LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Hazel Crest, IL
![Photo of Roxana Norvais, MA, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be7a830-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
Roxana Norvais
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hazel Crest, IL 60429 (Online Only)
I value the human heart, soul, and spirit. I am a seasoned psychotherapist with 25 years of clinical practice. I am aware that we all experience times of darkness, and deep sorrow. We all experience anxiety, and struggle with certain life transitions. We heal by way of sharing our stories, feelings, and experiences. I care deeply about each of my clients, and I look forward to watching each person grow to their fullest potential. I will listen with a compassionate heart, and I have a genuine interest in each person that I work with.
I value the human heart, soul, and spirit. I am a seasoned psychotherapist with 25 years of clinical practice. I am aware that we all experience times of darkness, and deep sorrow. We all experience anxiety, and struggle with certain life transitions. We heal by way of sharing our stories, feelings, and experiences. I care deeply about each of my clients, and I look forward to watching each person grow to their fullest potential. I will listen with a compassionate heart, and I have a genuine interest in each person that I work with.
![Photo of Bonnie Hassan - Family Counseling Center, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc43755-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
At the Family Counseling Center we believe each person is unique and offer individualized treatment at our centers. Our therapists employ evidenced-based techniques to explore your values, aid you in goal achievement and increase psychological health. The therapists and I have formal and ongoing training in marriage and family therapy and behavioral psychology. Through collaboration, the therapy experience can create change that positively impacts all areas of your life. The Family Counseling Center has four locations; Joliet, New Lenox, Naperville and Homewood.
At the Family Counseling Center we believe each person is unique and offer individualized treatment at our centers. Our therapists employ evidenced-based techniques to explore your values, aid you in goal achievement and increase psychological health. The therapists and I have formal and ongoing training in marriage and family therapy and behavioral psychology. Through collaboration, the therapy experience can create change that positively impacts all areas of your life. The Family Counseling Center has four locations; Joliet, New Lenox, Naperville and Homewood.
![Photo of Cathy Jackson, MA, NCC, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/480828e3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Under the best of circumstances life is not easy. Sometimes we face challenges in our lives and just need someone to listen, care about, and guide us. There's always hope for change and if you are willing to put in the work, there is someone willing to help and that someone is me. Having the courage to take the pathway of change is the first step. Together lets work to make a difference.
Under the best of circumstances life is not easy. Sometimes we face challenges in our lives and just need someone to listen, care about, and guide us. There's always hope for change and if you are willing to put in the work, there is someone willing to help and that someone is me. Having the courage to take the pathway of change is the first step. Together lets work to make a difference.
![Photo of Aisha M Sanders, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84fe6edf-94c6-4e90-b771-6e5616e6237e/2/320x400.jpeg)
"I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to you, and 90% how you react to it" ~ Charles Swindol. Through a collaborative therapeutic experience, you will receive the tools needed to not only live life, but to enjoy it!
"I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to you, and 90% how you react to it" ~ Charles Swindol. Through a collaborative therapeutic experience, you will receive the tools needed to not only live life, but to enjoy it!
![Photo of Ann Sherri - Comprehensive Services of Illinois, LCSW, SAP, CADC, CPLC, CWLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c2581ad-cacf-4b7c-b518-712d522c8d8a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Comprehensive Services of Illinois
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP, CADC, CPLC, CWLC
Verified Verified
Hazel Crest, IL 60429
Welcome to Comprehensive Services of Illinois! CSI staff members are looking forward to servicing you. They are phenomenal, providing comprehensive, high quality, accessible, affordable and effective services to children, adolescent and adults. Professional services are tailored to individual, couple and family need. Their goals are to assist, empower, and respond to your needs. While demonstrating the Comprehensive Services of Illinois philosophy: commitment, compassion, confidentiality, dignity, empathy, empowerment, excellence, genuineness, purpose, respect, support and understanding. Call today to schedule an appointment.
Welcome to Comprehensive Services of Illinois! CSI staff members are looking forward to servicing you. They are phenomenal, providing comprehensive, high quality, accessible, affordable and effective services to children, adolescent and adults. Professional services are tailored to individual, couple and family need. Their goals are to assist, empower, and respond to your needs. While demonstrating the Comprehensive Services of Illinois philosophy: commitment, compassion, confidentiality, dignity, empathy, empowerment, excellence, genuineness, purpose, respect, support and understanding. Call today to schedule an appointment.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Sarah Neuhaus, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4d69ddd-838e-4673-8777-4e59654dc0fd/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients of all ages, but I have a focus in working with teens and young adults. I have a strong passion in working with members of the LGBTQ+ community, or those questioning their identity. I use a client-centered approach; I want you to get the most out of therapy by using techniques that are best suited for you as an individual. I have experience working with various diagnoses including clients starting out their gender transition journey, reunification, anger management, couples counseling, family counseling, and victims of domestic violence.
I work with clients of all ages, but I have a focus in working with teens and young adults. I have a strong passion in working with members of the LGBTQ+ community, or those questioning their identity. I use a client-centered approach; I want you to get the most out of therapy by using techniques that are best suited for you as an individual. I have experience working with various diagnoses including clients starting out their gender transition journey, reunification, anger management, couples counseling, family counseling, and victims of domestic violence.
![Photo of Erica L Washington - Obsidian Institute of Integrative Medicine, MA, LCPC, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c3d41f9-119d-4f31-9dfa-e4297ff83057/2/320x400.jpeg)
Obsidian Institute of Integrative Medicine
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Homewood, IL 60430
Issues we work with: Anxiety, Depression, Anger Management, LGBTQ+ counseling, Premarital counseling, Trauma/PTSD, Substance Abuse, DUI, Co-occurring disorders, Stress Management, Boundary work, Attachment issues, Infidelity, Adaptive learning, and many more issues that can be discussed during consultation.
We work from a relational and cultural lense because the people you engage with on a daily basis affect the lense through which you view your world. Those lenses can diminish your ability to cope and form new, stable, and healthy connections, continuing to utilize unhealthy means of solving your dilemmas. The goal of therapy is to guide you in using your innate abilities to develop healthier lenses to view the world and healthy coping mechanisms. Mental Health Services: Individual Therapy, Group Therapy, Life Coaching, Mindfulness Meditation, Reiki, Vibration therapy, Crystal Work, and Cannabis-assisted Therapy.
Issues we work with: Anxiety, Depression, Anger Management, LGBTQ+ counseling, Premarital counseling, Trauma/PTSD, Substance Abuse, DUI, Co-occurring disorders, Stress Management, Boundary work, Attachment issues, Infidelity, Adaptive learning, and many more issues that can be discussed during consultation.
We work from a relational and cultural lense because the people you engage with on a daily basis affect the lense through which you view your world. Those lenses can diminish your ability to cope and form new, stable, and healthy connections, continuing to utilize unhealthy means of solving your dilemmas. The goal of therapy is to guide you in using your innate abilities to develop healthier lenses to view the world and healthy coping mechanisms. Mental Health Services: Individual Therapy, Group Therapy, Life Coaching, Mindfulness Meditation, Reiki, Vibration therapy, Crystal Work, and Cannabis-assisted Therapy.
![Photo of Quincy Crump, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab411611-74d1-4824-9760-a0b9733c09b9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in providing care to members of the LGBTQ+ community and those questioning their identities.
I work with clients from diverse backgrounds including gender, race, age, socioeconomic status, and faith/spirituality. I work to provide customized and culturally appropriate treatment approaches based on collaboration and integrity. I acknowledge the barriers inherent in seeking out and receiving mental health care and work to utilize my expertise to create an accessible standard of care. I approach therapy from the standpoint of exploring social contexts and the impact of social messages on individual mental health and collective relationships.
I specialize in providing care to members of the LGBTQ+ community and those questioning their identities.
I work with clients from diverse backgrounds including gender, race, age, socioeconomic status, and faith/spirituality. I work to provide customized and culturally appropriate treatment approaches based on collaboration and integrity. I acknowledge the barriers inherent in seeking out and receiving mental health care and work to utilize my expertise to create an accessible standard of care. I approach therapy from the standpoint of exploring social contexts and the impact of social messages on individual mental health and collective relationships.
![Photo of Tolaya Geredine, MA, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09f3a0ea-c7a3-4f67-9a7a-c45dfdc6ea7f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tolaya Geredine
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Flossmoor, IL 60422 (Online Only)
I have special insights for people of color, professionals, mothers (single or not), and my LGBTQ+ family.
Feeling completed overwhelmed by a recent major life change? Are you a parent, recently ended a relationship, or simply experiencing the growing pains of life? Maybe you are ready to make some changes, but not sure exactly where to start. I am passionate in assisting you with sorting through family of origin issues, & then interrupting patterns that have kept you from the life & relationships that you deserve, including the one with self! l I am also trained in perinatal mental health. I can support you through pre-pregnancy through postpartum. Wherever you are on your life's journey, you don't have to live unfavorably in any way.
I have special insights for people of color, professionals, mothers (single or not), and my LGBTQ+ family.
Feeling completed overwhelmed by a recent major life change? Are you a parent, recently ended a relationship, or simply experiencing the growing pains of life? Maybe you are ready to make some changes, but not sure exactly where to start. I am passionate in assisting you with sorting through family of origin issues, & then interrupting patterns that have kept you from the life & relationships that you deserve, including the one with self! l I am also trained in perinatal mental health. I can support you through pre-pregnancy through postpartum. Wherever you are on your life's journey, you don't have to live unfavorably in any way.
![Photo of Khesed Wellness, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/099ed451-44fa-47ec-9d43-a37339dcf8e0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sessions are $70 or FREE through our numerous pro bono programs for LGBTQ+ individuals, young people, restaurant workers, helping professionals, substance abuse, and those impacted by gun violence.
We believe everyone deserves access to quality mental health therapy they can afford. Our team of therapists offer a variety of expertise, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction and substance use, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, faith, sexuality, boundary setting, identity exploration, and more. We offer individual, couples, and family sessions. Our goal is to match you with the therapist who is the best therapeutic, cultural and relational fit to meet your needs. We return all outreaches within one business day and match you with a therapist within one week so you don't have to wait for care. We're here for you.
Sessions are $70 or FREE through our numerous pro bono programs for LGBTQ+ individuals, young people, restaurant workers, helping professionals, substance abuse, and those impacted by gun violence.
We believe everyone deserves access to quality mental health therapy they can afford. Our team of therapists offer a variety of expertise, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction and substance use, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, faith, sexuality, boundary setting, identity exploration, and more. We offer individual, couples, and family sessions. Our goal is to match you with the therapist who is the best therapeutic, cultural and relational fit to meet your needs. We return all outreaches within one business day and match you with a therapist within one week so you don't have to wait for care. We're here for you.
![Photo of Caroline Rosales, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/783768c2-e0c3-4768-969a-c29ea44b3153/2/320x400.jpeg)
"I never thought of it like that..." This a phrase I often hear from my clients as I challenge them to think outside of the box and embrace different perspectives and approaches to their problems. As a therapist, I enjoy working with people to help them reach their personal goals. I work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds with focuses on depression, anxiety, ADHD, LGBTQ+, behavioral issues, relationship issues and family problems. I often use humor and problem solving in a relaxed setting to build trust in therapy and make therapy comfortable and even enjoyable.
"I never thought of it like that..." This a phrase I often hear from my clients as I challenge them to think outside of the box and embrace different perspectives and approaches to their problems. As a therapist, I enjoy working with people to help them reach their personal goals. I work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds with focuses on depression, anxiety, ADHD, LGBTQ+, behavioral issues, relationship issues and family problems. I often use humor and problem solving in a relaxed setting to build trust in therapy and make therapy comfortable and even enjoyable.
![Photo of Kira Weidner, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cccd3715-6020-4830-b4f1-25063d2a801a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kira Weidner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Flossmoor, IL 60422 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with members of all kinds of families, and I provide queer- and trans-affirming support across the lifespan.
Not currently accepting new clients. I specialize in therapy for the big decisions that dramatically change your life. Maybe you're feeling panic, indecision, sadness, or grief about the kind of life you want but aren't living. I support people through life transitions related to things like sexuality and gender identity, education and career change, pregnancy and reproductive decisions, dating/partnering/marriage, parenting, divorce/separation, and disability/health concerns. I affirm LGBTQ+ people at all stages of life transition. I value and affirm blended and chosen families, polyamory, and non-monogamy.
I work with members of all kinds of families, and I provide queer- and trans-affirming support across the lifespan.
Not currently accepting new clients. I specialize in therapy for the big decisions that dramatically change your life. Maybe you're feeling panic, indecision, sadness, or grief about the kind of life you want but aren't living. I support people through life transitions related to things like sexuality and gender identity, education and career change, pregnancy and reproductive decisions, dating/partnering/marriage, parenting, divorce/separation, and disability/health concerns. I affirm LGBTQ+ people at all stages of life transition. I value and affirm blended and chosen families, polyamory, and non-monogamy.
![Photo of Dr. Kres Snyder, LCPC, CST, Pact I](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75012e26-c763-4c9a-8663-027ad5509631/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kres Snyder
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CST, Pact I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Homewood, IL 60430 (Online Only)
Finding balance is often hard. I specialize in individual and couples therapy with a focus on marital and couples, sex therapy, and alternative lifestyle issues, such as non-monogamy. I have over 16 years of experience with LGBTQIA+ concerns, ethical non monogamy, and marital and couples work with communication and conflict issues. I bring a warm, honest, and open approach to therapy while helping you feel and find hope. I truly work to meet you where you are and create a space where you are not only safe but with a friend. This step is hard and I have been in your shoes so I will never judge.
Finding balance is often hard. I specialize in individual and couples therapy with a focus on marital and couples, sex therapy, and alternative lifestyle issues, such as non-monogamy. I have over 16 years of experience with LGBTQIA+ concerns, ethical non monogamy, and marital and couples work with communication and conflict issues. I bring a warm, honest, and open approach to therapy while helping you feel and find hope. I truly work to meet you where you are and create a space where you are not only safe but with a friend. This step is hard and I have been in your shoes so I will never judge.
![Photo of Heather Jackson-Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8776847b-695a-466d-b84a-7b831b5b6583/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Jackson-Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glenwood, IL 60425 (Online Only)
With over 20 years of assisting various special populations including Veterans, Elderly, and LGBTQ+, I help you come up with the best plan for you that works for you in your situation and lifestyle.
Intimacy, the connection you have with the person you have chosen to share your journey through life with, is one of the most important parts of a relationship. It can become your most valued tool or a challenging obstacle. Struggling in a relationship can be scary and confusing. Having the right someone to work with you to help you get through those times and situations should be rewarding.
With over 20 years of assisting various special populations including Veterans, Elderly, and LGBTQ+, I help you come up with the best plan for you that works for you in your situation and lifestyle.
Intimacy, the connection you have with the person you have chosen to share your journey through life with, is one of the most important parts of a relationship. It can become your most valued tool or a challenging obstacle. Struggling in a relationship can be scary and confusing. Having the right someone to work with you to help you get through those times and situations should be rewarding.
![Photo of Kris D Thomas, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5a27503-678a-46f9-8388-cc63363e58c8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Understanding that the journey toward healing isn’t always glamorous and sometimes scary, I aim to provide clients with an emotionally safe environment to overcome the difficulties that plague them. I understand that choosing to start therapy isn't always an easy decision due to life’s demands and sociocultural stigma around seeking mental health care. I strive to create therapeutic relationships that are nonjudgmental, authentic, transparent, warm and collaborative. I provides a collaborative and objective platform to explore concerns, unlearn & replace thoughts or behaviors that no longer serve my clients.
Understanding that the journey toward healing isn’t always glamorous and sometimes scary, I aim to provide clients with an emotionally safe environment to overcome the difficulties that plague them. I understand that choosing to start therapy isn't always an easy decision due to life’s demands and sociocultural stigma around seeking mental health care. I strive to create therapeutic relationships that are nonjudgmental, authentic, transparent, warm and collaborative. I provides a collaborative and objective platform to explore concerns, unlearn & replace thoughts or behaviors that no longer serve my clients.
![Photo of Janice Nadean Boykin-Miles - Janice Boykin-Miles LCSW-Homewood & Burnham, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d25479c0-5fbb-4697-b0b1-705437f8ffa1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Janice Boykin-Miles LCSW-Homewood & Burnham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Homewood, IL 60430 (Online Only)
I am currently only providing Telehealth sessions. I am a Christian Therapist who has worked in field of Social Services & Social work for the State of Illinois in various capacities (Caseworker, Child Welfare Specialist, Child Protection Investigator, Public Service Adm., CWS Trainer (at the Dept. of Children & Family Serv.), Part-time Univ. Lecturer (at GSU) & a Medical Social Worker at Advocate Health Care). As a seasoned Social Worker, I specialize in providing Individual, family & marriage counseling to teens, adolescents, young adults & Seniors. I am dedicated & confident that I can help you & your family achieve your goals.
I am currently only providing Telehealth sessions. I am a Christian Therapist who has worked in field of Social Services & Social work for the State of Illinois in various capacities (Caseworker, Child Welfare Specialist, Child Protection Investigator, Public Service Adm., CWS Trainer (at the Dept. of Children & Family Serv.), Part-time Univ. Lecturer (at GSU) & a Medical Social Worker at Advocate Health Care). As a seasoned Social Worker, I specialize in providing Individual, family & marriage counseling to teens, adolescents, young adults & Seniors. I am dedicated & confident that I can help you & your family achieve your goals.
![Photo of Pamela Price, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee0bb6f1-ddf5-4c5c-8112-a32ad2f9017c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pam is a graduate of Governors State University With a Masters in Community Counseling, Pamela has a diverse background in working with people in Mental Health and also holds a full time position with as a Therapist and group facilitator at Ingalls Hospital. Pam specializes in working with adolescents, teens, adults and couples providing evidence based treatment to help assist with challenges you may face. She understands that like adults children, teen and adolescents have many challenges in life. She also is Gottman trained to assist couples with challenges in their relationships and marriages,
Pam is a graduate of Governors State University With a Masters in Community Counseling, Pamela has a diverse background in working with people in Mental Health and also holds a full time position with as a Therapist and group facilitator at Ingalls Hospital. Pam specializes in working with adolescents, teens, adults and couples providing evidence based treatment to help assist with challenges you may face. She understands that like adults children, teen and adolescents have many challenges in life. She also is Gottman trained to assist couples with challenges in their relationships and marriages,
![Photo of Enchelle' Renee Morris, LCPC, CADC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf21ba4-5c72-47ab-80d4-0c116f74138a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Enchelle' Renee Morris
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Homewood, IL 60430
My name is Enchelle' Morris, I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counseling and Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Specialist. I understand that coming to counseling is not easy and a difficult choice to make. I am here to be an assistant in your healing journey, without any judgement and actively listening. I understand that no matter the situation, counseling process is beneficial when you are comfortable with the therapist you choose. I do my best to set an atmosphere that is conducive for you to feel safe to ensure you achieve your goals.
My name is Enchelle' Morris, I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counseling and Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Specialist. I understand that coming to counseling is not easy and a difficult choice to make. I am here to be an assistant in your healing journey, without any judgement and actively listening. I understand that no matter the situation, counseling process is beneficial when you are comfortable with the therapist you choose. I do my best to set an atmosphere that is conducive for you to feel safe to ensure you achieve your goals.
![Photo of Pamela June Davis-Rago - Pamela's Healing Arts, CADC, CH, CLC, CAMS, RM, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/423c4f79-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pamela's Healing Arts
Counselor, CADC, CH, CLC, CAMS, RM
Not Verified Not Verified
Homewood, IL 60430
My goal is to help individuals challenge-ATTITUDES, BELIEFS, and THINKING that limit personal growth. Utilizing the concept of MIND, BODY, SPIRIT for INNER HEALING.
My goal is to help individuals challenge-ATTITUDES, BELIEFS, and THINKING that limit personal growth. Utilizing the concept of MIND, BODY, SPIRIT for INNER HEALING.
![Photo of Dr. Calvin Young, PhD, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b02c1c2d-61a2-47b0-91b1-0bcb277c24fd/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Calvin Young
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Holland, IL 60473 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Dr. Calvin Young, a credentialed provider of telehealth care services. As a provider of telemental health as a Psychotherapist, forensic assessment and Substance Abuse Counseling and Addictions treatment professional, I am also US military veteran. For over two decades I have provided Online Therapy and in-person care, using an integrative approach that combines Psychodynamic, Behavior Therapy, Gestalt, Community Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems approaches, combined with Multicultural Psychotherapy, a Person-centered focus.
Hello! My name is Dr. Calvin Young, a credentialed provider of telehealth care services. As a provider of telemental health as a Psychotherapist, forensic assessment and Substance Abuse Counseling and Addictions treatment professional, I am also US military veteran. For over two decades I have provided Online Therapy and in-person care, using an integrative approach that combines Psychodynamic, Behavior Therapy, Gestalt, Community Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems approaches, combined with Multicultural Psychotherapy, a Person-centered focus.
See more therapy options for Hazel Crest
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Hazel Crest
- Chicago Heights
- Country Club Hills
- Flossmoor
- Glenwood
- Homewood
- Matteson
- Oak Forest
- Olympia Fields
- Park Forest
- Richton Park
- South Holland
- Tinley Park
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.