LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Baton Rouge, LA

Photo of Aaron Edwards, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aaron Edwards
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70803  (Online Only)
Is anxiety your constant companion? Are you experiencing gender dysphoria, struggling with your sexual orientation, and/or have a sense that everyone else gets it but you don’t? I can help you discover the answers to these questions and more. My specialties are: Anxiety Disorders, LGBQ and Transgender issues associated with transitioning and Asperger’s Syndrome. For 30+ years I have helped people from all walks of life discover and manifest their most authentic selves and achieve their intentions. I see clients in office and by Telemed. If you choose video counseling, I find it to be equally effective as face-to-face sessions.
Is anxiety your constant companion? Are you experiencing gender dysphoria, struggling with your sexual orientation, and/or have a sense that everyone else gets it but you don’t? I can help you discover the answers to these questions and more. My specialties are: Anxiety Disorders, LGBQ and Transgender issues associated with transitioning and Asperger’s Syndrome. For 30+ years I have helped people from all walks of life discover and manifest their most authentic selves and achieve their intentions. I see clients in office and by Telemed. If you choose video counseling, I find it to be equally effective as face-to-face sessions.
(337) 943-0234 View (337) 943-0234
Photo of Christopher Manguno, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher Manguno
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70801  (Online Only)
My biggest passion is helping members of the LGBTQIA+ community, couples, and emerging adults. I work in session to collaborate with clients on how best we can better their lives. I strive to help clients become more present-focused, self-actualized, and comfortable in their own skins. I enjoy working with clients who have a drive to better themselves, but simply cannot do it alone. I am here for you, and I hope that I can help you to enrich your life so you can live it to the fullest.
My biggest passion is helping members of the LGBTQIA+ community, couples, and emerging adults. I work in session to collaborate with clients on how best we can better their lives. I strive to help clients become more present-focused, self-actualized, and comfortable in their own skins. I enjoy working with clients who have a drive to better themselves, but simply cannot do it alone. I am here for you, and I hope that I can help you to enrich your life so you can live it to the fullest.
(504) 336-7468 View (504) 336-7468
Photo of Max Wallace, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Max Wallace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70801
I treat a wide range of client concerns, but a few examples are: self-esteem, depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA+ experiences, transition, and chronic illness & pain.
Hey, y’all! I’m Max, and it’s wonderful to meet you. While I don’t know exactly why you’re here yet, I do know that you should be proud of yourself for seeking out support. Considering a new therapist or going to therapy for the first time is often a bit scary. I can help. Whether you’re needing change, new coping skills, or a calm, quiet place for yourself - where the outside world is put on pause for a moment - I will be committed to helping you reach your goals, while we develop safety and trust together.
I treat a wide range of client concerns, but a few examples are: self-esteem, depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA+ experiences, transition, and chronic illness & pain.
Hey, y’all! I’m Max, and it’s wonderful to meet you. While I don’t know exactly why you’re here yet, I do know that you should be proud of yourself for seeking out support. Considering a new therapist or going to therapy for the first time is often a bit scary. I can help. Whether you’re needing change, new coping skills, or a calm, quiet place for yourself - where the outside world is put on pause for a moment - I will be committed to helping you reach your goals, while we develop safety and trust together.
(504) 446-6212 View (504) 446-6212
Photo of Tori Ross, MS, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tori Ross
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PLPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
I am happy to work with neurodiversity, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders, disability, sex workers, and LGBTQ+ clients.
Hi weirdos, misfits, witches, goths, and gays! Alternative counselor here welcoming you personally! Want to explore coping skills for anxiety? Want to challenge internalized ableism, capitalism, or shame? Need a provider who is affirming of LGBTQ+ identities, sex work, and disability, and will validate your experiences? I invite clients to explore feelings, increasing self-care, insight, and support as clients work through their goals. I am happy to provide bibliotherapy and art activities. I welcome using fandom to explore your concerns. I bring insight to working with blind and other disabled clients, including neurodiverse folks.
I am happy to work with neurodiversity, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders, disability, sex workers, and LGBTQ+ clients.
Hi weirdos, misfits, witches, goths, and gays! Alternative counselor here welcoming you personally! Want to explore coping skills for anxiety? Want to challenge internalized ableism, capitalism, or shame? Need a provider who is affirming of LGBTQ+ identities, sex work, and disability, and will validate your experiences? I invite clients to explore feelings, increasing self-care, insight, and support as clients work through their goals. I am happy to provide bibliotherapy and art activities. I welcome using fandom to explore your concerns. I bring insight to working with blind and other disabled clients, including neurodiverse folks.
(225) 240-1604 View (225) 240-1604
Photo of Janina Mayeux, PhD, Psychologist
Janina Mayeux
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
Waitlist for new clients
Do you need a safe space? Someone who is queer affirming and knows about trauma to help you build resilience? The struggles of being queer, Non-binary, trans, or a queer BIPOC, can be unrelenting; especially when living in the deep south.
What is meaningful and important to you? This is different for everyone and can change for anyone in a given day. My approach to therapy is guided by the things you hold as valuable, and what they mean for you; all while using a trauma-informed and queer affirming framework. I strive to provide a safe space without judgment. I have worked with people of all ages who have survived trauma & I also have experience working with LGBTQ+ folks in health related issues, coming out, violent experiences, internalized homophobia/ transphobia, transitioning, adverse military experiences, & building resilience, etc.
Do you need a safe space? Someone who is queer affirming and knows about trauma to help you build resilience? The struggles of being queer, Non-binary, trans, or a queer BIPOC, can be unrelenting; especially when living in the deep south.
What is meaningful and important to you? This is different for everyone and can change for anyone in a given day. My approach to therapy is guided by the things you hold as valuable, and what they mean for you; all while using a trauma-informed and queer affirming framework. I strive to provide a safe space without judgment. I have worked with people of all ages who have survived trauma & I also have experience working with LGBTQ+ folks in health related issues, coming out, violent experiences, internalized homophobia/ transphobia, transitioning, adverse military experiences, & building resilience, etc.
(225) 435-8792 View (225) 435-8792
Photo of Laketta Lowery, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laketta Lowery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70827  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a proud advocate of the LGBTQIA+ community and teachers, I understand the mental challenges one may face.
There comes a time in our lives we when we are ready to face our issues. If you are ready to work on those issues, I encourage you to start the process to heal your soul. Soulful Counseling can teach you to do just that. Please check out my website below for a more detailed description of my style of therapy.
As a proud advocate of the LGBTQIA+ community and teachers, I understand the mental challenges one may face.
There comes a time in our lives we when we are ready to face our issues. If you are ready to work on those issues, I encourage you to start the process to heal your soul. Soulful Counseling can teach you to do just that. Please check out my website below for a more detailed description of my style of therapy.
(225) 535-8996 View (225) 535-8996
Photo of Pao Roy, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pao Roy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70808
I identify as Asian-American, queer and nonbinary, and I am committed to providing anti-oppressive, anti-racist, LGBTQ+-affirming, and gender-affirming care to all clients.
I am here to support you on the path to living a meaningful life, on your terms. Our work together dives deeply into what you care about & what you want to stand for, guiding you toward alignment with your dreams & values. I work fundamentally from an identity-affirming approach, because I believe that we need to feel seen to feel understood. The many intersections of our identities are met by the world in different ways, and I aim to hold the nuance of your lived experience as the wisdom that you need to reach your goals. I create a nonjudgmental, empathic, and curious space to encourage self-reflection, -insight and -compassion.
I identify as Asian-American, queer and nonbinary, and I am committed to providing anti-oppressive, anti-racist, LGBTQ+-affirming, and gender-affirming care to all clients.
I am here to support you on the path to living a meaningful life, on your terms. Our work together dives deeply into what you care about & what you want to stand for, guiding you toward alignment with your dreams & values. I work fundamentally from an identity-affirming approach, because I believe that we need to feel seen to feel understood. The many intersections of our identities are met by the world in different ways, and I aim to hold the nuance of your lived experience as the wisdom that you need to reach your goals. I create a nonjudgmental, empathic, and curious space to encourage self-reflection, -insight and -compassion.
(504) 226-7767 View (504) 226-7767
Photo of Tiffany Thibodeaux - Prairieville Counseling, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany Thibodeaux - Prairieville Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70817
If you are searching for a practice of trauma informed therapists who specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community, relationship counseling, play therapy, anxiety and support through life transitions, look no further.
Hi, I'm Tiffany! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and the owner of Prairieville Counseling and Wellness Center located in Ascension Parish Louisiana. With nearly a decade of experience in private practice, I am deeply passionate about my work. My expertise lies in helping individuals overcome anxiety, trauma and navigate the multitude of changes that life presents.
If you are searching for a practice of trauma informed therapists who specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community, relationship counseling, play therapy, anxiety and support through life transitions, look no further.
Hi, I'm Tiffany! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and the owner of Prairieville Counseling and Wellness Center located in Ascension Parish Louisiana. With nearly a decade of experience in private practice, I am deeply passionate about my work. My expertise lies in helping individuals overcome anxiety, trauma and navigate the multitude of changes that life presents.
(225) 435-5035 View (225) 435-5035
Photo of Renisha Cecilia Oubre, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renisha Cecilia Oubre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70803  (Online Only)
My clientele includes all human beings: children, adolescents, teens, adults, and couples, that may experience various issues: ADHD, abuse, psychotic disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, and substance abuse. In addition, I also work with clients who are diagnosed with depression, anxiety, relationship and family of origin issues, borderline personality, and high-risk behaviors such as alcohol use/abuse. I also work with members of the LGBTQ+ community and the BIPOC community.
My clientele includes all human beings: children, adolescents, teens, adults, and couples, that may experience various issues: ADHD, abuse, psychotic disorders, mood disorders, PTSD, and substance abuse. In addition, I also work with clients who are diagnosed with depression, anxiety, relationship and family of origin issues, borderline personality, and high-risk behaviors such as alcohol use/abuse. I also work with members of the LGBTQ+ community and the BIPOC community.
(225) 351-2342 View (225) 351-2342
Photo of Corrie Pleska, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Corrie Pleska
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70801  (Online Only)
I utilize systems theory, queer theory, and critical race theory often.
Hi, I'm so glad you're here! I am a licensed clinical social worker offering virtual therapy to individuals in Texas and Louisiana. My specialities lie in working with survivors of trauma, abuse and assault, LGBTQIA+ adults and teens, and those experiencing chronic illness. As a queer person myself, I value knowing I can access therapy from a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. My job is to meet you where you are and assess how your feelings, experiences, and the systems we live in impact how you make sense of the world. Learning about ourselves in such a way impacts the way we navigate our lives, for the better.
I utilize systems theory, queer theory, and critical race theory often.
Hi, I'm so glad you're here! I am a licensed clinical social worker offering virtual therapy to individuals in Texas and Louisiana. My specialities lie in working with survivors of trauma, abuse and assault, LGBTQIA+ adults and teens, and those experiencing chronic illness. As a queer person myself, I value knowing I can access therapy from a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. My job is to meet you where you are and assess how your feelings, experiences, and the systems we live in impact how you make sense of the world. Learning about ourselves in such a way impacts the way we navigate our lives, for the better.
(504) 294-8473 View (504) 294-8473
Photo of Shavez Pinestraw, MS, PLPC, NCC
Shavez Pinestraw
Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70801  (Online Only)
As an LGBTQ+ ally, I foster a safe and inclusive environment.
Are you having issues in your relationship? Have you experienced traumatic events that you can't seem to shake? Are you afraid to let yourself love your partner, friends, or yourself? Have you been questioning or wanting to explore your sexuality? Do you struggle with commitment in relationships? If you are experiencing any of those issues, know I am here to help. On your journey to healing, remember that the scars of the past are not always obstacles but reminders of how far you've come. Together, we’ll share smiles, laughter, and maybe even tears. But know that I’m here with you on this journey.
As an LGBTQ+ ally, I foster a safe and inclusive environment.
Are you having issues in your relationship? Have you experienced traumatic events that you can't seem to shake? Are you afraid to let yourself love your partner, friends, or yourself? Have you been questioning or wanting to explore your sexuality? Do you struggle with commitment in relationships? If you are experiencing any of those issues, know I am here to help. On your journey to healing, remember that the scars of the past are not always obstacles but reminders of how far you've come. Together, we’ll share smiles, laughter, and maybe even tears. But know that I’m here with you on this journey.
(985) 616-5133 View (985) 616-5133
Photo of Jenn Vigue, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenn Vigue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70801
I bring a highly relational approach to our work, characterized by warmth, authenticity, transparency, and a genuine human connection.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in New Orleans, LA. I am licensed and able to see Maine residents for therapy virtually as well. Working from a trauma-informed lens, I work to facilitate a collaborative and empowering approach to counseling. My theoretical approach stems from a radical social justice paradigm with the incorporation of liberation-based healing practices, expressive arts therapy, feminist, and relational-cultural theory. I work with both individuals and couples, offering a supportive space for personal and relational growth.
I bring a highly relational approach to our work, characterized by warmth, authenticity, transparency, and a genuine human connection.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in New Orleans, LA. I am licensed and able to see Maine residents for therapy virtually as well. Working from a trauma-informed lens, I work to facilitate a collaborative and empowering approach to counseling. My theoretical approach stems from a radical social justice paradigm with the incorporation of liberation-based healing practices, expressive arts therapy, feminist, and relational-cultural theory. I work with both individuals and couples, offering a supportive space for personal and relational growth.
View
Photo of Luke Chaddick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Luke Chaddick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70806
I have also been an advocate and ally of the LGBT+ community for many years.
Each person is an individual with their own goals and desires that will be the focus of our sessions. We will discuss your reasons for coming to therapy and work to make a plan that fits your needs and goals. My clients are often struggling with negative self-views, depression, anxiety, and grief. Self-compassion and mindfulness practices can be helpful in achieving success in the therapeutic and healing process.
I have also been an advocate and ally of the LGBT+ community for many years.
Each person is an individual with their own goals and desires that will be the focus of our sessions. We will discuss your reasons for coming to therapy and work to make a plan that fits your needs and goals. My clients are often struggling with negative self-views, depression, anxiety, and grief. Self-compassion and mindfulness practices can be helpful in achieving success in the therapeutic and healing process.
(225) 351-0293 View (225) 351-0293
Photo of Paige Guercio, MS, PLPC
Paige Guercio
Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, PLPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
I also enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been here before, searching for a counselor can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why, as your counselor, I am committed to earning your trust by creating a welcoming environment where you can be your true self without fear of judgment. I work with teens (ages 14-17), college students, and adults facing a variety of challenges including anxiety, trauma, family and relationship issues, life transitions, and low self-esteem.
I also enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been here before, searching for a counselor can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why, as your counselor, I am committed to earning your trust by creating a welcoming environment where you can be your true self without fear of judgment. I work with teens (ages 14-17), college students, and adults facing a variety of challenges including anxiety, trauma, family and relationship issues, life transitions, and low self-esteem.
(225) 263-4807 View (225) 263-4807
Photo of Bridget G Suire, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridget G Suire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Greetings, My name is Bridget Suire. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I will respond to your contact within 24 business hours because I know how hard it is to ask for help. We will work together to improve your mental wellness and address anxiety, depression, and trauma. What happened to you and what is needed for you to feel better? We will also explore the body/mind connection. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for all clients, including the LGBTQ+ community. I also want to welcome senior citizens dealing with retirement and aging.
Greetings, My name is Bridget Suire. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I will respond to your contact within 24 business hours because I know how hard it is to ask for help. We will work together to improve your mental wellness and address anxiety, depression, and trauma. What happened to you and what is needed for you to feel better? We will also explore the body/mind connection. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for all clients, including the LGBTQ+ community. I also want to welcome senior citizens dealing with retirement and aging.
(225) 435-4873 View (225) 435-4873
Photo of Carlo Cuneo, MA, MSW, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carlo Cuneo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Services are consistent with standards established by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH).
My practice is limited to the treatment of sexual and gender concerns and to treatment of the concerns of couples and other romantic / sexual groupings. My focus is on your growth and well-being. My office will become a place in which it is safe to speak about your life and concerns. You will find acceptance, support and challenge. I have earned Master's degrees in Psychology (1990) and Social Work (MSW - 1998). To date, my clients have received over 30,000 hours of psychotherapy services. I look forward to meeting you and beginning our work together.
Services are consistent with standards established by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH).
My practice is limited to the treatment of sexual and gender concerns and to treatment of the concerns of couples and other romantic / sexual groupings. My focus is on your growth and well-being. My office will become a place in which it is safe to speak about your life and concerns. You will find acceptance, support and challenge. I have earned Master's degrees in Psychology (1990) and Social Work (MSW - 1998). To date, my clients have received over 30,000 hours of psychotherapy services. I look forward to meeting you and beginning our work together.
(225) 239-2735 View (225) 239-2735
Photo of Rae B Falgout, LPC, LAC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rae B Falgout
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Are you looking to have non-superficial healing relationship with a compassionate helper? Do you often question the world, life's meaning, your purpose, and seek to share your thoughts with someone who understands? I wish to build a lasting rapport with my clients and help them reach their goals. I am allied in LGBTQ+ and have a soft heart for the underdog. My therapeutic approach incorporates the best lesson I have ever learned which is: “We have two lives; the second begins when we realise we only have one." -Confucius
Are you looking to have non-superficial healing relationship with a compassionate helper? Do you often question the world, life's meaning, your purpose, and seek to share your thoughts with someone who understands? I wish to build a lasting rapport with my clients and help them reach their goals. I am allied in LGBTQ+ and have a soft heart for the underdog. My therapeutic approach incorporates the best lesson I have ever learned which is: “We have two lives; the second begins when we realise we only have one." -Confucius
(225) 269-4920 View (225) 269-4920
Photo of Carlee Swindle, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carlee Swindle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
I'm passionate about helping teens and adults with anxiety, depression, anger, and trauma. My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming and body positive, providing a welcoming space for exploring the past, understanding the present, and working toward a better future. I have a special connection to and experience with neurodiverse individuals. I create a welcoming environment for neurodiverse clients, offering sensory activities and fidget toys during sessions. I also enjoy using games and expressive arts in therapy, keeping art supplies readily available in my office. I value building trust and rapport with clients and respecting their needs.
I'm passionate about helping teens and adults with anxiety, depression, anger, and trauma. My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming and body positive, providing a welcoming space for exploring the past, understanding the present, and working toward a better future. I have a special connection to and experience with neurodiverse individuals. I create a welcoming environment for neurodiverse clients, offering sensory activities and fidget toys during sessions. I also enjoy using games and expressive arts in therapy, keeping art supplies readily available in my office. I value building trust and rapport with clients and respecting their needs.
(225) 627-7204 View (225) 627-7204
Photo of Lex Walker, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lex Walker
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
I am passionate about helping people of all ages embrace their true selves and work towards healing. It is an honor for me to support my clients as they navigate life's challenges. I take pride in creating a welcoming and affirming environment for individuals who are LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) working towards becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have been in the social work field for 4 years and graduated with my MSW from LSU.
I am passionate about helping people of all ages embrace their true selves and work towards healing. It is an honor for me to support my clients as they navigate life's challenges. I take pride in creating a welcoming and affirming environment for individuals who are LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) working towards becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have been in the social work field for 4 years and graduated with my MSW from LSU.
(225) 269-4265 View (225) 269-4265
Photo of Lauren K Roberts, LPC, ADHDCSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren K Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baton Rouge, LA 70802  (Online Only)
Asking for help when we're struggling is one of the most courageous, empowering acts of self-love a person can make, and that bravery deserves to be nurtured and met with compassion and humanness. My clients are often struggling with self-acceptance, boundary setting, and leaning into their full, weird, incredible selves. I am neurodivergent identified and affirming, queer affirming, and have appreciation for all types of spiritual beliefs and relationship structures. I’d love to take the next steps in building the life that you want through a therapist relationship built on authenticity.
Asking for help when we're struggling is one of the most courageous, empowering acts of self-love a person can make, and that bravery deserves to be nurtured and met with compassion and humanness. My clients are often struggling with self-acceptance, boundary setting, and leaning into their full, weird, incredible selves. I am neurodivergent identified and affirming, queer affirming, and have appreciation for all types of spiritual beliefs and relationship structures. I’d love to take the next steps in building the life that you want through a therapist relationship built on authenticity.
(225) 267-9081 View (225) 267-9081
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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.