Transgender Therapists in Austell, GA

Photo of Iolanda L Da Luz, Counselor
Iolanda L Da Luz
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austell, GA 30168  (Online Only)
Are you in need of someone to listen to? A place where you can speak out loud your pain without feeling judged, belittled or alone? Do you find yourself at times asking why me or what is wrong with me? Do you find yourself feeling confused, angry, sad, anxious, stuck. Do you get triggered and react in a manner in where you wished you didn't? Do you find yourself alone again with nobody to share your life with? Do you isolate yourself when things don't go right? Do you have past traumas and haven't yet learned how it affects you today? Can't sleep at night? Do you feel you are going out of your mind because your mind does not shut up
Are you in need of someone to listen to? A place where you can speak out loud your pain without feeling judged, belittled or alone? Do you find yourself at times asking why me or what is wrong with me? Do you find yourself feeling confused, angry, sad, anxious, stuck. Do you get triggered and react in a manner in where you wished you didn't? Do you find yourself alone again with nobody to share your life with? Do you isolate yourself when things don't go right? Do you have past traumas and haven't yet learned how it affects you today? Can't sleep at night? Do you feel you are going out of your mind because your mind does not shut up
(678) 619-0726 View (678) 619-0726
Photo of Sheena Kelly, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sheena Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austell, GA 30106
Sheena Kelly is a licensed professional counselor with over 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Sheena has worked in substance abuse facilities, Community Agencies, and Adoption agencies to develop an overall perspective on individual experiences. Sheena has advanced training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which gives her more tools to aid in the client's journey.
Sheena Kelly is a licensed professional counselor with over 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Sheena has worked in substance abuse facilities, Community Agencies, and Adoption agencies to develop an overall perspective on individual experiences. Sheena has advanced training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which gives her more tools to aid in the client's journey.
(470) 444-4711 View (470) 444-4711
Photo of Sarah Kate Guthrie, APC, Counselor
Sarah Kate Guthrie
Counselor, APC
Verified Verified
Austell, GA 30106
Sarah Kate Guthrie is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor who graduated from Wake Forest University in 2023 with her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She attended The University of Georgia for her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and graduated in 2017. She has been in practice as an individual therapist since 2022 with LifeStance Health. Sarah Kate is a Georgia-native whose passion for those around her is as permeable as her love of the Georgia Bulldogs. Her heart lies in client-centered therapy as she makes a conscious effort to ensure all clients feel comfortable, valued, and understood.
Sarah Kate Guthrie is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor who graduated from Wake Forest University in 2023 with her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She attended The University of Georgia for her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and graduated in 2017. She has been in practice as an individual therapist since 2022 with LifeStance Health. Sarah Kate is a Georgia-native whose passion for those around her is as permeable as her love of the Georgia Bulldogs. Her heart lies in client-centered therapy as she makes a conscious effort to ensure all clients feel comfortable, valued, and understood.
(470) 660-5640 View (470) 660-5640
Photo of DeLasea Sloan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
DeLasea Sloan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austell, GA 30106
My name is DeLasea "Renee" Sloan, LPC. I have been working in the field of Mental Health for over 18 years. My experience includes working with patients utilizing telesessions and in person in the community and in hospital settings. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds with various diagnoses and classifications (i.e., dual-diagnosis, substance abuse, severe persistent mental illness, sex offenders, behavioral issues, depression, mania, anxiety, etc.). My credence is to always have an open heart and open mind, to meet my clients where they are at in their life's journey, only to help and heal, as well as never to do harm.
My name is DeLasea "Renee" Sloan, LPC. I have been working in the field of Mental Health for over 18 years. My experience includes working with patients utilizing telesessions and in person in the community and in hospital settings. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds with various diagnoses and classifications (i.e., dual-diagnosis, substance abuse, severe persistent mental illness, sex offenders, behavioral issues, depression, mania, anxiety, etc.). My credence is to always have an open heart and open mind, to meet my clients where they are at in their life's journey, only to help and heal, as well as never to do harm.
(678) 264-3627 View (678) 264-3627
Photo of Kristne Broadway, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristne Broadway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Austell, GA 30106
Dani Broadway graduated in 2016 with their Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. Dani utilizes a mindfulness based cognitive behavioral therapy approach to counseling. Dani believes healing happens in the present and aims to teach clients to be more present with themselves and their environment. Dani's areas of specialty include gender identity and LGBTQ+ issues, life transitions, and chronic diseases. In their spare time, Dani enjoys traveling to new places, hiking, and spending time with their wife and pets.
Dani Broadway graduated in 2016 with their Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. Dani utilizes a mindfulness based cognitive behavioral therapy approach to counseling. Dani believes healing happens in the present and aims to teach clients to be more present with themselves and their environment. Dani's areas of specialty include gender identity and LGBTQ+ issues, life transitions, and chronic diseases. In their spare time, Dani enjoys traveling to new places, hiking, and spending time with their wife and pets.
(404) 882-6414 View (404) 882-6414

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Caroline Henderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Henderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30082  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Atlanta, GA who works with adult individuals. I enjoy working with people of many different life experiences and am particularly passionate about supporting those who have been impacted by criminal legal systems. I frequently see clients for the following concerns: anxiety, depression & mood concerns, relationship & communication challenges, processing & coping with major transitions, support for those in helping professions, grief & loss, self-esteem & body image concerns, addiction recovery & support, gender dysphoria & gender transition support, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Atlanta, GA who works with adult individuals. I enjoy working with people of many different life experiences and am particularly passionate about supporting those who have been impacted by criminal legal systems. I frequently see clients for the following concerns: anxiety, depression & mood concerns, relationship & communication challenges, processing & coping with major transitions, support for those in helping professions, grief & loss, self-esteem & body image concerns, addiction recovery & support, gender dysphoria & gender transition support, and trauma.
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Photo of Elizabeth Snelgrove Arauz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Snelgrove Arauz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30060
Individuals whom identify within the LGBTQI+ community, particularly those whom identify as transgender/nonbinary, face a myriad of challenges such as, social stigma, family discord, abandonment, depression (with and without suicidal ideation), anxiety, etc.
I work with children to adults struggling with a range of mental health diagnoses, including, depression (with or without suicidal ideation), anxiety, ADHD, Bi-Polar Disorder, neurological disorders, gender dysphoria, etc. Together, with your commitment to treatment and a solid therapeutic relationship, we can identify your goals and utilize your personal strengths to build a realistic treatment plan to reach your goals and be your best self.
Individuals whom identify within the LGBTQI+ community, particularly those whom identify as transgender/nonbinary, face a myriad of challenges such as, social stigma, family discord, abandonment, depression (with and without suicidal ideation), anxiety, etc.
I work with children to adults struggling with a range of mental health diagnoses, including, depression (with or without suicidal ideation), anxiety, ADHD, Bi-Polar Disorder, neurological disorders, gender dysphoria, etc. Together, with your commitment to treatment and a solid therapeutic relationship, we can identify your goals and utilize your personal strengths to build a realistic treatment plan to reach your goals and be your best self.
(770) 691-5423 View (770) 691-5423
Photo of Anna Lisa Derenthal, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Lisa Derenthal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30318
Are you haunted by the past, consumed by fear, pain, guilt or sadness? I have helped many others like you end suffering and overcome fears, finally putting their pasts behind them. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Brainspotting are specialized therapies for healing Trauma and PTSD more quickly and completely. I am also experienced with grief/loss, panic and anxiety disorders, phobias, depression, low self esteem, and other issues. In addition, I work with LGBTQI, Gender Identity, transgender people and transitioning. I am open-minded and accepting and I welcome folks from all spiritual belief systems, sexual orientations, gender expressions, colors, shapes and sizes.
Are you haunted by the past, consumed by fear, pain, guilt or sadness? I have helped many others like you end suffering and overcome fears, finally putting their pasts behind them. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Brainspotting are specialized therapies for healing Trauma and PTSD more quickly and completely. I am also experienced with grief/loss, panic and anxiety disorders, phobias, depression, low self esteem, and other issues. In addition, I work with LGBTQI, Gender Identity, transgender people and transitioning. I am open-minded and accepting and I welcome folks from all spiritual belief systems, sexual orientations, gender expressions, colors, shapes and sizes.
(678) 270-2384 View (678) 270-2384
Photo of Meghan McDonald Leigh-Manuell, LPC, CPLC, MAC, BC-TMH, CIMP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meghan McDonald Leigh-Manuell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPLC, MAC, BC-TMH, CIMP
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30064
Coming to therapy can be hard. My goal is to make therapy and coaching a positive experience. I work mainly with all addictions including sex, porn and gambling as well as relationship issues, couples work and anxiety. I also work with couples having relationship concerns and those seeking premarital counseling. I offer life coaching for those looking to break negative life patterns and those that are having a hard time managing life transitions. I also specialize in teen issues as well as transgender and identity issues and are certified to do phone and video sessions.
Coming to therapy can be hard. My goal is to make therapy and coaching a positive experience. I work mainly with all addictions including sex, porn and gambling as well as relationship issues, couples work and anxiety. I also work with couples having relationship concerns and those seeking premarital counseling. I offer life coaching for those looking to break negative life patterns and those that are having a hard time managing life transitions. I also specialize in teen issues as well as transgender and identity issues and are certified to do phone and video sessions.
(770) 728-6311 View (770) 728-6311
Photo of Meghan McDonald Leigh-Manuell - Safe Harbor Counseling Services, LPC, MAC, BC-TMH, CIMP, CPLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Safe Harbor Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC, BC-TMH, CIMP, CPLC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30064
Coming to therapy can be hard. Our goal is to make therapy and coaching a positive experience. We work mainly with all addictions including sex, porn and gambling as well as relationship issues, couples work and anxiety. We also work with couples having relationship concerns and those seeking premarital counseling. We offer life coaching for those looking to break negative life patterns and those that are having a hard time managing life transitions. We also specialize in teen issues as well as transgender and identity issues and are certified to do phone and video sessions.
Coming to therapy can be hard. Our goal is to make therapy and coaching a positive experience. We work mainly with all addictions including sex, porn and gambling as well as relationship issues, couples work and anxiety. We also work with couples having relationship concerns and those seeking premarital counseling. We offer life coaching for those looking to break negative life patterns and those that are having a hard time managing life transitions. We also specialize in teen issues as well as transgender and identity issues and are certified to do phone and video sessions.
(770) 574-6309 View (770) 574-6309
Photo of Timothy Whailen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Timothy Whailen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Douglasville, GA 30134
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience helping adults, young adults, families, and couples having difficulty with ADHD, Autism, C-PTSD, LGBTQ+ issues, Gender Dysphoria, Depression, Anxiety, plurality/systems, Stress Management, Relationships, and Mood Disorders.
Are you tired of arguing with your own brain or body in ways that most people don't seem able or willing to understand? Getting help does not have to be another insurmountable task. If you have found yourself having to work harder than you believe you should to maintain stability or need a safe place to process with someone who shares some of your experiences, give me a chance to help you learn more about how your own system works and renew your perspective on you. My holistic approach to trauma-informed, neurodivergence-affirming practice is tailored to your needs with tools to help in both an immediate crisis and long-term goals.
I have experience helping adults, young adults, families, and couples having difficulty with ADHD, Autism, C-PTSD, LGBTQ+ issues, Gender Dysphoria, Depression, Anxiety, plurality/systems, Stress Management, Relationships, and Mood Disorders.
Are you tired of arguing with your own brain or body in ways that most people don't seem able or willing to understand? Getting help does not have to be another insurmountable task. If you have found yourself having to work harder than you believe you should to maintain stability or need a safe place to process with someone who shares some of your experiences, give me a chance to help you learn more about how your own system works and renew your perspective on you. My holistic approach to trauma-informed, neurodivergence-affirming practice is tailored to your needs with tools to help in both an immediate crisis and long-term goals.
(770) 230-5658 View (770) 230-5658
Photo of Lance Madow, MS, APC, NCC, GTC
Lance Madow
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, APC, NCC, GTC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Douglasville, GA 30133
Are you full of racing thoughts and can't figure out why or how to stop them? Are you looking for a therapist who you can discuss your D&D character with? Maybe you're tired from reviewing every mistake you've ever made and struggle to communicate how you feel to friends and family. I value creating a space where we will explore who the villain of your story is, whether it be feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or something else. While I enjoy working with everyone, as a queer and GNC therapist, I specialize in working with queer/trans teens & adults. I appreciate creating a comfortable & geeky space where you can show up as yourself.
Are you full of racing thoughts and can't figure out why or how to stop them? Are you looking for a therapist who you can discuss your D&D character with? Maybe you're tired from reviewing every mistake you've ever made and struggle to communicate how you feel to friends and family. I value creating a space where we will explore who the villain of your story is, whether it be feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or something else. While I enjoy working with everyone, as a queer and GNC therapist, I specialize in working with queer/trans teens & adults. I appreciate creating a comfortable & geeky space where you can show up as yourself.
(470) 748-6915 View (470) 748-6915
Photo of Kelle Watts, MS, LPC, CRC, CVE, Counselor
Kelle Watts
Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC, CVE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
I provide space for people struggling with life. I specialize in helping clients embrace self-compassion, inner resilience and strength. Traumas- generational, economic, racial, religious, sexual and gender, can be overcome; as can ableism and sizeism. We must challenge learned guilt and shame and radically embrace ourselves. I acknowledge your unique struggle and offer unconditional acceptance as you work to overcome your emotional inheritance. I am LGBTQIA2+ affirming, poly affirming, sex worker and kink positive and absolutely pro-choice. I am a pagan therapist and uphold the sacredness of all spiritual paths.
I provide space for people struggling with life. I specialize in helping clients embrace self-compassion, inner resilience and strength. Traumas- generational, economic, racial, religious, sexual and gender, can be overcome; as can ableism and sizeism. We must challenge learned guilt and shame and radically embrace ourselves. I acknowledge your unique struggle and offer unconditional acceptance as you work to overcome your emotional inheritance. I am LGBTQIA2+ affirming, poly affirming, sex worker and kink positive and absolutely pro-choice. I am a pagan therapist and uphold the sacredness of all spiritual paths.
(470) 664-5159 View (470) 664-5159
Photo of Jennifer A Riapos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer A Riapos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
Waitlist for new clients
Jennifer earned her Master's degree in Social Work at Kennesaw State University graduating cum laude. She is currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a member of the National Association of Social Workers. A New Jersey native, Jennifer relocated to Cobb County in 2005 as a single parent raising two children. She is active in the community and her church. Jennifer has extensive experience working with varied populations: working with a pregnancy resource center; inpatient adolescents; individuals/families in the community; as well as substance abuse/mental health IOP/PHP treatment settings.
Jennifer earned her Master's degree in Social Work at Kennesaw State University graduating cum laude. She is currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a member of the National Association of Social Workers. A New Jersey native, Jennifer relocated to Cobb County in 2005 as a single parent raising two children. She is active in the community and her church. Jennifer has extensive experience working with varied populations: working with a pregnancy resource center; inpatient adolescents; individuals/families in the community; as well as substance abuse/mental health IOP/PHP treatment settings.
(678) 263-2735 View (678) 263-2735
Photo of Terrance Eric Putter, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Terrance Eric Putter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
I am a highly motivated professional who enjoys working with people in supportive environments. I’ve always been passionate about children in care and helping others, and practiced psychotherapy in England before coming to the US. I have a Master’s degree in Counseling and Psychotherapy, with specializations in behavior analysis, person-centered and humanistic approaches. I also work with children who are diagnosed with autism and am a Registered Behavioral Technician.
I am a highly motivated professional who enjoys working with people in supportive environments. I’ve always been passionate about children in care and helping others, and practiced psychotherapy in England before coming to the US. I have a Master’s degree in Counseling and Psychotherapy, with specializations in behavior analysis, person-centered and humanistic approaches. I also work with children who are diagnosed with autism and am a Registered Behavioral Technician.
(770) 762-4832 View (770) 762-4832
Photo of Jaime Stepansky, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaime Stepansky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
Do you struggle with emotional regulation, anxiety, or relationships? Are you juggling a thousand things, only to feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and disconnected? As a parent, are you worried about your adolescent’s well-being, identity challenges, or emotional struggles? I understand how challenging these experiences can be, and I’m here to help. I’m Jaime (she/her), and I’m dedicated to cultivating an LGBTQ+ and neurodiversity-affirming practice. Together, we will work to help you learn specific skills and strategies to manage stress and anxiety, build fulfilling relationships, and nurture more enjoyment in your life (and identity).
Do you struggle with emotional regulation, anxiety, or relationships? Are you juggling a thousand things, only to feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and disconnected? As a parent, are you worried about your adolescent’s well-being, identity challenges, or emotional struggles? I understand how challenging these experiences can be, and I’m here to help. I’m Jaime (she/her), and I’m dedicated to cultivating an LGBTQ+ and neurodiversity-affirming practice. Together, we will work to help you learn specific skills and strategies to manage stress and anxiety, build fulfilling relationships, and nurture more enjoyment in your life (and identity).
(678) 931-9434 View (678) 931-9434
Photo of Suzanne Una Watts, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suzanne Una Watts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lithia Springs, GA 30122  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel like you are not being heard by friends, family or medical professionals? Are you feeling overwhelmed or anxious due to changes in your life? Maybe you are not feeling like YOU anymore, as if something has changed? I can help! I offer experience, knowledge and true understanding for the complexities of the journey. My focus is helping you feel supported during the changes life throws at you. I became a counselor because I understand how frustrating it can feel to not be heard or understood by family, friends, medical professionals or mental health professionals on your journey towards wellness.
Do you ever feel like you are not being heard by friends, family or medical professionals? Are you feeling overwhelmed or anxious due to changes in your life? Maybe you are not feeling like YOU anymore, as if something has changed? I can help! I offer experience, knowledge and true understanding for the complexities of the journey. My focus is helping you feel supported during the changes life throws at you. I became a counselor because I understand how frustrating it can feel to not be heard or understood by family, friends, medical professionals or mental health professionals on your journey towards wellness.
(470) 852-2975 View (470) 852-2975
Photo of Jason Branch - JBranch and Associates , PhD, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
JBranch and Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mableton, GA 30126  (Online Only)
J. Branch and Associates (JB&A) is a telehealth private practice that provides virtual therapy services to children, adults, adolescents, and couples. Our goal is to increase the participation of counseling within the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities, LGBTQIA+ community, and other people who have been marginalized. We strive to provide culturally competent and responsive services to all our clients.
J. Branch and Associates (JB&A) is a telehealth private practice that provides virtual therapy services to children, adults, adolescents, and couples. Our goal is to increase the participation of counseling within the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities, LGBTQIA+ community, and other people who have been marginalized. We strive to provide culturally competent and responsive services to all our clients.
(470) 458-2610 View (470) 458-2610
Photo of Hilda Dwumfuor - Ayaresa Therapy LLC, LCSW, LMSW, MSW, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ayaresa Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, MSW, MS
Verified Verified
Douglasville, GA 30135  (Online Only)
Ayaresa Therapy LLC is a compassionate, Black woman-owned group practice dedicated to empowering Black women, LGBTQ, and BIPOC individuals across multiple states. Our experienced team specializes in cultural and gender-based trauma, ADHD, depression, BPD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex PTSD, mood and anxiety disorders, domestic violence, child and adolescent counseling, suicide support, alcohol and substance abuse, autism, couples counseling, sexual abuse, neglect, divorce reactions, and grief. We are passionate about supporting marginalized groups and creating safe, affirming spaces for healing. We get it. We’ve got!
Ayaresa Therapy LLC is a compassionate, Black woman-owned group practice dedicated to empowering Black women, LGBTQ, and BIPOC individuals across multiple states. Our experienced team specializes in cultural and gender-based trauma, ADHD, depression, BPD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex PTSD, mood and anxiety disorders, domestic violence, child and adolescent counseling, suicide support, alcohol and substance abuse, autism, couples counseling, sexual abuse, neglect, divorce reactions, and grief. We are passionate about supporting marginalized groups and creating safe, affirming spaces for healing. We get it. We’ve got!
(470) 354-1524 View (470) 354-1524
Photo of Phyllis Williams, MSEd, MHC-LP, APC, Counselor
Phyllis Williams
Counselor, MSEd, MHC-LP, APC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I am an Associate Professional Counselor licensed in the state of GA & NY. I am also the owner of Tuyee Holistic Services LLC. My goal is to provide psycho education on mental illness and wellness and to reduce the mental health stigma in our society. Long term or short term, we will work together as a team in your therapeutic journey of self reflection & processing, in order to fully develop the skills that you learn in our sessions to apply in your daily interaction with others and personal development. The work begins when you leave my office and I aim to help you achieve that independence and overall mental health stability.
I am an Associate Professional Counselor licensed in the state of GA & NY. I am also the owner of Tuyee Holistic Services LLC. My goal is to provide psycho education on mental illness and wellness and to reduce the mental health stigma in our society. Long term or short term, we will work together as a team in your therapeutic journey of self reflection & processing, in order to fully develop the skills that you learn in our sessions to apply in your daily interaction with others and personal development. The work begins when you leave my office and I aim to help you achieve that independence and overall mental health stability.
(678) 504-6326 View (678) 504-6326
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.