LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Jocie Sweeney - SweeneyPsych, PhD, Psychologist
SweeneyPsych
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Our therapists have led a number of groups, including anxiety, coping skills, depression, military, LGBTQ+, and TGD groups.
We have found that one of the most difficult steps in therapy is scheduling and attending the first appointment. Our aim is to reward that courage by collaboratively working with clients towards reaching their goals. Our methods are individually tailored to each client based on their needs. Our therapists are trained as generalists and work wide array of issues ranging from stress management, chronic medical conditions, life transitions, and gender affirmations to more severe concerns such as trauma. We specialize in working with LGBTQ+ adults. We use the Informed Consent Model for gender-affirming surgery letters. Email us!
Our therapists have led a number of groups, including anxiety, coping skills, depression, military, LGBTQ+, and TGD groups.
We have found that one of the most difficult steps in therapy is scheduling and attending the first appointment. Our aim is to reward that courage by collaboratively working with clients towards reaching their goals. Our methods are individually tailored to each client based on their needs. Our therapists are trained as generalists and work wide array of issues ranging from stress management, chronic medical conditions, life transitions, and gender affirmations to more severe concerns such as trauma. We specialize in working with LGBTQ+ adults. We use the Informed Consent Model for gender-affirming surgery letters. Email us!
(980) 734-3347 View (980) 734-3347
Photo of Kayla Harmon - InclusiFlora Counseling PLLC, LCSWA, LMSW, LPC, ADC, NCC
InclusiFlora Counseling PLLC
LCSW Associate, LCSWA, LMSW, LPC, ADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205  (Online Only)
Our therapists utilize all the acronyms you've seen in therapy (DBT, CBT, ACT), we love to use therapy as a tool to manage emotions healthily, process trauma, focus on issues in your life, making being neurodivergent work for you instead of against you, reduce "people pleasing" behaviors, set and achieve goals, addiction, and LGBTQIA+ based stressors (don't worry, you won't have to educate your therapist on your sexuality or gender here!).
We are LGBTQIA+ affirmative, trauma-informed, neuroaffirmative, and culturally competent for all (BIPOC affirmative and allied). We focus on working with trauma, LGBTQIA+, folx making neurodivergence work for them, specialty with religious trauma, self-harm, couples counseling, BPD, grief, anxiety, and depression. We work with teens and adults in NC. We love working through the good, the bad, and the ugly and supporting our clients to make life feel just a little lighter for them. Text or call today for your FREE-15 minute consult, to make sure you feel like we're a good fit!
Our therapists utilize all the acronyms you've seen in therapy (DBT, CBT, ACT), we love to use therapy as a tool to manage emotions healthily, process trauma, focus on issues in your life, making being neurodivergent work for you instead of against you, reduce "people pleasing" behaviors, set and achieve goals, addiction, and LGBTQIA+ based stressors (don't worry, you won't have to educate your therapist on your sexuality or gender here!).
We are LGBTQIA+ affirmative, trauma-informed, neuroaffirmative, and culturally competent for all (BIPOC affirmative and allied). We focus on working with trauma, LGBTQIA+, folx making neurodivergence work for them, specialty with religious trauma, self-harm, couples counseling, BPD, grief, anxiety, and depression. We work with teens and adults in NC. We love working through the good, the bad, and the ugly and supporting our clients to make life feel just a little lighter for them. Text or call today for your FREE-15 minute consult, to make sure you feel like we're a good fit!
(980) 998-1250 View (980) 998-1250
Photo of O'Neale Atkinson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
O'Neale Atkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
Waitlist for new clients
Originally from South Carolina, I moved to Charlotte in 2011 to focus my experience to work with LGBTQ communities.
I believe that attention to mental health is a vital part of self-care and want to create a therapeutic space that supports and embraces people of all orientations and identities. I enjoy working with adults and older adolescent youth as they navigate life transitions and issues related to depression, anxiety, self-concept, and relationships.
Originally from South Carolina, I moved to Charlotte in 2011 to focus my experience to work with LGBTQ communities.
I believe that attention to mental health is a vital part of self-care and want to create a therapeutic space that supports and embraces people of all orientations and identities. I enjoy working with adults and older adolescent youth as they navigate life transitions and issues related to depression, anxiety, self-concept, and relationships.
(704) 285-1841 View (704) 285-1841
Photo of Derrick Pegg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Derrick Pegg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212  (Online Only)
I'm passionate about working with ADHD, chronic health, and LGBTQ+ issues because I fall under all three of those categories myself.
For me, therapy is about creating a nonjudgemental space where you feel comfortable to express whatever it is that you took time out of your week to talk about. In our sessions, we will work together to identify your goals and develop strategies to achieve them. My goal is to help you discover the tools and insights needed to navigate life with greater ease and confidence. I have extensive experience working with the 2S LGBTQ+ community, neurodivergence, chronic pain, HIV, and other chronic health issues.
I'm passionate about working with ADHD, chronic health, and LGBTQ+ issues because I fall under all three of those categories myself.
For me, therapy is about creating a nonjudgemental space where you feel comfortable to express whatever it is that you took time out of your week to talk about. In our sessions, we will work together to identify your goals and develop strategies to achieve them. My goal is to help you discover the tools and insights needed to navigate life with greater ease and confidence. I have extensive experience working with the 2S LGBTQ+ community, neurodivergence, chronic pain, HIV, and other chronic health issues.
(980) 944-8985 View (980) 944-8985
Photo of Shaquil Rasheed Roberts, LSW, LCSWA, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shaquil Rasheed Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LCSWA, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28216
I'm Shaq Roberts, a licensed social worker with a passion for mental health and the needs of the LGBTQ+ and QPOC communities. As a Queer Person of Color, I have intentionally and specifically catered my education and work experience to match that of my life experience. Currently, I provide direct service through individual therapy, surgery letter assessments, and mental health assessments with Hearst Psychotherapy.
I'm Shaq Roberts, a licensed social worker with a passion for mental health and the needs of the LGBTQ+ and QPOC communities. As a Queer Person of Color, I have intentionally and specifically catered my education and work experience to match that of my life experience. Currently, I provide direct service through individual therapy, surgery letter assessments, and mental health assessments with Hearst Psychotherapy.
(704) 802-1836 View (704) 802-1836
Photo of Derrick Johnson, PhD, LCMHC, LCAS, MAC, NCC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Derrick Johnson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, LCAS, MAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
In addition to substance abuse treatment and interventions, I also work with issues surrounding grief and loss, trauma, LGBTQ and coming-out issues.
My practice serves primarily adults and focuses on those seeking assistance with issues surrounding substance abuse and dependence, LGBTQ issues, divorce, grief and loss, trauma/crisis as well as overall life developmental transitions. But, you may be asking, "how could you possibly understand me?" Great question, and after years of self searching and development I too found myself at the crossroad of change and sought therapy, that's life. Regardless the issue, you can work through it and I am here to help you.
In addition to substance abuse treatment and interventions, I also work with issues surrounding grief and loss, trauma, LGBTQ and coming-out issues.
My practice serves primarily adults and focuses on those seeking assistance with issues surrounding substance abuse and dependence, LGBTQ issues, divorce, grief and loss, trauma/crisis as well as overall life developmental transitions. But, you may be asking, "how could you possibly understand me?" Great question, and after years of self searching and development I too found myself at the crossroad of change and sought therapy, that's life. Regardless the issue, you can work through it and I am here to help you.
(704) 997-3518 View (704) 997-3518
Photo of Bethany Otten, LCMHC, NCC, MA, RYT-500, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bethany Otten
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA, RYT-500
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
You found me :) My specialities are anxiety, addiction, transitioning, LGBTQIA+ or gender related challenges, & school/work issues. Unique options include walk & talk therapy as well as incorporating holistic approaches like Reiki and yoga. You may utilize traditional research-based therapy/ conventional approaches such as CBT or you can choose alternative ground breaking holistic approaches. Complementary therapies (CTs) encompass a variety of practices outside conventional therapy, focusing on a holistic view of health. CTs help Clients develop unique coping skills, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.
You found me :) My specialities are anxiety, addiction, transitioning, LGBTQIA+ or gender related challenges, & school/work issues. Unique options include walk & talk therapy as well as incorporating holistic approaches like Reiki and yoga. You may utilize traditional research-based therapy/ conventional approaches such as CBT or you can choose alternative ground breaking holistic approaches. Complementary therapies (CTs) encompass a variety of practices outside conventional therapy, focusing on a holistic view of health. CTs help Clients develop unique coping skills, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.
(704) 251-6711 View (704) 251-6711
Photo of Kayla LaPier, LCSWA, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla LaPier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR trained therapist (LCSWA) that specializes in LGBTQIA+ affirmative and trauma-informed care for adults with PTSD/CPTSD, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, ADHD, autism, or wanting to find their authentic selves.
Do you feel like emotions control you instead of you controlling them? Has being perceived felt exhausting? Feel like life feels heavier than it's supposed to? I'm here to support you. It's okay to feel like you need to be heard, have someone to talk things through with, celebrate the little wins in life, and hold you accountable to the goals you want to succeed in. As a queer therapist, I understand the unique challenges and traumas of living authentically in a world that often marginalizes our identities. My work is focused on being neuroaffirmative, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, trauma-informed, and culturally competent for all.
I am an EMDR trained therapist (LCSWA) that specializes in LGBTQIA+ affirmative and trauma-informed care for adults with PTSD/CPTSD, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, ADHD, autism, or wanting to find their authentic selves.
Do you feel like emotions control you instead of you controlling them? Has being perceived felt exhausting? Feel like life feels heavier than it's supposed to? I'm here to support you. It's okay to feel like you need to be heard, have someone to talk things through with, celebrate the little wins in life, and hold you accountable to the goals you want to succeed in. As a queer therapist, I understand the unique challenges and traumas of living authentically in a world that often marginalizes our identities. My work is focused on being neuroaffirmative, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, trauma-informed, and culturally competent for all.
(704) 209-7442 View (704) 209-7442
Photo of Caroline Swindell, LCMHC-A
Caroline Swindell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
My practice includes anti-racist, body neutrality, and queer-allied values to ensure equity in my practice, my goal is to ensure that ALL my clients feel safe for their own counseling journey.
We live in a world where we are constantly expected to grow and change without even knowing ourselves. With all my clients, I see them as the experts of their own life and aim to create a supportive space for vulnerability and radical acceptance. If they are struggling to find to their inner voice, I work with them to do this by processing their life experiences and trauma. By following a person centered and eclectic strategy, we develop tools for a deeper self-understanding of their needs and boundaries. I love working with children, individuals, parents, and couples to become comfortable with self-acceptance and emotions.
My practice includes anti-racist, body neutrality, and queer-allied values to ensure equity in my practice, my goal is to ensure that ALL my clients feel safe for their own counseling journey.
We live in a world where we are constantly expected to grow and change without even knowing ourselves. With all my clients, I see them as the experts of their own life and aim to create a supportive space for vulnerability and radical acceptance. If they are struggling to find to their inner voice, I work with them to do this by processing their life experiences and trauma. By following a person centered and eclectic strategy, we develop tools for a deeper self-understanding of their needs and boundaries. I love working with children, individuals, parents, and couples to become comfortable with self-acceptance and emotions.
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Photo of Philip Falco, LCMHC, Counselor
Philip Falco
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
Hi there, I'm Phil and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. I am dedicated to helping people identify and reach their treatment goals and improve their quality of life. I enjoy helping people better manage issues like anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and mood disorders. I believe that people are doing the best they can with the skills, knowledge, and resources available to them to manage what's going on in life, and I am here to help provide new skills and healthier, more effective options, or even just a safe space to talk when needed.
Hi there, I'm Phil and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. I am dedicated to helping people identify and reach their treatment goals and improve their quality of life. I enjoy helping people better manage issues like anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and mood disorders. I believe that people are doing the best they can with the skills, knowledge, and resources available to them to manage what's going on in life, and I am here to help provide new skills and healthier, more effective options, or even just a safe space to talk when needed.
(980) 391-6609 View (980) 391-6609
Photo of Bethany Otten - Otten Counseling PLLC, LCMHC, NCC, RYT 500, Licensed Professional Counselor
Otten Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, RYT 500
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
We found one another :) I specialize in anxiety, addiction, transitioning, LGBTQ+ or gender related challenges, & school/work issues. You can choose walk & talk therapy or holistic options of Reiki and yoga. Or you can specifically utilize traditional research-based therapy such as CBT or person-centered therapy. Complementary therapies (CTs) encompass a variety of practices outside conventional therapy, focusing on a holistic view of health. CTs have benefits in addressing various mental health concerns and help Clients develop unique coping skills, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.
We found one another :) I specialize in anxiety, addiction, transitioning, LGBTQ+ or gender related challenges, & school/work issues. You can choose walk & talk therapy or holistic options of Reiki and yoga. Or you can specifically utilize traditional research-based therapy such as CBT or person-centered therapy. Complementary therapies (CTs) encompass a variety of practices outside conventional therapy, focusing on a holistic view of health. CTs have benefits in addressing various mental health concerns and help Clients develop unique coping skills, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.
(980) 350-8969 View (980) 350-8969
Photo of Eric J Davis, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eric J Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28201
I am passionate about working with marginalized persons, including the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities.
Life is a funny thing. And often terribly complicated. During our journey in this world, we often face challenges that can feel too big or ongoing. Whether it’s with chronic feelings of anxiousness, depression, emptiness, issues about sexual orientation, gender, or ethnicity, relationship conflict, sleep disturbances, substance misuse, school or work issues, or any combination of those, many of us struggle silently. But you don't have to. It can help to work with a therapist with a deep understanding of what it’s like with some of those struggles and who is passionate about helping others learn to thrive despite these adversities.
I am passionate about working with marginalized persons, including the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities.
Life is a funny thing. And often terribly complicated. During our journey in this world, we often face challenges that can feel too big or ongoing. Whether it’s with chronic feelings of anxiousness, depression, emptiness, issues about sexual orientation, gender, or ethnicity, relationship conflict, sleep disturbances, substance misuse, school or work issues, or any combination of those, many of us struggle silently. But you don't have to. It can help to work with a therapist with a deep understanding of what it’s like with some of those struggles and who is passionate about helping others learn to thrive despite these adversities.
(828) 490-4137 View (828) 490-4137
Photo of Megan Piscitelle, LCSWA, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Piscitelle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm so glad you made it here. Taking the first step in seeking out a therapist can be scary and overwhelming. As a non-binary, neurodivergent therapist, I provide an affirming space that allows my clients to accept all parts of themselves and celebrate their identities. I specialize in working with individuals who are queer-identified and/or neurodivergent, navigating chronic illness, addressing internalized ableism/homophobia, and dealing with trauma symptoms (including relational and religious trauma).
Welcome! I'm so glad you made it here. Taking the first step in seeking out a therapist can be scary and overwhelming. As a non-binary, neurodivergent therapist, I provide an affirming space that allows my clients to accept all parts of themselves and celebrate their identities. I specialize in working with individuals who are queer-identified and/or neurodivergent, navigating chronic illness, addressing internalized ableism/homophobia, and dealing with trauma symptoms (including relational and religious trauma).
(828) 532-2836 View (828) 532-2836
Photo of Shaunda Randleman, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shaunda Randleman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
I am passionate about and specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ population, including clients exploring sexual/romantic orientation, gender expression, and transition. I work with adults 18 and up. I have experience working with grief/loss, trauma, crisis, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance abuse, and PTSD. I am accepting and affirming of all genders, races, nationalities, ages, and abilities. I utilize a person-centered approach and an eclectic combination of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy (MBCBT).
I am passionate about and specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ population, including clients exploring sexual/romantic orientation, gender expression, and transition. I work with adults 18 and up. I have experience working with grief/loss, trauma, crisis, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance abuse, and PTSD. I am accepting and affirming of all genders, races, nationalities, ages, and abilities. I utilize a person-centered approach and an eclectic combination of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy (MBCBT).
(704) 459-3958 View (704) 459-3958
Photo of Mel Johnson-Norwood, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mel Johnson-Norwood
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28201  (Online Only)
I work with adults of all ages, especially Black and brown men, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and college students. As a personal witness to the lack of competent mental health care, especially for queer Black men, I work towards closing that gap. My work with clients encompasses career transitions, relocation, relationship issues, life transitions, living with physical disabilities, suicidal ideations, and depression.
I work with adults of all ages, especially Black and brown men, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and college students. As a personal witness to the lack of competent mental health care, especially for queer Black men, I work towards closing that gap. My work with clients encompasses career transitions, relocation, relationship issues, life transitions, living with physical disabilities, suicidal ideations, and depression.
(984) 369-9915 View (984) 369-9915
Photo of Keilan Rickard, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Keilan Rickard
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28201  (Online Only)
While I am a generalist, I have expertise in working with college students as well as folks from the queer and trans community.
I have been a licensed psychologist for more than a decade. I offer individual therapy (via telehealth only) to treat a wide range of concerns. If you are located in Tennessee, North Carolina, or Georgia, contact me for a free consultation.
While I am a generalist, I have expertise in working with college students as well as folks from the queer and trans community.
I have been a licensed psychologist for more than a decade. I offer individual therapy (via telehealth only) to treat a wide range of concerns. If you are located in Tennessee, North Carolina, or Georgia, contact me for a free consultation.
(404) 738-6072 View (404) 738-6072
Photo of Max {Katrina} Sutton, LCMHCA, MEd, Counselor
Max {Katrina} Sutton
Counselor, LCMHCA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Have you been holding onto a burden since you were a child or a young adult? Are you ready to grow into the person you want to be and utilize the skills needed to cope with life’s difficulties? Do you want a counselor to see you for who you really are and give you a safe space to work through any concerns you bring to counseling? As a genderfluid counselor, I can help you onto the path to true healing whether that be from PTSD, C-PTSD, and trauma-related concerns, dissociation, LGBTQIA+ issues, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, etc.
Have you been holding onto a burden since you were a child or a young adult? Are you ready to grow into the person you want to be and utilize the skills needed to cope with life’s difficulties? Do you want a counselor to see you for who you really are and give you a safe space to work through any concerns you bring to counseling? As a genderfluid counselor, I can help you onto the path to true healing whether that be from PTSD, C-PTSD, and trauma-related concerns, dissociation, LGBTQIA+ issues, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, etc.
(704) 286-1307 View (704) 286-1307
Photo of Jordan Grob, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan Grob
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28201  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I’m a queer therapist with over 13 years experience treating and teaching about trauma. I am direct (no more “nod and smile” therapist stereotype!). I am loving. And I believe active listening involves more than asking "...and how does that make you feel?" I use transparency in my approach, because I believe this allows for the most effective exploration of oneself in relationship to others. I offer individual therapy rooted in internal family systems, attachment and polyvagal theories to curious, compassionate adults who are motivated to heal.
Hello and welcome! I’m a queer therapist with over 13 years experience treating and teaching about trauma. I am direct (no more “nod and smile” therapist stereotype!). I am loving. And I believe active listening involves more than asking "...and how does that make you feel?" I use transparency in my approach, because I believe this allows for the most effective exploration of oneself in relationship to others. I offer individual therapy rooted in internal family systems, attachment and polyvagal theories to curious, compassionate adults who are motivated to heal.
(828) 373-3480 View (828) 373-3480
Photo of Nole Lafferty, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Nole Lafferty
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28227
I believe your identities and how you move through the world are important and deserve to take up space in the therapy room. The ways white supremacy and other oppressive parts of our world affect your journey are often parts that go unrecognized by others. I especially love working with folks who are LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and/or have an identity that is marginalized in some way by our normative culture.
I believe your identities and how you move through the world are important and deserve to take up space in the therapy room. The ways white supremacy and other oppressive parts of our world affect your journey are often parts that go unrecognized by others. I especially love working with folks who are LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and/or have an identity that is marginalized in some way by our normative culture.
(828) 367-7478 View (828) 367-7478
Photo of Charles Ogiba, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charles Ogiba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28201  (Online Only)
Let me help guide you through navigating the dynamics of life; from work stress, relationships, financial difficulties, disability and life transitions.
NEW Clients Accepted! Welcome to the beginning of your journey through change and fulfillment. Clients often come to therapy with many challenges. These can be longstanding emotional battles with depression, anxiety and traumatic experiences. Life can be difficult to face with multiple obstacles often presenting at the same time. Engaging in a purposeful plan with guidance from an experienced therapist can help you to create a life that is more satisfying and helps you meet personal goals. Let's begin!
Let me help guide you through navigating the dynamics of life; from work stress, relationships, financial difficulties, disability and life transitions.
NEW Clients Accepted! Welcome to the beginning of your journey through change and fulfillment. Clients often come to therapy with many challenges. These can be longstanding emotional battles with depression, anxiety and traumatic experiences. Life can be difficult to face with multiple obstacles often presenting at the same time. Engaging in a purposeful plan with guidance from an experienced therapist can help you to create a life that is more satisfying and helps you meet personal goals. Let's begin!
(910) 807-8620 View (910) 807-8620
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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.