LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Ramona Benner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ identified folx, highly empathic or sensitive individuals (HSPs), and those who are dealing with the impacts of antagonistic or high-conflict individuals.
Life can feel overwhelming. Within a collaborative setting, we can explore ways to make life feel more manageable and, ultimately, more enjoyable. The quality of the therapeutic relationship itself has been shown to significantly influence treatment outcomes. My approach emphasizes authenticity and the idea that growth can happen while in a nourishing setting. I assist clients with developing sustainable coping strategies, uncovering patterns, and navigating relational dynamics. My goal is to help clients find realistic solutions within their unique circumstances.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ identified folx, highly empathic or sensitive individuals (HSPs), and those who are dealing with the impacts of antagonistic or high-conflict individuals.
Life can feel overwhelming. Within a collaborative setting, we can explore ways to make life feel more manageable and, ultimately, more enjoyable. The quality of the therapeutic relationship itself has been shown to significantly influence treatment outcomes. My approach emphasizes authenticity and the idea that growth can happen while in a nourishing setting. I assist clients with developing sustainable coping strategies, uncovering patterns, and navigating relational dynamics. My goal is to help clients find realistic solutions within their unique circumstances.
Burney Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90275
Megan is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in working with all eating disorders, body image struggles, depression and anxiety disorders, trauma, chemical dependency, LGBTQ concerns, domestic violence, and identity/self-esteem struggles. She enjoys working with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. She has worked at various levels of care—from residential to outpatient treatment. In session, Megan has a warm, caring, non-judgmental, explorative, and honest approach. She utilizes CBT, DBT, ACT and various other evidence-based practices, tailoring each intervention to suit your unique needs.
Megan is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in working with all eating disorders, body image struggles, depression and anxiety disorders, trauma, chemical dependency, LGBTQ concerns, domestic violence, and identity/self-esteem struggles. She enjoys working with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. She has worked at various levels of care—from residential to outpatient treatment. In session, Megan has a warm, caring, non-judgmental, explorative, and honest approach. She utilizes CBT, DBT, ACT and various other evidence-based practices, tailoring each intervention to suit your unique needs.
Lauren Matern
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 (Online Only)
Seeking Feminist, body-neutral, LGBTQIA+ celebrating depth therapy? You’ve come to a point where you know old narratives aren’t serving you, they're playing out in your relationships, career, family, internal narrative & you want to create more joy, freedom & ease in your day to day. Culture, race, ethnicity, gender, sex, & sexuality all impact the stories we are told about who we can be, should be & are. These narratives affect how we think about ourselves & require time, attention & care to unpack, process & heal. The feminist LGBTQIA+ affirming & celebrating lens can foster healing, empowerment, & liberation for all identities!
Seeking Feminist, body-neutral, LGBTQIA+ celebrating depth therapy? You’ve come to a point where you know old narratives aren’t serving you, they're playing out in your relationships, career, family, internal narrative & you want to create more joy, freedom & ease in your day to day. Culture, race, ethnicity, gender, sex, & sexuality all impact the stories we are told about who we can be, should be & are. These narratives affect how we think about ourselves & require time, attention & care to unpack, process & heal. The feminist LGBTQIA+ affirming & celebrating lens can foster healing, empowerment, & liberation for all identities!
I have a long-standing commitment to helping the LGBT community.
As a culturally competent psychologist with over 20 years of experience, I have worked with a broad range of clients, suffering from a wide spectrum of problems. When people are confronted with life challenges, there is an opportunity to grow, constructively face them, and overcome. I endeavor to provide a comfortable, supportive environment where clients can explore and work through problems. I also build on client strengths and resilience. My goal is to help clients thrive, creating fulfilling, productive lives, and satisfying relationships. I deeply value my clients and am sensitive to and respectful of every form of human diversity.
I have a long-standing commitment to helping the LGBT community.
As a culturally competent psychologist with over 20 years of experience, I have worked with a broad range of clients, suffering from a wide spectrum of problems. When people are confronted with life challenges, there is an opportunity to grow, constructively face them, and overcome. I endeavor to provide a comfortable, supportive environment where clients can explore and work through problems. I also build on client strengths and resilience. My goal is to help clients thrive, creating fulfilling, productive lives, and satisfying relationships. I deeply value my clients and am sensitive to and respectful of every form of human diversity.
Amber Robison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC, MS
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90275 (Online Only)
I have specialized training and am passionate in supporting Transgender, Gender Nonconforming, and LGBTQ(IA+) individuals.
Alliance Family Counseling Services is led by Amber Robison, LCSW. I have over 19 years experience as a clinical therapist providing therapy to adults, couples, families, children, and adolescents. I am a solution-focused therapist and my therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical strategies to help clients/families effectively address personal life challenges. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual/family to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth to cope with the challenges faced.
I have specialized training and am passionate in supporting Transgender, Gender Nonconforming, and LGBTQ(IA+) individuals.
Alliance Family Counseling Services is led by Amber Robison, LCSW. I have over 19 years experience as a clinical therapist providing therapy to adults, couples, families, children, and adolescents. I am a solution-focused therapist and my therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical strategies to help clients/families effectively address personal life challenges. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual/family to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth to cope with the challenges faced.
Cinnamon Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
In our group practice, we work with adults, couples and adolescents and have specialized training in the following areas: partner/relationship dynamics, EMDR, communication issues, anxiety, depression, self-injury, grief and loss, life transitions, codependency, trauma, LGBTQ+ and Queer/non-binary issues.
Starting therapy can feel daunting, so it's important you feel a comfortable connection with a therapist. Maybe you're here because you need resolution or support. Whether you know exactly what the issue is - anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, grief, codependency - or you're not quite sure what's bothering you, I am deeply committed to therapy being a collaborative process aimed at finding what helps. My clients tell me they appreciate how engaged and direct I am, but also how I use humor, compassion and patience in our work. My intention is to create an environment where you feel safe to explore and my goal is for you to feel relief.
In our group practice, we work with adults, couples and adolescents and have specialized training in the following areas: partner/relationship dynamics, EMDR, communication issues, anxiety, depression, self-injury, grief and loss, life transitions, codependency, trauma, LGBTQ+ and Queer/non-binary issues.
Starting therapy can feel daunting, so it's important you feel a comfortable connection with a therapist. Maybe you're here because you need resolution or support. Whether you know exactly what the issue is - anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, grief, codependency - or you're not quite sure what's bothering you, I am deeply committed to therapy being a collaborative process aimed at finding what helps. My clients tell me they appreciate how engaged and direct I am, but also how I use humor, compassion and patience in our work. My intention is to create an environment where you feel safe to explore and my goal is for you to feel relief.
Kayleigh Soto
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
She specializes in the treatment of veterans and their families, sexual and combat trauma, life transitions (including transgender), anxiety, and relationships.
NOT ACCEPTING CLIENTS At THIS TIME. We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
She specializes in the treatment of veterans and their families, sexual and combat trauma, life transitions (including transgender), anxiety, and relationships.
NOT ACCEPTING CLIENTS At THIS TIME. We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
Dr. Andrea Aoun
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90275 (Online Only)
Dr. Aoun is trained to work with adults who are navigating various life challenges such as: parenting obstacles, maternal mental health, work and school stress, grief and loss, issues pertaining to the LGBTQ+ community, immigration and acculturation challenges, depression, anxiety, unresolved childhood traumas, and relational conflicts.
Dr. Aoun is trained to work with adults who are navigating various life challenges such as: parenting obstacles, maternal mental health, work and school stress, grief and loss, issues pertaining to the LGBTQ+ community, immigration and acculturation challenges, depression, anxiety, unresolved childhood traumas, and relational conflicts.
I believe you are doing the best you can. I also know that a lifetime of numerous external factors have a way of shifting and molding your perspective and abilities. Upon this realization, however it manifests, is when it becomes an excellent time to reach out and draw in help from someone who is unbiased, nonjudgmental, understands human nature, and has done their own inner work. That's where I come in. I believe that psychotherapy acts as a path towards self-discovery. When you truly understand your own patterns, motivations, and wounds, you have a divine offer to evolve into the healthiest version of yourself.
I believe you are doing the best you can. I also know that a lifetime of numerous external factors have a way of shifting and molding your perspective and abilities. Upon this realization, however it manifests, is when it becomes an excellent time to reach out and draw in help from someone who is unbiased, nonjudgmental, understands human nature, and has done their own inner work. That's where I come in. I believe that psychotherapy acts as a path towards self-discovery. When you truly understand your own patterns, motivations, and wounds, you have a divine offer to evolve into the healthiest version of yourself.
Ken Ribotsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CAMSII
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
No one is born with a playbook for life, but you have the power to write your own. Some people I work with recognize that they feel anxious, depressed, possibly reliving trauma, or are generally unfulfilled, while others are not sure why they are unhappy, nervous, not enjoying life. I’m here to help you get more out of life. More love, more joy, more peace. Change isn’t always easy. I offer a space where you can explore your emotions, fears, anger, and experience new-found hope, plus get real solutions, and thrive!
No one is born with a playbook for life, but you have the power to write your own. Some people I work with recognize that they feel anxious, depressed, possibly reliving trauma, or are generally unfulfilled, while others are not sure why they are unhappy, nervous, not enjoying life. I’m here to help you get more out of life. More love, more joy, more peace. Change isn’t always easy. I offer a space where you can explore your emotions, fears, anger, and experience new-found hope, plus get real solutions, and thrive!
Natalie Marie Herriott
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
You feel stuck in an endless cycle of emotional blackmail. One moment, your partner is loving and everything is normal. The next, they explode and cite you as the root of all their problems. The unpredictability is exhausting. You care about this person but feel like they are breaking you down. You want to save the relationship, but your boundaries are being ignored and you are beginning to lose sight of who you are. You are so busy trying to avoid conflict that when you look in the mirror, you don't recognize who you see anymore.
You feel stuck in an endless cycle of emotional blackmail. One moment, your partner is loving and everything is normal. The next, they explode and cite you as the root of all their problems. The unpredictability is exhausting. You care about this person but feel like they are breaking you down. You want to save the relationship, but your boundaries are being ignored and you are beginning to lose sight of who you are. You are so busy trying to avoid conflict that when you look in the mirror, you don't recognize who you see anymore.
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Miranda Ageson
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
I’m a firm believer that healing happens in relationship. And yet, for those of us who have experienced trauma and mental health concerns, relationships that aid our healing can be few and far between. Therapy is, for many of us, where we learn to heal. When we form a healthy bond with a therapist, we grow to trust them, and slowly, ourselves and others. When we can trust ourselves and others, we can learn to live again - to come out of survival mode and into the unique beauty of our individual selves, lives and experiences. Facilitating this growth in others is what I consider to be my work, and it is my honor to do it.
I’m a firm believer that healing happens in relationship. And yet, for those of us who have experienced trauma and mental health concerns, relationships that aid our healing can be few and far between. Therapy is, for many of us, where we learn to heal. When we form a healthy bond with a therapist, we grow to trust them, and slowly, ourselves and others. When we can trust ourselves and others, we can learn to live again - to come out of survival mode and into the unique beauty of our individual selves, lives and experiences. Facilitating this growth in others is what I consider to be my work, and it is my honor to do it.
I bring to the treatment setting over thirty years of experience as a licensed psychotherapist , first working with families and children who have experienced trauma, then as a graduate psychoanalyst with expertise in recognizing and treating unconscious patterns that play out in current relationships and behaviors. Every situation is unique, and difficult problems must be deeply understood to effect lasting change. Together we will identify and work through the underlying dynamics that contribute to your current concerns. Psychodynamic work is beneficial for those who have an interest in, and a capacity for, self-reflection and personal growth.
I bring to the treatment setting over thirty years of experience as a licensed psychotherapist , first working with families and children who have experienced trauma, then as a graduate psychoanalyst with expertise in recognizing and treating unconscious patterns that play out in current relationships and behaviors. Every situation is unique, and difficult problems must be deeply understood to effect lasting change. Together we will identify and work through the underlying dynamics that contribute to your current concerns. Psychodynamic work is beneficial for those who have an interest in, and a capacity for, self-reflection and personal growth.
Gaetano Scognamillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
I am a psychotherapist specializing in work with adults on a range of issues. In addition to symptom relief and greater self-understanding, my clients often note a higher level of self-esteem, improved relationships, effective functioning, and an overall sense of well-being.
I am a psychotherapist specializing in work with adults on a range of issues. In addition to symptom relief and greater self-understanding, my clients often note a higher level of self-esteem, improved relationships, effective functioning, and an overall sense of well-being.
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
Jennifer Chokemesil
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
I believe all of us must face different challenges in life. My role as a therapist is to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can express your true feelings and learn more about yourself. Having a safe place to explore and express your confusion or despair can be the first step to healing and growth. I can assist you in resolving your past pain in an effort to promote insight and healing. In an environment of warmth and genuineness, I will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them.
I believe all of us must face different challenges in life. My role as a therapist is to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can express your true feelings and learn more about yourself. Having a safe place to explore and express your confusion or despair can be the first step to healing and growth. I can assist you in resolving your past pain in an effort to promote insight and healing. In an environment of warmth and genuineness, I will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them.
Beverly Scott/Licensed Marriage Family Counselor
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Suffer no more with depression, panic attacks, addictions, low self esteem and bad relationships, time to transform those close relationships into great ones whether at home or in the office.I use EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, codependence therapy, plus couples theories (certified Imago Therapist & Relationsl Life Therapist), joining all in loving communication. I love 12 step programs & have been trained & certified by the best in the field for addiction issues. . I am trained in mediation working for LA court as a mediator for divorcing couples using communication & collaborative methods. I have taught classes helping divorcing couples cope Good communication=love!
Suffer no more with depression, panic attacks, addictions, low self esteem and bad relationships, time to transform those close relationships into great ones whether at home or in the office.I use EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, codependence therapy, plus couples theories (certified Imago Therapist & Relationsl Life Therapist), joining all in loving communication. I love 12 step programs & have been trained & certified by the best in the field for addiction issues. . I am trained in mediation working for LA court as a mediator for divorcing couples using communication & collaborative methods. I have taught classes helping divorcing couples cope Good communication=love!
I believe "Love is Love". I help individuals, couples & families through life transitions, such as making sense of a hard situation, becoming a parent, or adjusting to life. My sacred work is rooted in being productive (so you can gather healthy ways to cope with life), being focused on your therapy goals (so you can transition out of therapy), and being supportive towards the balance of life (spiritually, physically, mentally & emotionally). I offer parenting (traditional, single + alternative) therapeutic support, consultations & workshops on Positive Mothering, Let your Soul Glow and How to find your Authentic Self.
I believe "Love is Love". I help individuals, couples & families through life transitions, such as making sense of a hard situation, becoming a parent, or adjusting to life. My sacred work is rooted in being productive (so you can gather healthy ways to cope with life), being focused on your therapy goals (so you can transition out of therapy), and being supportive towards the balance of life (spiritually, physically, mentally & emotionally). I offer parenting (traditional, single + alternative) therapeutic support, consultations & workshops on Positive Mothering, Let your Soul Glow and How to find your Authentic Self.
Are you tired of being in distress? Are you repeatedly engaging in relationships that cause you pain and don't know how to change? Oftentimes we are unaware of the underlying causes of our suffering. Relief can be felt when underlying beliefs and conflicts are brought to the surface and worked through. If you're ready to begin the process of inner transformation that will finally bring you the relief and freedom you have been looking for, give me a call at 310.712.1656. You can check out my website at DrJuliaBaird.com Look forward to hearing from you!
Are you tired of being in distress? Are you repeatedly engaging in relationships that cause you pain and don't know how to change? Oftentimes we are unaware of the underlying causes of our suffering. Relief can be felt when underlying beliefs and conflicts are brought to the surface and worked through. If you're ready to begin the process of inner transformation that will finally bring you the relief and freedom you have been looking for, give me a call at 310.712.1656. You can check out my website at DrJuliaBaird.com Look forward to hearing from you!
We are an organization of mental health professionals with a common goal of providing excellent and expert services in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego counties. We are committed to providing the highest level of professional expertise and human compassion for issues and concerns that arise in the course of our lives. Crossroads Institute offers psychotherapy services for all ages, psychiatry, clinical, educational, and neuropsychological assessment, and brain training services, including qEEG based Neurofeedback and Biofeedback services.
We are an organization of mental health professionals with a common goal of providing excellent and expert services in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego counties. We are committed to providing the highest level of professional expertise and human compassion for issues and concerns that arise in the course of our lives. Crossroads Institute offers psychotherapy services for all ages, psychiatry, clinical, educational, and neuropsychological assessment, and brain training services, including qEEG based Neurofeedback and Biofeedback services.
See more therapy options for Palos Verdes Estates
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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.