Photo of Alaiyia Nicole Williams - BACH Therapeutic Counseling Services, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
BACH Therapeutic Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70122  (Online Only)
Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist who specializes in working with Transgender and Gender-Non-Conforming individuals; as well as therapeutic interventions specific to issues often faced by individuals of the LGBTQ+ Community.
Feeling overwhelmed? Are you having feelings of nervousness and sadness related to how the world perceives you? Do you feel unheard, as if no one understands the issues you face or the traumas you endure? Living in a world that is sometimes unkind to those of us who make up marginalized populations can have long-lasting effects on one’s mental health and overall quality of life. If you have ever experienced any of these feelings, Ms. Alaiyia N. Williams, is the perfect fit for your therapy and counseling needs. She has been practicing as a licensed clinician for nearly 10 years in a variety of settings and in various states.
Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist who specializes in working with Transgender and Gender-Non-Conforming individuals; as well as therapeutic interventions specific to issues often faced by individuals of the LGBTQ+ Community.
Feeling overwhelmed? Are you having feelings of nervousness and sadness related to how the world perceives you? Do you feel unheard, as if no one understands the issues you face or the traumas you endure? Living in a world that is sometimes unkind to those of us who make up marginalized populations can have long-lasting effects on one’s mental health and overall quality of life. If you have ever experienced any of these feelings, Ms. Alaiyia N. Williams, is the perfect fit for your therapy and counseling needs. She has been practicing as a licensed clinician for nearly 10 years in a variety of settings and in various states.
(504) 553-3997 View (504) 553-3997
Photo of Bobbi Kizer, PhD, Psychologist
Bobbi Kizer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70124
In addition to general therapy, I specialize in affirmative therapy for sexual orientation, transgender identity (including gender transition), and multicultural issues.
*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).
In addition to general therapy, I specialize in affirmative therapy for sexual orientation, transgender identity (including gender transition), and multicultural issues.
*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 Chris Howard, LPC, MHS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris Howard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70117
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 Laurie Lichtenstein Bonura, LMSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Lichtenstein Bonura
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MEd
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70118
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 Sanna J Clark, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sanna J Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70119
I have a lot of experience with all types of disordered eating, as well as the LGBTQ+ population.
May/June ’24: Sanna is now accepting new clients. Starting therapy is incredibly brave. You might not know where to begin, or even what could be wrong. You may wonder if change is even possible. All of this is normal, and I will help guide you through what can be an incredibly rewarding, but at times challenging experience. My name is Sanna, and I have gone through this firsthand as well. Together we will explore your past and present to find deeper meaning that will allow for healing and transformation, while also addressing symptoms and finding practical solutions. If you're looking for something deeper, you're in the right place.
I have a lot of experience with all types of disordered eating, as well as the LGBTQ+ population.
May/June ’24: Sanna is now accepting new clients. Starting therapy is incredibly brave. You might not know where to begin, or even what could be wrong. You may wonder if change is even possible. All of this is normal, and I will help guide you through what can be an incredibly rewarding, but at times challenging experience. My name is Sanna, and I have gone through this firsthand as well. Together we will explore your past and present to find deeper meaning that will allow for healing and transformation, while also addressing symptoms and finding practical solutions. If you're looking for something deeper, you're in the right place.
(504) 717-4612 View (504) 717-4612
Photo of Michael L. Benjamin-Robinson - BACH Therapeutic Counseling Services, DSW, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
BACH Therapeutic Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70127
Benjamin-Robinson's specialties also include therapy for anxiety, depression, alcohol/drug abuse, life coaching, and LGBTQ related issues.
Relationship/Marriage Problems? Do you feel like your significant other is not on the same page with you - that he or she is not hearing you? Building and maintaining a healthy relationship requires love, commitment, communication, trust and respect. BACH clinician, Dr. Michael L. Benjamin-Robinson has several years of experience assisting couples navigate through complex relationship issues. He possess the necessary facilitation skills to mediate a fair and balanced dialogue that is constructive as well as therapeutic.
Benjamin-Robinson's specialties also include therapy for anxiety, depression, alcohol/drug abuse, life coaching, and LGBTQ related issues.
Relationship/Marriage Problems? Do you feel like your significant other is not on the same page with you - that he or she is not hearing you? Building and maintaining a healthy relationship requires love, commitment, communication, trust and respect. BACH clinician, Dr. Michael L. Benjamin-Robinson has several years of experience assisting couples navigate through complex relationship issues. He possess the necessary facilitation skills to mediate a fair and balanced dialogue that is constructive as well as therapeutic.
(504) 579-8307 View (504) 579-8307
Photo of Paul Doyen, MS, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Doyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70119
I am LGBTQIA+ friendly and have worked with clients with diverse racial, gender and sexual identities.
People entering therapy are often overwhelmed with distressing thoughts and emotions. Others feel stuck repeating destructive behaviors or chasing dissatisfying relationships. Many clients have tried therapy in the past and want a deeper approach that gets to the root of their issues.
I am LGBTQIA+ friendly and have worked with clients with diverse racial, gender and sexual identities.
People entering therapy are often overwhelmed with distressing thoughts and emotions. Others feel stuck repeating destructive behaviors or chasing dissatisfying relationships. Many clients have tried therapy in the past and want a deeper approach that gets to the root of their issues.
(504) 420-9156 View (504) 420-9156
Photo of Susan Woodard, PhD, LMFT, MDiv, CMAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Woodard
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MDiv, CMAT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70115  (Online Only)
I welcome the LGBTQ community.
Chances are you're struggling to understand some area of your life, feeling stuck, hoping for new possibilities and outcomes. Maybe now is the time to reevaluate what you really want out of life and to make some changes. Perhaps the situation that has you most frustrated is providing you with an opportunity to look deep within yourself at the person you most fully want to be. I believe therapy is a partnership in which my responsibility is to provide you a safe, nonjudgmental and supportive space where you can bring whatever issues you wish to explore.
I welcome the LGBTQ community.
Chances are you're struggling to understand some area of your life, feeling stuck, hoping for new possibilities and outcomes. Maybe now is the time to reevaluate what you really want out of life and to make some changes. Perhaps the situation that has you most frustrated is providing you with an opportunity to look deep within yourself at the person you most fully want to be. I believe therapy is a partnership in which my responsibility is to provide you a safe, nonjudgmental and supportive space where you can bring whatever issues you wish to explore.
(855) 791-4528 View (855) 791-4528
Photo of Blair Boggs, MSW, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Blair Boggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70115  (Online Only)
I am open to working with non traditional family/dating styles, LGBTQ+, gender identity, and I am kink/sex positive.
Looking for help in these stressful times? Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed? Grieving from loss or isolation due to the pandemic? Trouble regulating emotions? Difficulty setting boundaries? I would love the opportunity to meet and discuss goals that you would like to achieve. I am a very open, warm, inviting person with zero judgement. I am trauma informed in my practice.
I am open to working with non traditional family/dating styles, LGBTQ+, gender identity, and I am kink/sex positive.
Looking for help in these stressful times? Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed? Grieving from loss or isolation due to the pandemic? Trouble regulating emotions? Difficulty setting boundaries? I would love the opportunity to meet and discuss goals that you would like to achieve. I am a very open, warm, inviting person with zero judgement. I am trauma informed in my practice.
(504) 677-8423 View (504) 677-8423
Photo of Mary Parrish, PhD, LPC-S, LPA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Parrish
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LPA
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70117  (Online Only)
What went wrong this time?" You find yourself asking. Every day, there's something new; you're so tired of the arguments, accusations, and lies. Some days you want to work it out, others you're ready to leave. But one thing is clear- you have to figure out how to make it stop. You're stuck- unable to make a decision or communicate what you want and need. Not that it matters; they don't listen anyway. They're controlling & unreasonable. "Should I stay or go?" Wondering if it's possible to save this relationship or what life would be like alone. You're hurt, lost, and feeling unloved. Tired of trying to figure this out on your own.
What went wrong this time?" You find yourself asking. Every day, there's something new; you're so tired of the arguments, accusations, and lies. Some days you want to work it out, others you're ready to leave. But one thing is clear- you have to figure out how to make it stop. You're stuck- unable to make a decision or communicate what you want and need. Not that it matters; they don't listen anyway. They're controlling & unreasonable. "Should I stay or go?" Wondering if it's possible to save this relationship or what life would be like alone. You're hurt, lost, and feeling unloved. Tired of trying to figure this out on your own.
(504) 285-2894 View (504) 285-2894
Photo of Joe Vega, LCSW, BACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joe Vega
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70119
Have you always done what you think you should be doing, only to feel isolated and empty within? Are feelings of shame, guilt, and worry taking over your life? You are not alone in your struggles, and there is help. Together, we can work towards helping you understand your emotional life and its roots while gaining a deeper understanding of who you are. In your journey of life, you’ve taken a step towards change, improving your quality of life and increasing your awareness and understanding of yourself. It took a lot of courage to look for help, and I would consider it a privilege to join you on your journey of healing.
Have you always done what you think you should be doing, only to feel isolated and empty within? Are feelings of shame, guilt, and worry taking over your life? You are not alone in your struggles, and there is help. Together, we can work towards helping you understand your emotional life and its roots while gaining a deeper understanding of who you are. In your journey of life, you’ve taken a step towards change, improving your quality of life and increasing your awareness and understanding of yourself. It took a lot of courage to look for help, and I would consider it a privilege to join you on your journey of healing.
(504) 732-9893 View (504) 732-9893
Photo of Marie Cordray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marie Cordray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70117  (Online Only)
Therapy is a vital investment into your own wellbeing and can be incredibly transformative. If you’re experiencing emotional distress, relationship conflict, or looking to better understand recurring patterns that you’ve noticed in your life, you’ve come to the right place. If you’re looking for a compassionate space to explore your identity or to safely process trauma, I would be honored to provide that for you. I know that change can feel daunting. Seeking help is a kind thing to do for yourself, and I’m really proud of you for finding your way here! We will work together to identify your needs and the best way to address them.
Therapy is a vital investment into your own wellbeing and can be incredibly transformative. If you’re experiencing emotional distress, relationship conflict, or looking to better understand recurring patterns that you’ve noticed in your life, you’ve come to the right place. If you’re looking for a compassionate space to explore your identity or to safely process trauma, I would be honored to provide that for you. I know that change can feel daunting. Seeking help is a kind thing to do for yourself, and I’m really proud of you for finding your way here! We will work together to identify your needs and the best way to address them.
(504) 470-0864 View (504) 470-0864
Photo of Mary Grace Wagner - BACH Therapeutic Counseling Services, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
BACH Therapeutic Counseling Services
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70127
Feeling overwhelmed? Do you ever feel stress and anxiety are so paralyzing, that everyday tasks feel almost impossible? While stress and anxiety are natural emotions, that doesn’t mean you have to face them alone. Mary Grace Wagner, LMSW has experience helping individuals cope and live with anxiety, depression, and stress of any magnitude. She possesses the necessary skills to help clients develop healthy coping mechanisms to manage stressful emotions and life events that are constructive as well as therapeutic.
Feeling overwhelmed? Do you ever feel stress and anxiety are so paralyzing, that everyday tasks feel almost impossible? While stress and anxiety are natural emotions, that doesn’t mean you have to face them alone. Mary Grace Wagner, LMSW has experience helping individuals cope and live with anxiety, depression, and stress of any magnitude. She possesses the necessary skills to help clients develop healthy coping mechanisms to manage stressful emotions and life events that are constructive as well as therapeutic.
(504) 321-5686 View (504) 321-5686
Photo of Philip C Katner, LMSW, ISSTD, ASCH, TIST, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Philip C Katner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ISSTD, ASCH, TIST, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70119  (Online Only)
Mental clarity, emotional well-being, and inhabiting your body are birthrights. You claim them. Many of our struggles reflect external transgressions and neglect by others, society, life, or our trauma-clouded time. All readily unbalance us. I approach psychotherapy collaboratively, aiding you in fortifying the rigor and vitality of your overall health. Please invite me to serve you, creating the change you envision.
Mental clarity, emotional well-being, and inhabiting your body are birthrights. You claim them. Many of our struggles reflect external transgressions and neglect by others, society, life, or our trauma-clouded time. All readily unbalance us. I approach psychotherapy collaboratively, aiding you in fortifying the rigor and vitality of your overall health. Please invite me to serve you, creating the change you envision.
(504) 294-5619 View (504) 294-5619
Photo of Virginia Allen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Virginia Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70130
If you are currently going through struggles in life or hitting some obstacles, know that it's normal and it happens to all of us at various times. Anxiety and depressive symptoms often arise as a result. The question is, how are you coping? Sometimes without being aware of it, we develop destructive coping mechanisms by masking or shoving things down. With over 20 years of experience I help guide clients towards healthier tools to live a more functional and fulfilling life, and improve relationships along the way. Above all else the key component centers around self care, learning to take care of you.
If you are currently going through struggles in life or hitting some obstacles, know that it's normal and it happens to all of us at various times. Anxiety and depressive symptoms often arise as a result. The question is, how are you coping? Sometimes without being aware of it, we develop destructive coping mechanisms by masking or shoving things down. With over 20 years of experience I help guide clients towards healthier tools to live a more functional and fulfilling life, and improve relationships along the way. Above all else the key component centers around self care, learning to take care of you.
(678) 665-5153 View (678) 665-5153
Photo of Elizabeth Colistra, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Colistra
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70112
A Jungian approach to psychotherapy and analysis helps you understand the hidden influences affecting your everyday life. Working together, we will uncover patterns and dynamics which may be self-sabotaging or limiting you from being your full self. As you learn to connect with the unconscious, unrecognized aspects of your self can be integrated into your overall personality contributing to a greater sense of wholeness. Throughout a Jungian process, imagination awakens, as well as your innate creative potential, leading to a more meaningful life.
A Jungian approach to psychotherapy and analysis helps you understand the hidden influences affecting your everyday life. Working together, we will uncover patterns and dynamics which may be self-sabotaging or limiting you from being your full self. As you learn to connect with the unconscious, unrecognized aspects of your self can be integrated into your overall personality contributing to a greater sense of wholeness. Throughout a Jungian process, imagination awakens, as well as your innate creative potential, leading to a more meaningful life.
(504) 608-0825 View (504) 608-0825
Photo of Janell Kalifey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janell Kalifey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70118
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 25 years of experience. My clients are mainly adults and young adults struggling with depression, anxiety, addictions, grief/loss, sexuality, relationships and stress. I also specialize in athlete mental health and sport performance issues. My office is located in Uptown New Orleans and easily accessible to Tulane and Loyola students. Please visit my website at www.janellkalifey.com
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 25 years of experience. My clients are mainly adults and young adults struggling with depression, anxiety, addictions, grief/loss, sexuality, relationships and stress. I also specialize in athlete mental health and sport performance issues. My office is located in Uptown New Orleans and easily accessible to Tulane and Loyola students. Please visit my website at www.janellkalifey.com
(504) 684-5316 View (504) 684-5316
Photo of Elizabeth Wellman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Wellman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Orleans, LA 70118  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience, my practice is centered on helping my clients find balance and deepen their ability to access true wellbeing. My work, both inpatient and outpatient, has ranged from helping adolescents bolster self esteem and coping skills on one end to helping adults who have suffered from mood and personality disorders on the other. My specialty, though, lies in the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders, and my work and anecdotal research has allowed me to develop a keen approach to the healing of these ailments on the path to achieving long term mental wellness.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience, my practice is centered on helping my clients find balance and deepen their ability to access true wellbeing. My work, both inpatient and outpatient, has ranged from helping adolescents bolster self esteem and coping skills on one end to helping adults who have suffered from mood and personality disorders on the other. My specialty, though, lies in the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders, and my work and anecdotal research has allowed me to develop a keen approach to the healing of these ailments on the path to achieving long term mental wellness.
(504) 321-5740 View (504) 321-5740
Photo of Gabrielle Lee - Gabrielle Lee - Sexual Trauma, Trauma & PTSD, MS, PLPC, NCC, Counselor
Gabrielle Lee - Sexual Trauma, Trauma & PTSD
Counselor, MS, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Orleans, LA 70119  (Online Only)
I am a PLPC with a passion for working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with trauma. I believe that through a combination of expressive arts and talk therapy, clients can achieve positive growth and healing. I hope my energetic and creative approach to therapy provides an environment where you feel welcomed, supported, and understood. I strive to consider your unique perspective and needs throughout the process of change by implementing various therapy modalities. My goal is to collaborate with you to help you feel empowered, supported, and encouraged throughout the therapeutic process.
I am a PLPC with a passion for working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with trauma. I believe that through a combination of expressive arts and talk therapy, clients can achieve positive growth and healing. I hope my energetic and creative approach to therapy provides an environment where you feel welcomed, supported, and understood. I strive to consider your unique perspective and needs throughout the process of change by implementing various therapy modalities. My goal is to collaborate with you to help you feel empowered, supported, and encouraged throughout the therapeutic process.
(504) 826-3140 View (504) 826-3140
Photo of Ibh Nola - Integrated Behavioral Health, MD, PhD, PMHNP, LCSW, LPC, PLPC
Integrated Behavioral Health
MD, PhD, PMHNP, LCSW, LPC, PLPC
Not Verified Not Verified
New Orleans, LA 70130
At IBH we are a multidisciplinary team focused on providing comprehensive care to patients ages 5 and older through In-Person visits and Telehealth. Our team includes: Morgan Feibelman, M.D., Jill McCall, M.D., Aldo Mejia, M.D., Jennifer Greco, M.D., Andrew Sander, M.D., Asa Pharr, M.D., Kellie Newman, PMHNP-BC, Blaine Grice, PMHNP-BC (also in BR), Karen Pellerin, PhD, Jonathan Nierman, LCSW, Daja Williams, M.S.,LPC, Valeria Rodriguez, PLMFT, Marcel Albritton, PHD, C-IAYT. Please visit our website www.IBHpsych.com for both Baton Rouge and New Orleans bios .
At IBH we are a multidisciplinary team focused on providing comprehensive care to patients ages 5 and older through In-Person visits and Telehealth. Our team includes: Morgan Feibelman, M.D., Jill McCall, M.D., Aldo Mejia, M.D., Jennifer Greco, M.D., Andrew Sander, M.D., Asa Pharr, M.D., Kellie Newman, PMHNP-BC, Blaine Grice, PMHNP-BC (also in BR), Karen Pellerin, PhD, Jonathan Nierman, LCSW, Daja Williams, M.S.,LPC, Valeria Rodriguez, PLMFT, Marcel Albritton, PHD, C-IAYT. Please visit our website www.IBHpsych.com for both Baton Rouge and New Orleans bios .
(504) 322-3837 View (504) 322-3837
1

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.