LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Carmel, IN

Photo of Brian Sprayue, LMHC, Counselor
Brian Sprayue
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
For the last five years Brian has been providing therapeutic treatment to teen girls and their families, in a long term residential setting, helping guide restoration in relationships, family structure and overall mental health functioning. Brian is a generalist but does specialize in working with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, attachment issues, trauma related concerns, personality disorders, and other lifestyle issues such as LGBTQ+, gender, marriage and ENM lifestyles. Brian is accepting of and works closely with alternative lifestyle choices such as kink, poly and multi-partner dynamics.
For the last five years Brian has been providing therapeutic treatment to teen girls and their families, in a long term residential setting, helping guide restoration in relationships, family structure and overall mental health functioning. Brian is a generalist but does specialize in working with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, attachment issues, trauma related concerns, personality disorders, and other lifestyle issues such as LGBTQ+, gender, marriage and ENM lifestyles. Brian is accepting of and works closely with alternative lifestyle choices such as kink, poly and multi-partner dynamics.
(463) 218-7831 View (463) 218-7831
Photo of Emily Grimwood, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Grimwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Emily is passionate about supporting children, adolescents, and young adults, working with individuals to process trauma and cope with high emotional sensitivity, and assisting LGBTQ+ clients in their journeys.
Emily Grimwood is board-certified by the Behavioral Health and Human Sciences Licensing Board as a licensed clinical social worker. Emily received her bachelor's in psychology from Purdue University in 2016 and master's in social work from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis in 2018. Emily has experience providing therapy services in an outpatient setting to individuals of all ages and from different backgrounds. She is a certified dialectical behavioral therapist and uses techniques of cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing as well as Theraplay-based principles.
Emily is passionate about supporting children, adolescents, and young adults, working with individuals to process trauma and cope with high emotional sensitivity, and assisting LGBTQ+ clients in their journeys.
Emily Grimwood is board-certified by the Behavioral Health and Human Sciences Licensing Board as a licensed clinical social worker. Emily received her bachelor's in psychology from Purdue University in 2016 and master's in social work from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis in 2018. Emily has experience providing therapy services in an outpatient setting to individuals of all ages and from different backgrounds. She is a certified dialectical behavioral therapist and uses techniques of cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing as well as Theraplay-based principles.
(463) 223-9283 View (463) 223-9283
Photo of Heather Sosbe, LMHC, Counselor
Heather Sosbe
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
Waitlist for new clients
My passion is for listening to, providing guidance with, and helping people express their stories as they desire. Whether you are seeking to create a balance in life, be heard, or build your identity I am here for you. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, and the stress of life, I offer a non-judgmental and person-centered approach to therapy. I will meet you where you are now. My toolbox includes cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy skills. I lean on positive psychology, expressive arts, and using your strengths. I am LGBTQ+ affirming.
My passion is for listening to, providing guidance with, and helping people express their stories as they desire. Whether you are seeking to create a balance in life, be heard, or build your identity I am here for you. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, and the stress of life, I offer a non-judgmental and person-centered approach to therapy. I will meet you where you are now. My toolbox includes cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy skills. I lean on positive psychology, expressive arts, and using your strengths. I am LGBTQ+ affirming.
(317) 401-8731 View (317) 401-8731
Photo of Cat Salladin, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cat Salladin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
I help adolescent and young adults, particularly those within in the LGBTQ+ community, who are struggling with anxiety, depression, loneliness/rejection, identity and trauma related symptoms. Throughout our time together, you will feel heard, supported and connected so that you can create a meaningful life.
I help adolescent and young adults, particularly those within in the LGBTQ+ community, who are struggling with anxiety, depression, loneliness/rejection, identity and trauma related symptoms. Throughout our time together, you will feel heard, supported and connected so that you can create a meaningful life.
(463) 270-4747 View (463) 270-4747
Photo of Dr. Lorna Martinez-Guzman, PsyD, HSPP, Psychologist
Dr. Lorna Martinez-Guzman
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
I primarily work with adolescents, adults, and older adults, providing individual and couples therapy. My goal is to provide a safe environment where we can explore your lived experience within the context of identity, culture, and social context. I have experience helping people work through concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, lifestyle changes, identity exploration, health problems, or just feeling “stuck”. I am also committed to maintaining an environment affirming of intersecting cultural identities, with an emphasis on social justice, anti-racism, anti-colonialism, and promotion of LGBTQIA+ and sex positive values.
I primarily work with adolescents, adults, and older adults, providing individual and couples therapy. My goal is to provide a safe environment where we can explore your lived experience within the context of identity, culture, and social context. I have experience helping people work through concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, lifestyle changes, identity exploration, health problems, or just feeling “stuck”. I am also committed to maintaining an environment affirming of intersecting cultural identities, with an emphasis on social justice, anti-racism, anti-colonialism, and promotion of LGBTQIA+ and sex positive values.
(317) 751-7375 View (317) 751-7375
Photo of Hannah Elizabeth O'Rear, LMHCA, Counselor
Hannah Elizabeth O'Rear
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46082
Hannah is a postmodern therapist with a passion for integrating creative arts techniques into her practice. She earned her master’s degree in art therapy from IUPUI and is on track to become a licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a Registered Art Therapist (ATR-BC). Hannah values an equal relationship dynamic between therapist and client, aiming to listen curiously and foster deeper self-insight, problem-solving, healing, and acceptance. She is dedicated to working with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those facing anxiety, trauma, depression, substance use, and other challenges. Her
Hannah is a postmodern therapist with a passion for integrating creative arts techniques into her practice. She earned her master’s degree in art therapy from IUPUI and is on track to become a licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a Registered Art Therapist (ATR-BC). Hannah values an equal relationship dynamic between therapist and client, aiming to listen curiously and foster deeper self-insight, problem-solving, healing, and acceptance. She is dedicated to working with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those facing anxiety, trauma, depression, substance use, and other challenges. Her
(463) 292-2898 View (463) 292-2898
Photo of Heather Street, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Street
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
I provide therapy for LGBTQ+ adults and individuals processing trauma. I have experience working with a wide range of clients, including transgender and nonbinary individuals, couples, older teens and college-age adults, and survivors of domestic abuse. I also facilitate the Healing Religious Trauma Group.
I provide therapy for LGBTQ+ adults and individuals processing trauma. I have experience working with a wide range of clients, including transgender and nonbinary individuals, couples, older teens and college-age adults, and survivors of domestic abuse. I also facilitate the Healing Religious Trauma Group.
(463) 500-1831 View (463) 500-1831
Photo of Abby Bastnagel, PhD, HSPP, Psychologist
Abby Bastnagel
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
I have a passion for working with clients with concerns unique to the LGBTQ+ community.
I believe in a safe and open relationship between client and therapist is the foundation of change, and I value getting to know each of my clients to best understand your experiences. I believe in identifying and using your strengths and values to help you progress toward your therapy goals. Social justice is an important value of mine, and I work with clients to identify systemic factors that impact you, your relationships, and your mental health, to view the bigger picture of client problems and avoid over-pathologizing clients, especially those from marginalized communities.
I have a passion for working with clients with concerns unique to the LGBTQ+ community.
I believe in a safe and open relationship between client and therapist is the foundation of change, and I value getting to know each of my clients to best understand your experiences. I believe in identifying and using your strengths and values to help you progress toward your therapy goals. Social justice is an important value of mine, and I work with clients to identify systemic factors that impact you, your relationships, and your mental health, to view the bigger picture of client problems and avoid over-pathologizing clients, especially those from marginalized communities.
(317) 458-5115 View (317) 458-5115
Photo of Christin Collins, MS, LMHCA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christin Collins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032  (Online Only)
Are you exhausted, struggling, longing for more, constantly committing to "get your life together?" Do you feel like you're constantly dropping loose ends and wonder how everyone else does it? Or are you overwhelmed, overstimulated, and overextended, jittery during the day and not sleeping at night? Has a moment in time caught you in its web and you are ready to become untangled? Are you "different" (LGBTQIA+, ethically non-monogamous, Pagan or pagan-friendly, etc.) and looking for a therapist who "gets it"? Whatever the journey has brought you, your courageous heart has led you here.
Are you exhausted, struggling, longing for more, constantly committing to "get your life together?" Do you feel like you're constantly dropping loose ends and wonder how everyone else does it? Or are you overwhelmed, overstimulated, and overextended, jittery during the day and not sleeping at night? Has a moment in time caught you in its web and you are ready to become untangled? Are you "different" (LGBTQIA+, ethically non-monogamous, Pagan or pagan-friendly, etc.) and looking for a therapist who "gets it"? Whatever the journey has brought you, your courageous heart has led you here.
(317) 516-0280 View (317) 516-0280
Photo of Pei-Yi Lin, PhD, HSPP, Psychologist
Pei-Yi Lin
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032  (Online Only)
Specializing in supporting minorities, immigrants, LGBTQIA+, and those seeking growth, my approach empowers clients to navigate challenges with confidence and resilience.
Are you overwhelmed by struggling with anxiety & depression or navigating complex trauma? As a licensed bilingual psychologist in English & Mandarin with 30 years of experience, I specialize in supporting you in overcoming obstacles, finding clarity, & reclaiming a sense of empowerment in your lives. My goal is to create a safe & nonjudgmental space where you can explore your inner world & work towards achieving your personal growth & healing goals. Whether you're struggling with self-esteem, relationship issues, grief, & PTSD, my approach is to meet your specific needs and guide you toward a future filled with hopes and resilience.
Specializing in supporting minorities, immigrants, LGBTQIA+, and those seeking growth, my approach empowers clients to navigate challenges with confidence and resilience.
Are you overwhelmed by struggling with anxiety & depression or navigating complex trauma? As a licensed bilingual psychologist in English & Mandarin with 30 years of experience, I specialize in supporting you in overcoming obstacles, finding clarity, & reclaiming a sense of empowerment in your lives. My goal is to create a safe & nonjudgmental space where you can explore your inner world & work towards achieving your personal growth & healing goals. Whether you're struggling with self-esteem, relationship issues, grief, & PTSD, my approach is to meet your specific needs and guide you toward a future filled with hopes and resilience.
(317) 666-4808 View (317) 666-4808
Photo of Kadee Kirkpatrick, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kadee Kirkpatrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
I welcome and affirm members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello! I specialize in helping individuals recover from eating disorders, chronic dieting, and related struggles. I have a passion for helping those who are trying to find peace in their relationship with food and build a kinder relationship with their body. I would love to help you grow in anxiety management, assertive communication, and self-compassion. I offer warmth, empathy, insight, and practical strategies to each of my clients. I have more than 15 years of experience in the field of eating disorder treatment, including inpatient, residential, and outpatient levels of care.
I welcome and affirm members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello! I specialize in helping individuals recover from eating disorders, chronic dieting, and related struggles. I have a passion for helping those who are trying to find peace in their relationship with food and build a kinder relationship with their body. I would love to help you grow in anxiety management, assertive communication, and self-compassion. I offer warmth, empathy, insight, and practical strategies to each of my clients. I have more than 15 years of experience in the field of eating disorder treatment, including inpatient, residential, and outpatient levels of care.
(463) 220-2601 View (463) 220-2601
Photo of Megan Neitling, MS, LMHC, CST, Counselor
Megan Neitling
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CST
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032  (Online Only)
Wishing your relationship would improve? Feeling disconnected from your spouse/partner(s)? Does your relationship feel unsatisfying sexually or emotionally? Having frequent conflicts or fights? Do you wish your partner could meet your physical or emotional needs and desires? Want help overcoming jealousy, insecurity, or sexual shame/guilt? Struggling to overcome an affair? Looking for help with non-monogamy, kinks/fetishes, or LGBTQ+ issues? Navigating solutions to these issues can feel overwhelming and difficult. Rest assured that you can have a stronger, more connected, sexually fulfilling life and relationship with Sex Therapy.
Wishing your relationship would improve? Feeling disconnected from your spouse/partner(s)? Does your relationship feel unsatisfying sexually or emotionally? Having frequent conflicts or fights? Do you wish your partner could meet your physical or emotional needs and desires? Want help overcoming jealousy, insecurity, or sexual shame/guilt? Struggling to overcome an affair? Looking for help with non-monogamy, kinks/fetishes, or LGBTQ+ issues? Navigating solutions to these issues can feel overwhelming and difficult. Rest assured that you can have a stronger, more connected, sexually fulfilling life and relationship with Sex Therapy.
(317) 344-8619 View (317) 344-8619
Photo of Amber Kinney, LMHC, Counselor
Amber Kinney
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
I'm EMDR trained, and my practice is LGBTQ+ affirming.
Ready for a change, or just to feel better? Let's figure it out! I specialize in helping anxious adults/teens, therapists, entrepreneurs/executives, & adults with ADHD to improve their lives. I teach coping skills to calm the mind & manage emotions. We'll work to reframe anxious thoughts, manage stress, & improve self-esteem. I also enjoy helping folks strengthen boundaries & prevent burnout. I’ll support you with unlearning people-pleasing behaviors, assertive communication, & healing from difficult relationships. We can also work on things like organization, time management, habits/routines, & procrastination.
I'm EMDR trained, and my practice is LGBTQ+ affirming.
Ready for a change, or just to feel better? Let's figure it out! I specialize in helping anxious adults/teens, therapists, entrepreneurs/executives, & adults with ADHD to improve their lives. I teach coping skills to calm the mind & manage emotions. We'll work to reframe anxious thoughts, manage stress, & improve self-esteem. I also enjoy helping folks strengthen boundaries & prevent burnout. I’ll support you with unlearning people-pleasing behaviors, assertive communication, & healing from difficult relationships. We can also work on things like organization, time management, habits/routines, & procrastination.
(812) 227-5300 View (812) 227-5300
Photo of Kay E Whitehead, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kay E Whitehead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
While I specialize in complicated and traumatic grief and couples work I am also welcoming to my LGBTQ+ community.
If you are looking for a compassionate therapist, you have come to the right place. Being with the dying with 25 years of hospice and bereavement experience and listening to grieving loved ones provides a gentle, caring backdrop for my work. If you are dealing with loss of any kind, have 2 years or more in your journey with 12-Step recovery, or in relationship struggles, I will walk with you in this journey. My work is client focused and strengths based . If you are in the LGBTQ+ community you will find a safe haven here. Come and find peace for heart and soul. I do not work with people in early recovery.
While I specialize in complicated and traumatic grief and couples work I am also welcoming to my LGBTQ+ community.
If you are looking for a compassionate therapist, you have come to the right place. Being with the dying with 25 years of hospice and bereavement experience and listening to grieving loved ones provides a gentle, caring backdrop for my work. If you are dealing with loss of any kind, have 2 years or more in your journey with 12-Step recovery, or in relationship struggles, I will walk with you in this journey. My work is client focused and strengths based . If you are in the LGBTQ+ community you will find a safe haven here. Come and find peace for heart and soul. I do not work with people in early recovery.
(317) 300-5196 View (317) 300-5196
Photo of Don Childers, LMHC, LCSW, CCMHC, RTC, MA, Counselor
Don Childers
Counselor, LMHC, LCSW, CCMHC, RTC, MA
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032  (Online Only)
I work with straight and gay alike.
I have 41 years experience counseling people with relationship issues; couples with family and marital problems; parents needing help with teens; straight and gay/lesbian couples wanting a healthier relationship. Relationship problems trigger issues like low self esteem,depression, and anxiety. I believe that most unhappiness stems from one or more problem relationships. My ideal client is tired of others trying to control or change them through behaviors like criticism, nagging, threatening, blaming, and complaining. And, my ideal client is one who wants to stop using these same behaviors that are harmful to their relationships.
I work with straight and gay alike.
I have 41 years experience counseling people with relationship issues; couples with family and marital problems; parents needing help with teens; straight and gay/lesbian couples wanting a healthier relationship. Relationship problems trigger issues like low self esteem,depression, and anxiety. I believe that most unhappiness stems from one or more problem relationships. My ideal client is tired of others trying to control or change them through behaviors like criticism, nagging, threatening, blaming, and complaining. And, my ideal client is one who wants to stop using these same behaviors that are harmful to their relationships.
(317) 207-2949 View (317) 207-2949
Photo of Sarah Nevin, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Sarah Nevin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
Areas of experience include: marriage or partnership / family / friendship / co-worker issues; divorce, dating and adult singlehood challenges; nourishing the creative soul; relationships with food, exercise, energy, and the body; lesbian, gay and transgender issues.
I work with people who want to move from emotional pain, conflict or confusion toward more happiness, peace and passion in their life, work, and relationships. Together, we'll learn to observe repeating life patterns and examine how the past might be influencing your present and future. Our work together can also help you discover and strengthen the creative, emotional, and intuitive resources that can lead you toward more passionate, fulfilling life.
Areas of experience include: marriage or partnership / family / friendship / co-worker issues; divorce, dating and adult singlehood challenges; nourishing the creative soul; relationships with food, exercise, energy, and the body; lesbian, gay and transgender issues.
I work with people who want to move from emotional pain, conflict or confusion toward more happiness, peace and passion in their life, work, and relationships. Together, we'll learn to observe repeating life patterns and examine how the past might be influencing your present and future. Our work together can also help you discover and strengthen the creative, emotional, and intuitive resources that can lead you toward more passionate, fulfilling life.
(317) 662-2862 View (317) 662-2862
Photo of Cat Hoggard Wagley, LMHC, M Ed, Counselor
Cat Hoggard Wagley
Counselor, LMHC, M Ed
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
Adults, Teens, & Couples: Are you anticipating or struggling with a major life change? Maybe you just want to talk things through before setting goals. Maybe you seek a specialist in neurodivergence & relationships. I enjoy helping my clients improve their sense of peace, autonomy, and relationship satisfaction. I work hard to be educated on trauma informed and multiculturally responsive practices in order to create the safe and productive environment for you to flourish. I love working with anxious and neurodivergent clients, and my office is LGBTQ+ affirming. Please schedule your free 15 minute consultation to see if we're a fit!
Adults, Teens, & Couples: Are you anticipating or struggling with a major life change? Maybe you just want to talk things through before setting goals. Maybe you seek a specialist in neurodivergence & relationships. I enjoy helping my clients improve their sense of peace, autonomy, and relationship satisfaction. I work hard to be educated on trauma informed and multiculturally responsive practices in order to create the safe and productive environment for you to flourish. I love working with anxious and neurodivergent clients, and my office is LGBTQ+ affirming. Please schedule your free 15 minute consultation to see if we're a fit!
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Photo of Lauren Milton, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Milton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
I strive to be more anti-racist, intersectional, LGBTQIA+ affirming, neurodivergent affirming, disability justice oriented, and body positive/neutral.
I believe that each individual is the expert on their own life and that every person’s lived experience is valuable. I want to provide a safe and inclusive space for people to define and work toward what they determine is a full, beautiful life for themselves. I also believe that there are systemic issues in our society that contribute to mental health and other struggles. Therapy is not a fix for these issues but can help build coping skills while we do work in the outside world to dismantle systems of oppression and inequality.
I strive to be more anti-racist, intersectional, LGBTQIA+ affirming, neurodivergent affirming, disability justice oriented, and body positive/neutral.
I believe that each individual is the expert on their own life and that every person’s lived experience is valuable. I want to provide a safe and inclusive space for people to define and work toward what they determine is a full, beautiful life for themselves. I also believe that there are systemic issues in our society that contribute to mental health and other struggles. Therapy is not a fix for these issues but can help build coping skills while we do work in the outside world to dismantle systems of oppression and inequality.
(317) 666-6984 View (317) 666-6984
Photo of Mary Slowiak, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Slowiak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032  (Online Only)
I am LGBTQIA+ affirming.
When we have been through difficult things, oftentimes we feel misunderstood, unheard, unsafe and hopeless. I do not believe that trauma makes us stronger; rather, I believe that there is something beautiful within us that brings us through the trauma. Trauma processing allows us to let go of negative beliefs about ourselves and the world; beliefs such as “I am not safe,” or “I am unlovable.” These beliefs can make us feel stuck; like having a rich and full life is not possible. As your therapist, I will work to empower you to accept all parts of self, allowing for peace from within that will trickle into all facets of life.
I am LGBTQIA+ affirming.
When we have been through difficult things, oftentimes we feel misunderstood, unheard, unsafe and hopeless. I do not believe that trauma makes us stronger; rather, I believe that there is something beautiful within us that brings us through the trauma. Trauma processing allows us to let go of negative beliefs about ourselves and the world; beliefs such as “I am not safe,” or “I am unlovable.” These beliefs can make us feel stuck; like having a rich and full life is not possible. As your therapist, I will work to empower you to accept all parts of self, allowing for peace from within that will trickle into all facets of life.
(463) 465-5830 View (463) 465-5830
Photo of Rita S. Horn, LCSW, LMFT, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rita S. Horn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Carmel, IN 46032
My practice is LGBTQ plus friendly.
Move past the challenges in your life, and experience greater calm, confidence and joy. Whether you are seeking counseling to cope with feeling anxious or depressed, or want help with grief, trauma, parenting, or relationship issues, I provide a safe and welcoming place for you. My approach is grounded in family systems, and I am a Certified Brainspotting Therapist. My work combines strategies from cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness to create lasting change.
My practice is LGBTQ plus friendly.
Move past the challenges in your life, and experience greater calm, confidence and joy. Whether you are seeking counseling to cope with feeling anxious or depressed, or want help with grief, trauma, parenting, or relationship issues, I provide a safe and welcoming place for you. My approach is grounded in family systems, and I am a Certified Brainspotting Therapist. My work combines strategies from cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness to create lasting change.
(317) 597-6199 View (317) 597-6199
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LGBTQ+ Therapists

Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?

Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?

Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?

While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.