Transgender Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Kai Korpak, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kai Korpak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Offering In Person Sessions in Chicago and Virtual in California- As a queer transgender therapist, I believe there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to living our lives. The same goes for therapy - there isn't a "right way" to do it. In my practice, I am committed to helping individuals tap into their personal strengths and uncover a path that is meaningful and fulfilling. I trust that my clients are the experts on their own lives and have the skills and tools they need to navigate their problems. However, I'm here to provide support and guidance when they need it.
Offering In Person Sessions in Chicago and Virtual in California- As a queer transgender therapist, I believe there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to living our lives. The same goes for therapy - there isn't a "right way" to do it. In my practice, I am committed to helping individuals tap into their personal strengths and uncover a path that is meaningful and fulfilling. I trust that my clients are the experts on their own lives and have the skills and tools they need to navigate their problems. However, I'm here to provide support and guidance when they need it.
(773) 862-8454 View (773) 862-8454
Photo of DeKhari J L Dixon, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
DeKhari J L Dixon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
I am especially aware of the trauma and discrimination that a transgender individual is susceptible to experiencing.
It is my honor to walk with you during this pivotal time in your journey. I work directly with individuals who are ready to get unstuck and work toward living their best life. As a 2Spirited, Black man of trans experience, I understand the multiple layers of oppression and the intersection of multicultural and spiritual backgrounds. It is my intention that you have a safe space to celebrate yourself and your own unique journey. I am intentional about supporting you as we create a pathway to a greater awareness of self. Join me in the journey towards deconstructing thought patterns that no longer serve you. Your best life awaits!
I am especially aware of the trauma and discrimination that a transgender individual is susceptible to experiencing.
It is my honor to walk with you during this pivotal time in your journey. I work directly with individuals who are ready to get unstuck and work toward living their best life. As a 2Spirited, Black man of trans experience, I understand the multiple layers of oppression and the intersection of multicultural and spiritual backgrounds. It is my intention that you have a safe space to celebrate yourself and your own unique journey. I am intentional about supporting you as we create a pathway to a greater awareness of self. Join me in the journey towards deconstructing thought patterns that no longer serve you. Your best life awaits!
(773) 900-7154 View (773) 900-7154
Photo of Cody Young, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cody Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
My focus has always been to support and empower marginalized people, specifically: queer and transgender people, people of color, sex workers, folks living with housing insecurity, and those affected by the prison system. My aim is to develop trust and create a space with you, where you feel safe to be and explore who you are as you develop new insights and skills to achieve and maintain sustainable emotional wellness.
My focus has always been to support and empower marginalized people, specifically: queer and transgender people, people of color, sex workers, folks living with housing insecurity, and those affected by the prison system. My aim is to develop trust and create a space with you, where you feel safe to be and explore who you are as you develop new insights and skills to achieve and maintain sustainable emotional wellness.
(773) 974-9669 View (773) 974-9669
Photo of Kay M Connor, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kay M Connor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
As a therapist I believe the most important thing I can emphasize in the relationship is autonomy. Addressing the shortcomings of the profession in the past I seek to create a collaborative environment where you as the client understand where our work is going and that it can be addressed at any time. I have an interest working with clients dealing with trauma, clients from the LGBTQ population (in particular the transgender and transgender non-binary experience) and couples. I hope to provide clarity and a greater understanding of your emotional world and what options you have to become the person you wish to be.
As a therapist I believe the most important thing I can emphasize in the relationship is autonomy. Addressing the shortcomings of the profession in the past I seek to create a collaborative environment where you as the client understand where our work is going and that it can be addressed at any time. I have an interest working with clients dealing with trauma, clients from the LGBTQ population (in particular the transgender and transgender non-binary experience) and couples. I hope to provide clarity and a greater understanding of your emotional world and what options you have to become the person you wish to be.
(630) 884-5386 View (630) 884-5386
Photo of Rae McDaniel: Queer Therapist, MEd, LCPC, CST, Counselor
Rae McDaniel: Queer Therapist
Counselor, MEd, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
As a non-binary Speaker, Author, Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, Coach, and Transgender Diversity and Inclusion Educator, I help folks gain the sheer audacity to be themselves in the world through play, pleasure, and possibility.
As a Gender and Certified Sex Therapist, I work with folks like you feeling anxious and lost about a transition you're experiencing in sex, gender, sexual identity, or relationships. I'm here to help folks move from surviving to thriving.
As a non-binary Speaker, Author, Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, Coach, and Transgender Diversity and Inclusion Educator, I help folks gain the sheer audacity to be themselves in the world through play, pleasure, and possibility.
As a Gender and Certified Sex Therapist, I work with folks like you feeling anxious and lost about a transition you're experiencing in sex, gender, sexual identity, or relationships. I'm here to help folks move from surviving to thriving.
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Photo of Albe Gutierrez, MAATC, BFA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Albe Gutierrez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAATC, BFA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I'm Albe (she/her/ella), also known as Miss Albe, a bilingual (English/Spanish) art therapist working with individuals and groups among Chicago’s various LGBTQIA+ and Spanish-speaking communities. I view therapy as a collaborative experience designed to enhance personal insight, coping skills, & communication techniques through various avenues of self-expression. I am a kink and poly aware therapist with a strong background in direct service, advocacy, and engagement with the LGBTQIA+ community and transgender women of color in particular.
I'm Albe (she/her/ella), also known as Miss Albe, a bilingual (English/Spanish) art therapist working with individuals and groups among Chicago’s various LGBTQIA+ and Spanish-speaking communities. I view therapy as a collaborative experience designed to enhance personal insight, coping skills, & communication techniques through various avenues of self-expression. I am a kink and poly aware therapist with a strong background in direct service, advocacy, and engagement with the LGBTQIA+ community and transgender women of color in particular.
(773) 694-8550 View (773) 694-8550
Photo of Nevi Cline, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nevi Cline
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I believe therapy is a powerful, collaborative process that can help us improve our internal landscape and lead to fulfilling lives aligned with our values. As a queer, transgender woman, I know that not all therapeutic spaces live up to this ideal, and too often, they can cause more harm. I am passionate about creating a therapeutic space that is affirming, strengths-based, and safe. I believe in meeting everyone without judgment but with empathy and unconditional positive regard.
I believe therapy is a powerful, collaborative process that can help us improve our internal landscape and lead to fulfilling lives aligned with our values. As a queer, transgender woman, I know that not all therapeutic spaces live up to this ideal, and too often, they can cause more harm. I am passionate about creating a therapeutic space that is affirming, strengths-based, and safe. I believe in meeting everyone without judgment but with empathy and unconditional positive regard.
(708) 797-9237 View (708) 797-9237
Photo of Moe A Brown, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Moe A Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
Waitlist for new clients
Transgender or Non-binary people: As a transgender non-binary soul, Moe Ari is highly attuned to the needs of Gender Expansive people.
If you are looking for an accountability partner in support of your relationships, then this is your sign. If you are a single person who wants support in growing your self-love and accountability, while exploring how to navigate lasting partnership, this is also your sign! Moe Ari is a highly skilled relationship expert with almost a decade of experience helping couples to revitalize their relationships. As a Black Transgender Man, he is also LGBTQIA+ celebratory, culturally sensitive, and trauma informed. Moe Ari, blends therapy with coaching to help clients create success in their relationships, minds, bodies, and spirits.
Transgender or Non-binary people: As a transgender non-binary soul, Moe Ari is highly attuned to the needs of Gender Expansive people.
If you are looking for an accountability partner in support of your relationships, then this is your sign. If you are a single person who wants support in growing your self-love and accountability, while exploring how to navigate lasting partnership, this is also your sign! Moe Ari is a highly skilled relationship expert with almost a decade of experience helping couples to revitalize their relationships. As a Black Transgender Man, he is also LGBTQIA+ celebratory, culturally sensitive, and trauma informed. Moe Ari, blends therapy with coaching to help clients create success in their relationships, minds, bodies, and spirits.
(773) 524-6215 View (773) 524-6215
Photo of Jeffrey Pyritz - Catalyst Clinical Group Inc, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catalyst Clinical Group Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
My areas of interest include transgender issues, gay men, couples, and family difficulties.
I believe every person has the ability to effect change in their life. Sometimes, though, we need someone to walk along side us to help navigate through difficult and trying times. My view of therapy is just that—a helpful and compassionate person who provides a safe and stigma-free space to explore, reflect, mourn, and grow. My hope is to provide you with the highest quality mental health services to help you achieve your goals and live a healthy, productive life of your design.
My areas of interest include transgender issues, gay men, couples, and family difficulties.
I believe every person has the ability to effect change in their life. Sometimes, though, we need someone to walk along side us to help navigate through difficult and trying times. My view of therapy is just that—a helpful and compassionate person who provides a safe and stigma-free space to explore, reflect, mourn, and grow. My hope is to provide you with the highest quality mental health services to help you achieve your goals and live a healthy, productive life of your design.
(773) 876-8763 View (773) 876-8763
Photo of (M) Hayden Gorr-Diaz, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
(M) Hayden Gorr-Diaz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I help guide adults and adolescents who are queer, transgender, gender nonconforming, nonbinary, LGBTQ+, BIPOC, kinky/polyamorous/consensually non-monogamous to explore their thoughts and behaviors in a supportive environment that is free from judgment or stigma.
Feeling stuck, anxious, or unsure how to make positive changes in your life? I'm a queer, nonbinary therapist focused on intersectionality and identity. I empower individuals, especially LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and those navigating gender/sexuality, using a client-centered, strength-based approach. My eclectic modalities include acceptance, mindfulness, somatic, and harm-reduction methods. I bring a relational, compassionate, and humorous approach. Each person is an expert in their own lived experience. Let's create a therapeutic experience that leaves you centered, heard, and fulfilled.
I help guide adults and adolescents who are queer, transgender, gender nonconforming, nonbinary, LGBTQ+, BIPOC, kinky/polyamorous/consensually non-monogamous to explore their thoughts and behaviors in a supportive environment that is free from judgment or stigma.
Feeling stuck, anxious, or unsure how to make positive changes in your life? I'm a queer, nonbinary therapist focused on intersectionality and identity. I empower individuals, especially LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and those navigating gender/sexuality, using a client-centered, strength-based approach. My eclectic modalities include acceptance, mindfulness, somatic, and harm-reduction methods. I bring a relational, compassionate, and humorous approach. Each person is an expert in their own lived experience. Let's create a therapeutic experience that leaves you centered, heard, and fulfilled.
(773) 389-2905 View (773) 389-2905
Photo of Lb Barry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lb Barry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
I have experience working with adolescents and adult members of the LGBTQIA+ community who are experiencing complex trauma, depression, anxiety, dissociation, and gender dysphoria.
Our authentic connections to one another sustain us as human beings. Often past harms and invalidation make us further disconnected from ourselves and each other. By moving beyond binaries created and sustained by capitalism and other constructs of oppression, I pathologize systems and not people. I work to create an environment that affirms a person’s complete and complex humanity with a sense of compassion that is free from judgment or imposed expectations. When we establish secure and affirming relationships, we have the ability to embrace our authentic selves and the numerous possibilities of transformation.
I have experience working with adolescents and adult members of the LGBTQIA+ community who are experiencing complex trauma, depression, anxiety, dissociation, and gender dysphoria.
Our authentic connections to one another sustain us as human beings. Often past harms and invalidation make us further disconnected from ourselves and each other. By moving beyond binaries created and sustained by capitalism and other constructs of oppression, I pathologize systems and not people. I work to create an environment that affirms a person’s complete and complex humanity with a sense of compassion that is free from judgment or imposed expectations. When we establish secure and affirming relationships, we have the ability to embrace our authentic selves and the numerous possibilities of transformation.
(312) 471-1608 View (312) 471-1608
Photo of Victoria Stanton, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Victoria Stanton
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Truer than ever before, the world is full of suffering. Though it is also true that the world is full of healing and overcoming. I see the hope that brought you to this page. The hope in finding healing and growth through therapy. It can be challenging to find a safe, culturally-sensitive, therapeutic space especially for those identifying as queer, transgender, and non-binary. You deserve to feel understood and supported. I am committed to creating and maintaining a safe and nonjudgmental space for people to explore their life experiences and strengths as well as cultivate a sense of self-compassion, self-trust, and empowerment.
Truer than ever before, the world is full of suffering. Though it is also true that the world is full of healing and overcoming. I see the hope that brought you to this page. The hope in finding healing and growth through therapy. It can be challenging to find a safe, culturally-sensitive, therapeutic space especially for those identifying as queer, transgender, and non-binary. You deserve to feel understood and supported. I am committed to creating and maintaining a safe and nonjudgmental space for people to explore their life experiences and strengths as well as cultivate a sense of self-compassion, self-trust, and empowerment.
(872) 704-8063 View (872) 704-8063
Photo of Joelle Spiegel, JD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joelle Spiegel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
I work with transgender, non-binary, LGBQIA, and cisgender folks who are processing trauma, experiencing anxiety and/or depression, and struggling with family or relationship issues.
Oftentimes, we develop patterns of behaving and relating to others as a way of coping with and protecting ourselves from our early environments. As we expand out past those early experiences and relationships, we may find that these old ways of thinking, behaving, and relating no longer work for us. Together in therapy, we will explore the origins and functions of those patterns, gaining an awareness of how they show up and how we might develop a new path.
I work with transgender, non-binary, LGBQIA, and cisgender folks who are processing trauma, experiencing anxiety and/or depression, and struggling with family or relationship issues.
Oftentimes, we develop patterns of behaving and relating to others as a way of coping with and protecting ourselves from our early environments. As we expand out past those early experiences and relationships, we may find that these old ways of thinking, behaving, and relating no longer work for us. Together in therapy, we will explore the origins and functions of those patterns, gaining an awareness of how they show up and how we might develop a new path.
(872) 233-4923 View (872) 233-4923
Photo of Liz Curtis, MA, LPC, LCPC, CAADC, NCC, Counselor
Liz Curtis
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, CAADC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
I also specialize in LGBTQ+ and women's issues, specifically with transgender clients.
Working from a feminist theoretical perspective, I feel that your unique voice deserves to be believed, be heard, and be taken seriously. I strive to create a trusted space in which you feel comfortable to work through your difficulties without fear of judgment or discrimination. I believe you will find me approachable, down to earth, and friendly!
I also specialize in LGBTQ+ and women's issues, specifically with transgender clients.
Working from a feminist theoretical perspective, I feel that your unique voice deserves to be believed, be heard, and be taken seriously. I strive to create a trusted space in which you feel comfortable to work through your difficulties without fear of judgment or discrimination. I believe you will find me approachable, down to earth, and friendly!
(313) 462-2146 View (313) 462-2146
Photo of Aryn Pardieck, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Aryn Pardieck
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Aryn Pardieck and I am a psychotherapist based in Illinois and Wisconsin. My style is warm and friendly. I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, depression, and grief and loss. I further specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community, including transgender and nonbinary clients. I always provide gender-affirming care and work to provide a safe and accepting space. I also very much enjoy working with those who want to go deeper in therapy and explore mindfulness. I have 15 year of experience working with adults and teens.
Hello! My name is Aryn Pardieck and I am a psychotherapist based in Illinois and Wisconsin. My style is warm and friendly. I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, depression, and grief and loss. I further specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community, including transgender and nonbinary clients. I always provide gender-affirming care and work to provide a safe and accepting space. I also very much enjoy working with those who want to go deeper in therapy and explore mindfulness. I have 15 year of experience working with adults and teens.
(312) 564-5335 View (312) 564-5335
Photo of Phoebe Caplin, LSW, PEL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Phoebe Caplin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, PEL
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I work with a range of individuals including adults, teens, and children. I have worked with clients with challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, low self-esteem, and gender dysphoria. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, folks with diagnosed or self-identified Autism/ADHD, and those navigating pregnancy/postpartum. Therapy with me is an affirming space for those in the kink and poly communities. I enjoy working with individuals who wish to deepen their understanding of their identity, are undergoing a life transition, or who want to understand how their past informs their present.
I work with a range of individuals including adults, teens, and children. I have worked with clients with challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, low self-esteem, and gender dysphoria. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, folks with diagnosed or self-identified Autism/ADHD, and those navigating pregnancy/postpartum. Therapy with me is an affirming space for those in the kink and poly communities. I enjoy working with individuals who wish to deepen their understanding of their identity, are undergoing a life transition, or who want to understand how their past informs their present.
(773) 207-4756 x1 View (773) 207-4756 x1
Photo of Edith Moran, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Edith Moran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625  (Online Only)
Hi there! I’m Edith, but please, call me Edie. As an out and proud transgender woman, I am excited to work with the LGBT community through sexuality- and gender-affirming treatment. Are you struggling with your gender and/or sexuality? I would love to walk with you as we collaboratively work to find answers, solutions, and resilience.
Hi there! I’m Edith, but please, call me Edie. As an out and proud transgender woman, I am excited to work with the LGBT community through sexuality- and gender-affirming treatment. Are you struggling with your gender and/or sexuality? I would love to walk with you as we collaboratively work to find answers, solutions, and resilience.
(773) 904-1977 View (773) 904-1977
Photo of Jasper H Wurster, MA, MAAT, LCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jasper H Wurster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MAAT, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
Several of my lived identities help clients feel connected during our work, such as: transgender, nonbinary, first gen biracial Asian, queer, Autistic/neurodivergent, ADHDer, birthing parent.
Do you feel stuck, unmotivated, or not like "yourself"? I'm here to help you find peace of mind, freedom, & personal relief to take charge of your life. I'm an Integrative Internal Family Systems counselor & Adlerian art therapist, with 12+ years of experience, who excels in addressing mood shifts, anxiety, work-life balance, grief, & trauma. I listen with an insightful, patient disposition and an engaging, compassionate heart when we talk about your values, identities, and challenges. Together, we approach obstacles to discover new solutions & apply intuitive skill sets, gaining newfound confidence, authenticity, & wholeness.
Several of my lived identities help clients feel connected during our work, such as: transgender, nonbinary, first gen biracial Asian, queer, Autistic/neurodivergent, ADHDer, birthing parent.
Do you feel stuck, unmotivated, or not like "yourself"? I'm here to help you find peace of mind, freedom, & personal relief to take charge of your life. I'm an Integrative Internal Family Systems counselor & Adlerian art therapist, with 12+ years of experience, who excels in addressing mood shifts, anxiety, work-life balance, grief, & trauma. I listen with an insightful, patient disposition and an engaging, compassionate heart when we talk about your values, identities, and challenges. Together, we approach obstacles to discover new solutions & apply intuitive skill sets, gaining newfound confidence, authenticity, & wholeness.
(331) 214-5354 View (331) 214-5354
Photo of Dave Howser, MDiv, LCPC, Counselor
Dave Howser
Counselor, MDiv, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
I have had specialized clinical training to meet the needs of those who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or are questioning their sexual orientation as well as those who have or are impacted by HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening or serious illnesses.
For over 30 years, I have accompanied others on their journey towards greater self-awareness, more fulfilling relationships, and exploring the needs and challenges of maintaining sound emotional, physical and spiritual health. My experience is particularly helpful when working on self-esteem issues, depression, grief and loss, relationship struggles, and faith and spiritual development. My clinical work draws upon skills developed while working as a hospital chaplain, pastoral counselor, bereavement counselor, youth counselor and a mental health therapist in a social service agency.
I have had specialized clinical training to meet the needs of those who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or are questioning their sexual orientation as well as those who have or are impacted by HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening or serious illnesses.
For over 30 years, I have accompanied others on their journey towards greater self-awareness, more fulfilling relationships, and exploring the needs and challenges of maintaining sound emotional, physical and spiritual health. My experience is particularly helpful when working on self-esteem issues, depression, grief and loss, relationship struggles, and faith and spiritual development. My clinical work draws upon skills developed while working as a hospital chaplain, pastoral counselor, bereavement counselor, youth counselor and a mental health therapist in a social service agency.
(773) 450-3395 View (773) 450-3395
Photo of Louis V. Haynes, PsyD, Psychologist
Louis V. Haynes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I specialize in working with diverse individuals and issues, including immigrants, LGBTQ individuals and couples, as well as transgender individuals in the midst of transitioning.
I would definitely say being a psychologist is my calling. I am very passionate about helping others and making humanity and the world a better place, both personally and professionally. My approach to therapy is to create a safe space in order to help you examine yourself and your path to a meaningful life. I help you identify and build off of your strengths and values and help you with the parts of your personality that may be getting in the way of your having a more fulfilling life and feeling deeply connected in your relationships.
I specialize in working with diverse individuals and issues, including immigrants, LGBTQ individuals and couples, as well as transgender individuals in the midst of transitioning.
I would definitely say being a psychologist is my calling. I am very passionate about helping others and making humanity and the world a better place, both personally and professionally. My approach to therapy is to create a safe space in order to help you examine yourself and your path to a meaningful life. I help you identify and build off of your strengths and values and help you with the parts of your personality that may be getting in the way of your having a more fulfilling life and feeling deeply connected in your relationships.
(773) 639-1094 View (773) 639-1094
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.