of counseling may be ideal for you. If you find yourself feeling sad, depressed, anxious and unmotivated and want a guide to give you a plan for tackling your issues or if you want to be free of negative thoughts and self doubt , give us a call! Be joyful and at ease with yourself and others again!
![Photo of Patrick J Aragon, PsyD, MBA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47a33199-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life is challenging; wouldn’t it be helpful to work through some of these challenges with a professional? I take a personalized approach in helping professionals negotiate the challenges of work/life stress, and career advancement. My area of specialty is with a variety of clinical needs, ranging from adjustment difficulties to the treatment of anxiety, and substance use and treatment. I have experience in treating a wide range of populations as well, and offer individual, and couples-based therapy.
Life is challenging; wouldn’t it be helpful to work through some of these challenges with a professional? I take a personalized approach in helping professionals negotiate the challenges of work/life stress, and career advancement. My area of specialty is with a variety of clinical needs, ranging from adjustment difficulties to the treatment of anxiety, and substance use and treatment. I have experience in treating a wide range of populations as well, and offer individual, and couples-based therapy.
![Photo of Katherine Bishop, EdS, LPC, TA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fae9bf55-bfc9-464e-9c67-43ad5e141ca0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katherine Bishop
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, TA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne Beach, FL 32951 (Online Only)
I believe that therapy is a partnership between the client and therapist and utilize client centered goals, coupled with evidenced based approaches to provide a holistic and dynamic approach for achieving overall well-being.
I believe that therapy is a partnership between the client and therapist and utilize client centered goals, coupled with evidenced based approaches to provide a holistic and dynamic approach for achieving overall well-being.
![Photo of Colleen Easterlin, RMFTI, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1f06c9d-2e19-4475-abe1-1e0ce6c2538e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Colleen Easterlin
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, RMFTI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Melbourne Beach, FL 32951
As a pre-licensed, Registered Marriage & Family Therapist under supervision with Dr. Neeley Hughey, my passion is helping others get unstuck and back on track with life. I am committed to supporting others through various life transitions such as navigating high-stress careers, relationship challenges, separation/divorce, couples therapy, infertility, postpartum, and finding a sense of peace along the way. With a foundation in evidenced based therapy, I offer both in-person and virtual sessions making it convenient and private for clients. Raised on the Space Coast, I am driven to contribute to our community's well-being!
As a pre-licensed, Registered Marriage & Family Therapist under supervision with Dr. Neeley Hughey, my passion is helping others get unstuck and back on track with life. I am committed to supporting others through various life transitions such as navigating high-stress careers, relationship challenges, separation/divorce, couples therapy, infertility, postpartum, and finding a sense of peace along the way. With a foundation in evidenced based therapy, I offer both in-person and virtual sessions making it convenient and private for clients. Raised on the Space Coast, I am driven to contribute to our community's well-being!
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Aeron DeGroat, MA, LMHC, MCAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b05ad908-e283-4ca1-a27c-f6139ca22e39/2/320x400.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 Jessica Hopkins, RCSWI, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebbb5439-9357-416d-bd73-1aa4829b1642/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with attention-deficit disorders, mood disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, depression, anxiety, restoring self-esteem, life transitions, PTSD, grief, stress management, and interpersonal relationships.
I provide individual psychotherapy for adolescents, college students, and adults. My foundation to therapy is to create an inclusive, person-centered environment that empowers clients to express their authentic selves. I work with diverse populations, and I am passionate about providing affirmative therapy for the LGBTQ+ community.
I specialize in working with attention-deficit disorders, mood disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, depression, anxiety, restoring self-esteem, life transitions, PTSD, grief, stress management, and interpersonal relationships.
I provide individual psychotherapy for adolescents, college students, and adults. My foundation to therapy is to create an inclusive, person-centered environment that empowers clients to express their authentic selves. I work with diverse populations, and I am passionate about providing affirmative therapy for the LGBTQ+ community.
![Photo of Jessica Singh, PhD, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8222aa3-43de-4750-b3a7-b9769a7f21db/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Singh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32904
I am sex-positive, LGBTQ+ affirming and knowledgeable, kink-friendly, sex-worker allied, and believe in Health at Every Size.
You feel like the odd one out, even though you try your hardest to fit in with everyone else. You feel depressed or anxious and try to suppress it, pretending everything is fine while you are suffering. No matter how many people you talk to, you just can't seem to make a genuine connection. You may have many friends but still feel emotionally lonely. Despite your best efforts, you cannot form meaningful relationships with other people. You find it impossible to trust others enough to allow yourself to be vulnerable. Maybe you've already had years of therapy, and while some symptoms have subsided, something is still missing.
I am sex-positive, LGBTQ+ affirming and knowledgeable, kink-friendly, sex-worker allied, and believe in Health at Every Size.
You feel like the odd one out, even though you try your hardest to fit in with everyone else. You feel depressed or anxious and try to suppress it, pretending everything is fine while you are suffering. No matter how many people you talk to, you just can't seem to make a genuine connection. You may have many friends but still feel emotionally lonely. Despite your best efforts, you cannot form meaningful relationships with other people. You find it impossible to trust others enough to allow yourself to be vulnerable. Maybe you've already had years of therapy, and while some symptoms have subsided, something is still missing.
![Photo of Bianca Carver, MS, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/035d8976-4536-4670-8cd8-b5959cbccba6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bianca Carver
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32901 (Online Only)
Bianca specializes in the areas of anxiety, depression, ADHD, sexuality, trauma, Racial and Cultural identity and has a special interest in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Bianca specializes in the areas of anxiety, depression, ADHD, sexuality, trauma, Racial and Cultural identity and has a special interest in the LGBTQIA+ community.
![Photo of Haruna Nail, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed518255-85f4-45cc-8039-f5e8123042e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Haruna Nail
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA
Verified Verified
West Melbourne, FL 32904
Waitlist for new clients
Are you ready for someone to help you navigate the emotions you are carrying? Do you need a space to breathe? Are you seeking balance? I'm here for you. My areas of expertise include the treatment of trauma, neurodiversity, grief, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+, spirituality, alternative therapies, and concerns and challenges concerning life transitions and changes. I also have experience working with individuals who have or were currently struggling with addictions and substances. I am passionate about providing an environment that allows my clients to feel included, safe, heard, and truly valued.
Are you ready for someone to help you navigate the emotions you are carrying? Do you need a space to breathe? Are you seeking balance? I'm here for you. My areas of expertise include the treatment of trauma, neurodiversity, grief, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+, spirituality, alternative therapies, and concerns and challenges concerning life transitions and changes. I also have experience working with individuals who have or were currently struggling with addictions and substances. I am passionate about providing an environment that allows my clients to feel included, safe, heard, and truly valued.
![Photo of Stephanie Lewis-Myers, LCSW, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06ab8bd4-ad7c-43da-9207-146c260ca045/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Lewis-Myers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Bay, FL 32907 (Online Only)
I offer down-to-earth online therapy in FL for anxious creatives, healers, witchy types and LGBTQ+ folx who struggle with self-doubt to help them discover their magic and live more authentically. Is perfectionism is holding you back from taking that next step? Needing to set better boundaries but feeling like its a lost cause? Overthinking leaving you feeling burnt out and over it? Wouldn’t it be nice if all those critical voices could chill out and give you some peace? Regardless of how self-doubt is showing up in your day to day, we can work together to find your strengths, trust your intuition, and recognize your unique gifts.
I offer down-to-earth online therapy in FL for anxious creatives, healers, witchy types and LGBTQ+ folx who struggle with self-doubt to help them discover their magic and live more authentically. Is perfectionism is holding you back from taking that next step? Needing to set better boundaries but feeling like its a lost cause? Overthinking leaving you feeling burnt out and over it? Wouldn’t it be nice if all those critical voices could chill out and give you some peace? Regardless of how self-doubt is showing up in your day to day, we can work together to find your strengths, trust your intuition, and recognize your unique gifts.
![Photo of Barbara Mignona-Burks, LMHC , CAP , ART, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d02d6310-f84d-47ba-b50d-b15fc5118bd9/1/320x400.png)
My focus is on Depression, Substance Abuse/Recovery, Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Trauma, Experiential Therapy, Relationships, LGBTQ, Co-Dependency, Anger, and PTSD. I enjoy working with people who are ready for a change, and I will provide a compassionate & safe platform for you to unfold your given potential while implementing a distinct and personalized plan for your recovery.
My focus is on Depression, Substance Abuse/Recovery, Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Trauma, Experiential Therapy, Relationships, LGBTQ, Co-Dependency, Anger, and PTSD. I enjoy working with people who are ready for a change, and I will provide a compassionate & safe platform for you to unfold your given potential while implementing a distinct and personalized plan for your recovery.
![Photo of Mindy Tanner, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4288278-8bbb-408a-b587-8019499644a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Working in many different mental health settings has allowed me to gain experience with clients of many different ages (ranging from children through the elderly), sexes (ranging from male to female, including transgender & non-binary), diagnoses, cultures, religions, etc. I am experienced with faith-based counseling & enjoy bringing spirituality, at the client’s request, into the therapeutic process. I offer many different modalities (i.e. solution-focused treatment, mindfulness, behavior modification, goal-setting, etc.) when working with clients and enjoy guiding clients along their pathway to healing & success.
Working in many different mental health settings has allowed me to gain experience with clients of many different ages (ranging from children through the elderly), sexes (ranging from male to female, including transgender & non-binary), diagnoses, cultures, religions, etc. I am experienced with faith-based counseling & enjoy bringing spirituality, at the client’s request, into the therapeutic process. I offer many different modalities (i.e. solution-focused treatment, mindfulness, behavior modification, goal-setting, etc.) when working with clients and enjoy guiding clients along their pathway to healing & success.
![Photo of Lauren Whitworth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d51448fb-2123-484b-909f-82c53cd94ce5/2/320x400.png)
I have a specialty for working with young adults, the LGBTQ+ community, women, & survivors of trauma.
Are you looking for relief from symptoms of PTSD, seeking emotional validation, or even yearning to feel "just a little bit better"? Are you ready to explore your emotions, practice new strategies for healing, find forgiveness for yourself, and learn to set and work towards achieving your own treatment goals? My specialty is treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship conflicts, and more. Anyone who is ready to feel empowered and take back control of their life is my ideal client.
I have a specialty for working with young adults, the LGBTQ+ community, women, & survivors of trauma.
Are you looking for relief from symptoms of PTSD, seeking emotional validation, or even yearning to feel "just a little bit better"? Are you ready to explore your emotions, practice new strategies for healing, find forgiveness for yourself, and learn to set and work towards achieving your own treatment goals? My specialty is treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship conflicts, and more. Anyone who is ready to feel empowered and take back control of their life is my ideal client.
![Photo of Zoie C Webber, MS, RMFTI, RCMHCI, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/668ad195-78e2-48cd-935d-2a2518ce9115/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zoie C Webber
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, RMFTI, RCMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32935
Zoie also has experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community and is an ally, as well as working with those of diverse cultures and races.
Zoie is a Registered Marriage and Family Intern, as well as a Registered Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern. Zoie has her Undergraduate Degree in Psychology from the University of Central Florida, and most recently finished her Graduate Degree from Stetson University. She specializes in working with couples who are in distress and those experiencing issues involving substance abuse. She also works with individuals and adolescents starting at 15 years old.
Zoie also has experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community and is an ally, as well as working with those of diverse cultures and races.
Zoie is a Registered Marriage and Family Intern, as well as a Registered Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern. Zoie has her Undergraduate Degree in Psychology from the University of Central Florida, and most recently finished her Graduate Degree from Stetson University. She specializes in working with couples who are in distress and those experiencing issues involving substance abuse. She also works with individuals and adolescents starting at 15 years old.
![Photo of Erin Kelley, MEd, LMHC, CAP, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14f3d5a6-a4a0-45da-a6b0-6c1640b4bb51/3/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of expertise include couples, marital, substance abuse recovery, LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and strategies to cope with family and life challenges.
I incorporate mindfulness into the counseling process, which focuses attention on the present moment. This empowers you to address current concerns and symptoms as well as to resolve troublesome patterns. Drawing from cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, family systems, strength-based, and Gestalt practices, I work with you to achieve wholeness, contentment, and well-being.
My areas of expertise include couples, marital, substance abuse recovery, LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and strategies to cope with family and life challenges.
I incorporate mindfulness into the counseling process, which focuses attention on the present moment. This empowers you to address current concerns and symptoms as well as to resolve troublesome patterns. Drawing from cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, family systems, strength-based, and Gestalt practices, I work with you to achieve wholeness, contentment, and well-being.
![Photo of Stephanie Rios, MS, LMHC-QS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34435ad7-ccd8-4980-94d5-ecdfd02452a8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Rios
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC-QS
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Palm Bay, FL 32905 (Online Only)
I have worked with different groups like teens (ages 14+), adults, families, the LGBTQ+ community, Veterans, Law Enforcement, and First Responders.
Are you struggling with Depression and/or Anxiety? Feeling unmotivated? Problems in relationships? Needing support? Imagine a life where you're not held back. Where you have the tools to conquer daily struggles, and where you feel a renewed sense of control and enjoyment of life. That's where therapy can come in and help you. We'll work as a team to collaborate on addressing your emotional and mental health struggles. I'll be supportive and challenging in order to help you to progress and feel better. My main specialties are Depression, Anxiety, past trauma, stress, and having anxious attachment style in relationships.
I have worked with different groups like teens (ages 14+), adults, families, the LGBTQ+ community, Veterans, Law Enforcement, and First Responders.
Are you struggling with Depression and/or Anxiety? Feeling unmotivated? Problems in relationships? Needing support? Imagine a life where you're not held back. Where you have the tools to conquer daily struggles, and where you feel a renewed sense of control and enjoyment of life. That's where therapy can come in and help you. We'll work as a team to collaborate on addressing your emotional and mental health struggles. I'll be supportive and challenging in order to help you to progress and feel better. My main specialties are Depression, Anxiety, past trauma, stress, and having anxious attachment style in relationships.
![Photo of Sue Kiley, PhD, LMHC, QS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a9e3a04-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with trauma, specific challenges, mental health or life issues? I look forward to working with you. Whether past trauma, a serious recent incident, or a general life struggle; counseling can help you resolve, heal, and empower you to find your best self and to create your best life. Additionally, having earned a doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in marriage and family therapy and, as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 35 years of clinical experience, I also enjoy working with all couples- married or not, LGBTQ or straight, to problem-solve, and address conflict & disconnection.
Struggling with trauma, specific challenges, mental health or life issues? I look forward to working with you. Whether past trauma, a serious recent incident, or a general life struggle; counseling can help you resolve, heal, and empower you to find your best self and to create your best life. Additionally, having earned a doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in marriage and family therapy and, as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 35 years of clinical experience, I also enjoy working with all couples- married or not, LGBTQ or straight, to problem-solve, and address conflict & disconnection.
![Photo of Jason Webb, LMHC, MS, QS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52e29c0f-d8e4-4195-8ce6-cdec0d74d699/1/320x400.jpeg)
Good for you, seeking help, support, and guidance in your journey-this is what I provide. I am a licensed mental health counselor who has worked with individuals from 3 to 93 and I have 17 years of experience providing therapy and counseling. I have a MS in Psychology from the Florida Institute of Technology. I specialize in Depression, ADHD, life adjustment issues, anxiety, anger issues, mood disorders. I also provide affirming support to LGBTQ+ people. I look forward to working with you on your journey.
Good for you, seeking help, support, and guidance in your journey-this is what I provide. I am a licensed mental health counselor who has worked with individuals from 3 to 93 and I have 17 years of experience providing therapy and counseling. I have a MS in Psychology from the Florida Institute of Technology. I specialize in Depression, ADHD, life adjustment issues, anxiety, anger issues, mood disorders. I also provide affirming support to LGBTQ+ people. I look forward to working with you on your journey.
See more therapy options for Melbourne Beach
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Melbourne Beach
- Cocoa
- Cocoa Beach
- Indialantic
- Melbourne
- Merritt Island
- Palm Bay
- Rockledge
- Satellite Beach
- Sebastian
- Vero Beach
- Viera
- West Melbourne
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.