Transgender Therapists in Hawaii

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 Alan R Spector, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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.
(808) 729-7737 View (808) 729-7737
Photo of Trey Halliday Fenton, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trey Halliday Fenton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96815  (Online Only)
I have a deep understanding of gender and sexuality. I recognize the challenges you may face in the coming out process and am willing to assist you with this significant life transition. I also understand the impact that gender and sexuality can have on your dating life and relationships, and I am committed to helping you cultivate loving connections with yourself, your family, and others. Additionally, I am aware of the complexities of gender dysphoria and how it can affect various aspects of your life. I do NOT write gender affirmation letters, yet I can provide referrals to providers who can be of assistance with this process.
I have a deep understanding of gender and sexuality. I recognize the challenges you may face in the coming out process and am willing to assist you with this significant life transition. I also understand the impact that gender and sexuality can have on your dating life and relationships, and I am committed to helping you cultivate loving connections with yourself, your family, and others. Additionally, I am aware of the complexities of gender dysphoria and how it can affect various aspects of your life. I do NOT write gender affirmation letters, yet I can provide referrals to providers who can be of assistance with this process.
(808) 201-3821 View (808) 201-3821
Photo of Nica Selvaggio, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Nica Selvaggio
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96815
I specialize in working with folks who struggle with eating disorders, PTSD, C-PTSD, Grief/Bereavement, Adoption and/or Foster Care, Gender Dysphoria, Transgender issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, and issues related to sex/sexuality.
Mental health shouldn’t be a privilege. So much of how we feel in our minds and bodies has to do with the identities we inhabit in the world and how our environments do or do not support us. Counseling is a tool that can be helpful when dealing with the natural anxiety, depression, and grief that can arise as a result of living in a culture that refuses to see you or value you. I work with folks through an anti-oppression and somatic (body-based) lens. As a Non-Binary and Queer therapist, I am passionate about the decolonization of the therapy space. The personal is political.
I specialize in working with folks who struggle with eating disorders, PTSD, C-PTSD, Grief/Bereavement, Adoption and/or Foster Care, Gender Dysphoria, Transgender issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, and issues related to sex/sexuality.
Mental health shouldn’t be a privilege. So much of how we feel in our minds and bodies has to do with the identities we inhabit in the world and how our environments do or do not support us. Counseling is a tool that can be helpful when dealing with the natural anxiety, depression, and grief that can arise as a result of living in a culture that refuses to see you or value you. I work with folks through an anti-oppression and somatic (body-based) lens. As a Non-Binary and Queer therapist, I am passionate about the decolonization of the therapy space. The personal is political.
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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 Richard Rothschiller, PsyD, RYT, Psychologist
Richard Rothschiller
Psychologist, PsyD, RYT
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96816  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I provide Integrative Psychotherapy and Counseling for individuals and couples utilizing Person-centered Humanistic, Cognitive, Behavioral, and Interpersonal/Psychodynamic conceptualizations and treatment modalities. My experience includes more than two decades helping people of diverse and marginalized populations across O'ahu with: anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, acute and post-traumatic stress, anger management, work/career stress and transitions, grief and loss, chronic pain, gender dysphoria, coping with general medical conditions, and improving relationships, as well as general phase-of-life personal growth and self-actualization concerns related to late adolescence, early adulthood, mid-life, and older adults and aging.
I provide Integrative Psychotherapy and Counseling for individuals and couples utilizing Person-centered Humanistic, Cognitive, Behavioral, and Interpersonal/Psychodynamic conceptualizations and treatment modalities. My experience includes more than two decades helping people of diverse and marginalized populations across O'ahu with: anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, acute and post-traumatic stress, anger management, work/career stress and transitions, grief and loss, chronic pain, gender dysphoria, coping with general medical conditions, and improving relationships, as well as general phase-of-life personal growth and self-actualization concerns related to late adolescence, early adulthood, mid-life, and older adults and aging.
(808) 400-6308 View (808) 400-6308
Photo of Alex Stitt, LMHC, LGBTQ+, Counselor
Alex Stitt
Counselor, LMHC, LGBTQ+
Verified Verified
Keaau, HI 96749
Waitlist for new clients
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.
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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Photo of Janet Brito - Hawaii Center for Sexual & Relationship Health, PhD, PSY, LCSW, CST, Psychologist
Hawaii Center for Sexual & Relationship Health
Psychologist, PhD, PSY, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96814  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with aspects of your sex life or sexuality? Are you ashamed of your sexual feelings, actions, or preferences? Do you find yourself hiding your sexual behavior from others or masturbating more than you wish? Do you identify as LGBTQIA & struggling with coming out? Do you feel discomfort with your assigned gender & need support around transitioning? Do you have unresolved painful feelings interfering with your ability to have a satisfying sexual relationship? Are you having relationship difficulties due to an affair?
Are you struggling with aspects of your sex life or sexuality? Are you ashamed of your sexual feelings, actions, or preferences? Do you find yourself hiding your sexual behavior from others or masturbating more than you wish? Do you identify as LGBTQIA & struggling with coming out? Do you feel discomfort with your assigned gender & need support around transitioning? Do you have unresolved painful feelings interfering with your ability to have a satisfying sexual relationship? Are you having relationship difficulties due to an affair?
(808) 419-7844 View (808) 419-7844
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 Lauren Lessner, MS, LMFT, EMDR, BSP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Lessner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR, BSP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Kihei, HI 96753
You may be looking for a therapist for a variety of reasons and finding one that is a good fit is very important part of that process. Being comfortable in therapy and finding someone who can provide support, while directly addressing concerns and promoting growth is essential. I provide my clients with a supportive and enriching environment to address concerns, gain insights, and achieve real change in their life and the lives of those around them.
You may be looking for a therapist for a variety of reasons and finding one that is a good fit is very important part of that process. Being comfortable in therapy and finding someone who can provide support, while directly addressing concerns and promoting growth is essential. I provide my clients with a supportive and enriching environment to address concerns, gain insights, and achieve real change in their life and the lives of those around them.
(970) 315-4154 View (970) 315-4154
Photo of Sarah Williams - Sarah Monique Williams, PsyD, PsyD, Psychologist
Sarah Monique Williams, PsyD
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Makawao, HI 96768  (Online Only)
We all experience challenges in our lives, but with insight and strong relationships we can explore new perspectives together. I can assist you with expressing yourself with greater ease and confidence, coping with grief and loss, uncovering and remembering your authentic self, identifying priorities and skills, and developing more peace in your life. Whether you are adjusting to a life change, struggling with anxiety, trauma, or depression, or facing challenges in your relationships, I offer a range of individualized services to help foster awareness, resilience, and positivity.
We all experience challenges in our lives, but with insight and strong relationships we can explore new perspectives together. I can assist you with expressing yourself with greater ease and confidence, coping with grief and loss, uncovering and remembering your authentic self, identifying priorities and skills, and developing more peace in your life. Whether you are adjusting to a life change, struggling with anxiety, trauma, or depression, or facing challenges in your relationships, I offer a range of individualized services to help foster awareness, resilience, and positivity.
(773) 770-6939 View (773) 770-6939
Photo of Joseph Anthony LoGiudice - Liberation Psychotherapy, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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. 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. 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.
(808) 435-7408 View (808) 435-7408
Photo of Erik Jul - The Hawai'i Depression Clinic, Psychologist
The Hawai'i Depression Clinic
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Aiea, HI 96701
At Hawaii Depression Clinic - a TMS and therapy clinic - we believe that everyone deserves to live a happy, healthy life, and we're committed to helping individuals struggling with depression achieve that goal. If you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed by your depression symptoms, we're here to help. Our team of experienced clinicians and staff are passionate about working with motivated individuals who are ready to take control of their mental health. We specialize in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy, a cutting-edge treatment that has been shown to be highly effective in treating depression. We pair TMS with time-limited psychotherapy, meaning that you'll work with a therapist for a set number of sessions, and during that time you'll learn strategies to help manage your depression symptoms. This approach can be really helpful because it gives you a clear idea of what to expect, and it can help you feel more in control of your treatment. If you're looking for a supportive and compassionate team to help you on your journey to recovery, we'd love to work with you. Together, we can help you find relief from your depression symptoms and start living the life you deserve.
At Hawaii Depression Clinic - a TMS and therapy clinic - we believe that everyone deserves to live a happy, healthy life, and we're committed to helping individuals struggling with depression achieve that goal. If you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed by your depression symptoms, we're here to help. Our team of experienced clinicians and staff are passionate about working with motivated individuals who are ready to take control of their mental health. We specialize in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy, a cutting-edge treatment that has been shown to be highly effective in treating depression. We pair TMS with time-limited psychotherapy, meaning that you'll work with a therapist for a set number of sessions, and during that time you'll learn strategies to help manage your depression symptoms. This approach can be really helpful because it gives you a clear idea of what to expect, and it can help you feel more in control of your treatment. If you're looking for a supportive and compassionate team to help you on your journey to recovery, we'd love to work with you. Together, we can help you find relief from your depression symptoms and start living the life you deserve.
(808) 736-6134 View (808) 736-6134
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 Clare Marguerite Rountree - Clare M. Rountree, Ph.D., LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Clare M. Rountree, Ph.D., LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96822  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in treating adolescents and adults experiencing complex trauma, relationship issues, and change of life transitions. In addition, issues around sexual orientation and identity issues in teens and adults are offered through my practice. Psychotherapy can be effective in treating anxiety and mood disorders, as well as assisting with common change of life experiences. This might be a divorce, move, or loss of a loved one or pet. Should you choose to seek my services, we will discuss your unique circumstances and how psychotherapy may benefit you in a safe and caring therapeutic environment.
I have extensive experience in treating adolescents and adults experiencing complex trauma, relationship issues, and change of life transitions. In addition, issues around sexual orientation and identity issues in teens and adults are offered through my practice. Psychotherapy can be effective in treating anxiety and mood disorders, as well as assisting with common change of life experiences. This might be a divorce, move, or loss of a loved one or pet. Should you choose to seek my services, we will discuss your unique circumstances and how psychotherapy may benefit you in a safe and caring therapeutic environment.
(808) 482-6855 View (808) 482-6855
Photo of Kainoa Kaneakua, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kainoa Kaneakua
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96813  (Online Only)
Due to my schedule, it is best to click on the Email Me link to setup our initial contact. Sometimes life delivers challenging moments for us or we feel stuck in a negative cycle. We struggle through issues, whether brought on by our own choices or by the choices of others. I strive to provide an emotionally safe environment where you can explore those issues and challenges. Collaboratively we discover your core needs and ways to unblock whatever might be keeping you from your potential. Change can be difficult and challenging. I will work with you in an empathetic, compassionate, and supportive way to navigate this process.
Due to my schedule, it is best to click on the Email Me link to setup our initial contact. Sometimes life delivers challenging moments for us or we feel stuck in a negative cycle. We struggle through issues, whether brought on by our own choices or by the choices of others. I strive to provide an emotionally safe environment where you can explore those issues and challenges. Collaboratively we discover your core needs and ways to unblock whatever might be keeping you from your potential. Change can be difficult and challenging. I will work with you in an empathetic, compassionate, and supportive way to navigate this process.
(808) 419-7336 View (808) 419-7336
Photo of Christopher Skaggs, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christopher Skaggs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753  (Online Only)
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 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.
(808) 646-3306 View (808) 646-3306
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'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'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 Dr. Brianna Rivera, EdD, LMHC, Counselor
Dr. Brianna Rivera
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96814
We are all human and life can be difficult, especially in the ever-changing world that we live in today. My job is to create a place of healing and love. I work with people to help guide them to help connect with themselves and with others in a more meaningful way. Each and every one of us deserve a healthy and balanced life, and it is my focus to help create that for others through purposeful therapy experiences. I believe that we are all put on this earth to help one another and it is important to me that you feel comfortable and supported the entire time through-out our journey together.
We are all human and life can be difficult, especially in the ever-changing world that we live in today. My job is to create a place of healing and love. I work with people to help guide them to help connect with themselves and with others in a more meaningful way. Each and every one of us deserve a healthy and balanced life, and it is my focus to help create that for others through purposeful therapy experiences. I believe that we are all put on this earth to help one another and it is important to me that you feel comfortable and supported the entire time through-out our journey together.
(808) 664-0125 View (808) 664-0125
Photo of Hyungbum Kang, LCSW, MAC, MA, MSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hyungbum Kang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC, MA, MSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96815
Every individual in society is different so that per their perspectives, they formulate their opinion and a set of behavior. Under the theory of individual perception, the science which sounds theoretically proven and reasonable comes to play its role, resulting in various consequences. However, I believe that the perception created under the societal and scientific rules is not equivalent to neither the human mind nor the psychiatric world of the individual because human beings have unlimited imagination. I am looking for expanding the dimension of variables regarding the scientifically proven therapeutic methods
Every individual in society is different so that per their perspectives, they formulate their opinion and a set of behavior. Under the theory of individual perception, the science which sounds theoretically proven and reasonable comes to play its role, resulting in various consequences. However, I believe that the perception created under the societal and scientific rules is not equivalent to neither the human mind nor the psychiatric world of the individual because human beings have unlimited imagination. I am looking for expanding the dimension of variables regarding the scientifically proven therapeutic methods
(808) 784-7103 View (808) 784-7103
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Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.