LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Metairie, LA

Photo of Jason Shane Scamardo, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason Shane Scamardo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70002
I have experience working with people from many different backgrounds who face depression, anxiety, abuse, trauma, and grief. I have worked with adults, couples, and families and have a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ communities working through trauma, identity issues, and the coming out process. I am certified to work with clients via telehealth. My goal is to provide a warm, caring, accepting environment in which you can express yourself. My goal is to help you feel empowered, to handle life's challenges, and to find joy in life. I believe everyone is capable of healing and should be free to be their authentic selves.
I have experience working with people from many different backgrounds who face depression, anxiety, abuse, trauma, and grief. I have worked with adults, couples, and families and have a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ communities working through trauma, identity issues, and the coming out process. I am certified to work with clients via telehealth. My goal is to provide a warm, caring, accepting environment in which you can express yourself. My goal is to help you feel empowered, to handle life's challenges, and to find joy in life. I believe everyone is capable of healing and should be free to be their authentic selves.
(504) 305-8099 View (504) 305-8099
Photo of Madison Barbor, NCC
Madison Barbor
Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002
I am queer, nonbinary, and neurodivergent; and I value providing an affirmative space to navigate the challenges that come with living in these identities authentically.
Hello! I'm Madison, but you may call me Maddi. Meeting you where you're at, I will collaborate with you in fostering a safe and nonjudgemental space to work through issues that hold you back from living a full, authentic life. Whether you want to tackle present-day stress following a significant change in your life or overcome past traumas that impede on your quality of life, I will help emphasize your strengths while implementing practical skills in achieving the changes you wish to see.
I am queer, nonbinary, and neurodivergent; and I value providing an affirmative space to navigate the challenges that come with living in these identities authentically.
Hello! I'm Madison, but you may call me Maddi. Meeting you where you're at, I will collaborate with you in fostering a safe and nonjudgemental space to work through issues that hold you back from living a full, authentic life. Whether you want to tackle present-day stress following a significant change in your life or overcome past traumas that impede on your quality of life, I will help emphasize your strengths while implementing practical skills in achieving the changes you wish to see.
(504) 414-5597 View (504) 414-5597
Photo of Laurie Lichtenstein Bonura, LMSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Lichtenstein Bonura
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70002
I work with clients around issues of sexual dysfunction, pain, and low desire. I also specialize in working with marginalized sexualities and relationships, such as non-monogamy, kink, and LGBTQIA+. Sexuality is an integral part of who we are as human beings. It can be one of the greatest sources for pleasure and connection. However, that pleasure and connection can be blocked by things like shame, fear, grief, health issues, pain, and loss. I believe therapy can help clients create positive changes while building healthy narratives around intimacy, relationships, and gender.
I work with clients around issues of sexual dysfunction, pain, and low desire. I also specialize in working with marginalized sexualities and relationships, such as non-monogamy, kink, and LGBTQIA+. Sexuality is an integral part of who we are as human beings. It can be one of the greatest sources for pleasure and connection. However, that pleasure and connection can be blocked by things like shame, fear, grief, health issues, pain, and loss. I believe therapy can help clients create positive changes while building healthy narratives around intimacy, relationships, and gender.
(504) 414-6087 View (504) 414-6087
Photo of Chris Howard, LPC, MHS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris Howard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70001
I work frequently with the lgbt population and male survivors of abuse and am sensitive to the issues of the population.
Living life to its fullest and achieving true happiness is something that you deserve. Many people struggle with depression, anxiety, issues with their identity, and traumatic events that hold them back from achieving the most from life. I believe that in working together with the client through challenging negative thought proccesses, identifying problem behaviors and problem areas, and searching for the ideal place that a person wants in life, we can successfully get you to that healthy and happy place that rewards you on a daily basis.
I work frequently with the lgbt population and male survivors of abuse and am sensitive to the issues of the population.
Living life to its fullest and achieving true happiness is something that you deserve. Many people struggle with depression, anxiety, issues with their identity, and traumatic events that hold them back from achieving the most from life. I believe that in working together with the client through challenging negative thought proccesses, identifying problem behaviors and problem areas, and searching for the ideal place that a person wants in life, we can successfully get you to that healthy and happy place that rewards you on a daily basis.
(504) 327-5140 View (504) 327-5140
Photo of Scottie Klock, MEd, LPC, LMFT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scottie Klock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70001
In addition to my expertise in relationship problems and couples counseling, I am passionate about serving members of the LGBTQ+ community in addressing issues and concerns unique to their experience.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, it is my privilege to help you solve the problem you are experiencing that is keeping you from having the happiness you desire and deserve.
In addition to my expertise in relationship problems and couples counseling, I am passionate about serving members of the LGBTQ+ community in addressing issues and concerns unique to their experience.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, it is my privilege to help you solve the problem you are experiencing that is keeping you from having the happiness you desire and deserve.
(504) 208-1037 View (504) 208-1037
Photo of Anya Canache, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anya Canache
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70001  (Online Only)
I am a native Spanish speaker and have a particular interest in working with immigrant communities, alternative spiritualities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over a decade of experience in addiction, sexual, spiritual and gender identity, self-esteem, trauma and HIV. I have treated a variety of presenting conditions ranging from depression and anxiety to mood disorders, sleep issues, relationship problems and life stress. I have experience working with clients across the lifespan with a particular interest in adults and the elderly. I believe in a holistic approach to counseling and view it as a process by which any of us could have the opportunity to focus on all the various aspects of our lives, ourselves, and who we want to become.
I am a native Spanish speaker and have a particular interest in working with immigrant communities, alternative spiritualities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over a decade of experience in addiction, sexual, spiritual and gender identity, self-esteem, trauma and HIV. I have treated a variety of presenting conditions ranging from depression and anxiety to mood disorders, sleep issues, relationship problems and life stress. I have experience working with clients across the lifespan with a particular interest in adults and the elderly. I believe in a holistic approach to counseling and view it as a process by which any of us could have the opportunity to focus on all the various aspects of our lives, ourselves, and who we want to become.
(908) 349-1129 View (908) 349-1129
Photo of Bobbi Kizer, PhD, Psychologist
Bobbi Kizer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70005
Please contact me if you are interested in therapy or transgender services via videoconference.
*Be aware I am not currently taking any new patients due to my schedule being completely full for the foreseeable future. I believe that healing can happen through the process of empathic and supportive counseling. I work with mood issues, personality disorders, grief, substance use and much more. I utilize a culturally sensitive and holistic psychodynamic style of therapy. This approach encourages development in all areas of life (relationships, thoughts, behaviors, emotions, careers, etc.), and pays special attention to unconscious factors and cultural identity (race, religion, sexuality, gender, disability, etc).
Please contact me if you are interested in therapy or transgender services via videoconference.
*Be aware I am not currently taking any new patients due to my schedule being completely full for the foreseeable future. I believe that healing can happen through the process of empathic and supportive counseling. I work with mood issues, personality disorders, grief, substance use and much more. I utilize a culturally sensitive and holistic psychodynamic style of therapy. This approach encourages development in all areas of life (relationships, thoughts, behaviors, emotions, careers, etc.), and pays special attention to unconscious factors and cultural identity (race, religion, sexuality, gender, disability, etc).
(504) 265-1485 View (504) 265-1485
Photo of Jacquelyn Ann Walther, LPC-S, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacquelyn Ann Walther
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70006
I have experience working with ADHD, behavior issues, trauma, grief, severe mental illness, mandated clients, LGBTQ community, bullying, anxiety, and depression.
For the past 5 years, I have counseled children, adolescents, and adults in the New Orleans area. My company, Jacquelyn Walther, LPC-S, NCC, currently does have a wait-list and accepts most insurance including Medicaid. I presently see clients in the afternoons, Monday through Friday and on Saturdays, I see clients throughout the day.
I have experience working with ADHD, behavior issues, trauma, grief, severe mental illness, mandated clients, LGBTQ community, bullying, anxiety, and depression.
For the past 5 years, I have counseled children, adolescents, and adults in the New Orleans area. My company, Jacquelyn Walther, LPC-S, NCC, currently does have a wait-list and accepts most insurance including Medicaid. I presently see clients in the afternoons, Monday through Friday and on Saturdays, I see clients throughout the day.
(504) 608-4226 View (504) 608-4226
Photo of Marlon Anthony Boutin, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marlon Anthony Boutin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70005
I have experience working with trauma, grief, severe mental illness, divorce, mandated clients, LGBTQ community, substance use, bullying, cultural issues, anxiety, depression, and simply feeling stuck in life.
Welcome, you've made the first step on your journey to find meaning in your life. I recognize that one does not become human without experiencing pain, challenges, or feeling stuck! I would love to provide a safe and confidential environment where you can authentically be you and help you find meaning in your life! If you are requesting virtual only, please click "my website" option and schedule through Headway.
I have experience working with trauma, grief, severe mental illness, divorce, mandated clients, LGBTQ community, substance use, bullying, cultural issues, anxiety, depression, and simply feeling stuck in life.
Welcome, you've made the first step on your journey to find meaning in your life. I recognize that one does not become human without experiencing pain, challenges, or feeling stuck! I would love to provide a safe and confidential environment where you can authentically be you and help you find meaning in your life! If you are requesting virtual only, please click "my website" option and schedule through Headway.
(504) 226-7610 View (504) 226-7610
Photo of Courtney Carrier, MA, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Courtney Carrier
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70002
I also primarily specialize in LGBTQIA+, grief, life transitions, domestic violence, infidelity, past traumas, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.
Hello! My name is Courtney Carrier, and I am a PLPC at Behavioral Health Counseling and Consulting in Metairie, Louisiana. Counseling can be an incredibly tough decision for someone to make. Asking for help is the first step of many to improving your quality of life. No one should have to feel as though they are going through this life alone. I am here to help you along this pathway to becoming a better you!
I also primarily specialize in LGBTQIA+, grief, life transitions, domestic violence, infidelity, past traumas, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.
Hello! My name is Courtney Carrier, and I am a PLPC at Behavioral Health Counseling and Consulting in Metairie, Louisiana. Counseling can be an incredibly tough decision for someone to make. Asking for help is the first step of many to improving your quality of life. No one should have to feel as though they are going through this life alone. I am here to help you along this pathway to becoming a better you!
(504) 321-5737 View (504) 321-5737
Photo of Emma Boelter, LPC, NCC
Emma Boelter
Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70005
I also enjoy working with members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hi there, welcome to my page! My clinical focus areas include: neurodivergence, especially ADHD, life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, trauma, identity exploration, and emotional regulation challenges. I view a strong client-counselor relationship as foundational to all meaningful therapy. I believe that each one of us intrinsically possesses value and is deserving of love, respect, and the opportunity to evolve. It is my intention to create an inclusive & non-judgmental space in order to support my clients as through challenging seasons and move towards growth.
I also enjoy working with members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hi there, welcome to my page! My clinical focus areas include: neurodivergence, especially ADHD, life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, trauma, identity exploration, and emotional regulation challenges. I view a strong client-counselor relationship as foundational to all meaningful therapy. I believe that each one of us intrinsically possesses value and is deserving of love, respect, and the opportunity to evolve. It is my intention to create an inclusive & non-judgmental space in order to support my clients as through challenging seasons and move towards growth.
(504) 732-0351 View (504) 732-0351
Photo of Amy Alvarez, LCSW, BACS, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Alvarez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70005
Waitlist for new clients
LGBTQ allied, babes in arms are welcome!.
Welcome! I specialize providing psychotherapy for adults coping with depression, anxiety and stress. LGBTQ clients are always welcome. I have a special interest in providing mental health support for conception, pregnancy, postpartum, adoption, and infertility. Whether you're currently pregnant, coping with the stress of a new baby, dealing with infertility or considering adoption, I would be honored to help you navigate the seasons of new parenthood. I also enjoy working with birthparents, adoptive families and adoptees coping with identity, reunion, and grief issues.
LGBTQ allied, babes in arms are welcome!.
Welcome! I specialize providing psychotherapy for adults coping with depression, anxiety and stress. LGBTQ clients are always welcome. I have a special interest in providing mental health support for conception, pregnancy, postpartum, adoption, and infertility. Whether you're currently pregnant, coping with the stress of a new baby, dealing with infertility or considering adoption, I would be honored to help you navigate the seasons of new parenthood. I also enjoy working with birthparents, adoptive families and adoptees coping with identity, reunion, and grief issues.
(504) 370-9972 View (504) 370-9972
Photo of Semeko Cox Funches - Metairie Sex Therapy Center, LPC-S, NCC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Metairie Sex Therapy Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70002  (Online Only)
Did you know that ADHD in adults can also hinder the sexual experience? Also Sex Worker positive, Kink & LGBTQ+ knowledgeable & affirming.
Are you and your partner not having sex? Are you having a hard time figuring out why sex doesn't come natural to your relationship? Arguing over sex? Past trauma interfering, pills not working, performance anxiety, ADHD kicking in... Let me assist you with getting back in the saddle! (TELETHERAPY NOW AVAILABLE STATEWIDE) Louisiana and Mississippi
Did you know that ADHD in adults can also hinder the sexual experience? Also Sex Worker positive, Kink & LGBTQ+ knowledgeable & affirming.
Are you and your partner not having sex? Are you having a hard time figuring out why sex doesn't come natural to your relationship? Arguing over sex? Past trauma interfering, pills not working, performance anxiety, ADHD kicking in... Let me assist you with getting back in the saddle! (TELETHERAPY NOW AVAILABLE STATEWIDE) Louisiana and Mississippi
(504) 499-0448 View (504) 499-0448
Photo of Catherine Schully - Creative Counseling and Wellness, LLC, LPC-S, RPT, PLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Creative Counseling and Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT, PLPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70002
At Creative Counseling and Wellness, LLC, our caring and experienced counselors are here to support you. We fully support LGBTQIA+ identities and make sure your emotional and physical safety is our top priority throughout your healing journey. Our name reflects the creative and flexible ways we work with clients. Many of our counselors use art, music, and other creative tools in therapy, but what really sets us apart is how we find unique ways to meet you right where you are.
At Creative Counseling and Wellness, LLC, our caring and experienced counselors are here to support you. We fully support LGBTQIA+ identities and make sure your emotional and physical safety is our top priority throughout your healing journey. Our name reflects the creative and flexible ways we work with clients. Many of our counselors use art, music, and other creative tools in therapy, but what really sets us apart is how we find unique ways to meet you right where you are.
View
Photo of Bridget A Falcon, LPC-S, Counselor
Bridget A Falcon
Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70001
Experienced with couples issues, communication issues, addiction, trauma and working with the LGBTQ community.
Addiction, anxiety, trauma, communication and life changes are some challenges I work with. Offering individual and couples modalities.
Experienced with couples issues, communication issues, addiction, trauma and working with the LGBTQ community.
Addiction, anxiety, trauma, communication and life changes are some challenges I work with. Offering individual and couples modalities.
(504) 285-5963 View (504) 285-5963
Photo of Brandy Sheth, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandy Sheth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70001
I work with the LGBTQ community and young adults finding purpose in their lives.
Do you feel sad, anxious, stressed out, and just getting by? Do you have trouble sleeping or just not happy with the direction your life is going? Are you struggling with addiction or relationship issues? By making the brave decision to attend therapy, we can work on these issues resulting in less anxiety and depression and improved quality of life. I am a licensed professional counselor with over 18 years experience. I specialize in anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
I work with the LGBTQ community and young adults finding purpose in their lives.
Do you feel sad, anxious, stressed out, and just getting by? Do you have trouble sleeping or just not happy with the direction your life is going? Are you struggling with addiction or relationship issues? By making the brave decision to attend therapy, we can work on these issues resulting in less anxiety and depression and improved quality of life. I am a licensed professional counselor with over 18 years experience. I specialize in anxiety, depression and relationship issues.
(504) 684-5260 View (504) 684-5260
Photo of @ Darius - Anjali Healing Arts, LLC, MA, MHP, RYT-500
Anjali Healing Arts, LLC
MA, MHP, RYT-500
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70001
My specialties include Personal and Spiritual Growth; C-PTSD; Masculinity and Men's Issues, Disordered Eating, Weight and Body Image Issues, Substance Abuse, Sex and Sexuality, Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Intimacy Difficulties, LGBT/ Queer Couples and Concerns, and Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention/Stress Reduction/Pain Management.
How you see yourself might be deeply influenced by the emotional distress, negative thought patterns, or destructive and addictive behaviors you struggle with. As a Holistic Health Practitioner, I believe these conditions cover up, rather than define, who you truly are. My unique approach to holistic health and wellness encourages a balanced integration of the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of your wellbeing. I'd like to support you in creating optimal conditions for the safe, mindful, and deep exploration of your innate capacity for self-healing and radical transformation.
My specialties include Personal and Spiritual Growth; C-PTSD; Masculinity and Men's Issues, Disordered Eating, Weight and Body Image Issues, Substance Abuse, Sex and Sexuality, Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Intimacy Difficulties, LGBT/ Queer Couples and Concerns, and Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention/Stress Reduction/Pain Management.
How you see yourself might be deeply influenced by the emotional distress, negative thought patterns, or destructive and addictive behaviors you struggle with. As a Holistic Health Practitioner, I believe these conditions cover up, rather than define, who you truly are. My unique approach to holistic health and wellness encourages a balanced integration of the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of your wellbeing. I'd like to support you in creating optimal conditions for the safe, mindful, and deep exploration of your innate capacity for self-healing and radical transformation.
(504) 882-9581 View (504) 882-9581
Photo of Aryane S. Williams, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aryane S. Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70005  (Online Only)
Through the use of Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), I specialize in treating those dealing with anxiety and depression, minority/multicultural challenges, trauma, behavior issues, substance use and LGBTQIA couples and individuals.
I believe that the counseling process is a journey between the therapist and client where we collectively develop a treatment plan to address areas of concern. Although each person may enter therapy for different reasons, my intent is to identify and work toward goals of the client becoming a happy, healthier and well adjusted being.
Through the use of Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), I specialize in treating those dealing with anxiety and depression, minority/multicultural challenges, trauma, behavior issues, substance use and LGBTQIA couples and individuals.
I believe that the counseling process is a journey between the therapist and client where we collectively develop a treatment plan to address areas of concern. Although each person may enter therapy for different reasons, my intent is to identify and work toward goals of the client becoming a happy, healthier and well adjusted being.
(504) 217-2021 View (504) 217-2021
Photo of Cameron Schaefer, MA, PLPC
Cameron Schaefer
Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Metairie, LA 70001
I’m also interested in working with LGBTQIA+ folks and individuals on the pregnancy/post-partum journey and those struggling with pelvic floor-related issues.
Taking the next step to being a you that you love is empowering and exciting, daunting and scary, but it is something that can be life changing. I believe a collaborative partnership between you and your therapist is crucial whether you want to achieve specific goals or if you simply need a safe space to explore what’s going on in that head of yours. I can’t be a tow truck to get you out of life’s sticky situations, but I can be the guardrail to keep you on the road toward a better version of you. We’ve all been someone trying to figure out our place in this world and my hope is to be a resource for you or your kiddo.
I’m also interested in working with LGBTQIA+ folks and individuals on the pregnancy/post-partum journey and those struggling with pelvic floor-related issues.
Taking the next step to being a you that you love is empowering and exciting, daunting and scary, but it is something that can be life changing. I believe a collaborative partnership between you and your therapist is crucial whether you want to achieve specific goals or if you simply need a safe space to explore what’s going on in that head of yours. I can’t be a tow truck to get you out of life’s sticky situations, but I can be the guardrail to keep you on the road toward a better version of you. We’ve all been someone trying to figure out our place in this world and my hope is to be a resource for you or your kiddo.
(504) 608-3255 View (504) 608-3255
Photo of Katherine McGuire, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine McGuire
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Metairie, LA 70005
I have also worked with clients suffering due to systemic issues such as racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, and weight stigma.
Are you suffering or having a hard time coping? Do your feelings or behaviors feel out of control? Has your relationship lost that spark or is tension increasing? Often, our attempts to manage our stress and pain can end up creating more pain for us. In therapy, I will provide a space that is safe and free of judgment, so we can work together to explore the changes you envision for yourself and your relationships. Change can be scary but we will build off the strengths and resources you already have that make change feel possible.
I have also worked with clients suffering due to systemic issues such as racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, and weight stigma.
Are you suffering or having a hard time coping? Do your feelings or behaviors feel out of control? Has your relationship lost that spark or is tension increasing? Often, our attempts to manage our stress and pain can end up creating more pain for us. In therapy, I will provide a space that is safe and free of judgment, so we can work together to explore the changes you envision for yourself and your relationships. Change can be scary but we will build off the strengths and resources you already have that make change feel possible.
(504) 688-3863 View (504) 688-3863
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.