LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Ayer, MA

Photo of Laura Ucci - Serenity Pathways Counseling, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serenity Pathways Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ayer, MA 01432  (Online Only)
My focus is on revealing the inherent strength, resilience, and capabilities within each of my clients. Despite life's challenges, I believe in fostering hope for a brighter future. My therapeutic approach offers client-centered and trauma-informed individual therapy. I tailor each session to address the unique needs of my clients. Specializing in PTSD, bereavement (grief) and loss, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder, I bring a holistic perspective to my practice.
My focus is on revealing the inherent strength, resilience, and capabilities within each of my clients. Despite life's challenges, I believe in fostering hope for a brighter future. My therapeutic approach offers client-centered and trauma-informed individual therapy. I tailor each session to address the unique needs of my clients. Specializing in PTSD, bereavement (grief) and loss, bipolar disorder, and schizoaffective disorder, I bring a holistic perspective to my practice.
(978) 543-1447 View (978) 543-1447
Photo of Denise Rogers, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Ayer, MA 01432  (Online Only)
In today's world, mental health support is needed more than ever. Mental health IS health. It's time to end the stigma and realize it's okay to not be okay. Finding a therapist can be a daunting process but congratulations on taking the first step! As a therapist, I aim to foster an environment that is warm, collaborative, supportive, and nonjudgmental. I'm a licensed independent clinical social worker in Massachusetts and earned my Masters in Social Work degree from Boston College. I also have a Bachelor's degree in history.
In today's world, mental health support is needed more than ever. Mental health IS health. It's time to end the stigma and realize it's okay to not be okay. Finding a therapist can be a daunting process but congratulations on taking the first step! As a therapist, I aim to foster an environment that is warm, collaborative, supportive, and nonjudgmental. I'm a licensed independent clinical social worker in Massachusetts and earned my Masters in Social Work degree from Boston College. I also have a Bachelor's degree in history.
(978) 801-4328 View (978) 801-4328
Photo of Hilary Curtis, PhD, LMHC, CCATP, CAIMHP, Counselor
Hilary Curtis
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CCATP, CAIMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ayer, MA 01432
Waitlist for new clients
Co-Founder of Maxant & Curtis Mental Health. Finding a therapist is about the "match" as much as about the skill and experience of the clinician. I find that clients who feel the "match" with my work are looking for a practical dialogue about active problem solving, as well as feelings of trust and connection. The journey to find a matching therapist can be frustrating, and I work with clients to identify that early in the process. In therapy, some of our most difficult thoughts and feelings need a safe and supportive place to be heard, and ensuring that our work will be safe and respectful to your needs is goal number one.
Co-Founder of Maxant & Curtis Mental Health. Finding a therapist is about the "match" as much as about the skill and experience of the clinician. I find that clients who feel the "match" with my work are looking for a practical dialogue about active problem solving, as well as feelings of trust and connection. The journey to find a matching therapist can be frustrating, and I work with clients to identify that early in the process. In therapy, some of our most difficult thoughts and feelings need a safe and supportive place to be heard, and ensuring that our work will be safe and respectful to your needs is goal number one.
(978) 796-5054 View (978) 796-5054
Photo of Christa Maxant, LMHC, CFMHE, CCCE, Counselor
Christa Maxant
Counselor, LMHC, CFMHE, CCCE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ayer, MA 01432
Not accepting new clients
You can find more information about me at https://www.mcmentalhealth.com **Not accepting new clients** Finding a counselor can be stressful. I feel that the relationship between therapist and client is the most important part of therapy. My approach is direct and without judgment and I will challenge and support you in making meaningful change in your life. Our goal is self-empowerment. I specialize in LGBTQIA+ / trans affirming therapy, sex and body positivity, trauma work, anxiety, grief/loss and self esteem building.
You can find more information about me at https://www.mcmentalhealth.com **Not accepting new clients** Finding a counselor can be stressful. I feel that the relationship between therapist and client is the most important part of therapy. My approach is direct and without judgment and I will challenge and support you in making meaningful change in your life. Our goal is self-empowerment. I specialize in LGBTQIA+ / trans affirming therapy, sex and body positivity, trauma work, anxiety, grief/loss and self esteem building.
(978) 796-5054 View (978) 796-5054
Photo of Amy Davidson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ayer, MA 01432
Not accepting new clients
You can find more information about me at https://www.mcmentalhealth.com - Reaching out for help can often be the hardest step. I strive to cultivate a down to earth and collaborative environment that is based on building trust and connection. Everyone's life experiences are unique and my role is to empower and support you in your process towards achieving your goals.
You can find more information about me at https://www.mcmentalhealth.com - Reaching out for help can often be the hardest step. I strive to cultivate a down to earth and collaborative environment that is based on building trust and connection. Everyone's life experiences are unique and my role is to empower and support you in your process towards achieving your goals.
(351) 200-4573 View (351) 200-4573
Photo of Paul Bail - Leominster Wellness - Dr. Paul Bail, Psychologist, PhD, Psychologist
Leominster Wellness - Dr. Paul Bail, Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ayer, MA 01432  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
[NOTE: TEMPORARILY FULL; NOT TAKING NEW CLIENTS NOW!!] 30 years of experience. Evening appointments. Concrete tools and suggestions. Holistic, Mind-Body approach, Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Positive Psychology. Energy Psychology. . . Specialities: (1) COUPLES & RELATIONSHIP THERAPY: improve communication, intimacy, affection. awareness of self-talk. -- (2) ANXIETY, PANIC, WORRY, OCD -- grounding and letting go (4) SELF-ACCEPTANCE, self-care. . .There doesn't have to be something "wrong" with you to seek counseling. . . Let me help you remember "what's right" with you (your strengths), and resolve what's distressing you
[NOTE: TEMPORARILY FULL; NOT TAKING NEW CLIENTS NOW!!] 30 years of experience. Evening appointments. Concrete tools and suggestions. Holistic, Mind-Body approach, Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Positive Psychology. Energy Psychology. . . Specialities: (1) COUPLES & RELATIONSHIP THERAPY: improve communication, intimacy, affection. awareness of self-talk. -- (2) ANXIETY, PANIC, WORRY, OCD -- grounding and letting go (4) SELF-ACCEPTANCE, self-care. . .There doesn't have to be something "wrong" with you to seek counseling. . . Let me help you remember "what's right" with you (your strengths), and resolve what's distressing you
(978) 571-9990 View (978) 571-9990

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Allison Scobie-Carroll - Scobie-Carroll Therapies, LICSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scobie-Carroll Therapies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Westford, MA 01886
I am a queer-identified individual and couples' therapist.
Taking the first step toward feeling more empowered, at ease or centered in your life is a brave one. I am here to walk alongside you as we identify your goals and work together to achieve them. I am a Clinical Social Worker with over 28 years of clinical experience and am licensed to practice in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Michigan, Vermont and Maine. My practice focus is in the provision of care to adults and couples, with particular emphasis on serving the LGBTQIA+ community, those navigating transition and poly/cnm relationships. I have an office located in Westford but use a telehealth platform for most visits.
I am a queer-identified individual and couples' therapist.
Taking the first step toward feeling more empowered, at ease or centered in your life is a brave one. I am here to walk alongside you as we identify your goals and work together to achieve them. I am a Clinical Social Worker with over 28 years of clinical experience and am licensed to practice in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Michigan, Vermont and Maine. My practice focus is in the provision of care to adults and couples, with particular emphasis on serving the LGBTQIA+ community, those navigating transition and poly/cnm relationships. I have an office located in Westford but use a telehealth platform for most visits.
(857) 336-1508 View (857) 336-1508
Photo of Gabrielle Arias, LMHC, RDT, MA, Counselor
Gabrielle Arias
Counselor, LMHC, RDT, MA
Verified Verified
Littleton, MA 01460  (Online Only)
I am a queer Latiné who uses she/her and they/them pronouns.
Are you an adolescent or adult seeking support for mood, anxiety, or identity struggles? Do you need extra guidance on ways to manage symptoms that are getting in the way of school, work, home, or relationships? Have you been questioning your sexuality, gender, or romantic orientation and are looking for a queer competent provider to help you navigate those complicated dynamics? Are you managing difficult life transitions? If any of this sounds like you or your loved one, know that you're not alone and you've come to the right place!
I am a queer Latiné who uses she/her and they/them pronouns.
Are you an adolescent or adult seeking support for mood, anxiety, or identity struggles? Do you need extra guidance on ways to manage symptoms that are getting in the way of school, work, home, or relationships? Have you been questioning your sexuality, gender, or romantic orientation and are looking for a queer competent provider to help you navigate those complicated dynamics? Are you managing difficult life transitions? If any of this sounds like you or your loved one, know that you're not alone and you've come to the right place!
(978) 945-3812 View (978) 945-3812
Photo of Paul Gould, PhD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Gould
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chelmsford, MA 01824
Your life is complicated, and you are doing your best to keep all the pieces organized. Some aspects of your life are out of alignment and causing distress, anxiety, and leaving you unfulfilled. Maybe some experiences have stripped away your sense of control, self-worth, and dignity. It’s hard to admit that. My clients are motivated to improve the quality of their lives. They may not know exactly how to make this happen when we begin working together, but they know they want to be healthier and happier. In addition, many of my clients identify as LGBTQ+ and prefer to work with someone that is part of the community.
Your life is complicated, and you are doing your best to keep all the pieces organized. Some aspects of your life are out of alignment and causing distress, anxiety, and leaving you unfulfilled. Maybe some experiences have stripped away your sense of control, self-worth, and dignity. It’s hard to admit that. My clients are motivated to improve the quality of their lives. They may not know exactly how to make this happen when we begin working together, but they know they want to be healthier and happier. In addition, many of my clients identify as LGBTQ+ and prefer to work with someone that is part of the community.
(978) 226-4912 View (978) 226-4912
Photo of Nick DeCourcey, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nick DeCourcey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Leominster, MA 01453  (Online Only)
I also specialize in strategies for overcoming specific obstacles, such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and conflict related to LGBTQIA+ identities.
Do you ever feel like there’s a version of yourself you really want to be, but something's holding you back? I get it, and you’re not alone. There are many reasons that make us want to “be better”, so that we can be more in harmony in our relationships, so that we can be as productive as we want to be in our careers, so that we can be kinder to ourselves and have more confidence. I'm all about helping people figure out who they are and becoming the best version of themselves. I'm here to help you overcome the things that are stopping you from being the "you" you want to be.
I also specialize in strategies for overcoming specific obstacles, such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and conflict related to LGBTQIA+ identities.
Do you ever feel like there’s a version of yourself you really want to be, but something's holding you back? I get it, and you’re not alone. There are many reasons that make us want to “be better”, so that we can be more in harmony in our relationships, so that we can be as productive as we want to be in our careers, so that we can be kinder to ourselves and have more confidence. I'm all about helping people figure out who they are and becoming the best version of themselves. I'm here to help you overcome the things that are stopping you from being the "you" you want to be.
(978) 704-7072 View (978) 704-7072
Photo of Erika Reimers - Erika Reimers LICSW, LLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika Reimers LICSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01718
I’ve supported multiple clients in the LGBTQIA+ community who have had experiences with transitioning, dysphoria, bullying and differences of views with family members.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in private practice with over a decade of experience working with adolescents and their families in their homes and in the community. In addition to working with adolescents and their family's I see young adults ages 18-35 virtually. I do my best work with adolescents who “don’t like therapy” or who have struggled to connect or engage with other therapists in the past. This happens for lots of reasons–but one major one is that sometimes sitting in an office staring at one another just feels too threatening.
I’ve supported multiple clients in the LGBTQIA+ community who have had experiences with transitioning, dysphoria, bullying and differences of views with family members.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in private practice with over a decade of experience working with adolescents and their families in their homes and in the community. In addition to working with adolescents and their family's I see young adults ages 18-35 virtually. I do my best work with adolescents who “don’t like therapy” or who have struggled to connect or engage with other therapists in the past. This happens for lots of reasons–but one major one is that sometimes sitting in an office staring at one another just feels too threatening.
(978) 605-4681 View (978) 605-4681
Photo of Amy Scobie-Carroll, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Scobie-Carroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Westford, MA 01886
I am LGBTQ and poly affirming.
Starting therapy can be the first step in making meaningful change in your life. You may be seeking therapy to explore a problem, change a pattern, recover from depression or anxiety, or improve relationships with others. Perhaps you are struggling with food or body image. If you are questioning your sexual orientation, coming out, and/or navigating gender identity, therapy should be a space where you feel seen and understood. Whatever your situation, it is possible to gain insight, solve problems, feel better, and be the best version of you.
I am LGBTQ and poly affirming.
Starting therapy can be the first step in making meaningful change in your life. You may be seeking therapy to explore a problem, change a pattern, recover from depression or anxiety, or improve relationships with others. Perhaps you are struggling with food or body image. If you are questioning your sexual orientation, coming out, and/or navigating gender identity, therapy should be a space where you feel seen and understood. Whatever your situation, it is possible to gain insight, solve problems, feel better, and be the best version of you.
(508) 321-6477 View (508) 321-6477
Photo of Emily Hogan, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Hogan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m glad you’re here. We all face challenges in life, and you are worth the support you're seeking. I am a unique fit for you if you identify as LGBTQIA+, chronically ill, and/or neurodivergent (these often overlap, especially with EDS, POTS, ME/CFS, autoimmune conditions). Perhaps you are here because you are facing medical trauma, new or ongoing disability, adult diagnosis of ADHD/autism, or concerns about sexuality/gender. If you would like support with trauma, I am fully EMDR trained. I am also a perinatal mental health specialist and can support you through all aspects of your fertility, pregnancy, or parenthood journey.
Hello! I’m glad you’re here. We all face challenges in life, and you are worth the support you're seeking. I am a unique fit for you if you identify as LGBTQIA+, chronically ill, and/or neurodivergent (these often overlap, especially with EDS, POTS, ME/CFS, autoimmune conditions). Perhaps you are here because you are facing medical trauma, new or ongoing disability, adult diagnosis of ADHD/autism, or concerns about sexuality/gender. If you would like support with trauma, I am fully EMDR trained. I am also a perinatal mental health specialist and can support you through all aspects of your fertility, pregnancy, or parenthood journey.
(978) 485-4824 View (978) 485-4824
Photo of Grace Wexler, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Grace Wexler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westford, MA 01886
I bring a trauma informed and heartfelt exploration to LGBTQIA+ and TGNC experiences, religious trauma, depression, anxiety and climate anxiety and practice from a body affirming perspective.
I believe deeply in the healing power of human connection and relationship. Whatever you are facing today that might feel insurmountable, let’s work together to guide you to a place of self knowing, stability and compassion. I believe in practicing through an anti-oppressive framework and approach therapy as a collaboration between myself and my client. you are the expert of your life, I'll come alongside you to guide and support through new skills, ideas and emotional explorations. I love working with all ages and am particularly passionate about adult and older adult communities.
I bring a trauma informed and heartfelt exploration to LGBTQIA+ and TGNC experiences, religious trauma, depression, anxiety and climate anxiety and practice from a body affirming perspective.
I believe deeply in the healing power of human connection and relationship. Whatever you are facing today that might feel insurmountable, let’s work together to guide you to a place of self knowing, stability and compassion. I believe in practicing through an anti-oppressive framework and approach therapy as a collaboration between myself and my client. you are the expert of your life, I'll come alongside you to guide and support through new skills, ideas and emotional explorations. I love working with all ages and am particularly passionate about adult and older adult communities.
(978) 616-6656 View (978) 616-6656
Photo of Kerry Rollins - Rollins Counseling Center , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rollins Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Westford, MA 01886
We work with people from diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ and first responders.
Rollins Counseling Center offers individual and family counseling to children, adolescents, and adults. We offer Telehealth or in-person visits in our Westford and Shrewsbury locations. Our clinicians utilize evidence-based therapies to effectively treat a wide range of issues that affect one’s quality of life. Treatment modalities include psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, mind-body approaches, animal-assisted therapy, EMDR and trauma-focused therapies.
We work with people from diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ and first responders.
Rollins Counseling Center offers individual and family counseling to children, adolescents, and adults. We offer Telehealth or in-person visits in our Westford and Shrewsbury locations. Our clinicians utilize evidence-based therapies to effectively treat a wide range of issues that affect one’s quality of life. Treatment modalities include psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, mind-body approaches, animal-assisted therapy, EMDR and trauma-focused therapies.
(978) 999-2165 View (978) 999-2165
Photo of Rollins Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rollins Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Westford, MA 01886
We treat depression, anxiety, substance use, stress-related issues, trauma, self-esteem issues, mood disorders, grief and loss, LGBTQ, and first responders.
Rollins Counseling Center offers individual and family counseling to adolescents and adults. We offer Telehealth! In-person visits are available in our Westford location and will be available in our Marlborough location in December, 2021. We have a team of licensed clinicians that utilize evidenced based therapies to effectively treat a wide range of issues that affect one’s quality of life. Treatment modalities include psychodynamic therapy, CBT, family systems, mind-body approaches, hypnotherapy and EMDR.
We treat depression, anxiety, substance use, stress-related issues, trauma, self-esteem issues, mood disorders, grief and loss, LGBTQ, and first responders.
Rollins Counseling Center offers individual and family counseling to adolescents and adults. We offer Telehealth! In-person visits are available in our Westford location and will be available in our Marlborough location in December, 2021. We have a team of licensed clinicians that utilize evidenced based therapies to effectively treat a wide range of issues that affect one’s quality of life. Treatment modalities include psychodynamic therapy, CBT, family systems, mind-body approaches, hypnotherapy and EMDR.
(978) 999-2165 View (978) 999-2165
Photo of Dr. Melissa Coffey, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Melissa Coffey
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pepperell, MA 01463
Melissa Coffey, PsyD, is a pre-licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children and adolescents. Melissa has a plethora of experience in the school setting as well as the clinical setting. Her background includes trauma informed care, family systems, psychoeducational assessment, as well as LGBTQIA+ youth. Her research includes implementing positive psychology into complex systems to increase the level of wellbeing in the work environment.
Melissa Coffey, PsyD, is a pre-licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children and adolescents. Melissa has a plethora of experience in the school setting as well as the clinical setting. Her background includes trauma informed care, family systems, psychoeducational assessment, as well as LGBTQIA+ youth. Her research includes implementing positive psychology into complex systems to increase the level of wellbeing in the work environment.
(339) 500-7899 View (339) 500-7899
Photo of Nicole Jean Larocque, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Jean Larocque
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Concerns addressed; anxiety, mood disorder, trauma or difficult past events, grief and loss, coping with medical illness; both treatment of yourself or a loved one, healthy adjustment to life transitions (job changes, new parenthood, retirement, aging, support for parents of LGBTQ+ youth).
I am a clinical social worker passionate about helping people find ways to their best selves. I provide a safe and supportive environment for the client in search of self-understanding. I believe people have the capacity to feel content, grateful and joyful but a lot of the time our preconceived notions of ourselves get in the way. Everyday I am amazed at people's resilience.
Concerns addressed; anxiety, mood disorder, trauma or difficult past events, grief and loss, coping with medical illness; both treatment of yourself or a loved one, healthy adjustment to life transitions (job changes, new parenthood, retirement, aging, support for parents of LGBTQ+ youth).
I am a clinical social worker passionate about helping people find ways to their best selves. I provide a safe and supportive environment for the client in search of self-understanding. I believe people have the capacity to feel content, grateful and joyful but a lot of the time our preconceived notions of ourselves get in the way. Everyday I am amazed at people's resilience.
(617) 826-1589 View (617) 826-1589
Photo of Brittany Haley, LMHC
Brittany Haley
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westford, MA 01886
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that mental health should be accessible and fully sensitive to the needs of all clients racially, culturally, from the LGBTQ+ community, ages, and needs.
NOW providing LMHC Supervision Collaboration and finding a rhythm that works for a therapeutic relationship is one of the most important beginnings in any relationship and one that I find important to grow. I believe in affordable and accessible mental health care that works for you, the client. I will work with around what you can afford to make taking care of yourself easier. I believe that we are all living a collective human experience that my role is to witness and walk next to you while you guide your own journey through treatment.
I believe that mental health should be accessible and fully sensitive to the needs of all clients racially, culturally, from the LGBTQ+ community, ages, and needs.
NOW providing LMHC Supervision Collaboration and finding a rhythm that works for a therapeutic relationship is one of the most important beginnings in any relationship and one that I find important to grow. I believe in affordable and accessible mental health care that works for you, the client. I will work with around what you can afford to make taking care of yourself easier. I believe that we are all living a collective human experience that my role is to witness and walk next to you while you guide your own journey through treatment.
(781) 253-8782 View (781) 253-8782
Photo of Yaileen Celado, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Yaileen Celado
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leominster, MA 01453
Waitlist for new clients
We’re not meant to deal with our problems alone, so let's figure it out together. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 8+ years of experience working with children and adults. I’m excited to help people work through a range of concerns, like stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, foster/adoptive transitions, co-parenting, adjustment issues, and identity development. I’m particularly passionate about providing culturally-sensitive and empowering therapy services to the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities.
We’re not meant to deal with our problems alone, so let's figure it out together. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 8+ years of experience working with children and adults. I’m excited to help people work through a range of concerns, like stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, foster/adoptive transitions, co-parenting, adjustment issues, and identity development. I’m particularly passionate about providing culturally-sensitive and empowering therapy services to the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities.
(978) 788-9564 View (978) 788-9564

See more therapy options for Ayer

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.