Transgender Therapists in Tampa Palms, FL

Photo of Breckin Crowley, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Breckin Crowley
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa Palms, FL 33647
I'm an open and judgment-free counselor whose goal is to collaborate with clients to help them discover more about themselves & navigate through difficult times. I use an integrative approach when working with clients and believe that the client knows best in regard to their needs. I support individuals navigating their personal journeys, whether that be dealing with gender identity, affectional orientation, addiction, reentry support, depression, etc.… My passions include working with adolescent and adult transgender, genderqueer individuals, and individuals who are reentering society after being in prison or jail.
I'm an open and judgment-free counselor whose goal is to collaborate with clients to help them discover more about themselves & navigate through difficult times. I use an integrative approach when working with clients and believe that the client knows best in regard to their needs. I support individuals navigating their personal journeys, whether that be dealing with gender identity, affectional orientation, addiction, reentry support, depression, etc.… My passions include working with adolescent and adult transgender, genderqueer individuals, and individuals who are reentering society after being in prison or jail.
(850) 307-5780 View (850) 307-5780
Photo of Patti Collard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patti Collard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa Palms, FL 33647  (Online Only)
Let me start by telling you a little about myself. I have been a licensed practicing clinician since 2010. I have been extensively trained in a specialized form of therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), but I also practice general talk therapy. I enjoy working with adolescents, college students, and adults with a wide range of challenges, such as Borderline Personality Disorder, depression (including postpartum), bipolar disorder, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse, self-harm, identity issues, relationship issues, and impulsivity. I also have experience working with patients in acute psychiatric crisis.
Let me start by telling you a little about myself. I have been a licensed practicing clinician since 2010. I have been extensively trained in a specialized form of therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), but I also practice general talk therapy. I enjoy working with adolescents, college students, and adults with a wide range of challenges, such as Borderline Personality Disorder, depression (including postpartum), bipolar disorder, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse, self-harm, identity issues, relationship issues, and impulsivity. I also have experience working with patients in acute psychiatric crisis.
(727) 261-1284 View (727) 261-1284
Photo of Nick Joyce, PhD, Psychologist
Nick Joyce
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Tampa Palms, FL 33647
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** ***I am also credentialed to do video therapy*** For more info check out my website and media interviews. I do not believe there is an ideal client. In my years of work I have encountered many people with many reasons for why they are the way they are. What I know is that if you are open to the process, we can figure it out. Most of my clients are nervous when they come for the first time, and rightfully so. It's anxiety provoking to talk to a stranger about your "stuff." Despite that hesitancy they overwhelmingly experience relief and begin to see a path forward after we start our work together.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** ***I am also credentialed to do video therapy*** For more info check out my website and media interviews. I do not believe there is an ideal client. In my years of work I have encountered many people with many reasons for why they are the way they are. What I know is that if you are open to the process, we can figure it out. Most of my clients are nervous when they come for the first time, and rightfully so. It's anxiety provoking to talk to a stranger about your "stuff." Despite that hesitancy they overwhelmingly experience relief and begin to see a path forward after we start our work together.
(727) 594-9086 View (727) 594-9086
Photo of Julia Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tampa Palms, FL 33647
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of experience working with children 9+, teens, adults, couples and families. In addition to my education I've gained life experience having grown up in a military family and traveling all over the United States as well as throughout Europe, South Africa, and Mexico. I thoroughly enjoy helping people and have a broad base of therapy knowledge including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Trauma Focused) , Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Client-Centered, and Mindfulness.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of experience working with children 9+, teens, adults, couples and families. In addition to my education I've gained life experience having grown up in a military family and traveling all over the United States as well as throughout Europe, South Africa, and Mexico. I thoroughly enjoy helping people and have a broad base of therapy knowledge including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Trauma Focused) , Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Client-Centered, and Mindfulness.
(813) 544-4976 View (813) 544-4976

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tristan Byrnes, LMHC, Counselor
Tristan Byrnes
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33613
I work with all in assisting with depression, anxiety, workplace issues and relationship concerns. My passion is working with the LGBT community. I specialize in the transgender community. Are you feeling disconnected from your born gender identity? Do you look in the mirror and wish you saw a different image? Are you needing assisting in planning this journey of gender awareness? Are you scared of what others will think, who you can tell, and wonder if medical transition should be part of your future? Need letters for surgeries? Let me Help! I am BDSM and Poly friendly.
I work with all in assisting with depression, anxiety, workplace issues and relationship concerns. My passion is working with the LGBT community. I specialize in the transgender community. Are you feeling disconnected from your born gender identity? Do you look in the mirror and wish you saw a different image? Are you needing assisting in planning this journey of gender awareness? Are you scared of what others will think, who you can tell, and wonder if medical transition should be part of your future? Need letters for surgeries? Let me Help! I am BDSM and Poly friendly.
(813) 530-9231 View (813) 530-9231
Photo of Bobbie McArdle, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bobbie McArdle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33613
I am licensed in the states of NJ, NY, and FL and am currently accepting new clients. I am open to all populations although I primarily work with individuals who identify in the LGBTQIA+ community. I have experience helping clients with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, polyamorous relationships, sexual issues, and trauma. My approach is flexible and down to earth using research proven techniques. I am also a Gender Specialist who provides assistance to transgender, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming adults, adolescents, and their families as well as writing the letters necessary to obtain gender affirming medical care.
I am licensed in the states of NJ, NY, and FL and am currently accepting new clients. I am open to all populations although I primarily work with individuals who identify in the LGBTQIA+ community. I have experience helping clients with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, polyamorous relationships, sexual issues, and trauma. My approach is flexible and down to earth using research proven techniques. I am also a Gender Specialist who provides assistance to transgender, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming adults, adolescents, and their families as well as writing the letters necessary to obtain gender affirming medical care.
(732) 517-7348 View (732) 517-7348
Photo of Jack Bartel - The Evergreen Initiative, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
The Evergreen Initiative, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33647  (Online Only)
I specialize in LGBTQA+ & transgender/non-binary healthcare, habit & lifestyle change (smoking cessation, weight management, sleep, chronic pain, time management/procrastination), helping patients who are having having trouble coping or adjusting to medical conditions & general mental health (anxiety, depression, adjustment, stress management).
Hi there! I'm Jack and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist. My practice The Evergreen Initiative, LLC is 100% virtual. Ready to jump in and make change? Or maybe you know you want something to be different, but you're not sure how to get there. Wherever you are in your journey we will work with it, together. I am also happy to provide letters of support (WPATH letters) and have a low cost support group available for gender diverse folx. I am able to see patients in the following states: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, ND, NC, OH, OK, PA, RI, TN, TX, UT, VA, WV, WI, WY.
I specialize in LGBTQA+ & transgender/non-binary healthcare, habit & lifestyle change (smoking cessation, weight management, sleep, chronic pain, time management/procrastination), helping patients who are having having trouble coping or adjusting to medical conditions & general mental health (anxiety, depression, adjustment, stress management).
Hi there! I'm Jack and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist. My practice The Evergreen Initiative, LLC is 100% virtual. Ready to jump in and make change? Or maybe you know you want something to be different, but you're not sure how to get there. Wherever you are in your journey we will work with it, together. I am also happy to provide letters of support (WPATH letters) and have a low cost support group available for gender diverse folx. I am able to see patients in the following states: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, ND, NC, OH, OK, PA, RI, TN, TX, UT, VA, WV, WI, WY.
(689) 210-4095 View (689) 210-4095
Photo of Bailey Sheetz, MS, LMHC
Bailey Sheetz
MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33604  (Online Only)
Media & societal pressures have conditioned us to hate ourselves and our appearance. We speak to ourselves as if we are the bully and the victim. The only hope we have is to alter our appearance, until we realize that doesn’t help how we view ourselves. My experience is with people who struggle from eating disorders, OCD, body image, gender dysphoria, trauma, and co-occurring diagnoses. My heart goes out to those who are disillusioned about their lack of worth. In struggling with my own body image, learning to love myself was a huge transition. This journey prepared me to help others along with their own self-worth challenges.
Media & societal pressures have conditioned us to hate ourselves and our appearance. We speak to ourselves as if we are the bully and the victim. The only hope we have is to alter our appearance, until we realize that doesn’t help how we view ourselves. My experience is with people who struggle from eating disorders, OCD, body image, gender dysphoria, trauma, and co-occurring diagnoses. My heart goes out to those who are disillusioned about their lack of worth. In struggling with my own body image, learning to love myself was a huge transition. This journey prepared me to help others along with their own self-worth challenges.
(863) 591-0275 View (863) 591-0275
Photo of Kayden Rodriguez, RCSWI
Kayden Rodriguez
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, RCSWI
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33604
Waitlist for new clients
As a proud nonbinary and transgender individual, I bring over 9 years of community advocacy to my work.
Therapeutically, I hold training in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Nonviolent Communication, Domestic Violence, and more. With roots in attachment theory, I utilize an eclectic approach to narrative therapy with a collaborative intention to meet and work with you where you are at.
As a proud nonbinary and transgender individual, I bring over 9 years of community advocacy to my work.
Therapeutically, I hold training in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Nonviolent Communication, Domestic Violence, and more. With roots in attachment theory, I utilize an eclectic approach to narrative therapy with a collaborative intention to meet and work with you where you are at.
(813) 896-2691 View (813) 896-2691
Photo of Jennifer Anderson, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33618
Jennifer Anderson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida who has been practicing since 2008. Jennifer has a broad range of experience with adults and adolescents. He uses a Cognitive Behavioral approach to help her clients re-define themselves based on their strengths, not what has happened to them. Jennifer has experience with aging, dementia, and life-stage transitions as well. Transgender and LBGTQ+ counseling is also a specialty of hers. Outside of work, Jennifer has a big heart for all animals and spends time helping the less fortunate ones. She is also a collector and loves scavenging flea markets and antique shops!.
Jennifer Anderson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida who has been practicing since 2008. Jennifer has a broad range of experience with adults and adolescents. He uses a Cognitive Behavioral approach to help her clients re-define themselves based on their strengths, not what has happened to them. Jennifer has experience with aging, dementia, and life-stage transitions as well. Transgender and LBGTQ+ counseling is also a specialty of hers. Outside of work, Jennifer has a big heart for all animals and spends time helping the less fortunate ones. She is also a collector and loves scavenging flea markets and antique shops!.
(813) 686-7406 View (813) 686-7406
Photo of Aeron DeGroat, MA, LMHC, MCAP, Counselor
Aeron DeGroat
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MCAP
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33620
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.
(813) 534-4801 View (813) 534-4801
Photo of Livia Ledbetter, MSW
Livia Ledbetter
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33617  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a clinical therapist in practice for 3 years, with a background in social work, sociology and women's studies. I am currently accepting clients 18+. I have experience with young adults, parents, pregnancy and post-partum, women's issues including autism in women, grief and loss, life transitions, and LGBTQ+ population including transgender-affirming care. I believe therapy should be client-driven with the therapist providing the tools, framework, empathy and connection. I utilize a humanistic approach with components of CBT and ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy).
Hello! I am a clinical therapist in practice for 3 years, with a background in social work, sociology and women's studies. I am currently accepting clients 18+. I have experience with young adults, parents, pregnancy and post-partum, women's issues including autism in women, grief and loss, life transitions, and LGBTQ+ population including transgender-affirming care. I believe therapy should be client-driven with the therapist providing the tools, framework, empathy and connection. I utilize a humanistic approach with components of CBT and ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy).
(727) 591-3933 View (727) 591-3933
Photo of Bobbie McArdle (She Her), MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bobbie McArdle (She Her)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33613  (Online Only)
I am licensed in the states of FL, NJ, and NY and am currently accepting new clients. I am open to all populations although I primarily work with individuals who identify in the LGBTQIA+ community. I have experience helping clients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, polyamorous relationships, sexual issues, and trauma. My approach is flexible and down to earth using research proven techniques. I am also a Gender Specialist who provides assistance to transgender, nonbinary, and gender non conforming adults, adolescents, and their families as well as writing the letters necessary to obtain gender affirming medical care.
I am licensed in the states of FL, NJ, and NY and am currently accepting new clients. I am open to all populations although I primarily work with individuals who identify in the LGBTQIA+ community. I have experience helping clients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, polyamorous relationships, sexual issues, and trauma. My approach is flexible and down to earth using research proven techniques. I am also a Gender Specialist who provides assistance to transgender, nonbinary, and gender non conforming adults, adolescents, and their families as well as writing the letters necessary to obtain gender affirming medical care.
(813) 945-7202 View (813) 945-7202
Photo of Krista Ringger, MA, NCC
Krista Ringger
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lutz, FL 33549
Are you struggling to feel accepted & comfortable in your sexual or gender identity? Or are you yearning to find a way to navigate your coming-out or identity-formation process? I help members of the LGBTQ community sort through sexuality & gender challenges, as well as mental health issues like depression, anxiety, stress, & self-esteem. I utilize Attachment-Based Therapy to help people with religious or interpersonal trauma, which allows me to meet you with non-judgment and authenticity to build a healing relationship, while also gently guiding you in skills for achieving a fulfilling life.
Are you struggling to feel accepted & comfortable in your sexual or gender identity? Or are you yearning to find a way to navigate your coming-out or identity-formation process? I help members of the LGBTQ community sort through sexuality & gender challenges, as well as mental health issues like depression, anxiety, stress, & self-esteem. I utilize Attachment-Based Therapy to help people with religious or interpersonal trauma, which allows me to meet you with non-judgment and authenticity to build a healing relationship, while also gently guiding you in skills for achieving a fulfilling life.
(813) 212-2927 View (813) 212-2927
Photo of Elizabeth Watson, MSW, RCSWI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elizabeth Watson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33604  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Our time is your safe space to be who you are, as you are. Let's talk and find out what your goals are, what you wish to achieve, heal from, where you want to grow, and we will build the map towards your therapeutic end goal/s together. You are in the driver seat of your journey, I am just the passenger helping you navigate through until the end. I am a safe therapist for anyone who is in the LGBTQIA+ community, and I am a PROUD member of the community myself. I am sex and kink positive, and Poly friendly. I use a person-centered, strengths based approach with cultural humility and an intersectional feminist lens.
Our time is your safe space to be who you are, as you are. Let's talk and find out what your goals are, what you wish to achieve, heal from, where you want to grow, and we will build the map towards your therapeutic end goal/s together. You are in the driver seat of your journey, I am just the passenger helping you navigate through until the end. I am a safe therapist for anyone who is in the LGBTQIA+ community, and I am a PROUD member of the community myself. I am sex and kink positive, and Poly friendly. I use a person-centered, strengths based approach with cultural humility and an intersectional feminist lens.
View
Photo of Carol Mirones - Seasons Psychotherapy Associates, LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seasons Psychotherapy Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMHC, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33618
Seasons Psychotherapy Assoc is a unique community of 30+ heart-centered mental health professionals with a common goal of helping you transform your life. We work with people from diverse backgrounds and with a variety of emotional or mental health struggles. Life is challenging, and each and every one of us struggle in some way at some point. We cannot heal and improve that which we ignore. Getting help and support is a strength. Some of our particular areas of expertise include grief & loss, anxiety, LGBTQ+, first responder issues, mental health and addiction, trauma, relationship counseling, parenting struggles, and teen issues.
Seasons Psychotherapy Assoc is a unique community of 30+ heart-centered mental health professionals with a common goal of helping you transform your life. We work with people from diverse backgrounds and with a variety of emotional or mental health struggles. Life is challenging, and each and every one of us struggle in some way at some point. We cannot heal and improve that which we ignore. Getting help and support is a strength. Some of our particular areas of expertise include grief & loss, anxiety, LGBTQ+, first responder issues, mental health and addiction, trauma, relationship counseling, parenting struggles, and teen issues.
(954) 342-0982 View (954) 342-0982
Photo of Dr. Ana Cikara, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Ana Cikara
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33647  (Online Only)
Life can be incredibly challenging. Feeling like we are alone in our experiences can make these times feel even more painful. I know the importance of feeling heard and seen, and knowing that you matter. Whether you are experiencing issues in relationships, a difficult personal journey, impacts from sociocultural systems, or just noticing that something isn't working for you anymore, I am here to listen. I want to provide a space where you feel understood, valued, and supported in healing and making meaningful change, however that looks for you.
Life can be incredibly challenging. Feeling like we are alone in our experiences can make these times feel even more painful. I know the importance of feeling heard and seen, and knowing that you matter. Whether you are experiencing issues in relationships, a difficult personal journey, impacts from sociocultural systems, or just noticing that something isn't working for you anymore, I am here to listen. I want to provide a space where you feel understood, valued, and supported in healing and making meaningful change, however that looks for you.
(352) 414-0739 View (352) 414-0739
Photo of Stacy Bishop, MA, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stacy Bishop
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33618
Are you struggling with a life transition or feeling stuck? Are you having difficulty figuring out your steps? You are not alone. I am here to help! Together, we can navigate life’s struggles. You deserve to have a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. I have worked with students and families of diverse backgrounds and have helped them achieve their emotional, behavioral, academic, and career goals. My experience has allowed me to help individuals address anxiety, depression, trauma, motivation, stress, loss/grief, anger, body image issues, life transitions, relationship issues, gender identity and expression, etc.
Are you struggling with a life transition or feeling stuck? Are you having difficulty figuring out your steps? You are not alone. I am here to help! Together, we can navigate life’s struggles. You deserve to have a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. I have worked with students and families of diverse backgrounds and have helped them achieve their emotional, behavioral, academic, and career goals. My experience has allowed me to help individuals address anxiety, depression, trauma, motivation, stress, loss/grief, anger, body image issues, life transitions, relationship issues, gender identity and expression, etc.
(813) 536-4329 View (813) 536-4329
Photo of Kendall Martin, MS, RMHCI
Kendall Martin
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lutz, FL 33548
Kendall Martin is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern. She earned her Master’s from Nova Southeastern University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She uses a holistic, integrative approach to her practice, focusing on the unique, individual needs of each client. With the strong foundation of evidence treatment modalities, she combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, narrative therapy techniques, and solution-focused therapies to encourage the process of working through life’s problems, managing anxiety and depression, and finding positive coping skills.
Kendall Martin is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern. She earned her Master’s from Nova Southeastern University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She uses a holistic, integrative approach to her practice, focusing on the unique, individual needs of each client. With the strong foundation of evidence treatment modalities, she combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, DBT, narrative therapy techniques, and solution-focused therapies to encourage the process of working through life’s problems, managing anxiety and depression, and finding positive coping skills.
(813) 669-2454 View (813) 669-2454
Photo of Ciara Pierce - The Healing Suite - Ciara Pierce, MBA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Healing Suite - Ciara Pierce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33647  (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, lost, or confused? Do you need support and direction? My practice, The Healing Suite, provides culturally responsive services for people to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction. I use humor and casual conversation to get to the root of your challenges. With a direct, non-judgemental approach you can be supported in getting to the heart of the matter. I and the other therapists serve people located in Georgia, Louisiana, Florida, and South Carolina, and internationally.
Feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, lost, or confused? Do you need support and direction? My practice, The Healing Suite, provides culturally responsive services for people to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction. I use humor and casual conversation to get to the root of your challenges. With a direct, non-judgemental approach you can be supported in getting to the heart of the matter. I and the other therapists serve people located in Georgia, Louisiana, Florida, and South Carolina, and internationally.
(678) 389-7903 View (678) 389-7903

See more therapy options for Tampa Palms

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.