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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Crystal Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lacon, IL 61540
Hello, my name is Crystal Williams. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of clinical experience working with various individuals and couples suffering from Anxiety, Stress, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, and Marital/Pre-Marital. I commonly use Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Psychodynamic, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Strength-Based therapies. I believe I am committed to walking along the journey with you. Therefore, you are not alone in your next steps.
Hello, my name is Crystal Williams. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of clinical experience working with various individuals and couples suffering from Anxiety, Stress, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, and Marital/Pre-Marital. I commonly use Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Psychodynamic, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), and Strength-Based therapies. I believe I am committed to walking along the journey with you. Therefore, you are not alone in your next steps.
(815) 362-1514 View (815) 362-1514

Online Therapists

Photo of Nicole Boehne, LCPC, ATR, Counselor
Nicole Boehne
Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
My clinical specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Female Health, Menopause, LGBTQ, Transgender Youth,Premartial,Marriage,Grief,Parenting/ Parenting Children w/Special Needs.
Trying to find a therapist can be overwhelming. I’m here to make this process easy and help you find relief. I believe in a person’s capacity for change and the ability of each of us to reach our life goals. I’ll work with you to identify and remove the obstacles you have been facing. With humor and creativity, we will create the supportive environment you need to achieve your goals. I am passionate about connecting with people, and helping them to gain new ways of coping with life’s stressors.Ready to feel like yourself again?
My clinical specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Female Health, Menopause, LGBTQ, Transgender Youth,Premartial,Marriage,Grief,Parenting/ Parenting Children w/Special Needs.
Trying to find a therapist can be overwhelming. I’m here to make this process easy and help you find relief. I believe in a person’s capacity for change and the ability of each of us to reach our life goals. I’ll work with you to identify and remove the obstacles you have been facing. With humor and creativity, we will create the supportive environment you need to achieve your goals. I am passionate about connecting with people, and helping them to gain new ways of coping with life’s stressors.Ready to feel like yourself again?
(708) 223-2432 View (708) 223-2432
Photo of Phet Coggin, LCPC, Counselor
Phet Coggin
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
I am certified as a Transgender Care Specialist.
I specialize in providing individual counseling for adults, adolescents and their families. My approach is client-centered and individualized to meet my client's current needs. My goal is to assist clients to reach their potential well being through education, teaching, and modeling skills, while assisting to identify barriers that prevent change. My therapy approach is guided by dialectical-behavioral and cognitive behavioral therapy. I specialize in trauma, grief, and gender identity support.
I am certified as a Transgender Care Specialist.
I specialize in providing individual counseling for adults, adolescents and their families. My approach is client-centered and individualized to meet my client's current needs. My goal is to assist clients to reach their potential well being through education, teaching, and modeling skills, while assisting to identify barriers that prevent change. My therapy approach is guided by dialectical-behavioral and cognitive behavioral therapy. I specialize in trauma, grief, and gender identity support.
(224) 699-0196 View (224) 699-0196
Photo of Dana L. Hall, MA, LCPC, DBT, TF-CBT, Counselor
Dana L. Hall
Counselor, MA, LCPC, DBT, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60467  (Online Only)
Professional Membership: American Psychological Association, World Professional Association for Transgender Health, & International Society of Trauma-Informed Therapists.
Do you often feel burdened by anxiety or depression? If managing these overwhelming emotions feels challenging, know that you are not alone. You don't have to struggle on your own to "figure things out." Together, we can develop strategies to address the causes of these challenges and build coping mechanisms that restore your quality of life. You'll have a partner in this process. *Accepting telehealth clients.
Professional Membership: American Psychological Association, World Professional Association for Transgender Health, & International Society of Trauma-Informed Therapists.
Do you often feel burdened by anxiety or depression? If managing these overwhelming emotions feels challenging, know that you are not alone. You don't have to struggle on your own to "figure things out." Together, we can develop strategies to address the causes of these challenges and build coping mechanisms that restore your quality of life. You'll have a partner in this process. *Accepting telehealth clients.
(708) 315-2066 View (708) 315-2066
Photo of Lisa Schwab, LCPC, NCC, CTC, DCC, EAS-C, Counselor
Lisa Schwab
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CTC, DCC, EAS-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peoria Heights, IL 61616
It has been my honor to serve Central Illinois for over 15 years with a broad experience in working with patients through mental health concerns, relationship issues, infidelity and marriage issues, brokenness and low self-worth, behavioral issues, addiction recovery, and gay, lesbian and transgender issues, and much more.
Life can be hard, painful, confusing, scary, and challenging. Events happen that leave us reeling with brokenness, grief, disbelief, guilt, fear, insecurity, and shame. We don't know what to do or which way to turn or how we got here in the first place. We may hold onto false beliefs about our self-worth, negative thoughts that tear us apart, relationships that are toxic, and behaviors that are destructive. All in an attempt to somehow alleviate how we are feeling. I am here to partner with you in working towards wholeness and healing and to empower you to move forward, happily and confidently.
It has been my honor to serve Central Illinois for over 15 years with a broad experience in working with patients through mental health concerns, relationship issues, infidelity and marriage issues, brokenness and low self-worth, behavioral issues, addiction recovery, and gay, lesbian and transgender issues, and much more.
Life can be hard, painful, confusing, scary, and challenging. Events happen that leave us reeling with brokenness, grief, disbelief, guilt, fear, insecurity, and shame. We don't know what to do or which way to turn or how we got here in the first place. We may hold onto false beliefs about our self-worth, negative thoughts that tear us apart, relationships that are toxic, and behaviors that are destructive. All in an attempt to somehow alleviate how we are feeling. I am here to partner with you in working towards wholeness and healing and to empower you to move forward, happily and confidently.
(309) 228-4676 View (309) 228-4676
Photo of Cloie Mcphail, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cloie Mcphail
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montgomery, IL 60538  (Online Only)
I have a specialty in working with members of the LGBTQIA community. I consider and provide care that is specific to the needs of these individuals. I am able to provide individual, family, couples, and group therapy to these clients. I assist in linking clients to medical professionals, if necessary, for living an authentic life and affirming their gender identity. I have knowledge specific to issues of this population including sexual orientation and gender exploration, gender transition, gender dysphoria, relationship and sexual issues, and family/social issues.
I have a specialty in working with members of the LGBTQIA community. I consider and provide care that is specific to the needs of these individuals. I am able to provide individual, family, couples, and group therapy to these clients. I assist in linking clients to medical professionals, if necessary, for living an authentic life and affirming their gender identity. I have knowledge specific to issues of this population including sexual orientation and gender exploration, gender transition, gender dysphoria, relationship and sexual issues, and family/social issues.
(331) 215-8415 View (331) 215-8415
Photo of Mary Rizzo, PsyD, Psychologist
Mary Rizzo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
My experience includes work in behavioral health hospitals, university counseling centers, and an outpatient family counseling setting. I work with adolescents, adults, and families, specializing in grief and loss, trauma, and relationship concerns. I also works with caregivers for chronic diseases, the transgender population, and those struggling with identity exploration. In addition to therapy, Dr. Rizzo provides psychological testing across the lifespan to assess intellectual functioning, academic concerns, ADHD-related symptoms, learning and behavioral styles, and diagnostic clarification regarding clinical diagnosis.
My experience includes work in behavioral health hospitals, university counseling centers, and an outpatient family counseling setting. I work with adolescents, adults, and families, specializing in grief and loss, trauma, and relationship concerns. I also works with caregivers for chronic diseases, the transgender population, and those struggling with identity exploration. In addition to therapy, Dr. Rizzo provides psychological testing across the lifespan to assess intellectual functioning, academic concerns, ADHD-related symptoms, learning and behavioral styles, and diagnostic clarification regarding clinical diagnosis.
(708) 294-7813 x405 View (708) 294-7813 x405
Photo of Anna L Graham, LCPC, NCC, EMDR
Anna L Graham
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor , LCPC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
I hold a 3-6 Early Childhood Montessori Certification, and have specialized training for working with LGBTQIA individuals with focus on Transgender Health.
All of us develop patterns of behavior based on survival instincts from the moment we are born. Ideally, as we mature our survival skills would mature as well and that's often not the case. A behavior that was successful in the past can hurt us in the present and keep us repeating the same self limiting patterns over and over. Everything we do has elements of relationship. Professional, romantic, platonic, familial, athletic, and academic relationships make up our societal existence. By learning how to be in relationship with ourselves we learn how to be in relationship with others.
I hold a 3-6 Early Childhood Montessori Certification, and have specialized training for working with LGBTQIA individuals with focus on Transgender Health.
All of us develop patterns of behavior based on survival instincts from the moment we are born. Ideally, as we mature our survival skills would mature as well and that's often not the case. A behavior that was successful in the past can hurt us in the present and keep us repeating the same self limiting patterns over and over. Everything we do has elements of relationship. Professional, romantic, platonic, familial, athletic, and academic relationships make up our societal existence. By learning how to be in relationship with ourselves we learn how to be in relationship with others.
(331) 321-7044 View (331) 321-7044
Photo of Dr. Lisa A. Breisch - Harmony Center for Holistic Psychotherapy, MA, LCPC, PsyD, Counselor
Harmony Center for Holistic Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LCPC, PsyD
Verified Verified
Loves Park, IL 61111
Lisa Breisch specializes in the following: Depression/Mood/Anxiety Disorders, Child/Adolescent Behavioral Problems, ADHD, Brief Psychological Testing, Couples & Family Therapy, Eating Disorders & Weight Problems, Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/ Transgender Issues, Trauma & Abuse, Addictions, Divorce, Grief & Loss, Chronic Pain, Stress Management, Hypnotherapy, Spirituality Concerns, and Holistic Healthcare.
Welcome! We provide traditional and holistic healing for mind, body & spirit health. We work with individuals, couples, families & groups age 5 and up. The facility is located on a main street with free parking. This is a private practice with a private waiting room in a very comfortable & soothing setting. Look for the yellow house with raspberry trim. Hours are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and from 2:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. When you call, we will do a brief intake, verify your insurance benefits & schedule your first appointment. We do not have a waiting list and can schedule your first appointment within the same week.
Lisa Breisch specializes in the following: Depression/Mood/Anxiety Disorders, Child/Adolescent Behavioral Problems, ADHD, Brief Psychological Testing, Couples & Family Therapy, Eating Disorders & Weight Problems, Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/ Transgender Issues, Trauma & Abuse, Addictions, Divorce, Grief & Loss, Chronic Pain, Stress Management, Hypnotherapy, Spirituality Concerns, and Holistic Healthcare.
Welcome! We provide traditional and holistic healing for mind, body & spirit health. We work with individuals, couples, families & groups age 5 and up. The facility is located on a main street with free parking. This is a private practice with a private waiting room in a very comfortable & soothing setting. Look for the yellow house with raspberry trim. Hours are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and from 2:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. When you call, we will do a brief intake, verify your insurance benefits & schedule your first appointment. We do not have a waiting list and can schedule your first appointment within the same week.
(815) 683-6561 View (815) 683-6561
Photo of Christopher Holly, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Holly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61602
Waitlist for new clients
I work with people suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, marital and couples counseling, drug and alcohol abuse, pain disorder, loss and grief, transgender issues, LGBQT issues, as well as those in the fetish/BDSM community.
I am dedicated to working with you to help you find your ability to deal with life and it's challenges by calling on your natural resources and capabilities and seeking a solution that is yours. I believe in the right to self-determination and that all people should have the capability to obtain what they want for their life through the power of therapy. I have worked with veterans of foreign wars, mature adults, teenagers and all kinds of people in between. I find the ability to explore life, understand ourselves and our situation better creates lasting happiness.
I work with people suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, marital and couples counseling, drug and alcohol abuse, pain disorder, loss and grief, transgender issues, LGBQT issues, as well as those in the fetish/BDSM community.
I am dedicated to working with you to help you find your ability to deal with life and it's challenges by calling on your natural resources and capabilities and seeking a solution that is yours. I believe in the right to self-determination and that all people should have the capability to obtain what they want for their life through the power of therapy. I have worked with veterans of foreign wars, mature adults, teenagers and all kinds of people in between. I find the ability to explore life, understand ourselves and our situation better creates lasting happiness.
Photo of Jay Metztli Alvarez, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jay Metztli Alvarez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
As an openly queer Latinx transgender therapist, I want to fill the gap of needed services in these suburbs.
The clients I see are from the ages of 8 years through young adulthood. I am passionate about working with BIPOC individuals and LGBTQ+ individuals. I have worked with a diverse number of issues like mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD and conduct issues, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and dual diagnosis.
As an openly queer Latinx transgender therapist, I want to fill the gap of needed services in these suburbs.
The clients I see are from the ages of 8 years through young adulthood. I am passionate about working with BIPOC individuals and LGBTQ+ individuals. I have worked with a diverse number of issues like mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD and conduct issues, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and dual diagnosis.
(331) 316-8967 View (331) 316-8967
Photo of Bonnie Estensen - Guided Path Psychological Services, MS, LCPC, NCC
Guided Path Psychological Services
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60074
One specialty area of my practice is the provision of services to the LGBTQ population, especially transgender individuals.
It takes courage to reach out for help. As a caring, knowledgeable therapist, I am committed to assisting people to take the additional steps necessary to create change in their lives. Let's work together to identify the changes you wish to make and develop a plan to move toward those goals. Whether it is depression, anxiety, grief and loss or whatever issues you face, I can help you as I have helped others to achieve their goals as they improve the quality of their lives.
One specialty area of my practice is the provision of services to the LGBTQ population, especially transgender individuals.
It takes courage to reach out for help. As a caring, knowledgeable therapist, I am committed to assisting people to take the additional steps necessary to create change in their lives. Let's work together to identify the changes you wish to make and develop a plan to move toward those goals. Whether it is depression, anxiety, grief and loss or whatever issues you face, I can help you as I have helped others to achieve their goals as they improve the quality of their lives.
(847) 558-6573 View (847) 558-6573
Photo of Denise Lori Moser, MS, LAPC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Denise Lori Moser
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62701  (Online Only)
Wherever you are on your journey, I look forward to welcoming you and providing a safe nurturing space to explore, grow, and practice new ways of being. My practice focuses on working with both cisgender and transgender women, and with seniors as they navigate life’s transitions. I also provide support to individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease and their families. In addition, I support clients through pet bereavement and have a history of facilitating women’s groups that foster a sense of community and empowerment.
Wherever you are on your journey, I look forward to welcoming you and providing a safe nurturing space to explore, grow, and practice new ways of being. My practice focuses on working with both cisgender and transgender women, and with seniors as they navigate life’s transitions. I also provide support to individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease and their families. In addition, I support clients through pet bereavement and have a history of facilitating women’s groups that foster a sense of community and empowerment.
(610) 831-3793 View (610) 831-3793
Photo of Nelson Jenig, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nelson Jenig
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elburn, IL 60119
I have worked closely with clients who had anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, self-harm, anger, grief/loss, ADHD, gender dysphoria, relationship issues, and trauma.
I am here to provide a safe and empathetic space for you to feel comfortable "opening up," and to support you as you make things in your life better. I enjoy listening and learning about each person's unique realities and perspectives. I am honored to be allowed to share in your thoughts, ideas, and issues. I hope to be a companion who can help you through your difficult times and celebrate in your best moments. Together, we can work through behaviors that may no longer be serving you in your present day life that may have had a purpose in the past.
I have worked closely with clients who had anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, self-harm, anger, grief/loss, ADHD, gender dysphoria, relationship issues, and trauma.
I am here to provide a safe and empathetic space for you to feel comfortable "opening up," and to support you as you make things in your life better. I enjoy listening and learning about each person's unique realities and perspectives. I am honored to be allowed to share in your thoughts, ideas, and issues. I hope to be a companion who can help you through your difficult times and celebrate in your best moments. Together, we can work through behaviors that may no longer be serving you in your present day life that may have had a purpose in the past.
(331) 866-5695 View (331) 866-5695
Photo of Melanie Sivley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Sivley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
Life can be hard. Being a college student can be hard. Life transitions (like starting college) often make it clear that some things just aren’t working. Maybe you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, alone, or depressed. Emotions, worries, or confusion become overwhelming and lead to unhelpful patterns. You've tried everything, but nothing has worked. You wonder if it will ever get better. All you want is peace, stability, and confidence in the direction your life is going. To feel good about yourself and your choices. To feel comfortable in your own skin and to believe in your ability to succeed.
Life can be hard. Being a college student can be hard. Life transitions (like starting college) often make it clear that some things just aren’t working. Maybe you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, alone, or depressed. Emotions, worries, or confusion become overwhelming and lead to unhelpful patterns. You've tried everything, but nothing has worked. You wonder if it will ever get better. All you want is peace, stability, and confidence in the direction your life is going. To feel good about yourself and your choices. To feel comfortable in your own skin and to believe in your ability to succeed.
(217) 615-1164 View (217) 615-1164
Photo of Jeremy Todd Bidwell - The LodeStone Center for Behavioral Health, Psychologist
The LodeStone Center for Behavioral Health
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Woodstock, IL 60098
The LodeStone Center for Behavioral Health is a private outpatient group practice offering services via telehealth along with in-person offices in Woodstock and Hinsdale Illinois. We work with clients of all ages and strive to provide a welcoming, inclusive and empathetic environment for those we serve.
The LodeStone Center for Behavioral Health is a private outpatient group practice offering services via telehealth along with in-person offices in Woodstock and Hinsdale Illinois. We work with clients of all ages and strive to provide a welcoming, inclusive and empathetic environment for those we serve.
(815) 701-9420 View (815) 701-9420
Photo of Megan Orr, LCSW, CCTP, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Orr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are looking for a safe space to explore your gender or sexuality, manage anxiety or heal trauma, continue reading. Whether these are issues that are impacting you personally or as a couple, you will have a non-judgmental space to work on them as we partner to find solutions for you. If you experiencing grief or loss, we can process and find tools to help you get through it. If you are struggling with your self-image, I will help you look for your truth. I also provide LCSW supervision and enjoy providing therapy to other therapists.
Whether you are looking for a safe space to explore your gender or sexuality, manage anxiety or heal trauma, continue reading. Whether these are issues that are impacting you personally or as a couple, you will have a non-judgmental space to work on them as we partner to find solutions for you. If you experiencing grief or loss, we can process and find tools to help you get through it. If you are struggling with your self-image, I will help you look for your truth. I also provide LCSW supervision and enjoy providing therapy to other therapists.
(331) 276-6517 View (331) 276-6517
Photo of Shira Behal, MA, LPC, Counselor
Shira Behal
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60074  (Online Only)
Shira Behal is a therapist with experience, who knows how to weave different approaches together to find the right one for you. Shira is someone who listens, and also educates and guides. Someone to help you reach your goals and grow into a life that matches your values. Someone ready to do the deep work, and stay with you through the long work. Shira is a therapist who knows that healing takes a balance between the intellect, the emotional mind, and the body.
Shira Behal is a therapist with experience, who knows how to weave different approaches together to find the right one for you. Shira is someone who listens, and also educates and guides. Someone to help you reach your goals and grow into a life that matches your values. Someone ready to do the deep work, and stay with you through the long work. Shira is a therapist who knows that healing takes a balance between the intellect, the emotional mind, and the body.
(224) 263-0959 View (224) 263-0959
Photo of Dianne Samp, MA, LCPC, ATR , SEP, RYT, Counselor
Dianne Samp
Counselor, MA, LCPC, ATR , SEP, RYT
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Registered Art Therapist, Certified EMDR Therapist, Embodied Yoga Teacher, and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and performance anxiety. I also work with women in transition facing the quandary of what to do next in their lives. I look forward to helping you travel through what is overwhelming to a place in which you are able to experience the spaciousness, grace and joy of life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Registered Art Therapist, Certified EMDR Therapist, Embodied Yoga Teacher, and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and performance anxiety. I also work with women in transition facing the quandary of what to do next in their lives. I look forward to helping you travel through what is overwhelming to a place in which you are able to experience the spaciousness, grace and joy of life.
(630) 528-1563 x3 View (630) 528-1563 x3
Photo of Taranjit (Tara) K Bhatia - Amity Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Amity Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504
Are you chronically worried and/or unhappy -- and can't "snap out of it?" Maybe you're stuck. Perhaps you feel lonely and misunderstood. I'd like to give you personal attention, understand you, and provide you warm, genuine, and nonjudgmental support and guidance. Together, we can identify and understand the causes of your pain, reinstill hope, and find ways for you to cope and regain pleasure in the here-and-now. My research on loss and mother-daughter relationships strengthens my work with individuals; couples; gender issues; parenting; anxiety and depression; and adjustment to loss and overall life changes.
Are you chronically worried and/or unhappy -- and can't "snap out of it?" Maybe you're stuck. Perhaps you feel lonely and misunderstood. I'd like to give you personal attention, understand you, and provide you warm, genuine, and nonjudgmental support and guidance. Together, we can identify and understand the causes of your pain, reinstill hope, and find ways for you to cope and regain pleasure in the here-and-now. My research on loss and mother-daughter relationships strengthens my work with individuals; couples; gender issues; parenting; anxiety and depression; and adjustment to loss and overall life changes.
(630) 448-8000 View (630) 448-8000

See more therapy options for Henry

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.