LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Hawaii
As a trauma-informed Queer Counselor I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, gender identity, consensual nonmonogamy, and sex-positive lifestyles.
Warm, heartfelt, and open minded, I love helping people embrace their authenticity and work towards their goals. I believe therapy needs to balance deep introspection with practical solutions, so if you find yourself exploring your identity, your relationships, or your direction in life, let’s have a chat. Maybe its time to retrace your steps, or question the crossroad, or blaze a new trail, or rest a while. Wherever you are in your journey, I'll meet you where you're at.
As a trauma-informed Queer Counselor I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, gender identity, consensual nonmonogamy, and sex-positive lifestyles.
Warm, heartfelt, and open minded, I love helping people embrace their authenticity and work towards their goals. I believe therapy needs to balance deep introspection with practical solutions, so if you find yourself exploring your identity, your relationships, or your direction in life, let’s have a chat. Maybe its time to retrace your steps, or question the crossroad, or blaze a new trail, or rest a while. Wherever you are in your journey, I'll meet you where you're at.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who uses evidence-based psychotherapy. I have extensive expertise in treating mood, anxiety, substance misuse, and trauma-related disorders. I also have particular interest in working with issues surrounding gender, sexuality, identity, relationships, and sexual functioning. I identify as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and bring in my own experiences as an LGBTQ+ person into my therapy practice. Creating a safe space for everyone in therapy is essential for growth. I find myself working best with people who are ready for change and are motivated to experience healing.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who uses evidence-based psychotherapy. I have extensive expertise in treating mood, anxiety, substance misuse, and trauma-related disorders. I also have particular interest in working with issues surrounding gender, sexuality, identity, relationships, and sexual functioning. I identify as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and bring in my own experiences as an LGBTQ+ person into my therapy practice. Creating a safe space for everyone in therapy is essential for growth. I find myself working best with people who are ready for change and are motivated to experience healing.
Leilani Maxera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96822 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I keep in mind that we can work as hard as we can to heal, but there are limits under racial capitalism, transphobia, ableism, and other forms of violence and oppression we face that cause trauma we cannot control.
I am a Kanaka ʻŌiwi therapist who is queer, poly, kink, asexual/aromantic, and sex-worker friendly. I value harm reductionist, abolitionist, anti-capitalist, and anti-colonial therapy practices. I also love working to support other people in the healing and helping professions. I avidly support reproductive rights and the rights of transgender people, and can offer support to any individuals struggling with what is currently happening to erode these rights.
I keep in mind that we can work as hard as we can to heal, but there are limits under racial capitalism, transphobia, ableism, and other forms of violence and oppression we face that cause trauma we cannot control.
I am a Kanaka ʻŌiwi therapist who is queer, poly, kink, asexual/aromantic, and sex-worker friendly. I value harm reductionist, abolitionist, anti-capitalist, and anti-colonial therapy practices. I also love working to support other people in the healing and helping professions. I avidly support reproductive rights and the rights of transgender people, and can offer support to any individuals struggling with what is currently happening to erode these rights.
Marc Anthony Campos-Pantoja
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, LCSW, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96813 (Online Only)
My experience includes working with the following clients: in-patient psychiatric, residential treatment, veterans dealing with substance use, developmentally disabled, substance abuse, counseling clients from multicultural backgrounds (Including: ; lgbt community).
We are each on this journey we call life. At times, we may need support and encouragement to help us navigate our journey. I welcome the opportunity to work together in helping you navigate this journey. We will develop a trusting relationship to help you work on addressing your concerns. We will work as a team to help you. My advanced training in public health allows a holistic approach.
My experience includes working with the following clients: in-patient psychiatric, residential treatment, veterans dealing with substance use, developmentally disabled, substance abuse, counseling clients from multicultural backgrounds (Including: ; lgbt community).
We are each on this journey we call life. At times, we may need support and encouragement to help us navigate our journey. I welcome the opportunity to work together in helping you navigate this journey. We will develop a trusting relationship to help you work on addressing your concerns. We will work as a team to help you. My advanced training in public health allows a holistic approach.
My own experiences with anxiety brought me to this field. I am passionate about helping to illuminate root causes and connecting mind/body/spirit. I also treat symptoms of depression, grief, addiction, and PTSD. I love being able to guide LGBTQ+ individuals navigating their sexuality, gender identity, and/or spirituality. Starting January 2025, I can offer integrative health coaching which includes nutrition, mindset coaching and in-depth lab work.
My own experiences with anxiety brought me to this field. I am passionate about helping to illuminate root causes and connecting mind/body/spirit. I also treat symptoms of depression, grief, addiction, and PTSD. I love being able to guide LGBTQ+ individuals navigating their sexuality, gender identity, and/or spirituality. Starting January 2025, I can offer integrative health coaching which includes nutrition, mindset coaching and in-depth lab work.
I am a mental health counselor who has worked in the mental health field for over nineteen years and have been a Doctor of Clinical Psychology and a licensed mental health counselor in Hawaii since 2013. Additionally, I have collaborated with clients of various ages, ethnicies, cultures, Nationalities and from all social classes dealing with a wide range of issues. My experience is vast as I have worked with the following: neuro-psychiatric, suicidal ideation/attempts, LGBTQIA, PTSD, anger management, grief/loss, trauma, abuse, relationship issues, school counseling, juvenile justice, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and the like.
I am a mental health counselor who has worked in the mental health field for over nineteen years and have been a Doctor of Clinical Psychology and a licensed mental health counselor in Hawaii since 2013. Additionally, I have collaborated with clients of various ages, ethnicies, cultures, Nationalities and from all social classes dealing with a wide range of issues. My experience is vast as I have worked with the following: neuro-psychiatric, suicidal ideation/attempts, LGBTQIA, PTSD, anger management, grief/loss, trauma, abuse, relationship issues, school counseling, juvenile justice, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and the like.
For the past 10 years I have specialized in working with children and youth experiencing homelessness. I am also a proud queer woman of color. I implement motivational interviewing specifically to identify strengths & resiliency to support you becoming your favorite self. My goal is to meet people where they are at to foster a safe, nonjudgmental space for people to process their thoughts and emotions. I am guided by harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and cultural humility. I believe that everyone is doing the best that they can in a given moment.
For the past 10 years I have specialized in working with children and youth experiencing homelessness. I am also a proud queer woman of color. I implement motivational interviewing specifically to identify strengths & resiliency to support you becoming your favorite self. My goal is to meet people where they are at to foster a safe, nonjudgmental space for people to process their thoughts and emotions. I am guided by harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and cultural humility. I believe that everyone is doing the best that they can in a given moment.
I have particular compassion and knowledge for those with transgender and sexual orientation issues and with survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault. I am familiar with the social stigma and trauma that can result from being a person with these issues and have helped many overcome the resulting emotional and psychological distress.
I have particular compassion and knowledge for those with transgender and sexual orientation issues and with survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault. I am familiar with the social stigma and trauma that can result from being a person with these issues and have helped many overcome the resulting emotional and psychological distress.
Bridget Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96814 (Online Only)
I also provide affirmative therapy to LGBTQ+ individuals.
"What we think, we become." These difficult thoughts and feelings can be a gateway for personal growth, and seeking therapy is a courageous step in the healing process. I will support you to heal, deepen, and improve your relationship with yourself and others by bringing awareness to your present thoughts and historical patterns that no longer serve you. I will work in collaboration with you by providing a nonjudgmental, safe, empowering, and compassionate environment.
I also provide affirmative therapy to LGBTQ+ individuals.
"What we think, we become." These difficult thoughts and feelings can be a gateway for personal growth, and seeking therapy is a courageous step in the healing process. I will support you to heal, deepen, and improve your relationship with yourself and others by bringing awareness to your present thoughts and historical patterns that no longer serve you. I will work in collaboration with you by providing a nonjudgmental, safe, empowering, and compassionate environment.
I enjoy working within the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as other adult folx experiencing mental health symptoms. I have a background in crisis therapy, forensic psychology, community mental health, and have been in private practice for 3 years now. I specialize in helping clients get through life transitions and cope with an array of mental health needs, like depression, anxiety, trauma, or stress. An ideal client for me is engaged in the therapeutic process, open to learning, and willing to just be themselves. We can work together to help you achieve a higher quality of life!
I enjoy working within the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as other adult folx experiencing mental health symptoms. I have a background in crisis therapy, forensic psychology, community mental health, and have been in private practice for 3 years now. I specialize in helping clients get through life transitions and cope with an array of mental health needs, like depression, anxiety, trauma, or stress. An ideal client for me is engaged in the therapeutic process, open to learning, and willing to just be themselves. We can work together to help you achieve a higher quality of life!
I treat adult clients with depression, domestic violence anxiety, grief, adjusting to difficult situations, codependency, life transitions, sexual orientation and trans issues.
Welcome to my Path profile. My name is Ken Shigematsu, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and Hawaii. I use CBT, Supportive and Goal oriented modalities to assist clients. I treat clients with depression, adjustment, grief and LGBTQI issues. I listen closely and ask questions to better learn about your situation and goals. I use CBT, Supportive and Goal oriented modalities to assist clients. I use Feedback Informed Care to guide your care.
I treat adult clients with depression, domestic violence anxiety, grief, adjusting to difficult situations, codependency, life transitions, sexual orientation and trans issues.
Welcome to my Path profile. My name is Ken Shigematsu, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and Hawaii. I use CBT, Supportive and Goal oriented modalities to assist clients. I treat clients with depression, adjustment, grief and LGBTQI issues. I listen closely and ask questions to better learn about your situation and goals. I use CBT, Supportive and Goal oriented modalities to assist clients. I use Feedback Informed Care to guide your care.
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I also have many years of experience working with the Gay and Lesbian community.
DECIDING TO BEGIN PSYCHOTHERAPY IS A COURAGEOUS ACT. I enjoy working with clients who, via symptoms such as depression, anxiety, sexual-orientation or career issues, eating disorders, life transitions, or relationship issues are seeking a deeper understanding of their lives and which direction they wish to take. Often the symptom is the "call" from psyche, a portal into a deeper exploration into one's life which may yield increased self-awareness and introductions to formerly unknown aspects of one's own being. I feel privileged to be called upon to accompany individuals on this journey. At this time,
I also have many years of experience working with the Gay and Lesbian community.
DECIDING TO BEGIN PSYCHOTHERAPY IS A COURAGEOUS ACT. I enjoy working with clients who, via symptoms such as depression, anxiety, sexual-orientation or career issues, eating disorders, life transitions, or relationship issues are seeking a deeper understanding of their lives and which direction they wish to take. Often the symptom is the "call" from psyche, a portal into a deeper exploration into one's life which may yield increased self-awareness and introductions to formerly unknown aspects of one's own being. I feel privileged to be called upon to accompany individuals on this journey. At this time,
I graduated with my Doctorate of Clinical Psychology from Fuller Graduate School of Psychology in 2020 and completed my residency in LGBTQ+ Health at Veterans Affairs Pacific Islands Health Care System in 2021.
Mahalo nui loa for taking the time to read about my practice, Pumehana Psychology LLC. If you’re struggling in your relationships or with your sexual orientation or gender identity, working with me may be a good fit. Pumehana means "warm hearted" in Hawaiian, which is the type of therapist I strive to be with my clients. Being born and raised on O'ahu, I am all too familiar with the stigma placed upon seeking help in many communities and hope to greet you with the warm and accepting stance you deserve. I specialize in seeing LGBTQ+/MVPFAFF+ clients and am licensed to serve across the Hawaiian Islands via telehealth.
I graduated with my Doctorate of Clinical Psychology from Fuller Graduate School of Psychology in 2020 and completed my residency in LGBTQ+ Health at Veterans Affairs Pacific Islands Health Care System in 2021.
Mahalo nui loa for taking the time to read about my practice, Pumehana Psychology LLC. If you’re struggling in your relationships or with your sexual orientation or gender identity, working with me may be a good fit. Pumehana means "warm hearted" in Hawaiian, which is the type of therapist I strive to be with my clients. Being born and raised on O'ahu, I am all too familiar with the stigma placed upon seeking help in many communities and hope to greet you with the warm and accepting stance you deserve. I specialize in seeing LGBTQ+/MVPFAFF+ clients and am licensed to serve across the Hawaiian Islands via telehealth.
The Cultural Society of Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kapolei, HI 96707 (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, emotional stress, LGBTQA+ issues, overcoming depression, reducing anxiety, processing grief, and sexual abuse survivors for BIPOC.
Have you been feeling a shift or intense desire to change? You know there is a better way of life but are unsure how to achieve the ultimate level of rest, happiness, and overall balance. I believe in soul healing and a return to wholeness through mind, body, and soul practices. I can support you through this journey with holistic and clinical paths to achieve complete wholeness. (Services available for Georgia and Hawaii)
I specialize in trauma, emotional stress, LGBTQA+ issues, overcoming depression, reducing anxiety, processing grief, and sexual abuse survivors for BIPOC.
Have you been feeling a shift or intense desire to change? You know there is a better way of life but are unsure how to achieve the ultimate level of rest, happiness, and overall balance. I believe in soul healing and a return to wholeness through mind, body, and soul practices. I can support you through this journey with holistic and clinical paths to achieve complete wholeness. (Services available for Georgia and Hawaii)
If you’re ready to take the next step to live your most authentic (and kindest) gay life, be in touch.
Your life journey as a gay person is full of unique joys and challenges. Most of us never learned how to be gay (and happy). I get it. But know this: you can create the life you want. You can find your chosen family, heal the past, overcome shame find your passion and learn to finally love yourself at any age. And you don't have to trek up this mountain alone. As a gay counselor, my passion is helping fellow gay people develop their own toolkits to overcome anxiety, heal and thrive. As a gay man I've tackled similar mountains in my life using Cognitive Behavior Therapy and tools that work. If you are ready, I'd be honored to help.
If you’re ready to take the next step to live your most authentic (and kindest) gay life, be in touch.
Your life journey as a gay person is full of unique joys and challenges. Most of us never learned how to be gay (and happy). I get it. But know this: you can create the life you want. You can find your chosen family, heal the past, overcome shame find your passion and learn to finally love yourself at any age. And you don't have to trek up this mountain alone. As a gay counselor, my passion is helping fellow gay people develop their own toolkits to overcome anxiety, heal and thrive. As a gay man I've tackled similar mountains in my life using Cognitive Behavior Therapy and tools that work. If you are ready, I'd be honored to help.
Christopher Skaggs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753 (Online Only)
I offer relationship therapy to LGBTQ+ and Mahu people in relationships, I am poly and multiple partner inclusive, sex positive, and kink affirming.
Aloha. I work with individuals, and relationships and people that struggle to effectively communicate their needs. Because of how they were brought up, or conditioned through experience, they might have vastly different ways of showing up in relationships, especially through conflict. We all want to work on what drives our behavior so that we can better understand ourselves and each other. This allows us to be vulnerable with one another and experience our real selves, so we can connect and love on a much deeper and more meaningful and satisfying level.
I offer relationship therapy to LGBTQ+ and Mahu people in relationships, I am poly and multiple partner inclusive, sex positive, and kink affirming.
Aloha. I work with individuals, and relationships and people that struggle to effectively communicate their needs. Because of how they were brought up, or conditioned through experience, they might have vastly different ways of showing up in relationships, especially through conflict. We all want to work on what drives our behavior so that we can better understand ourselves and each other. This allows us to be vulnerable with one another and experience our real selves, so we can connect and love on a much deeper and more meaningful and satisfying level.
Alan R Spector
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734 (Online Only)
As Co-Founder of Equality Hawaii, I am well-versed in the issues faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals.
Are you sad, anxious, or struggling with thoughts of self-harm? Have you experienced trauma in your life? If so, I can help. I offer a validating environment that allows you to explore your problems without judgement and together we can work to create solutions. I've been trained in a variety of treatment methods and will tailor therapy to your specific needs. I draw heavily from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and combine both DBT Psychotherapy and DBT Skills Training into individual sessions.
As Co-Founder of Equality Hawaii, I am well-versed in the issues faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals.
Are you sad, anxious, or struggling with thoughts of self-harm? Have you experienced trauma in your life? If so, I can help. I offer a validating environment that allows you to explore your problems without judgement and together we can work to create solutions. I've been trained in a variety of treatment methods and will tailor therapy to your specific needs. I draw heavily from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and combine both DBT Psychotherapy and DBT Skills Training into individual sessions.
My areas of clinical experience and interest include crisis work, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use issues and working with the LGBTQ+ population. While my approach is psychodynamic, I incorporate both cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral modalities in my practice.
My areas of clinical experience and interest include crisis work, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use issues and working with the LGBTQ+ population. While my approach is psychodynamic, I incorporate both cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral modalities in my practice.
Joseph Anthony LoGiudice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96823
A primary specialty is affirmative psychotherapy for LGBTQ clients.
I proudly identify as an LGBTQ therapist who believes in a therapeutic relationship that is stepped in active-listening, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. In turn, this allows for clients to feel safe and secure when we engage in a therapeutic relationship. Therapy is about being yourself without the judgment of the world; and it is a discovery process that gives you the opportunity to visualize possibilities in life. My attention is drawn to connecting with clients, being collaborative and interactive, and learning how to help clients become unstuck in life.
A primary specialty is affirmative psychotherapy for LGBTQ clients.
I proudly identify as an LGBTQ therapist who believes in a therapeutic relationship that is stepped in active-listening, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. In turn, this allows for clients to feel safe and secure when we engage in a therapeutic relationship. Therapy is about being yourself without the judgment of the world; and it is a discovery process that gives you the opportunity to visualize possibilities in life. My attention is drawn to connecting with clients, being collaborative and interactive, and learning how to help clients become unstuck in life.
Liberation Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96813
Liberation Psychotherapy is a private LGBTQ-centered group therapy practice located in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York City.
Liberation Psychotherapy is a private LGBTQ-centered group therapy practice. Our foundational philosophy is based on the meaningful engagement between the therapist and client and achieved using Carl Rogers’ client-centered techniques of active-listening, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. Liberation Psychotherapy’s primary mission is to help clients explore their experiences thereby clients can heal and grow and embrace their strengths and resiliencies. To honor and respect the uniqueness of our clients, we subscribe broadly to a liberation and integrative model.
Liberation Psychotherapy is a private LGBTQ-centered group therapy practice located in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York City.
Liberation Psychotherapy is a private LGBTQ-centered group therapy practice. Our foundational philosophy is based on the meaningful engagement between the therapist and client and achieved using Carl Rogers’ client-centered techniques of active-listening, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. Liberation Psychotherapy’s primary mission is to help clients explore their experiences thereby clients can heal and grow and embrace their strengths and resiliencies. To honor and respect the uniqueness of our clients, we subscribe broadly to a liberation and integrative model.
See more therapy options for Hawaii
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.