LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Carpentersville, IL
![Photo of Martin Montoya, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fea18ec8-3e65-45f7-9fea-643b898e80b5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I also work with individuals who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, domestic violence survivors, individuals who identify with the LGBTQ+ community and grief.
At times we find ourselves experiencing problems and difficulties. We may respond in ways to barely get by and keep moving forward. Sometimes we struggle to feel a sense of belonging or feel consumed with negative thoughts and emotions. Maybe it’s our past that is keeping us from being in the present moment or it’s adding to our overall stress. In therapy, we can identify new ways to cope with difficulties and other life struggles that may be hurting our overall health or relationships.
I also work with individuals who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, domestic violence survivors, individuals who identify with the LGBTQ+ community and grief.
At times we find ourselves experiencing problems and difficulties. We may respond in ways to barely get by and keep moving forward. Sometimes we struggle to feel a sense of belonging or feel consumed with negative thoughts and emotions. Maybe it’s our past that is keeping us from being in the present moment or it’s adding to our overall stress. In therapy, we can identify new ways to cope with difficulties and other life struggles that may be hurting our overall health or relationships.
![Photo of Debbi Little, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af01173d-a8ae-4494-a75f-2109658664cf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Debbi! My name is Debbi Little, and I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist (LCSW) serving clients via telehealth in the state of Illinois. I have 20+ years of experience working with a diverse population and specializing in the effects of trauma, anxiety, and depression, along with adjusting to major life events and stressors. I utilize mostly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy tailored to each individual to assist them in reaching their therapeutic goals.
Hi, I'm Debbi! My name is Debbi Little, and I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist (LCSW) serving clients via telehealth in the state of Illinois. I have 20+ years of experience working with a diverse population and specializing in the effects of trauma, anxiety, and depression, along with adjusting to major life events and stressors. I utilize mostly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy tailored to each individual to assist them in reaching their therapeutic goals.
![Photo of Angela L. Gallo, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c565b00-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angela L. Gallo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carpentersville, IL 60110
BILINGUAL ENGLISH / SPANISH - I enjoy witnessing my clients discover who they really are. I relish the thought that with new communications skills, my clients can build healthier and stronger relationships with their loved ones. I also like working with adult men and women, young adult issues, marital therapy, relationship therapy as well as grief and loss counseling.
BILINGUAL ENGLISH / SPANISH - I enjoy witnessing my clients discover who they really are. I relish the thought that with new communications skills, my clients can build healthier and stronger relationships with their loved ones. I also like working with adult men and women, young adult issues, marital therapy, relationship therapy as well as grief and loss counseling.
![Photo of Shari Matthews Huizar (Bilingue Español E Ingles), LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45be4ffd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shari Matthews Huizar (Bilingue Español E Ingles)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carpentersville, IL 60110
Do you feel that the path you are on is not leading you to where you want to go? Do you feel misunderstood in your relationship? Is it difficult to explain why you feel the way you do? Do you struggle with the loss of a loved one due to immigration difficulties? Do you feel your children don't understand their roots? Living in a new and different culture and community can be very difficult for families, especially children living in both worlds. I would be honored to join you on your journey to understanding and definition.
Do you feel that the path you are on is not leading you to where you want to go? Do you feel misunderstood in your relationship? Is it difficult to explain why you feel the way you do? Do you struggle with the loss of a loved one due to immigration difficulties? Do you feel your children don't understand their roots? Living in a new and different culture and community can be very difficult for families, especially children living in both worlds. I would be honored to join you on your journey to understanding and definition.
![Photo of Bonnie C Yates, LCPC, RN, MAC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78ab9268-4a95-4b96-8d60-973ffa7e0bf6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bonnie C Yates
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RN, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carpentersville, IL 60110 (Online Only)
At Yates and Associates, we are ready to assist you with individual, marriage, and family counseling. We are experienced in helping our clients understand and work through addiction, co-dependency, anxiety and panic disorder, depression, grief, eating disorders, and abuse. We can also help with communication issues, decision making, and the challenges you may face during times of major transition, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, job loss, and death.
At Yates and Associates, we are ready to assist you with individual, marriage, and family counseling. We are experienced in helping our clients understand and work through addiction, co-dependency, anxiety and panic disorder, depression, grief, eating disorders, and abuse. We can also help with communication issues, decision making, and the challenges you may face during times of major transition, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, job loss, and death.
![Photo of Melia Carter, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d70b2452-bca5-4fa8-8813-02f1a0c2e934/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melia is a dedicated Professional Social Worker specializing in neurodiversity-affirming therapy. In her private practice, Melia works collaboratively with clients to explore their strengths, preferences, and goals, while also addressing any challenges they may face in navigating a neurotypical world. Melia has experience working with autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, situational mutism, behavioral concerns, and parenting concerns. She provides a safe space for individuals to explore their identities, develop coping strategies, and cultivate self-acceptance and resilience.
Melia is a dedicated Professional Social Worker specializing in neurodiversity-affirming therapy. In her private practice, Melia works collaboratively with clients to explore their strengths, preferences, and goals, while also addressing any challenges they may face in navigating a neurotypical world. Melia has experience working with autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, situational mutism, behavioral concerns, and parenting concerns. She provides a safe space for individuals to explore their identities, develop coping strategies, and cultivate self-acceptance and resilience.
![Photo of Megan Rosecrans, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fc14634-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, and relationship problems are just some of the many reasons people seek out therapy. You may want to learn ways to feel better and reduce uncomfortable emotions, or you may want to just talk through difficult times. I strive to create a safe place and work collaboratively towards your goals. I focus on creating goals, solutions, process one's past and life circumstances, and teach skills and strategies that will reduce uncomfortable and unpleasant emotions. I provide hypnotherapy and biofeedback for pain management and anxiety/panic as added tools to reduce physcial and emotional discomfort.
Depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, and relationship problems are just some of the many reasons people seek out therapy. You may want to learn ways to feel better and reduce uncomfortable emotions, or you may want to just talk through difficult times. I strive to create a safe place and work collaboratively towards your goals. I focus on creating goals, solutions, process one's past and life circumstances, and teach skills and strategies that will reduce uncomfortable and unpleasant emotions. I provide hypnotherapy and biofeedback for pain management and anxiety/panic as added tools to reduce physcial and emotional discomfort.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Shaw Xueqi Xiao, LCPC, ATR, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7f11959-1b2e-4fcb-a3d7-b99441547bd2/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and a testament to the rich tapestry of Eastern and Western cultures, I embody a comprehensive, empathetic perspective.
I'm a licensed art therapist and licensed clinical professional counselor that is dedicated to nurturing culturally attuned care for the Asian and Asian-American communities. At the core of my practice is an unyielding belief in the transformative and healing power of art, a medium that transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, inviting individuals from all walks of life to engage, express, and heal. I've embraced a diverse array of individuals, particularly championing the needs of people of color, immigrants, and minority groups, guiding them towards self-acceptance, gender affirmation, and a profound sense of self-worth.
As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and a testament to the rich tapestry of Eastern and Western cultures, I embody a comprehensive, empathetic perspective.
I'm a licensed art therapist and licensed clinical professional counselor that is dedicated to nurturing culturally attuned care for the Asian and Asian-American communities. At the core of my practice is an unyielding belief in the transformative and healing power of art, a medium that transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, inviting individuals from all walks of life to engage, express, and heal. I've embraced a diverse array of individuals, particularly championing the needs of people of color, immigrants, and minority groups, guiding them towards self-acceptance, gender affirmation, and a profound sense of self-worth.
![Photo of Haven James Winter, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6589c08d-071c-4b2b-aa4e-10430aced902/2/320x400.jpeg)
While I enjoy working with many individuals, my passion is the LGBTQIA2+ community (particularly transgender folks) providing a positive and affirming environment to explore identities and develop a strong sense of self. My approach is to help clients identify and utilize strengths while encouraging continued growth. I focus on assisting clients in setting attainable goals, improving communication, and learning skills to manage symptoms and decrease behaviors that may be harmful. I believe that identifying negative beliefs and patterns of behavior that prevent someone from being where they want to be is an essential part of therapy.
While I enjoy working with many individuals, my passion is the LGBTQIA2+ community (particularly transgender folks) providing a positive and affirming environment to explore identities and develop a strong sense of self. My approach is to help clients identify and utilize strengths while encouraging continued growth. I focus on assisting clients in setting attainable goals, improving communication, and learning skills to manage symptoms and decrease behaviors that may be harmful. I believe that identifying negative beliefs and patterns of behavior that prevent someone from being where they want to be is an essential part of therapy.
![Photo of Brianna Sorensen, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5dfce11-243c-4911-a083-a08e19d5439e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brianna Sorensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60121 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ teenagers and adults who are navigating challenges related to body image, anxiety, and substance use. I believe in body sovereignty and supporting clients in developing the relationship they want with their bodies. I aim to create an environment where you feel safe, respected and heard.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ teenagers and adults who are navigating challenges related to body image, anxiety, and substance use. I believe in body sovereignty and supporting clients in developing the relationship they want with their bodies. I aim to create an environment where you feel safe, respected and heard.
![Photo of Becki Benson, MS, MHA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b41538a8-35b4-42ef-aca6-3ea493c34618/3/320x400.jpeg)
Becki Benson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MHA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Inverness, IL 60067
I have experience with- and as a HCW, special needs children, trauma survivors, LGBTQIA issues, chronic pain invisible illnesses.
I believe you are the expert on your life. I will work with you to reach your goals, whatever they may be. I meet you where you are and work with you. The motto of my office is "We can cry and we can swear, we don't judge, but we care."
I have experience with- and as a HCW, special needs children, trauma survivors, LGBTQIA issues, chronic pain invisible illnesses.
I believe you are the expert on your life. I will work with you to reach your goals, whatever they may be. I meet you where you are and work with you. The motto of my office is "We can cry and we can swear, we don't judge, but we care."
![Photo of Alex Mihalakakos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4b77db8-c807-41c4-90fc-920673c73d06/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alex Mihalakakos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
I enjoy working with and have extensive experience serving the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I strongly believe that we are all doing the best we can at any time with the tools and experiences we have available to us. In building our therapeutic relationship and throughout our work together, you can expect to feel validated, heard, and challenged as we collaborate to initiate your desired changes. We will work together to create a safe and supportive environment where we can work to set goals, explore areas of challenge, and widen your tool belt.
I enjoy working with and have extensive experience serving the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I strongly believe that we are all doing the best we can at any time with the tools and experiences we have available to us. In building our therapeutic relationship and throughout our work together, you can expect to feel validated, heard, and challenged as we collaborate to initiate your desired changes. We will work together to create a safe and supportive environment where we can work to set goals, explore areas of challenge, and widen your tool belt.
![Photo of Adrian Cardenas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8885266d-060b-44c2-9da4-c41ddf1dc8b7/1/320x400.jpeg)
With a specialized focus on empowering the LGBTQIA+ community, I offer compassionate support to individuals as young as 10 years old, as they navigate the complexities of mental health challenges. My commitment lies in fostering an inclusive and affirming space where clients feel seen, heard, and valued. I identify as a transmale and understand the challenges of finding a therapist who truly grasps the intricacies of gender and sexuality.
With a specialized focus on empowering the LGBTQIA+ community, I offer compassionate support to individuals as young as 10 years old, as they navigate the complexities of mental health challenges. My commitment lies in fostering an inclusive and affirming space where clients feel seen, heard, and valued. I identify as a transmale and understand the challenges of finding a therapist who truly grasps the intricacies of gender and sexuality.
![Photo of L Cooley, PsyD , Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abcbb329-5032-4710-8d02-fbf2d2673404/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that even the littlest of moments can be deeply meaningful, that mistakes are sometimes the best way to learn, and that we have the power to create our own destinies. It is my belief that change happens at the level of movement, making therapy an active, conscious process. As a therapist, I view my role as that of a co-pilot. Together, we will navigate your therapeutic journey in a way that is empowering and right for you. I specialize in school-aged children/teens, emotional and behavioral disorders, LGBTQ youth, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder.
I believe that even the littlest of moments can be deeply meaningful, that mistakes are sometimes the best way to learn, and that we have the power to create our own destinies. It is my belief that change happens at the level of movement, making therapy an active, conscious process. As a therapist, I view my role as that of a co-pilot. Together, we will navigate your therapeutic journey in a way that is empowering and right for you. I specialize in school-aged children/teens, emotional and behavioral disorders, LGBTQ youth, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder.
![Photo of Brandy Lochen, LCPC, LASOP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e972d5a-4bc6-48e6-a276-1d9c05b19c90/4/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with diverse individuals from all walks of life as my experience has been eclectic. Working with folks who need to temporarily borrow some hope as they build themselves up is a welcome experience. I am energized by clients who know what they are looking for and equally interested in clients who are therapy first timers. I am fulfilled by working with LGBTQ+ clients, adults, trauma, OCD, complex anxiety, and clients with past incarcerations. I am passionate about holistic and integrative treatment! I am here to help you build up your skill set to handle life transitions, live a better quality of life and find meaning!
I enjoy working with diverse individuals from all walks of life as my experience has been eclectic. Working with folks who need to temporarily borrow some hope as they build themselves up is a welcome experience. I am energized by clients who know what they are looking for and equally interested in clients who are therapy first timers. I am fulfilled by working with LGBTQ+ clients, adults, trauma, OCD, complex anxiety, and clients with past incarcerations. I am passionate about holistic and integrative treatment! I am here to help you build up your skill set to handle life transitions, live a better quality of life and find meaning!
![Photo of Cheryl Renee Runion, MA, LCPC, LSOE, LSOTP, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54829ee0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My expertise is working with military vets & their families, trauma survivors, mood disorders, anxiety, addictions, eating disorders, LGBTQ, sexual problematic behaviors & personality disorders.
I have 38 yrs of success working with various diverse populations; focused on using innovative methods to design therapy around individual, family and couples needs & life goals. I am invested in helping my clients overcome personal struggles and succeed in achieving their goals and desired changes. I enjoy working with teens/young adults and their families and are successful in guiding the family system through the tough journey of adolescence and launching into independence. I use new concepts in the M.H. field to adapt therapy to individual client needs as changes in our society create new clinical concerns in our daily lives.
My expertise is working with military vets & their families, trauma survivors, mood disorders, anxiety, addictions, eating disorders, LGBTQ, sexual problematic behaviors & personality disorders.
I have 38 yrs of success working with various diverse populations; focused on using innovative methods to design therapy around individual, family and couples needs & life goals. I am invested in helping my clients overcome personal struggles and succeed in achieving their goals and desired changes. I enjoy working with teens/young adults and their families and are successful in guiding the family system through the tough journey of adolescence and launching into independence. I use new concepts in the M.H. field to adapt therapy to individual client needs as changes in our society create new clinical concerns in our daily lives.
![Photo of Betsy Gilpin, LCPC, CCTP-II](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84734715-a9aa-47b0-b4ad-abd66bb77eb8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Betsy Gilpin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142
Since the relationship you have with your therapist is so vital to your success in therapy, I take time to get to know you, understand your struggles and validate your experiences. I tailor my sessions to meet each client's individual needs, and I work from a sex positive, neurodiversity and LGBTQIA+ affirming framework. You don't have to struggle alone, healing from past trauma, limiting beliefs, and negative patterns is possible. I can help you get off the negative cycle, so you can feel less stressed, more confident and have a deeper connection with yourself and others.
Since the relationship you have with your therapist is so vital to your success in therapy, I take time to get to know you, understand your struggles and validate your experiences. I tailor my sessions to meet each client's individual needs, and I work from a sex positive, neurodiversity and LGBTQIA+ affirming framework. You don't have to struggle alone, healing from past trauma, limiting beliefs, and negative patterns is possible. I can help you get off the negative cycle, so you can feel less stressed, more confident and have a deeper connection with yourself and others.
![Photo of Vana M Bowen, MEd, PsyD, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c04199f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Vana M Bowen
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sexual addictions, gay and lesbian issues, trauma issues related to physical, sexual and emotional abuse, developmental disorders, stress management, loss or grief and life direction questions.
Hello! Choosing a therapist is not easy and involves finding someone with whom you are comfortable. I offer a supportive approach that is sustained by years of experience, knowledge and training through private psychotherapy and consulting services.
My clinical services provide a comprehensive and holistic approach toward personal growth and healing. Together, we can uncover your inner strengths and gifts to make emotional and behavioral treatment a fulfilling journey.
I have received DIPLOMATE professional certification with the American Psychotherapy Association and have professional certifications in Play Therapy, Domestic Violence, Sexual Addictions,and Trauma-Based Treatments.
Specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sexual addictions, gay and lesbian issues, trauma issues related to physical, sexual and emotional abuse, developmental disorders, stress management, loss or grief and life direction questions.
Hello! Choosing a therapist is not easy and involves finding someone with whom you are comfortable. I offer a supportive approach that is sustained by years of experience, knowledge and training through private psychotherapy and consulting services.
My clinical services provide a comprehensive and holistic approach toward personal growth and healing. Together, we can uncover your inner strengths and gifts to make emotional and behavioral treatment a fulfilling journey.
I have received DIPLOMATE professional certification with the American Psychotherapy Association and have professional certifications in Play Therapy, Domestic Violence, Sexual Addictions,and Trauma-Based Treatments.
![Photo of Lisa Aranas - Empowered And Authentic Living, LLC, JD, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0328ec0e-a562-4429-ace5-7ca6e20e3018/3/320x400.jpeg)
Empowered And Authentic Living, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, JD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
We specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADD/ADHD, LGBTQ, trauma (PTSD & Complex PTSD), grief and loss, domestic violence, couple, and family issues, shadow work, and inner child healing.
Thank you for taking the time to read about EAL. We believe you have the right to live your best life; to be your most empowered and authentic self. We believe that everyone eventually seeks meaning and purpose in their life, and finding and living this ultimate goal will bring long lasting joy and true happiness. We are a unique holistic practice that focuses on mind, body, and spirit, integrating Psychology, Spirituality, and Metaphysics to get to the root of your emotional issues that block you from experiencing peace and happiness. We help young children, teens, adults, couples, and families to help open and guide them on a path to living and enjoying life fully. We also hold retreats, seminars, and trainings (CEUs) to support the needs of our clients and our community.
We specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADD/ADHD, LGBTQ, trauma (PTSD & Complex PTSD), grief and loss, domestic violence, couple, and family issues, shadow work, and inner child healing.
Thank you for taking the time to read about EAL. We believe you have the right to live your best life; to be your most empowered and authentic self. We believe that everyone eventually seeks meaning and purpose in their life, and finding and living this ultimate goal will bring long lasting joy and true happiness. We are a unique holistic practice that focuses on mind, body, and spirit, integrating Psychology, Spirituality, and Metaphysics to get to the root of your emotional issues that block you from experiencing peace and happiness. We help young children, teens, adults, couples, and families to help open and guide them on a path to living and enjoying life fully. We also hold retreats, seminars, and trainings (CEUs) to support the needs of our clients and our community.
![Photo of Margot Gay Mahan, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e0fea39-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Margot Gay Mahan & Associates is a professional, family-centered counseling, psychotherapy and assessment practice dedicated to the emotional health and well-being of children adolescents and adults.
I believe our primary desire is to form satisfying, balanced relationships. I work from a Developmental, Attachment, Relational perspective and frequently incorporate Trauma & Family Systems Models into my work. I have extensive experience with infants, young children, teens, families & adults. When working with children I strive to work collaboratively with all relevant members in the child's life to understand & treat that child.
Dr Margot Gay Mahan & Associates is a professional, family-centered counseling, psychotherapy and assessment practice dedicated to the emotional health and well-being of children adolescents and adults.
I believe our primary desire is to form satisfying, balanced relationships. I work from a Developmental, Attachment, Relational perspective and frequently incorporate Trauma & Family Systems Models into my work. I have extensive experience with infants, young children, teens, families & adults. When working with children I strive to work collaboratively with all relevant members in the child's life to understand & treat that child.
See more therapy options for Carpentersville
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Carpentersville
- Algonquin
- Barrington
- Cary
- Crystal Lake
- Elgin
- Fox River Grove
- Hoffman Estates
- Lake In The Hills
- South Barrington
- South Elgin
- Streamwood
- West Dundee
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.