LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Fishers, IN

Photo of Hannah Elizabeth O'Rear, LMHCA, Counselor
Hannah Elizabeth O'Rear
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46037
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 Sosbe, LMHC, Counselor
Heather Sosbe
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038
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 Christin Collins, MS, LMHCA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christin Collins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46037  (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 Murphy Hall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Murphy Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46037  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive, and affirming space for individuals from all walks of life. My practice is deeply rooted in queer-affirming and trauma-informed principles, ensuring that every client feels seen, heard, and validated. As a queer-affirming and queer-identified therapist, I understand the unique challenges and joys that come with exploring and embracing your sexuality, gender identity and gender expression. I work primarily with adults.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive, and affirming space for individuals from all walks of life. My practice is deeply rooted in queer-affirming and trauma-informed principles, ensuring that every client feels seen, heard, and validated. As a queer-affirming and queer-identified therapist, I understand the unique challenges and joys that come with exploring and embracing your sexuality, gender identity and gender expression. I work primarily with adults.
(317) 678-0343 View (317) 678-0343
Photo of LaRisha Hanks, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaRisha Hanks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
I'm a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and have experience providing individual therapy and group therapy. I approach therapy from a strengths based perspective and believe in the collaboration between me and my clients in achieving their therapeutic goals and healing from past traumas. Together we will become a team. I will support, affirm, and empower you while giving you the tools necessary to grow and heal. I specialize in working with youth and adults who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, gender identity, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
I'm a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and have experience providing individual therapy and group therapy. I approach therapy from a strengths based perspective and believe in the collaboration between me and my clients in achieving their therapeutic goals and healing from past traumas. Together we will become a team. I will support, affirm, and empower you while giving you the tools necessary to grow and heal. I specialize in working with youth and adults who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, gender identity, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
(317) 842-5555 View (317) 842-5555
Photo of Andrea Heiden, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Andrea Heiden
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46037
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, LGBTQIA+ issues, self-harm behaviors, life transitions, postpartum struggles, and women's issues.
To me, being a therapist is about helping you to achieve your maximum potential in mental health and happiness. Do you feel like you need someone with whom to talk, whether to help you sort out some confusing issues, or to listen and empathize with you? Do you need someone who can call you on your "stuff?" I feel honored to be able to do this work and help you achieve happiness and self-actualization, whatever that looks like ideally for you. There is help. There is a way to feel better.
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, LGBTQIA+ issues, self-harm behaviors, life transitions, postpartum struggles, and women's issues.
To me, being a therapist is about helping you to achieve your maximum potential in mental health and happiness. Do you feel like you need someone with whom to talk, whether to help you sort out some confusing issues, or to listen and empathize with you? Do you need someone who can call you on your "stuff?" I feel honored to be able to do this work and help you achieve happiness and self-actualization, whatever that looks like ideally for you. There is help. There is a way to feel better.
(463) 250-8646 View (463) 250-8646
Photo of Amelia Leake, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amelia Leake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46037
I specialize in treating adolescents and adults, as well as LGBTQ+ matters of all ages. I address issues such as anxiety and depression, life transitions, and substance abuse. I work with families on communication and focus on the family's overall happiness and how that can be achieved. I strive to create a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment in order to help you meet your goals.
I specialize in treating adolescents and adults, as well as LGBTQ+ matters of all ages. I address issues such as anxiety and depression, life transitions, and substance abuse. I work with families on communication and focus on the family's overall happiness and how that can be achieved. I strive to create a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment in order to help you meet your goals.
(317) 886-1147 View (317) 886-1147
Photo of Stephanie L Drescher, PsyD, HSPP, Psychologist
Stephanie L Drescher
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46037  (Online Only)
My therapeutic focus is on women, whether they are cisgender or transgender.
I believe we are all our own expert; therefore, my job as a therapist is not to advise you on what to do, but to help you come to terms with what you are willing to do. We all have the power to make our lives better, and more often than not, even when we feel lost or stuck, we have some idea of the direction in which we need to travel. Together, we can explore the roadblocks to your living the life you deserve, and strengthen your resolve to achieve your goals.
My therapeutic focus is on women, whether they are cisgender or transgender.
I believe we are all our own expert; therefore, my job as a therapist is not to advise you on what to do, but to help you come to terms with what you are willing to do. We all have the power to make our lives better, and more often than not, even when we feel lost or stuck, we have some idea of the direction in which we need to travel. Together, we can explore the roadblocks to your living the life you deserve, and strengthen your resolve to achieve your goals.
(317) 659-7223 View (317) 659-7223
Photo of Don Childers, LMHC, LCSW, CCMHC, RTC, MA, Counselor
Don Childers
Counselor, LMHC, LCSW, CCMHC, RTC, MA
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46037  (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 Lindsay Wiggs, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Lindsay Wiggs
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46037  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It is my passion to provide an open and non-judgemental space to talk about those topics that are often “taboo.” I pride myself on ensuring safe and competent care to all clients that may cross my path. I identify as sex positive, trans-affirming, and kink informed. I enjoy providing individual therapy for folks of all walks of life, but I truly love working with partnerships and couples of all forms. I am polyam/non-monogamy aware, competent, and experienced. I have received training in Levels 1 and 2 of the Gottman approach and actively work to adapt it to fit with queer and non-traditional coupleship models.
It is my passion to provide an open and non-judgemental space to talk about those topics that are often “taboo.” I pride myself on ensuring safe and competent care to all clients that may cross my path. I identify as sex positive, trans-affirming, and kink informed. I enjoy providing individual therapy for folks of all walks of life, but I truly love working with partnerships and couples of all forms. I am polyam/non-monogamy aware, competent, and experienced. I have received training in Levels 1 and 2 of the Gottman approach and actively work to adapt it to fit with queer and non-traditional coupleship models.
(317) 768-0770 View (317) 768-0770
Photo of Megan Passaloukos, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Megan Passaloukos
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46037  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also work with clients struggling with mood including bipolar and depression, anxiety and phobias, identity, LGBTQ+ issues, and various life adjustments.
Are you feeling stuck? Having difficulty keeping up? Wanting to make a change but don't know where to start? Change can be scary, and even more intimidating if feeling overwhelmed or alone. But change is possible, offers an opportunity for growth, and there is always hope for a better future. I have years of experience working in inpatient and outpatient settings with individuals of all ages and families of all backgrounds. I offer a calm, warm, nonjudgmental space where issues of all types and sizes may be explored. In a safe, supportive environment, therapeutic services are adapted to meet your individualized needs and goals.
I also work with clients struggling with mood including bipolar and depression, anxiety and phobias, identity, LGBTQ+ issues, and various life adjustments.
Are you feeling stuck? Having difficulty keeping up? Wanting to make a change but don't know where to start? Change can be scary, and even more intimidating if feeling overwhelmed or alone. But change is possible, offers an opportunity for growth, and there is always hope for a better future. I have years of experience working in inpatient and outpatient settings with individuals of all ages and families of all backgrounds. I offer a calm, warm, nonjudgmental space where issues of all types and sizes may be explored. In a safe, supportive environment, therapeutic services are adapted to meet your individualized needs and goals.
(317) 699-8354 View (317) 699-8354
Photo of Kinsey Weisensteiner, LSW, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kinsey Weisensteiner
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46037  (Online Only)
I'm passionate about uplifting those with diverse identities, like LGBTQIA, BIPOC, Latinx,& neurodivergence.
Are you looking to make a change that aligns with your authentic self but feel overwhelmed or confused? Do you want a therapist that won't minimize your experiences of trauma, adverse childhood experiences, or dysfunctional relationships? Have you experienced a recent major life change, feel stuck in a rut, or overwhelmed? Everyone deserves a trusting, safe, and authentic working relationship without fear of judgement! Reach out today to start your journey!
I'm passionate about uplifting those with diverse identities, like LGBTQIA, BIPOC, Latinx,& neurodivergence.
Are you looking to make a change that aligns with your authentic self but feel overwhelmed or confused? Do you want a therapist that won't minimize your experiences of trauma, adverse childhood experiences, or dysfunctional relationships? Have you experienced a recent major life change, feel stuck in a rut, or overwhelmed? Everyone deserves a trusting, safe, and authentic working relationship without fear of judgement! Reach out today to start your journey!
(463) 278-7798 View (463) 278-7798
Photo of Danielle Ra'ed, Pre-Licensed Professional
Danielle Ra'ed
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46037
Areas of interest also include queer identities, sexuality, anxiety, trauma, depression, life transitions, relationships, and women's issues.
Welcome! I'm not sure what exactly brought you here today, but I'm here to support you. I believe in empowering clients as experts of their own experiences and emphasize building trusting and empathetic therapeutic relationships. Providing you with a safe space to explore vulnerabilities and emotions is crucial and something I don't take lightly. My practice is rooted in promoting wellness, validation, and open dialogue. No matter the reason you're here today, my goal is to support you in a nonjudgmental, culturally-sensitive, affirming, and caring way.
Areas of interest also include queer identities, sexuality, anxiety, trauma, depression, life transitions, relationships, and women's issues.
Welcome! I'm not sure what exactly brought you here today, but I'm here to support you. I believe in empowering clients as experts of their own experiences and emphasize building trusting and empathetic therapeutic relationships. Providing you with a safe space to explore vulnerabilities and emotions is crucial and something I don't take lightly. My practice is rooted in promoting wellness, validation, and open dialogue. No matter the reason you're here today, my goal is to support you in a nonjudgmental, culturally-sensitive, affirming, and caring way.
(463) 285-8852 View (463) 285-8852
Photo of Cat Hoggard Wagley, LMHC, M Ed, Counselor
Cat Hoggard Wagley
Counselor, LMHC, M Ed
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038
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 Rachel Echelbarger, MS, MHC
Rachel Echelbarger
MS, MHC
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46037
We will work together to see what works best for you! I am LGBTQ+ affirming & look forward to working with a variety of people.
The people I work with tend to be navigating life changes and transitions, exploring identity concerns and/or neurodiversity, as well as seeking ways to manage their emotions. Curiosity, openness to new perspectives, and motivation to take action are welcomed. Transition can mean many things: entering the workforce, going to school, beginning/ending a relationship, gender, existential concerns, learning how to "adult" and so much more. I enjoy helping people learn more about themselves and building skills. This helps us know how to take care of ourselves and give us ideas of what to do when life gets messy.
We will work together to see what works best for you! I am LGBTQ+ affirming & look forward to working with a variety of people.
The people I work with tend to be navigating life changes and transitions, exploring identity concerns and/or neurodiversity, as well as seeking ways to manage their emotions. Curiosity, openness to new perspectives, and motivation to take action are welcomed. Transition can mean many things: entering the workforce, going to school, beginning/ending a relationship, gender, existential concerns, learning how to "adult" and so much more. I enjoy helping people learn more about themselves and building skills. This helps us know how to take care of ourselves and give us ideas of what to do when life gets messy.
(463) 300-5734 View (463) 300-5734
Photo of Zach Reed, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zach Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038
Hello there! I'm Zach Reed, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Noblesville, IN. I identify as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and pride myself on being a sex-positive therapist. With over 8 years of experience in counseling, I have treated a range of issues and struggles in both individual and group settings. If you are seeking out my services, you are probably at a point in your life where you feel a little lost and need some guidance to take you in a new direction. No matter the struggle, I am happy to offer my guidance on your journey toward clarity and increased self-understanding.
Hello there! I'm Zach Reed, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Noblesville, IN. I identify as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and pride myself on being a sex-positive therapist. With over 8 years of experience in counseling, I have treated a range of issues and struggles in both individual and group settings. If you are seeking out my services, you are probably at a point in your life where you feel a little lost and need some guidance to take you in a new direction. No matter the struggle, I am happy to offer my guidance on your journey toward clarity and increased self-understanding.
(812) 432-2689 View (812) 432-2689
Photo of Alison Paul, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Paul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038
I offer a warm and affirming environment for clients. I believe that every individual is unique and work from a client center and strength-based approach. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental and supportive space.
I offer a warm and affirming environment for clients. I believe that every individual is unique and work from a client center and strength-based approach. I am LGBTQ+ friendly and strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental and supportive space.
(317) 648-2507 View (317) 648-2507
Photo of Ember Rose Troxell, LMHCA, Counselor
Ember Rose Troxell
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038
My passion is working with women who've experienced long-term trauma; relationship difficulties; self-esteem, self-worth, and/or identity struggles; perfectionism; sexuality and/or sexual intimacy issues; codependency; LGBTQ+ issues; chronic illness; etc.
I whole-heartedly believe in a wellness/wholeness approach–healing of the mind, body, & soul. I'm committed to giving you a safe space to unburden your heart, explore the root of your pain & struggle, support your healing journey, & provide tools to help create the future you deserve. Choosing to work toward a healthier life & healthier you is an act of self-care you should be proud of! I understand seeking support typically happens when problems feel larger than what we believe we can handle on our own. You are not alone! I promise to listen intently & give you the space, understanding, empathy, & acceptance you need.
My passion is working with women who've experienced long-term trauma; relationship difficulties; self-esteem, self-worth, and/or identity struggles; perfectionism; sexuality and/or sexual intimacy issues; codependency; LGBTQ+ issues; chronic illness; etc.
I whole-heartedly believe in a wellness/wholeness approach–healing of the mind, body, & soul. I'm committed to giving you a safe space to unburden your heart, explore the root of your pain & struggle, support your healing journey, & provide tools to help create the future you deserve. Choosing to work toward a healthier life & healthier you is an act of self-care you should be proud of! I understand seeking support typically happens when problems feel larger than what we believe we can handle on our own. You are not alone! I promise to listen intently & give you the space, understanding, empathy, & acceptance you need.
(317) 342-5391 View (317) 342-5391
Photo of Rachel Heinhuis, LMHC, Counselor
Rachel Heinhuis
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fishers, IN 46038
Areas of focus include life transitions, grief, death, loss, anxiety, depression, self-identity, LGBTQIA+, self-esteem and self criticism, relationships, career and trauma.
“Together we will cry and face fear and grief. I will want to take away your pain, but instead I will sit with you and teach you how to feel it.”- Brené Brown We are often met with experiences in life that shape us and create patterns of responding to our environments in both healthy and unhealthy ways. We may feel alone in moments of darkness, confusion or in the presence of the unknown; you are not alone! We will work to trust the process of sitting with the uncomfortable, embracing uniqueness and vulnerabilities and identifying thoughts and feelings that prevent us from seeing our best selves.
Areas of focus include life transitions, grief, death, loss, anxiety, depression, self-identity, LGBTQIA+, self-esteem and self criticism, relationships, career and trauma.
“Together we will cry and face fear and grief. I will want to take away your pain, but instead I will sit with you and teach you how to feel it.”- Brené Brown We are often met with experiences in life that shape us and create patterns of responding to our environments in both healthy and unhealthy ways. We may feel alone in moments of darkness, confusion or in the presence of the unknown; you are not alone! We will work to trust the process of sitting with the uncomfortable, embracing uniqueness and vulnerabilities and identifying thoughts and feelings that prevent us from seeing our best selves.
(317) 666-6702 View (317) 666-6702
Photo of Jeanine Motsay Hoffman, MA, LMHC
Jeanine Motsay Hoffman
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46038
Jeanine Motsay Hoffman is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Indiana who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Baccalaureate of Science, Psychology, from the University of Illinois, a Master of Arts, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, from Christian Theological Seminary, and a Certificate, Object Relations Theory and Practice, from the International Psychotherapy Institute. She is currently earning her Certificate, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, with the International Psychotherapy Institute.
Jeanine Motsay Hoffman is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Indiana who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Baccalaureate of Science, Psychology, from the University of Illinois, a Master of Arts, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, from Christian Theological Seminary, and a Certificate, Object Relations Theory and Practice, from the International Psychotherapy Institute. She is currently earning her Certificate, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, with the International Psychotherapy Institute.
(877) 916-2367 View (877) 916-2367
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.