LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Florida

Photo of Sidney R Torres - Sidney R Torres LMHC, PLLC, MS, LMHC, PLLC, Counselor
Sidney R Torres LMHC, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC, PLLC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilton Manors, FL 33305
I am also specialized in LGBTQ services and I am a SunServe Therapists Collective member.
As a bilingual licensed psychotherapist, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to my private practice. Fluent in both English and Spanish, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to a diverse range of individuals. Specializing in the treatment of mood disorders, addictions, as well as serving the LGBTQ community, my approach is grounded in cognitive-behavioral therapy and humanistic approaches. I believe in empowering individuals to understand and manage their thoughts and emotions, fostering positive change and personal growth.
I am also specialized in LGBTQ services and I am a SunServe Therapists Collective member.
As a bilingual licensed psychotherapist, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to my private practice. Fluent in both English and Spanish, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to a diverse range of individuals. Specializing in the treatment of mood disorders, addictions, as well as serving the LGBTQ community, my approach is grounded in cognitive-behavioral therapy and humanistic approaches. I believe in empowering individuals to understand and manage their thoughts and emotions, fostering positive change and personal growth.
(754) 227-6302 View (754) 227-6302
Photo of Elliott Eckmann, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elliott Eckmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilton Manors, FL 33305  (Online Only)
Do you feel out of sorts, or do you feel like things are not the way that you would like them to be. If so, together, you and I will figure your ideal life, and we can also explore the necessary journey that you will need to take to get there. It would be my pleasure to be a catalyst in helping you explore different routes that you can to get to a place where you feel fulfilled. In my practice, I specialize in the following areas, LGBTQ issues, relationship struggles, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, and the impact is past experience, previous relationships, and the parent child relationship.
Do you feel out of sorts, or do you feel like things are not the way that you would like them to be. If so, together, you and I will figure your ideal life, and we can also explore the necessary journey that you will need to take to get there. It would be my pleasure to be a catalyst in helping you explore different routes that you can to get to a place where you feel fulfilled. In my practice, I specialize in the following areas, LGBTQ issues, relationship struggles, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, and the impact is past experience, previous relationships, and the parent child relationship.
(954) 287-2624 View (954) 287-2624
Photo of Jesse Marquez, LMHC, Counselor
Jesse Marquez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
I am here to help you with anything you want to share in session. I take a collaborative approach to therapy and am always open to feedback about what's working or what's not as we work together. I have experience working with concerns such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma/PTSD, racial and sexual identity, career issues, grief, and relationship conflicts. I am a disability and LGBTQ+ affirming provider.
I am here to help you with anything you want to share in session. I take a collaborative approach to therapy and am always open to feedback about what's working or what's not as we work together. I have experience working with concerns such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma/PTSD, racial and sexual identity, career issues, grief, and relationship conflicts. I am a disability and LGBTQ+ affirming provider.
(786) 886-1370 View (786) 886-1370
Photo of Rochelle Cornwall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rochelle Cornwall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miramar, FL 33023  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker trained in trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, women's issues, and the use of healthy coping skills to ensure a judgment-free, heart-expanding experience.
Searching for relief from from the stresses of daily life? Well, you can breathe easier now. There will always be time for others, but now is your chance to "reclaim your time" and focus on building and recognizing your self worth. In therapy, we will begin healing the hurts that left you with anxiety and self-doubt. We'll work to develop the internal voice of encouragement you need in order to stop negative thought patterns in their tracks, while walking towards your light and your purpose. Are you working to become a more peaceful, optimistic person?
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker trained in trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, women's issues, and the use of healthy coping skills to ensure a judgment-free, heart-expanding experience.
Searching for relief from from the stresses of daily life? Well, you can breathe easier now. There will always be time for others, but now is your chance to "reclaim your time" and focus on building and recognizing your self worth. In therapy, we will begin healing the hurts that left you with anxiety and self-doubt. We'll work to develop the internal voice of encouragement you need in order to stop negative thought patterns in their tracks, while walking towards your light and your purpose. Are you working to become a more peaceful, optimistic person?
(786) 648-7481 View (786) 648-7481
Photo of Andy Cravey, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Andy Cravey
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32835  (Online Only)
My clients are people who want to move from feeling "stuck" to having a greater sense of purpose, empowerment and clarity. I am passionate about working with individuals from all backgrounds. I am equipped to work with a variety of challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, stress, adjustment issues, coaching, faith, and LGBTQ+ issues.
My clients are people who want to move from feeling "stuck" to having a greater sense of purpose, empowerment and clarity. I am passionate about working with individuals from all backgrounds. I am equipped to work with a variety of challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, stress, adjustment issues, coaching, faith, and LGBTQ+ issues.
(407) 606-7247 View (407) 606-7247
Photo of Steph Wysong-Choo, Pre-Licensed Professional
Steph Wysong-Choo
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32819
I am Steph (they/them), a non-binary, neurodivergent, queer therapist specializing in trauma-informed, gender-affirming, culturally inclusive therapy for all ages.
You’re in it, right now, aren’t you? No matter your stage in life, you’ve reached that point where the reflection in the mirror doesn’t quite look or feel the same, that person you see feels like a stranger, or even a ghost. "How did it get like this? When did it all become so heavy? Why do I feel so alone?" Themes of confusion, frustration, isolation, sadness, and fear often creep up. You carry the weight of unspoken words and misunderstood feelings, your identity often brushed aside or misinterpreted. You’re so weighed down with the heaviness of life’s struggles, Where do you even begin? Where you are is where we begin.
I am Steph (they/them), a non-binary, neurodivergent, queer therapist specializing in trauma-informed, gender-affirming, culturally inclusive therapy for all ages.
You’re in it, right now, aren’t you? No matter your stage in life, you’ve reached that point where the reflection in the mirror doesn’t quite look or feel the same, that person you see feels like a stranger, or even a ghost. "How did it get like this? When did it all become so heavy? Why do I feel so alone?" Themes of confusion, frustration, isolation, sadness, and fear often creep up. You carry the weight of unspoken words and misunderstood feelings, your identity often brushed aside or misinterpreted. You’re so weighed down with the heaviness of life’s struggles, Where do you even begin? Where you are is where we begin.
(321) 850-8799 View (321) 850-8799
Photo of Dr. Joshua Stanley, EdD, MS, LMHC, NCC, ACS, Counselor
Dr. Joshua Stanley
Counselor, EdD, MS, LMHC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32803
I specialize in helping clients navigate life or family transitions, work or school-related concerns, and relationship issues.
Hi there! I'm Dr. Josh Stanley, and I want to thank you for stopping by my page. It's no secret; life can be hard! Perhaps you're struggling in your relationship, facing a tough time at work or school, struggling to find your passion, or trying to better understand yourself and what you want out of life. Finding solutions can be challenging, especially when we're in the midst of a stressful situation. Counseling is an opportunity to step back, reflect objectively, and find the best path forward. Our work together is designed to reduce barriers, increase satisfaction, and improve your overall wellness.
I specialize in helping clients navigate life or family transitions, work or school-related concerns, and relationship issues.
Hi there! I'm Dr. Josh Stanley, and I want to thank you for stopping by my page. It's no secret; life can be hard! Perhaps you're struggling in your relationship, facing a tough time at work or school, struggling to find your passion, or trying to better understand yourself and what you want out of life. Finding solutions can be challenging, especially when we're in the midst of a stressful situation. Counseling is an opportunity to step back, reflect objectively, and find the best path forward. Our work together is designed to reduce barriers, increase satisfaction, and improve your overall wellness.
(813) 437-5754 View (813) 437-5754
Photo of Adam Larivee, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adam Larivee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33919
I pride my self in being a fierce advocate and proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Now Accepting New Clients. I firmly believe in the power of empathy, education, active listening, and collaboration in the therapeutic process. I strive to create a space where clients feel truly heard, valued, and empowered to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Through evidence-based interventions tailored to each individual’s unique needs, I aim to facilitate meaningful change and help clients develop the coping strategies and skills necessary to achieve overall wellness and inevitably the ability to love themselves.
I pride my self in being a fierce advocate and proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Now Accepting New Clients. I firmly believe in the power of empathy, education, active listening, and collaboration in the therapeutic process. I strive to create a space where clients feel truly heard, valued, and empowered to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Through evidence-based interventions tailored to each individual’s unique needs, I aim to facilitate meaningful change and help clients develop the coping strategies and skills necessary to achieve overall wellness and inevitably the ability to love themselves.
(239) 282-4789 View (239) 282-4789
Photo of Ryan Brown, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryan Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139  (Online Only)
Having served as the Director of Clinical Services at The LGBT Community Center in NYC, I have vast experience supervising other therapists.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, feeling overwhelmed or lost? Maybe you feel unfulfilled in your relationships, career, or other key areas of your life. If you are ready to explore these parts of yourself and interrupt patterns that are no longer serving you, then it may be time to engage in psychotherapy. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process which allows us to look at the areas that are causing distress, and identify ways to adjust your thoughts and behaviors to create positive change. I provide therapy in a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel comfortable expressing yourself openly and authentically.
Having served as the Director of Clinical Services at The LGBT Community Center in NYC, I have vast experience supervising other therapists.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, feeling overwhelmed or lost? Maybe you feel unfulfilled in your relationships, career, or other key areas of your life. If you are ready to explore these parts of yourself and interrupt patterns that are no longer serving you, then it may be time to engage in psychotherapy. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process which allows us to look at the areas that are causing distress, and identify ways to adjust your thoughts and behaviors to create positive change. I provide therapy in a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel comfortable expressing yourself openly and authentically.
(786) 361-7984 View (786) 361-7984
Photo of Rob Freund, PhD, LMHC, QS, Counselor
Rob Freund
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33428  (Online Only)
I work towards maintaining a developmentally informed, strengths-based, queer-friendly counseling environment.
I've walked a number of paths in psychotherapy and have worked with many different kinds of people; my adaptability to folks' individual needs is one of my strengths and priorities as a clinician. In recent years, I've developed a passion for working with issues of spirituality, complex trauma, family difficulties, and mood disorders, particularly as related to people in the LGBTQIA community. Healthy and thriving relationships are central to my identity; fostering them with and for my clients is a key aspect of the work I do.
I work towards maintaining a developmentally informed, strengths-based, queer-friendly counseling environment.
I've walked a number of paths in psychotherapy and have worked with many different kinds of people; my adaptability to folks' individual needs is one of my strengths and priorities as a clinician. In recent years, I've developed a passion for working with issues of spirituality, complex trauma, family difficulties, and mood disorders, particularly as related to people in the LGBTQIA community. Healthy and thriving relationships are central to my identity; fostering them with and for my clients is a key aspect of the work I do.
(954) 715-4255 View (954) 715-4255
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
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34243  (Online Only)
Rigsby is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional) depression and anxiety, mood disorders, grief, obsessive compulsive disorders, adjustment disorders, LGBT issues, and alcohol and substance abuse issues.
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.
Rigsby is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional) depression and anxiety, mood disorders, grief, obsessive compulsive disorders, adjustment disorders, LGBT issues, and alcohol and substance abuse issues.
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 Don Ford, LMHC, MCAP, Counselor
Don Ford
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33602
My name is Don Ford and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have helped individuals who have experienced a variety of clinical symptoms and disorders including substance abuse, addictions, trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, low self-esteem, and LGBTQIA+ concerns. Book with me now by clicking on my website. I work collaboratively with my clients to empower, motivate, and support them in their journey to meeting their therapeutic goals. I help individuals of all ages struggling with life dissatisfaction to develop the skills and experience to live healthy, productive, and positive lives.
My name is Don Ford and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have helped individuals who have experienced a variety of clinical symptoms and disorders including substance abuse, addictions, trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, low self-esteem, and LGBTQIA+ concerns. Book with me now by clicking on my website. I work collaboratively with my clients to empower, motivate, and support them in their journey to meeting their therapeutic goals. I help individuals of all ages struggling with life dissatisfaction to develop the skills and experience to live healthy, productive, and positive lives.
(813) 722-1527 View (813) 722-1527
Photo of John D Swan, LMHC, Counselor
John D Swan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
North Lauderdale, FL 33068  (Online Only)
I specialize in LGBTQ populations, as well as targeted care for Mood Disorders, such as Anxiety and Depression.
Life can be full of daily life challenges, and how we react to them, which can sometimes put a very heavy load on our mental health and how we cope. like depression, anxiety, or even trying to set healthy boundaries with others. As your therapist I will provide a nonjudgemental, safe, and supportive space so we can explore the past and present situations or circumstances that have impacted your life in regards to coping skills as well as habits that may be getting in the way of living a happier life. The plan would be to empower you with healthier tools in order to have a healthier quality of life.
I specialize in LGBTQ populations, as well as targeted care for Mood Disorders, such as Anxiety and Depression.
Life can be full of daily life challenges, and how we react to them, which can sometimes put a very heavy load on our mental health and how we cope. like depression, anxiety, or even trying to set healthy boundaries with others. As your therapist I will provide a nonjudgemental, safe, and supportive space so we can explore the past and present situations or circumstances that have impacted your life in regards to coping skills as well as habits that may be getting in the way of living a happier life. The plan would be to empower you with healthier tools in order to have a healthier quality of life.
(954) 870-4133 View (954) 870-4133
Photo of Abigail Maher, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Abigail Maher
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33705  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community & have lived experience as a queer person. My main focus is providing a safe, empathic environment for you to truly explore yourself and every facet of your experience. This includes exploring sources of pain and hurt, as well as celebrating sources of hope and joy. I believe that one of the most powerful things we can do is learn to understand ourselves, accept ourselves, practice compassion for ourselves, and move forward in life allowing ourselves to be as authentic as possible.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community & have lived experience as a queer person. My main focus is providing a safe, empathic environment for you to truly explore yourself and every facet of your experience. This includes exploring sources of pain and hurt, as well as celebrating sources of hope and joy. I believe that one of the most powerful things we can do is learn to understand ourselves, accept ourselves, practice compassion for ourselves, and move forward in life allowing ourselves to be as authentic as possible.
(813) 437-4994 View (813) 437-4994
Photo of Andrew Penn - Anchor Resilience Path Counseling, LLC, LMHC, QS-MHC, Counselor
Anchor Resilience Path Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LMHC, QS-MHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33617  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, those struggling with substance abuse, men's issues, and trauma.
Managed by Elite DNA. As a mental health professional, I understand that help can be difficult. I serve a range of clients with general mental health needs. My goal is provide a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, I am here to help you on your journey towards healing and growth.
I specialize in working with individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, those struggling with substance abuse, men's issues, and trauma.
Managed by Elite DNA. As a mental health professional, I understand that help can be difficult. I serve a range of clients with general mental health needs. My goal is provide a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, I am here to help you on your journey towards healing and growth.
(727) 472-5142 View (727) 472-5142
Photo of Courtney Bedford - Zen Counseling & Consulting Services, LMHC, LPC, ACS, MAC, Counselor
Zen Counseling & Consulting Services
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, ACS, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33604  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome to Zen Counseling & Consulting Services. I’m Courtney. Have you been to other supposed “ LGBT friendly” therapists and felt like they could not relate? Are you stuck in a perpetual cycle of depression and anxiety? Or maybe you are using drugs and/or alcohol to cope with life’s many stressors? Whatever the reason, I’m here to help. You may be asking, “is therapy right for me?” Absolutely! Therapy is a great self-care tool.
Hello and welcome to Zen Counseling & Consulting Services. I’m Courtney. Have you been to other supposed “ LGBT friendly” therapists and felt like they could not relate? Are you stuck in a perpetual cycle of depression and anxiety? Or maybe you are using drugs and/or alcohol to cope with life’s many stressors? Whatever the reason, I’m here to help. You may be asking, “is therapy right for me?” Absolutely! Therapy is a great self-care tool.
(954) 231-1308 View (954) 231-1308
Photo of Steven Reinhold Peano - QueerSpace Counseling, LMHC, Counselor
QueerSpace Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32205
I know the thought of sharing your personal details with a stranger can be intimidating, especially for LGBTQ people.
Hello everyone! I opened QueerSpace Counseling because it is my passion to work with the LGBTQ+ community to foster a safe space where clients can share their stories and find practical, easy to use interventions that provide relief. I believe that each of us can take steps for measurable success in our goals. I operate from a trauma-informed approach, heavy in practical skills practice. I work only with adult individuals (I do not offer couple's counseling or work with minors).
I know the thought of sharing your personal details with a stranger can be intimidating, especially for LGBTQ people.
Hello everyone! I opened QueerSpace Counseling because it is my passion to work with the LGBTQ+ community to foster a safe space where clients can share their stories and find practical, easy to use interventions that provide relief. I believe that each of us can take steps for measurable success in our goals. I operate from a trauma-informed approach, heavy in practical skills practice. I work only with adult individuals (I do not offer couple's counseling or work with minors).
(904) 977-8240 View (904) 977-8240
Photo of Amyn Ali, CRC
Amyn Ali
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, CRC
Verified Verified
Queer Mind Counseling was founded to create a judgment-free zone for people to learn and grow.
If you are reading this, I want to recognize these steps; looking to grow and searching for assistance aren't always easy. I aim to be an open and straightforward person and try to balance giving credit when credit is due with helping people stay accountable and recognize where they can grow. Positivity and humor are important aspects I draw into therapy, with the understanding there is a time and place for each. Every person is unique and it's my joy to be a part of your journey and hear your story. For each client, I curate an approach appropriate drawing from different systems; therapy isn't one size fits all.
Queer Mind Counseling was founded to create a judgment-free zone for people to learn and grow.
If you are reading this, I want to recognize these steps; looking to grow and searching for assistance aren't always easy. I aim to be an open and straightforward person and try to balance giving credit when credit is due with helping people stay accountable and recognize where they can grow. Positivity and humor are important aspects I draw into therapy, with the understanding there is a time and place for each. Every person is unique and it's my joy to be a part of your journey and hear your story. For each client, I curate an approach appropriate drawing from different systems; therapy isn't one size fits all.
(727) 332-0605 View (727) 332-0605
Photo of Rebecca Frye Lcsw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Frye Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33614  (Online Only)
I have experience with and welcome all individuals, couples and families, including LGBTQ+ individuals.
Offering secure, confidential and convenient Teletherapy throughout the state of Florida! My name is Rebecca Frye, LCSW. Thanks for checking out my profile! I know that finding a good therapeutic "fit" is not always easy. The first goal of my practice is to create a welcoming space where you can share openly. My practice is focused on listening to your goals, offering encouragement, and cultivating compassion towards yourself and others. I utilize a diverse approach that draws from several therapeutic traditions including: cognitive psychology, internal family systems and mindfulness based stress reduction and meditation.
I have experience with and welcome all individuals, couples and families, including LGBTQ+ individuals.
Offering secure, confidential and convenient Teletherapy throughout the state of Florida! My name is Rebecca Frye, LCSW. Thanks for checking out my profile! I know that finding a good therapeutic "fit" is not always easy. The first goal of my practice is to create a welcoming space where you can share openly. My practice is focused on listening to your goals, offering encouragement, and cultivating compassion towards yourself and others. I utilize a diverse approach that draws from several therapeutic traditions including: cognitive psychology, internal family systems and mindfulness based stress reduction and meditation.
(352) 292-8868 View (352) 292-8868
Photo of Rocio Ferrer-Clayton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rocio Ferrer-Clayton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33618
I'm a queer Latina/Chicana licensed therapist in FL and I have been in the mental health field since 2016. This is truly my passion! I recently began my own practice, Mindful Sol Therapy. I work with adults who struggle with severe mental illness, the LGBTQ+ community, infertility/loss/birthing trauma, grief/loss, anxiety disorders, depression, cultural issues/assimilation, and trauma. I enjoy working with clients who can be honest with themselves, want to be challenged, and are motivated for change and improvement.
I'm a queer Latina/Chicana licensed therapist in FL and I have been in the mental health field since 2016. This is truly my passion! I recently began my own practice, Mindful Sol Therapy. I work with adults who struggle with severe mental illness, the LGBTQ+ community, infertility/loss/birthing trauma, grief/loss, anxiety disorders, depression, cultural issues/assimilation, and trauma. I enjoy working with clients who can be honest with themselves, want to be challenged, and are motivated for change and improvement.
(813) 492-8388 View (813) 492-8388
1
...
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.