LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Hawaii

Photo of William Edward Conti, PhD, LMHC, CSAC, Psychologist
William Edward Conti
Psychologist, PhD, LMHC, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96815
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,
(213) 465-3904 View (213) 465-3904
Photo of Samantha Bailo, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Samantha Bailo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hilo, HI 96720
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.
(808) 518-6773 View (808) 518-6773
Photo of Bridget Murphy, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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.
(808) 670-1043 View (808) 670-1043
Photo of Leilani Maxera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leilani Maxera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96822  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
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 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.
(808) 862-2469 View (808) 862-2469
Photo of Laura Moidel Acevedo, MACP, LMHC, Counselor
Laura Moidel Acevedo
Counselor, MACP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
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.
(808) 419-7277 View (808) 419-7277
Photo of Dr. Lisa K. Lee - Pumehana Psychology LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Pumehana Psychology LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96814  (Online Only)
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.
I'm Dr. Lisa Lee, PsyD (she/her) and mahalo nui loa for taking the time to read about my practice. 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. Although I specialize in seeing LGBTQ+/MVPFAFF+ clients, I am licensed to serve a broad range of clients 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.
I'm Dr. Lisa Lee, PsyD (she/her) and mahalo nui loa for taking the time to read about my practice. 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. Although I specialize in seeing LGBTQ+/MVPFAFF+ clients, I am licensed to serve a broad range of clients across the Hawaiian Islands via telehealth.
(808) 534-4777 View (808) 534-4777
Photo of Steven Hobaica, PhD, Psychologist
Steven Hobaica
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96822  (Online Only)
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.
(808) 563-5147 View (808) 563-5147
Photo of Dr. Jeralyn Carter, PsyD, MHC, Counselor
Dr. Jeralyn Carter
Counselor, PsyD, MHC
Verified Verified
Waipahu, HI 96797  (Online Only)
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.
(808) 862-2944 View (808) 862-2944
Photo of Becca Chavez, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Becca Chavez
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817
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.
(808) 746-8442 View (808) 746-8442
Photo of Alex Stitt, LMHC, LGBTQ+, Counselor
Alex Stitt
Counselor, LMHC, LGBTQ+
Verified Verified
Keaau, HI 96749
Waitlist for new clients
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.
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Kenneth Shigematsu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734
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.
(808) 736-1447 View (808) 736-1447
Photo of Marc Anthony Campos-Ramos, PhD, LCSW, MPH, PsyD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marc Anthony Campos-Ramos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MPH, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96813  (Online Only)
Among the areas that I focus on: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, LGBT, immigration/Asylum, anger management.
In Net work with Health Net/MHN. Culturally Informed Therapy. Sliding Scale available I welcome the opportunity to 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. We will work together as a team.
Among the areas that I focus on: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, LGBT, immigration/Asylum, anger management.
In Net work with Health Net/MHN. Culturally Informed Therapy. Sliding Scale available I welcome the opportunity to 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. We will work together as a team.
(510) 878-4090 View (510) 878-4090
Photo of Tihera Shanell Clements - The Cultural Society of Wellness, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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)
(912) 493-7405 View (912) 493-7405
Photo of Lisa Kronauer, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lisa Kronauer
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753
I specialize in addressing a range of issues, including depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, PTSD, and more, with a commitment to providing dedicated support to the LGBTQ community.
During difficult moments, when stress and overwhelming emotions seem to consume us, therapy serves as a valuable resource. It helps alleviate the pressure, soothe emotional distress, and carve out internal space to navigate these challenging experiences. Within the compassionate confines of therapy, these difficulties can be transformed into opportunities for personal growth, heightened self-awareness, acceptance, and a deeper sense of purpose. As a result, everyday life becomes more manageable, fulfilling, and harmonious.
I specialize in addressing a range of issues, including depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, PTSD, and more, with a commitment to providing dedicated support to the LGBTQ community.
During difficult moments, when stress and overwhelming emotions seem to consume us, therapy serves as a valuable resource. It helps alleviate the pressure, soothe emotional distress, and carve out internal space to navigate these challenging experiences. Within the compassionate confines of therapy, these difficulties can be transformed into opportunities for personal growth, heightened self-awareness, acceptance, and a deeper sense of purpose. As a result, everyday life becomes more manageable, fulfilling, and harmonious.
(808) 207-8650 View (808) 207-8650
Photo of Marcelo De Sousa, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marcelo De Sousa
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96815  (Online Only)
I have experience counseling POC and provide evidence-based mental health and substance use counseling services to the LGBTQIA+ community.
In today’s fast-paced world do you feel anxious or depressed? Do you struggle with shame, self-worth, and body image issues? Do you feel hopeless, alone, or has substance use been ruling/ruining your life? Perhaps you’re unhappy in your personal relationships, or find it hard to connect with others. Maybe you’re dealing with grief, or going through a difficult life transition. You might simply be longing to find deeper meaning and purpose in your every-day experience. Whatever the case may be, I’m here to help you explore these feelings in a safe, loving, and supportive environment.
I have experience counseling POC and provide evidence-based mental health and substance use counseling services to the LGBTQIA+ community.
In today’s fast-paced world do you feel anxious or depressed? Do you struggle with shame, self-worth, and body image issues? Do you feel hopeless, alone, or has substance use been ruling/ruining your life? Perhaps you’re unhappy in your personal relationships, or find it hard to connect with others. Maybe you’re dealing with grief, or going through a difficult life transition. You might simply be longing to find deeper meaning and purpose in your every-day experience. Whatever the case may be, I’m here to help you explore these feelings in a safe, loving, and supportive environment.
(808) 650-5362 View (808) 650-5362
Photo of Kayla Ennett, PsyD, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kayla Ennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734  (Online Only)
Kayla Ennett, PsyD, LMHC, is a licensed therapist living in Colorado who is very motivated and excited to work with the residents of Hawaii via TeleHealth therapy. Kayla has an eclectic experience with counseling. She started off as a college career counselor and then moved on to school counseling. Later in her career, she began doing therapy with inmates at a state prison then veterans and their families on post. She currently focuses on working with clients and couples who suffer from depression, anxiety, personality disorders, LGBTQ+, and concerns related to intimacy and sex.
Kayla Ennett, PsyD, LMHC, is a licensed therapist living in Colorado who is very motivated and excited to work with the residents of Hawaii via TeleHealth therapy. Kayla has an eclectic experience with counseling. She started off as a college career counselor and then moved on to school counseling. Later in her career, she began doing therapy with inmates at a state prison then veterans and their families on post. She currently focuses on working with clients and couples who suffer from depression, anxiety, personality disorders, LGBTQ+, and concerns related to intimacy and sex.
(808) 720-2145 View (808) 720-2145
Photo of Lindsey Hoffman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey Hoffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kaneohe, HI 96744  (Online Only)
I know it takes a lot to recognize the need for extra support and you should be proud of yourself. I want you to feel like I am a good fit for you along this journey. Finding the right person to help you through these challenges is very important. I have been a social worker for the past six years. Much of my experience has been working with people who are struggling with post- partum mood disorders, family conflict, parenting issues and life transitions. I also have experience working with individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds such military families, adolescents, and individuals in the LGBT community
I know it takes a lot to recognize the need for extra support and you should be proud of yourself. I want you to feel like I am a good fit for you along this journey. Finding the right person to help you through these challenges is very important. I have been a social worker for the past six years. Much of my experience has been working with people who are struggling with post- partum mood disorders, family conflict, parenting issues and life transitions. I also have experience working with individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds such military families, adolescents, and individuals in the LGBT community
(808) 207-9314 View (808) 207-9314
Photo of Silke Vogelmann-Sine - Silke Vogelmann-Sine, Ph.D., Inc., PhD, CSAC, NCACII, Psychologist
Silke Vogelmann-Sine, Ph.D., Inc.
Psychologist, PhD, CSAC, NCACII
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813  (Online Only)
She also works with LGBTQ issues.
I am a licensed psychologist who has been in private practice for 38 years. You may be reluctant to consult a psychologist even though you feel overwhelmed and stressed. You might think that it is a weakness to talk to a professional about your situations or problems. Being willing to open up and share your concerns is an important step in finding solutions and is a sign of strength. You might benefit from realizing you are not alone and can be understood. Dr. Silke will be respectful of your spiritual/religious beliefs and will incorporate them into therapy as desired.
She also works with LGBTQ issues.
I am a licensed psychologist who has been in private practice for 38 years. You may be reluctant to consult a psychologist even though you feel overwhelmed and stressed. You might think that it is a weakness to talk to a professional about your situations or problems. Being willing to open up and share your concerns is an important step in finding solutions and is a sign of strength. You might benefit from realizing you are not alone and can be understood. Dr. Silke will be respectful of your spiritual/religious beliefs and will incorporate them into therapy as desired.
(808) 419-3686 View (808) 419-3686
Photo of Linda Anaya, MA, MHC, AMFT, LPC, Counselor
Linda Anaya
Counselor, MA, MHC, AMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Aloha, I am a Couples and Family Therapist. My approach emphasizes the importance of working with a couple and family as a system that influence one another. To restructure healthy relationships, I use therapies that promote positive interactions between individuals. My methods include trans-generational, structural family therapy, cognitive-behavioral approaches, and Gottman Therapy. I use exercises such as enactments to help clients set new appropriate boundaries, build love maps to improve interactions and establish loving communication.
Aloha, I am a Couples and Family Therapist. My approach emphasizes the importance of working with a couple and family as a system that influence one another. To restructure healthy relationships, I use therapies that promote positive interactions between individuals. My methods include trans-generational, structural family therapy, cognitive-behavioral approaches, and Gottman Therapy. I use exercises such as enactments to help clients set new appropriate boundaries, build love maps to improve interactions and establish loving communication.
(630) 478-8548 x3 View (630) 478-8548 x3
Photo of Jason Wisdom, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Wisdom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pearl City, HI 96782
My name is Jason Wisdom, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist residing on the island of Oahu. I enjoy meeting my clients where they're at while developing a solid understanding of one's background. I work with various age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. I focus on a variety of areas, with anxiety, depression, LGBTQ, and trauma, to name a few. My client focus is comprehensive, where I see a variety of age levels and varying needs. I focus on an array of areas, including anxiety, depression, trauma, individuals, families, couples, and LGBTQ.
My name is Jason Wisdom, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist residing on the island of Oahu. I enjoy meeting my clients where they're at while developing a solid understanding of one's background. I work with various age groups, including children, adolescents, and adults. I focus on a variety of areas, with anxiety, depression, LGBTQ, and trauma, to name a few. My client focus is comprehensive, where I see a variety of age levels and varying needs. I focus on an array of areas, including anxiety, depression, trauma, individuals, families, couples, and LGBTQ.
(808) 353-5294 View (808) 353-5294
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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.