Transgender Therapists in Sarasota, FL

Photo of Mary G Davenport, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary G Davenport
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34236
I am a PhD Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist & aasect Certified Sex Therapist. I have been a leader in the field of family therapy and sex therapy since 1974. Trained at the University of Pennsylvania, I bring a wealth of experience and a personalized approach to my private practice in Sarasota, Florida. I provide specialized support for transgender and non-binary individuals and their families. I am dedicated to creating an environment that respects and celebrates the diversity of gender identities and sexual orientation.
I am a PhD Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist & aasect Certified Sex Therapist. I have been a leader in the field of family therapy and sex therapy since 1974. Trained at the University of Pennsylvania, I bring a wealth of experience and a personalized approach to my private practice in Sarasota, Florida. I provide specialized support for transgender and non-binary individuals and their families. I am dedicated to creating an environment that respects and celebrates the diversity of gender identities and sexual orientation.
(941) 366-3134 View (941) 366-3134
Photo of Cindy Auchter, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cindy Auchter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34239
"sex addiction"), sexual dysfunction, depression, anxiety, life transitions, caregiving, parenting, relationship issues, the aging population and the transgender population.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Sex Therapist. I established a private psychotherapy practice in Sarasota 30 years ago and I am a co-owner of Alliance Counseling Services, a faith based counseling office. By faith based we are saying we provide emotional and spiritual care for the whole person honoring and respecting people of all religious/spiritual traditions. All people are welcome here. Included in my professional philosophy of sex therapy is the goal of incorporating a sex positive/sexually liberating approach with our clients' religious and spiritual beliefs; that the two are not mutually exclusive.
"sex addiction"), sexual dysfunction, depression, anxiety, life transitions, caregiving, parenting, relationship issues, the aging population and the transgender population.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Sex Therapist. I established a private psychotherapy practice in Sarasota 30 years ago and I am a co-owner of Alliance Counseling Services, a faith based counseling office. By faith based we are saying we provide emotional and spiritual care for the whole person honoring and respecting people of all religious/spiritual traditions. All people are welcome here. Included in my professional philosophy of sex therapy is the goal of incorporating a sex positive/sexually liberating approach with our clients' religious and spiritual beliefs; that the two are not mutually exclusive.
(941) 877-6467 View (941) 877-6467
Photo of Megan Segall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Segall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34240
I work with clients experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, dissociative disorders, gender dysphoria, bipolar disorder, grief, addiction, and obsessive-compulsive disorders.
My name is Megan Segall and as a clinical social worker, I approach therapy with a sociological perspective and look at each individual with a fresh lens based on their unique circumstances. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages with varying issues. My treatment approach modalities include CBT, mindfulness, inner child work, trauma-focused CBT, motivational interviewing, and more. I have a laid-back approach. I want you to feel comfortable and supported throughout our time together.
I work with clients experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, dissociative disorders, gender dysphoria, bipolar disorder, grief, addiction, and obsessive-compulsive disorders.
My name is Megan Segall and as a clinical social worker, I approach therapy with a sociological perspective and look at each individual with a fresh lens based on their unique circumstances. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages with varying issues. My treatment approach modalities include CBT, mindfulness, inner child work, trauma-focused CBT, motivational interviewing, and more. I have a laid-back approach. I want you to feel comfortable and supported throughout our time together.
(407) 584-8477 View (407) 584-8477
Photo of Heather D. Eslien, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Heather D. Eslien
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34236
I have worked for almost 15 years as a therapist and advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community. I am especially passionate about my extensive work with trans and gender-expansive clients and their family members. My empathic, non-judgemental style allows my clients safety in navigating coming out, transitioning and understanding themselves better through a lens of self-compassion. I am well versed in writing letters of support for trans-affirming medical care and have an established resource referral network. Let me help to guide you on the path to your authentic self.
I have worked for almost 15 years as a therapist and advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community. I am especially passionate about my extensive work with trans and gender-expansive clients and their family members. My empathic, non-judgemental style allows my clients safety in navigating coming out, transitioning and understanding themselves better through a lens of self-compassion. I am well versed in writing letters of support for trans-affirming medical care and have an established resource referral network. Let me help to guide you on the path to your authentic self.
(941) 584-5091 View (941) 584-5091
Photo of Mary T Skinner, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Mary T Skinner
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34234  (Online Only)
I offer Online therapeutic services to reach all of Florida State. So I am lighting the candle while you sit back, take 3 slow breaths in and out, and say to yourself, “I am in control.” You are the only one in control of your thoughts, your behaviors, and your reactions. My goal is to work with you as you gain coping skills until you can maintain your control once again. But what if you never felt that control or felt that confidence. I focus on the ‘present’ & ‘here and now’ because this moment matters more than the past or future. This is where we can work on perspective, which changes behavior.
I offer Online therapeutic services to reach all of Florida State. So I am lighting the candle while you sit back, take 3 slow breaths in and out, and say to yourself, “I am in control.” You are the only one in control of your thoughts, your behaviors, and your reactions. My goal is to work with you as you gain coping skills until you can maintain your control once again. But what if you never felt that control or felt that confidence. I focus on the ‘present’ & ‘here and now’ because this moment matters more than the past or future. This is where we can work on perspective, which changes behavior.
(941) 960-7558 View (941) 960-7558
Photo of Dolly Ferraiuolo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dolly Ferraiuolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34239
The dragonfly, in almost every part of the world, symbolizes the change in the perspective of self-realization. The kind of change that has its source in mental and emotional maturity and the understanding of the deeper meaning of life. We weave this meaning into the fabric of our mission and in the work we provide to every client enrolled at SHARE. Are you stuck or lost? Are you struggling with anxiety and fear? Are those intrusive thoughts derailing your days? Feeling disconnected from yourself or your partner(s) can leave you feeling unloved, undesirable, and alone. Whatever your struggle, I am here for you.
The dragonfly, in almost every part of the world, symbolizes the change in the perspective of self-realization. The kind of change that has its source in mental and emotional maturity and the understanding of the deeper meaning of life. We weave this meaning into the fabric of our mission and in the work we provide to every client enrolled at SHARE. Are you stuck or lost? Are you struggling with anxiety and fear? Are those intrusive thoughts derailing your days? Feeling disconnected from yourself or your partner(s) can leave you feeling unloved, undesirable, and alone. Whatever your struggle, I am here for you.
(727) 496-7096 View (727) 496-7096
Photo of Rainier McCall, LMHC, EMDR C, QS, BC-TMH, Counselor
Rainier McCall
Counselor, LMHC, EMDR C, QS, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34242
Waitlist for new clients
Curious about thriving? Done with band-aids and ready for results? Hey, y'all, I'm Rainier and I look forward to welcoming you! I am an autistic, joyful, nonbinary therapist living with Ehlers Danlos/POTS. I specialize in complex & religious trauma, dissociation/DID, autism, sex addiction, couples, LGBT, children's issues, men's issues, ARFID, & personality disorders. I offer frequent appts., ADHD/autism assessment, intensives, and in-home. With self-compassion and acceptance of life's curveballs, we can help you live the life you deserve. Let's break the intergenerational trauma cycle and reunite with joy, freedom, and acceptance!
Curious about thriving? Done with band-aids and ready for results? Hey, y'all, I'm Rainier and I look forward to welcoming you! I am an autistic, joyful, nonbinary therapist living with Ehlers Danlos/POTS. I specialize in complex & religious trauma, dissociation/DID, autism, sex addiction, couples, LGBT, children's issues, men's issues, ARFID, & personality disorders. I offer frequent appts., ADHD/autism assessment, intensives, and in-home. With self-compassion and acceptance of life's curveballs, we can help you live the life you deserve. Let's break the intergenerational trauma cycle and reunite with joy, freedom, and acceptance!
(727) 477-9104 View (727) 477-9104
Photo of Laurie-Ann O'Connor, EdD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Laurie-Ann O'Connor
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdD
Not Verified Not Verified
Sarasota, FL 34234
Waitlist for new clients
(941) 585-0204 View (941) 585-0204
Photo of Lenario Butler, RMHCI
Lenario Butler
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
I am a mental health counselor who enjoys helping people become the best version of themselves. My passion is for supporting athletes and other high performers on their journey to peak performance. As a football coach, track coach, strength and conditioning coach, and a black mental health professional, I bring a unique perspective to the field. I have worked with professional, collegiate, high school, and AAU athletes. My experience extends beyond traditional therapy, incorporating music, mindfulness practices, visualization techniques, and performance psychology.
I am a mental health counselor who enjoys helping people become the best version of themselves. My passion is for supporting athletes and other high performers on their journey to peak performance. As a football coach, track coach, strength and conditioning coach, and a black mental health professional, I bring a unique perspective to the field. I have worked with professional, collegiate, high school, and AAU athletes. My experience extends beyond traditional therapy, incorporating music, mindfulness practices, visualization techniques, and performance psychology.
(813) 519-5984 View (813) 519-5984
Photo of Jodi Druss, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jodi Druss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34230  (Online Only)
If your are reading this professional biography, I imagine you are looking for a therapist that will be the right fit for you. Someone who is competent and experienced and will listen to you with a genuine interest and connection. Someone that will help you with strategies to reduce stress and anxiety and assist you in practical planning to create changes. Over the years I have been that therapist for many people; working with them on issues due to anxiety, depression and major life stressors. I welcome the opportunity to meet with you for a consultation and discuss your needs.
If your are reading this professional biography, I imagine you are looking for a therapist that will be the right fit for you. Someone who is competent and experienced and will listen to you with a genuine interest and connection. Someone that will help you with strategies to reduce stress and anxiety and assist you in practical planning to create changes. Over the years I have been that therapist for many people; working with them on issues due to anxiety, depression and major life stressors. I welcome the opportunity to meet with you for a consultation and discuss your needs.
(727) 761-8688 View (727) 761-8688
Photo of Ken Rigsby, LCSW, MSW, MEd, EdD, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ken Rigsby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MEd, EdD, CCTP
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34243  (Online Only)
The only reasonable approach to therapy is to meet my clients where they are. Perhaps you are feeling sad; Depression or anxiety have affected your daily functioning; Perhaps you struggle with PTSD/trauma; You are in a relationship that isn't working and you would like to mend things or try to figure out what to do next. You are experiencing sexual problems, identity problems, or career problems. I would be honored to co-partner with you to bring you to a place in life where brokenness is replaced by freedom and happiness.
The only reasonable approach to therapy is to meet my clients where they are. Perhaps you are feeling sad; Depression or anxiety have affected your daily functioning; Perhaps you struggle with PTSD/trauma; You are in a relationship that isn't working and you would like to mend things or try to figure out what to do next. You are experiencing sexual problems, identity problems, or career problems. I would be honored to co-partner with you to bring you to a place in life where brokenness is replaced by freedom and happiness.
(727) 202-4940 View (727) 202-4940
Photo of Linda Kroll, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Kroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34243  (Online Only)
Individuals including children 7 yrs. of age and older, adolescents, adults, seniors, couples and families will find a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with an eclectic approach to therapy,i.e., I will customize a treatment approach that is right for you. Should you be experiencing a death, divorce or separation, you will find a supportive enviroment, again, taking into account your individual needs, so you can return to feeling yourself. Some of you may experience conditons such as Bipolar Disorder, Depression, or Anxiety. With extensive experience in these areas you will find a seasoned professional here for you.
Individuals including children 7 yrs. of age and older, adolescents, adults, seniors, couples and families will find a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with an eclectic approach to therapy,i.e., I will customize a treatment approach that is right for you. Should you be experiencing a death, divorce or separation, you will find a supportive enviroment, again, taking into account your individual needs, so you can return to feeling yourself. Some of you may experience conditons such as Bipolar Disorder, Depression, or Anxiety. With extensive experience in these areas you will find a seasoned professional here for you.
(941) 621-3051 View (941) 621-3051
Photo of Sisi Zhao, LMHC , NCC, CRC, MA, Counselor
Sisi Zhao
Counselor, LMHC , NCC, CRC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34236
Hi! I’m Sisi Zhao, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor currently working out of Sarasota, Florida. My top priority is to always ensure your well-being and providing you with the necessary tools and resources to help achieve your goals. My approach to therapy is very person-centered, meaning that your needs always come first and that you are an equal partner in the planning of your care. I have experience in working with children, adolescents and adults that are struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, chronic health issues, substance abuse and ADHD.
Hi! I’m Sisi Zhao, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a nationally certified rehabilitation counselor currently working out of Sarasota, Florida. My top priority is to always ensure your well-being and providing you with the necessary tools and resources to help achieve your goals. My approach to therapy is very person-centered, meaning that your needs always come first and that you are an equal partner in the planning of your care. I have experience in working with children, adolescents and adults that are struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, chronic health issues, substance abuse and ADHD.
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Photo of Karen Richardson, MA,  LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Richardson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34240
Karen Richardson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Florida who has been practicing since 2006. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Furman University, a Master’s degree from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Post-Master's certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Louisville. Karen has specialized expertise in the treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, chemical dependency, child/parenting issues, and issues relating to divorce. She can address issues with a Christian foundation, as requested.
Karen Richardson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Florida who has been practicing since 2006. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Furman University, a Master’s degree from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Post-Master's certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Louisville. Karen has specialized expertise in the treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, chemical dependency, child/parenting issues, and issues relating to divorce. She can address issues with a Christian foundation, as requested.
(941) 246-2460 View (941) 246-2460
Photo of Dori E Goldfarb, MS, MPhil, PhD, Psychologist
Dori E Goldfarb
Psychologist, MS, MPhil, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34239
Our goal is to get you back to being you. Dr. Goldfarb is a Yale trained psychologist who offers psychological services for mood and anxiety disorders including depression, anxiety, addictions, ADHD/ADD, stress, grief and loss, infertility, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and chronic pain. We work with individuals, couples, and families. We treat children, adolescents and adults. Dr. Goldfarb provides evidence-based treatment, including psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy. She has extensive training in working with clients with eating and weight disorders. She also specializes in conducting psychological evaluations/assessments for children and adults, including gifted testing and forensic evaluations.
Our goal is to get you back to being you. Dr. Goldfarb is a Yale trained psychologist who offers psychological services for mood and anxiety disorders including depression, anxiety, addictions, ADHD/ADD, stress, grief and loss, infertility, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and chronic pain. We work with individuals, couples, and families. We treat children, adolescents and adults. Dr. Goldfarb provides evidence-based treatment, including psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy. She has extensive training in working with clients with eating and weight disorders. She also specializes in conducting psychological evaluations/assessments for children and adults, including gifted testing and forensic evaluations.
(941) 256-7558 View (941) 256-7558
Photo of Cari Tingen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cari Tingen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34236
Fear of the unknown can be scary and overwhelming ,Being able to adapt to the new world changes and life transitions can be very challenging. I can empower you and help you develop new skills and self-confidence in these uncertain times.
Fear of the unknown can be scary and overwhelming ,Being able to adapt to the new world changes and life transitions can be very challenging. I can empower you and help you develop new skills and self-confidence in these uncertain times.
(941) 229-7657 View (941) 229-7657
Photo of Melissa Lavin, PsyD, Psychologist
Melissa Lavin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34231
The journey of one's life can be thrown off course by unexpected changes, trauma, grief, life/family transitions, and emotional struggles. I am dedicated in creating a safe place for individuals and families to understand themselves better and explore these life challenges. Everyone needs to feel understood and accepted at some point in their lives. My goal is to recognize each person's individual needs and help create a path to a more fulfilling life. I am committed to providing holistic, inclusive, and personalized interventions that are effective in getting you back to your complete self.
The journey of one's life can be thrown off course by unexpected changes, trauma, grief, life/family transitions, and emotional struggles. I am dedicated in creating a safe place for individuals and families to understand themselves better and explore these life challenges. Everyone needs to feel understood and accepted at some point in their lives. My goal is to recognize each person's individual needs and help create a path to a more fulfilling life. I am committed to providing holistic, inclusive, and personalized interventions that are effective in getting you back to your complete self.
(941) 271-9912 View (941) 271-9912
Photo of Linda McGee, MA, MBA, CPLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda McGee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, CPLC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
Relationships, careers, and retirement dreams cannot thrive when you are hurting. I work with adults, both individuals and couples, to treat grief, anxiety, depression and difficult life transitions (retirement, divorce, relocation, illness, end-of-life issues), as well as communication and sexual functioning. Some clients are anxious to free themselves from nagging issues of the past, while others struggle to discern the best path for their future. I support couples who want to increase intimacy, and I help couples who have already decided to separate to do so as respectfully as possible.
Relationships, careers, and retirement dreams cannot thrive when you are hurting. I work with adults, both individuals and couples, to treat grief, anxiety, depression and difficult life transitions (retirement, divorce, relocation, illness, end-of-life issues), as well as communication and sexual functioning. Some clients are anxious to free themselves from nagging issues of the past, while others struggle to discern the best path for their future. I support couples who want to increase intimacy, and I help couples who have already decided to separate to do so as respectfully as possible.
(704) 369-9403 View (704) 369-9403
Photo of Rachel Thorpe, LCSW, DAPA, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Thorpe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DAPA, LICSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34233
Hello there, and welcome to my profile. My decision to work in this field was fueled by my observations of my mom's experiences with mental health treatment. As a result, I have strong compassion for people and I approach treatment differently. I am constantly looking for new and effective treatments that can be pleasant and enjoyable. I am a huge animal lover and I believe that animals enrich our lives and trigger our natural compassion for others. This is why I incorporate animals in my practice. There is nothing more uplifting than to be greeted by two wagging tails.
Hello there, and welcome to my profile. My decision to work in this field was fueled by my observations of my mom's experiences with mental health treatment. As a result, I have strong compassion for people and I approach treatment differently. I am constantly looking for new and effective treatments that can be pleasant and enjoyable. I am a huge animal lover and I believe that animals enrich our lives and trigger our natural compassion for others. This is why I incorporate animals in my practice. There is nothing more uplifting than to be greeted by two wagging tails.
(941) 803-1263 View (941) 803-1263
Photo of Cheryl Peppers, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Peppers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
While our outer lives may seem well organized, our inner lives are often plagued with unexpressed conflict and confusion. Those who dare to cultivate self-awareness are often surprised by its healing effects - that the process itself unlocks energy and propels one forward. It is never too late. I look forward to witnessing your transformation and discovering how your unique set of issues and ways of working come to bear in the therapeutic alliance that will be uniquely ours.
While our outer lives may seem well organized, our inner lives are often plagued with unexpressed conflict and confusion. Those who dare to cultivate self-awareness are often surprised by its healing effects - that the process itself unlocks energy and propels one forward. It is never too late. I look forward to witnessing your transformation and discovering how your unique set of issues and ways of working come to bear in the therapeutic alliance that will be uniquely ours.
(941) 932-8691 View (941) 932-8691
1
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.