LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Melbourne, FL
![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 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 Sarah Stupp, MSEd, RMHCI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3abb5664-5f69-44c3-a557-5411158451f8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Stupp
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MSEd, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32940
As a queer therapist, it is important to me to keep a sex positive environment along with gender affirming care.
I strive to help my clients who feel lost, unmotivated, and isolated to find more fulfilment in their lives. Together we'll get through work, social, and family issues that seem to be overbearing and find peace within ourselves and for others. Whether you are spiritual, religious, or ambivalent I make sure to work with your values and prioritize what you want to achieve in life. We have such a short time on earth, I want to help you live it to your fullest. If after our first session you feel I am not a good fit, I can connect you with one of the many specialists in my network.
As a queer therapist, it is important to me to keep a sex positive environment along with gender affirming care.
I strive to help my clients who feel lost, unmotivated, and isolated to find more fulfilment in their lives. Together we'll get through work, social, and family issues that seem to be overbearing and find peace within ourselves and for others. Whether you are spiritual, religious, or ambivalent I make sure to work with your values and prioritize what you want to achieve in life. We have such a short time on earth, I want to help you live it to your fullest. If after our first session you feel I am not a good fit, I can connect you with one of the many specialists in my network.
![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 Sarah Berger, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83c9b337-9ea2-4a5e-af97-525dcd71f8bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Berger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Melbourne, FL 32937 (Online Only)
I have worked with people of all ages ranging from children to the elderly, with more focus devoted to those in their late teen s - mid - life stages . I specialize in working with anxiety, anger management, ADHD, stress management, improving relationships and communication, navigating life transitions, and parenting challenges. I have considerable experience supporting LGBTQIA individuals and helping them to navigate the challenges they may encounter with family, friends, or community. I also have worked extensively with parents on navigating challenging childhood behaviors and teenage puberty.
I have worked with people of all ages ranging from children to the elderly, with more focus devoted to those in their late teen s - mid - life stages . I specialize in working with anxiety, anger management, ADHD, stress management, improving relationships and communication, navigating life transitions, and parenting challenges. I have considerable experience supporting LGBTQIA individuals and helping them to navigate the challenges they may encounter with family, friends, or community. I also have worked extensively with parents on navigating challenging childhood behaviors and teenage puberty.
![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 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 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.
![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 Julie Jordan, LPC, LMHC, QS, EMDR, Cert, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a3c7281-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
trauma, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Emotional pain, no one can see it on the outside, but it creates havoc on the inside. It can be the worst type of pain imagined, and the stress of it can create sickness, loss of work, and distance in relationships. I have the tools and knowledge to help you get relief from feeling stuck, and live a happier, more joyful life.
trauma, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Emotional pain, no one can see it on the outside, but it creates havoc on the inside. It can be the worst type of pain imagined, and the stress of it can create sickness, loss of work, and distance in relationships. I have the tools and knowledge to help you get relief from feeling stuck, and live a happier, more joyful life.
15 Second Videos
Sarah Berger
Erin Kelley
John Powell
Katie Ziskind
Marleigh Fallon
Suzi Marsh Meffen
Ashleigh Grooms Jackson
Ellie Mental Health
Megan C Holleran
Empowering Perspectives | Valerie Farrell LCSW
Nathaly Morales- Relationship Therapist
Patrick J Aragon
Kristin Woodling
Better Tomorrow FL
Capri Cafaro
Yael Rivera
Shannon Kirk
Rose Topal
![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 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 Anne Rothenberg, PhD, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83283083-0b94-403a-b0f5-d778c3e9c631/1/320x400.jpeg)
Low Sexual Desire? Sexual Incompatibility? Sexual Dysfunction? Porn Addiction? Cheating Partner? Cheating Spouse? Sexual Abuse Survivor? Internationally recognized Clinical Sexologist Dr. Anne Rothenberg specializes in counseling and therapy related to sexuality and sexual behavior. Areas covered include: female sexual dysfunction, male sexual dysfunction, Gay, Lesbian, LGBT, coming out, child sexuality, adolescent sexuality, gender identity, sex addiction, porn addiction, sexual abuse (male and female), desire, arousal, orgasm, erectile dysfunction, sexual performance anxiety, incompatibility, relationship issues, cheating, infidelity, anger, honesty, trust, loneliness, self esteem, body image, sadness, worry, anxiety, depression.
Please visit:
www.AnneRothenberg.com.
I look forward to speaking with you!
Low Sexual Desire? Sexual Incompatibility? Sexual Dysfunction? Porn Addiction? Cheating Partner? Cheating Spouse? Sexual Abuse Survivor? Internationally recognized Clinical Sexologist Dr. Anne Rothenberg specializes in counseling and therapy related to sexuality and sexual behavior. Areas covered include: female sexual dysfunction, male sexual dysfunction, Gay, Lesbian, LGBT, coming out, child sexuality, adolescent sexuality, gender identity, sex addiction, porn addiction, sexual abuse (male and female), desire, arousal, orgasm, erectile dysfunction, sexual performance anxiety, incompatibility, relationship issues, cheating, infidelity, anger, honesty, trust, loneliness, self esteem, body image, sadness, worry, anxiety, depression.
Please visit:
www.AnneRothenberg.com.
I look forward to speaking with you!
![Photo of Karlysse Mcmillon, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/522d0e2c-84f9-459d-9828-047d1d7ebc9e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Do feel that you are caught in a never ending cycle of disappointment and/or stress. Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help high performers manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and develop a plan for how to find balance and get back on track. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness, deep breathing and other expressive techniques to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Do feel that you are caught in a never ending cycle of disappointment and/or stress. Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help high performers manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and develop a plan for how to find balance and get back on track. We'll use a whole self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness, deep breathing and other expressive techniques to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
![Photo of Lori A Berk, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fb71665-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you experiencing symptoms of stress? anxiety? depression? grief? relationship problems? Are you unsure about how to choose your path or reach your goals? Reaching out for help with these and other common problems can often feel difficult and scary to do. Whether you just need a safe place to be heard or you want to learn new ways of thinking, acting or being; my goal as a therapist is to work together with you to discover where you are and help you get to where you want to be, while at the same time leaving you feeling cared for and understood.
Are you experiencing symptoms of stress? anxiety? depression? grief? relationship problems? Are you unsure about how to choose your path or reach your goals? Reaching out for help with these and other common problems can often feel difficult and scary to do. Whether you just need a safe place to be heard or you want to learn new ways of thinking, acting or being; my goal as a therapist is to work together with you to discover where you are and help you get to where you want to be, while at the same time leaving you feeling cared for and understood.
![Photo of Victoria Hecht - Sol Counseling LLC, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90ae3464-186d-4fc3-81f1-5f77f6bebc88/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sol Counseling LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32940
Are you struggling to manage anxiety and stress? Are you feeling sad, and maybe frustrated with how you feel versus how you think you should be feeling? Is tension and distress with your partner(s) frequent, or do you feel like you need help to find common ground? When so much feels uncertain, I will be there to help and to listen, and to work with you to achieve what you need out of therapy. I provide an empathetic and secure therapy space for you to create compassion and security in relationships – even when that relationship is with yourself. I see life as a learning process, and believe that everyone can benefit from therapy.
Are you struggling to manage anxiety and stress? Are you feeling sad, and maybe frustrated with how you feel versus how you think you should be feeling? Is tension and distress with your partner(s) frequent, or do you feel like you need help to find common ground? When so much feels uncertain, I will be there to help and to listen, and to work with you to achieve what you need out of therapy. I provide an empathetic and secure therapy space for you to create compassion and security in relationships – even when that relationship is with yourself. I see life as a learning process, and believe that everyone can benefit from therapy.
![Photo of Sarah Tippit - Sarah Tippit, MA, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/018bf94d-eb55-4aed-b909-3acdabde85eb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Tippit, MA, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32940 (Online Only)
I hold compassion for those who struggle with OCD: the persistent, unwanted, intrusive thoughts, the sometimes paralyzing anxiety, the compulsive actions, rituals, ruminations, avoidances meant to neutralize bad thoughts. I also have an understanding of how often OCD can be misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and the shame and stigma sufferers sometimes feel. Most of my work involves helping people gain control over their OCD and process associated traumas. I also work with related issues, such as BDD, Emetophobia, social anxiety, unwanted habits. I combine a sensitive, client-centered approach with science-backed therapeutic techniques.
I hold compassion for those who struggle with OCD: the persistent, unwanted, intrusive thoughts, the sometimes paralyzing anxiety, the compulsive actions, rituals, ruminations, avoidances meant to neutralize bad thoughts. I also have an understanding of how often OCD can be misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and the shame and stigma sufferers sometimes feel. Most of my work involves helping people gain control over their OCD and process associated traumas. I also work with related issues, such as BDD, Emetophobia, social anxiety, unwanted habits. I combine a sensitive, client-centered approach with science-backed therapeutic techniques.
![Photo of Douglass Stahl Judson, LCSW, MCAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50ce877c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Douglass Stahl Judson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32901
No matter how the world has defined you, I want to assist you to come to a place of self acceptance and create peace of mind. I am an experienced clinician who has a master’s degree in social work from Simmons College in Boston, Massachusetts. I have worked for a large teaching medical center, as well as federally qualified health center providing mental health and substance use clinical services.
No matter how the world has defined you, I want to assist you to come to a place of self acceptance and create peace of mind. I am an experienced clinician who has a master’s degree in social work from Simmons College in Boston, Massachusetts. I have worked for a large teaching medical center, as well as federally qualified health center providing mental health and substance use clinical services.
![Photo of John Powell, MS, LCMHC, LMHC, Reiki 3, OM, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82ebab40-983d-46ce-83bc-8008a80d37f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
John Powell
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LMHC, Reiki 3, OM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32901
Waitlist for new clients
What's with societal pressures these days? You have to be selfless but also do self-care. You need to care about how you look, but look like you don't put in effort. You need to be the first one at work and the last one to leave, but also be present at home. Under such strain, you can engage in perfectionism, lower your self-worth, or sometimes react by becoming unmotivated and depressed. You either over-commit or constantly ghost and ignore. You feel burned out and resentful. I am here to help you get present, open up, and feel reconnected with a life you don't need to escape.
What's with societal pressures these days? You have to be selfless but also do self-care. You need to care about how you look, but look like you don't put in effort. You need to be the first one at work and the last one to leave, but also be present at home. Under such strain, you can engage in perfectionism, lower your self-worth, or sometimes react by becoming unmotivated and depressed. You either over-commit or constantly ghost and ignore. You feel burned out and resentful. I am here to help you get present, open up, and feel reconnected with a life you don't need to escape.
See more therapy options for Melbourne
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Melbourne
- Cocoa
- Cocoa Beach
- Indialantic
- Melbourne Beach
- 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.