LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Pahoa, HI

Photo of Rachel Leigh Lewis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Leigh Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pahoa, HI 96778  (Online Only)
I work with survivors of PTSD and Complex trauma, including relationship trauma and dissociation disorders. Common issues my clients present with include challenges with setting relationship boundaries with friends and family, coping with intense emotions, and an inability to be decisive in small or big life choices. Many are survivors of sexual or physical childhood abuse. Others say "childhood wasn't that bad," but have an intense inner critic and struggle with attracting and maintaining positive relationships and occupations, and are often unaware of the impact of emotional neglect and harsh criticism they experienced.
I work with survivors of PTSD and Complex trauma, including relationship trauma and dissociation disorders. Common issues my clients present with include challenges with setting relationship boundaries with friends and family, coping with intense emotions, and an inability to be decisive in small or big life choices. Many are survivors of sexual or physical childhood abuse. Others say "childhood wasn't that bad," but have an intense inner critic and struggle with attracting and maintaining positive relationships and occupations, and are often unaware of the impact of emotional neglect and harsh criticism they experienced.
(808) 201-5179 View (808) 201-5179
Photo of Judy M Marsh, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Judy M Marsh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Pahoa, HI 96778
Therapy can be the opportunity to explore our lives in a safe space and unpack why we feel stuck. I encourage my clients to discuss what they want to see happen in their life and work with them on developing goals. I use a combination of family structure, emotional focus and family of origin modes of therapy in my practice. Therapy for some can be a new experience and I honor that.
Therapy can be the opportunity to explore our lives in a safe space and unpack why we feel stuck. I encourage my clients to discuss what they want to see happen in their life and work with them on developing goals. I use a combination of family structure, emotional focus and family of origin modes of therapy in my practice. Therapy for some can be a new experience and I honor that.
(808) 238-8164 View (808) 238-8164
Photo of Zoey Faught, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Zoey Faught
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pahoa, HI 96778  (Online Only)
Handling life's challenges with presence of mind is not always easy. We here at Presence of Mind Counseling can help you identify what is contributing to your distress and assist you in finding a path toward consciously creating your best life. We help people dealing with challenging life issues from relationship stresses, family turmoil, trauma, grief and loss, gender and/or sexual identity, anxiety, depression and beyond. We also work with people who simply want to find more meaning, purpose, fulfillment in their lives. We offer remote video sessions for WA and HI residents. Visit our website to complete a new appointment form.
Handling life's challenges with presence of mind is not always easy. We here at Presence of Mind Counseling can help you identify what is contributing to your distress and assist you in finding a path toward consciously creating your best life. We help people dealing with challenging life issues from relationship stresses, family turmoil, trauma, grief and loss, gender and/or sexual identity, anxiety, depression and beyond. We also work with people who simply want to find more meaning, purpose, fulfillment in their lives. We offer remote video sessions for WA and HI residents. Visit our website to complete a new appointment form.
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Photo of Shari Tresky, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Shari Tresky
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pahoa, HI 96778
When painful thoughts and emotions arise, they can make us feel paralyzed and miserable. We think about our painful experiences and feel the same agony over and over again! We worry about the future and feel a sense of dread and fear about things that have not yet happened! We want to get rid of the pain, but if we try to eliminate painful thoughts and feelings, it's like trying to plug a high pressure leak and the water keeps finding a weak spot to burst out again! What else can we do? We can accept feelings with compassion because they show us what's most important. We can observe thoughts, then act from choice instead of fear.
When painful thoughts and emotions arise, they can make us feel paralyzed and miserable. We think about our painful experiences and feel the same agony over and over again! We worry about the future and feel a sense of dread and fear about things that have not yet happened! We want to get rid of the pain, but if we try to eliminate painful thoughts and feelings, it's like trying to plug a high pressure leak and the water keeps finding a weak spot to burst out again! What else can we do? We can accept feelings with compassion because they show us what's most important. We can observe thoughts, then act from choice instead of fear.
(808) 896-4121 View (808) 896-4121
Photo of Thomas Kirkham, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Thomas Kirkham
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Pahoa, HI 96778
Tom is a Ph.D. student in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Consciousness, Spirituality, and Integrative Health at Saybrook University. Tom also received his MA in Humanistic and Transpersonal Psychology. Tom wrote his master's thesis on the therapeutic use of the circular art form known as mandalas. Tom earned his BA in Human Development at Prescott College. There he worked with the Prescott Unified School District to create recreation-based behavioral interventions for 8-10 year-olds diagnosed with ADHD.
Tom is a Ph.D. student in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Consciousness, Spirituality, and Integrative Health at Saybrook University. Tom also received his MA in Humanistic and Transpersonal Psychology. Tom wrote his master's thesis on the therapeutic use of the circular art form known as mandalas. Tom earned his BA in Human Development at Prescott College. There he worked with the Prescott Unified School District to create recreation-based behavioral interventions for 8-10 year-olds diagnosed with ADHD.
(808) 419-3569 View (808) 419-3569
Photo of Lauren Debiec, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Debiec
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Pahoa, HI 96778  (Online Only)
As a Mental Health Counselor with over a decade of experience in addiction and behavioral health, I specialize in women’s health, relationships, substance use, and general mental health. I work with both women and men who seek a supportive approach to explore their behavioral and mental health while engaging with their personal paths. Under the supervision of Thomas J. Jameson Family Counseling, LLC, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and integrate spirituality to help foster a profound connection with the self.
As a Mental Health Counselor with over a decade of experience in addiction and behavioral health, I specialize in women’s health, relationships, substance use, and general mental health. I work with both women and men who seek a supportive approach to explore their behavioral and mental health while engaging with their personal paths. Under the supervision of Thomas J. Jameson Family Counseling, LLC, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and integrate spirituality to help foster a profound connection with the self.
(808) 698-5741 View (808) 698-5741

More Therapists Nearby

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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Photo of Laura Moidel Acevedo, MACP, LMHC, Counselor
Laura Moidel Acevedo
Counselor, MACP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Keaau, HI 96749
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 Cristy McDowall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cristy McDowall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountain View, HI 96771  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and an EMDR trained therapist providing counseling for adults, adolescents, and children with Trauma, Abuse, ADHD/ADD, Anger Management, Anxiety Disorder, Bereavement, Depression, LGBT Issues, Mood Disorders, PTSD, Women's Issues, Developmental Disorders, and Learning Disabilities.
I specialize in working with those who have experienced trauma.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and an EMDR trained therapist providing counseling for adults, adolescents, and children with Trauma, Abuse, ADHD/ADD, Anger Management, Anxiety Disorder, Bereavement, Depression, LGBT Issues, Mood Disorders, PTSD, Women's Issues, Developmental Disorders, and Learning Disabilities.
I specialize in working with those who have experienced trauma.
(808) 400-6918 View (808) 400-6918
Photo of Glenn Pressel, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Glenn Pressel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Keaau, HI 96749
I have had a focus of working with gay and lesbian clients.
I love working with couples. I know how difficult it is to get caught up in the negative repeated dance of conflict that feels unresolvable. I work with couples to focus on the attachment or bonding issues that come up in conflicts. When we feel truly secure with one another we can hear issues without negative escalation that just angers and terrifies each other. When I am not working with couples I work with people who are committed to recover from depression, anxiety, addictions (chemical and behavioral), PTSD, relationship issues, sexuality and death and dying issues. I have been in practice since the early 1980's and I belie
I have had a focus of working with gay and lesbian clients.
I love working with couples. I know how difficult it is to get caught up in the negative repeated dance of conflict that feels unresolvable. I work with couples to focus on the attachment or bonding issues that come up in conflicts. When we feel truly secure with one another we can hear issues without negative escalation that just angers and terrifies each other. When I am not working with couples I work with people who are committed to recover from depression, anxiety, addictions (chemical and behavioral), PTSD, relationship issues, sexuality and death and dying issues. I have been in practice since the early 1980's and I belie
(808) 933-9113 x3 View (808) 933-9113 x3
Photo of Matthew D Brittain, LCSW, DCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew D Brittain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Keaau, HI 96749
We specialize in forensic issues (patient advocacy in the court system), sexual issues, PTSD, ADHD, anxiety/depression, family issues, LGBTQ+, life-transition issues, substance abuse treatment using harm-reduction methods (including cannabis-replacement therapy), Dissociative Identity Disorders, Personality Disorders, and Schizophrenia.
I am the lead provider in a small group practice specializing in the following: ADHD (the only specialty ADHD clinic outside of Oahu, to our knowledge); psychedelics-integration therapy; Forensic (court-involved) clients; sexual issues of many kinds (identity, empowerment, experience enhancement, dysfunctions, etc.); medical cannabis certification; couples/relationship issues. Susan Cauley, MD Melanie Guerra (Clinical Aide), and myself are the team. Dr. Susan Cauley can provide medication coordination for our ADHD program, and is our Cannabis specialist.
We specialize in forensic issues (patient advocacy in the court system), sexual issues, PTSD, ADHD, anxiety/depression, family issues, LGBTQ+, life-transition issues, substance abuse treatment using harm-reduction methods (including cannabis-replacement therapy), Dissociative Identity Disorders, Personality Disorders, and Schizophrenia.
I am the lead provider in a small group practice specializing in the following: ADHD (the only specialty ADHD clinic outside of Oahu, to our knowledge); psychedelics-integration therapy; Forensic (court-involved) clients; sexual issues of many kinds (identity, empowerment, experience enhancement, dysfunctions, etc.); medical cannabis certification; couples/relationship issues. Susan Cauley, MD Melanie Guerra (Clinical Aide), and myself are the team. Dr. Susan Cauley can provide medication coordination for our ADHD program, and is our Cannabis specialist.
(808) 731-1470 View (808) 731-1470
Hilo Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Keaau, HI 96749
I specialize in working with individuals and families where there has been sexual, emotional, or physical abuse in their history. I also work with juvenile and adult offenders. This is my 50th year as a therapist. I also work with substance abuse issues and couples. I work with children from age 5 and up, as long as the family is willing to also come in. I am willing to attend and testify in court issues.
I specialize in working with individuals and families where there has been sexual, emotional, or physical abuse in their history. I also work with juvenile and adult offenders. This is my 50th year as a therapist. I also work with substance abuse issues and couples. I work with children from age 5 and up, as long as the family is willing to also come in. I am willing to attend and testify in court issues.
(808) 892-3353 x1 View (808) 892-3353 x1
Photo of Amanda Margaret Odish - Malama Trauma Counseling Services , MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Malama Trauma Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kurtistown, HI 96760  (Online Only)
Do you feel anxiety, depression, relational stress, grief, loss, & are searching for meaning, purpose, identity, hope, & fullest potential? Trauma can shake us to our core and challenge the way we think and feel about ourselves and the world around us. Together we will collaborate on a compassionate therapeutic plan to understand how your coping skills have protected you, develop new skills, and embrace self-acceptance even as we grow. I also offer therapeutic harp music for relaxation and mindfulness practice if desired! I hope to assist you discover the gifts in your suffering and see yourself in a new light!
Do you feel anxiety, depression, relational stress, grief, loss, & are searching for meaning, purpose, identity, hope, & fullest potential? Trauma can shake us to our core and challenge the way we think and feel about ourselves and the world around us. Together we will collaborate on a compassionate therapeutic plan to understand how your coping skills have protected you, develop new skills, and embrace self-acceptance even as we grow. I also offer therapeutic harp music for relaxation and mindfulness practice if desired! I hope to assist you discover the gifts in your suffering and see yourself in a new light!
(808) 500-6521 View (808) 500-6521
Photo of Alicia Anna Gleason - Alicia Sunflower, MS
Alicia Sunflower
MS
Verified Verified
Keaau, HI 96749
Do you have complex relational trauma or grief? Have you found regular talk therapy ineffective? Are you longing for a therapist who understands your spirituality & actively weaves multidimensional views of spirituality & consciousness into therapy? Are you looking to integrate profound spiritual awakening or psychedelic experiences on both a psycho-spiritual & embodied level? Are you feeling the call to deepen into your body and soul? How would your life be impacted by having a dedicated safe space for your healing that integrates trauma-informed care with shamanic hypnotherapy, quantum healing, sound healing, & somatic therapies?
Do you have complex relational trauma or grief? Have you found regular talk therapy ineffective? Are you longing for a therapist who understands your spirituality & actively weaves multidimensional views of spirituality & consciousness into therapy? Are you looking to integrate profound spiritual awakening or psychedelic experiences on both a psycho-spiritual & embodied level? Are you feeling the call to deepen into your body and soul? How would your life be impacted by having a dedicated safe space for your healing that integrates trauma-informed care with shamanic hypnotherapy, quantum healing, sound healing, & somatic therapies?
(808) 645-4692 View (808) 645-4692

Online Therapists

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 Samantha Bailo, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Samantha Bailo
Counselor, LMHC, 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 Marina Ignacio, LMHC, Counselor
Marina Ignacio
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
My passion above all is to support others and help them navigate the numerous challenges that present themselves in life, and ultimately find a sense of safety and the best version of themselves within that journey. I have experience with a wide range of people including children/adolescents, parents, and adults facing behavioral and mental health concerns including anxiety and depression, trauma, as well as social and relationship difficulties. The LGBTQ community is close to my heart and one that I recognize has a unique experience and own set of challenges.
My passion above all is to support others and help them navigate the numerous challenges that present themselves in life, and ultimately find a sense of safety and the best version of themselves within that journey. I have experience with a wide range of people including children/adolescents, parents, and adults facing behavioral and mental health concerns including anxiety and depression, trauma, as well as social and relationship difficulties. The LGBTQ community is close to my heart and one that I recognize has a unique experience and own set of challenges.
(808) 400-5708 View (808) 400-5708
Photo of Angela Mulligan, MFT-I, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Angela Mulligan
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hawi, HI 96719
Specializing in LGBTQ+ couple and family support that celebrates the unique characteristics and navigates the unique challenges that your family has.
Are you seeking a more fulfilling connection with those you love? As a dedicated relationship therapist, I specialize in helping you cultivate stronger bonds within your family and personal relationships. As a couple or family, you can gain more skills, compassion, and inner strength to navigate the complexities of family dynamics and personal relationships. Whether you aim to improve communication, resolve conflicts, or enhance intimacy, I am here to support you in achieving your relationship goals and creating the fulfilling, harmonious life you desire.
Specializing in LGBTQ+ couple and family support that celebrates the unique characteristics and navigates the unique challenges that your family has.
Are you seeking a more fulfilling connection with those you love? As a dedicated relationship therapist, I specialize in helping you cultivate stronger bonds within your family and personal relationships. As a couple or family, you can gain more skills, compassion, and inner strength to navigate the complexities of family dynamics and personal relationships. Whether you aim to improve communication, resolve conflicts, or enhance intimacy, I am here to support you in achieving your relationship goals and creating the fulfilling, harmonious life you desire.
(816) 760-2570 View (816) 760-2570
Photo of Emma Burrows, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emma Burrows
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hilo, HI 96720  (Online Only)
Welcoming inquiries from new clients. If you're motivated to feel healthier, nourished and supported, I'm here to help. I am a holistic therapist and coach and I offer compassionate guidance and deep listening. I welcome individuals looking for perinatal support including prenatal, postpartum, and birth processing. I have experience supporting people with anxiety, depression, body image, identity formation, life transitions, existential angst, relational challenges, and LGBTQIA+ youth. My additional training in depth-oriented Sandplay Therapy, yoga, and Ayurveda, informs the holistic framework I bring to my work with clients.
Welcoming inquiries from new clients. If you're motivated to feel healthier, nourished and supported, I'm here to help. I am a holistic therapist and coach and I offer compassionate guidance and deep listening. I welcome individuals looking for perinatal support including prenatal, postpartum, and birth processing. I have experience supporting people with anxiety, depression, body image, identity formation, life transitions, existential angst, relational challenges, and LGBTQIA+ youth. My additional training in depth-oriented Sandplay Therapy, yoga, and Ayurveda, informs the holistic framework I bring to my work with clients.
(808) 563-5301 View (808) 563-5301
Photo of Kayla Ennett, PsyD, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kayla Ennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720  (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

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Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Pahoa

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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.