LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Grafton, MA

Photo of Rebecca Kushins - Online Therapist (She-Hers), MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Kushins - Online Therapist (She-Hers)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Grafton, MA 01519  (Online Only)
Internal Family Systems (IFS) - Level 2 Trained. You’ve tried a lot of things to help yourself - mindfulness, meditation, yoga, exercise and more. You are relieved for a time, until it all comes back, sometimes worse than before. On the outside, you pride yourself on being an intelligent person, a strong individual, a committed worker, a loyal friend. Perhaps you identify as a member of the LBGTQ+ community. Yet these days you find yourself spinning inside. You can’t shake these feelings of being out of control. Sometimes your behavior really is.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) - Level 2 Trained. You’ve tried a lot of things to help yourself - mindfulness, meditation, yoga, exercise and more. You are relieved for a time, until it all comes back, sometimes worse than before. On the outside, you pride yourself on being an intelligent person, a strong individual, a committed worker, a loyal friend. Perhaps you identify as a member of the LBGTQ+ community. Yet these days you find yourself spinning inside. You can’t shake these feelings of being out of control. Sometimes your behavior really is.
(508) 413-6406 View (508) 413-6406
Photo of Front Desk - Serenity Coaching and Counseling, LLC - , LMHC, LICSW, LADAC, CADAC, LMFT, Counselor
Serenity Coaching and Counseling, LLC -
Counselor, LMHC, LICSW, LADAC, CADAC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grafton, MA 01519
We are a GROUP PRIVATE PRACTICE focused on mental health or substance use COACHING and COUNSELING support for adults and teens. Our PROVIDERS have extensive experience and are independently LICENSED to practice or in process be under full apprenticeship. Our goal is to offer education and guidance to INDIVIDUALS, COUPLES, and FAMILIES dealing with a variety of issues that affect their MENTAL HEALTH, BALANCE, and WELL-BEING.
We are a GROUP PRIVATE PRACTICE focused on mental health or substance use COACHING and COUNSELING support for adults and teens. Our PROVIDERS have extensive experience and are independently LICENSED to practice or in process be under full apprenticeship. Our goal is to offer education and guidance to INDIVIDUALS, COUPLES, and FAMILIES dealing with a variety of issues that affect their MENTAL HEALTH, BALANCE, and WELL-BEING.
(508) 436-2608 View (508) 436-2608
Photo of Casey M Rickli, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Casey M Rickli
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grafton, MA 01519  (Online Only)
A happier life is within reach when we are able to let go of old behaviors and ways of thinking. Maybe you are feeling anxious, depressed or stuck in your life. You want to improve your relationships with yourself and those that you love. With curiosity and humor, I strive to create a safe, supportive and non-judgmental partnership with clients to promote healing, growth and change.
A happier life is within reach when we are able to let go of old behaviors and ways of thinking. Maybe you are feeling anxious, depressed or stuck in your life. You want to improve your relationships with yourself and those that you love. With curiosity and humor, I strive to create a safe, supportive and non-judgmental partnership with clients to promote healing, growth and change.
(774) 214-2688 View (774) 214-2688
Photo of Mary Kuchta - Mary K Counseling, LMHC, Counselor
Mary K Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grafton, MA 01519
Sometimes life can be messy and painful. Trauma affects our lives in many ways. The image of the phoenix rising from the ashes illustrates our potential to mend and begin anew. Hello, my name is Mary K. It would be my pleasure to accompany you on your personal journey of self-discovery and inner healing. I am a trauma focused therapist with three decades of experience working with children, families and adults. I encourage individuals to identify and nurture their inner strength through empowerment, talk therapy and a bit of life coaching. I will Assist you in your journey of rediscovering and loving your best authentic self.
Sometimes life can be messy and painful. Trauma affects our lives in many ways. The image of the phoenix rising from the ashes illustrates our potential to mend and begin anew. Hello, my name is Mary K. It would be my pleasure to accompany you on your personal journey of self-discovery and inner healing. I am a trauma focused therapist with three decades of experience working with children, families and adults. I encourage individuals to identify and nurture their inner strength through empowerment, talk therapy and a bit of life coaching. I will Assist you in your journey of rediscovering and loving your best authentic self.
(508) 355-3160 View (508) 355-3160
Photo of Liza Detenber, LICSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liza Detenber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Grafton, MA 01519  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In a busy, overwhelming, too-much world we all need to find ways to care for ourselves. Reaching out for therapy can be a way to carve out some space to nourish and connect to yourself. Maybe you're here because you feel overwhelmed and anxious. You know you have deep wisdom inside but the overwhelm is making it hard to access it. Perhaps there is self-judgment for feeling “too sensitive”. You’re doing big things yet you still feel small. You long to feel calm, centered, and connected. My grounded, intuitive, and collaborative approach can help!
In a busy, overwhelming, too-much world we all need to find ways to care for ourselves. Reaching out for therapy can be a way to carve out some space to nourish and connect to yourself. Maybe you're here because you feel overwhelmed and anxious. You know you have deep wisdom inside but the overwhelm is making it hard to access it. Perhaps there is self-judgment for feeling “too sensitive”. You’re doing big things yet you still feel small. You long to feel calm, centered, and connected. My grounded, intuitive, and collaborative approach can help!
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Photo of Bonnie J DeLorme - Whole Family Coaching, LLC, MMFT , CAS, LSW
Whole Family Coaching, LLC
MMFT , CAS, LSW
Verified Verified
Grafton, MA 01519
MY APPROACH IS UNIQUE AS I BELIEVE THAT GROWTH COMES FROM HAVING THE COURAGE TO FACE YOUR TRUTH AND CHALLENGE THE "STATUS QUO" IN A SAFE AND SUPPORTIVE SPACE. I AM SINCERE, DOWN TO EARTH, AND GENUINE. MY CLIENTS ARE THE EXPERTS IN THEIR OWN LIVES AND THEREFORE I OPERATE AS A GUIDE AND COACH IN FINDING A DIFFERENT WAY TO THINK ABOUT YOUR RELATIONSHIPS. IT WOULD BE MY HONOR TO COACH YOUR FAMILY, TEEN, YOUNG ADULT OR RELATIONSHIP TOWARD EMPOWERMENT, PEACE AND HARMONY.
MY APPROACH IS UNIQUE AS I BELIEVE THAT GROWTH COMES FROM HAVING THE COURAGE TO FACE YOUR TRUTH AND CHALLENGE THE "STATUS QUO" IN A SAFE AND SUPPORTIVE SPACE. I AM SINCERE, DOWN TO EARTH, AND GENUINE. MY CLIENTS ARE THE EXPERTS IN THEIR OWN LIVES AND THEREFORE I OPERATE AS A GUIDE AND COACH IN FINDING A DIFFERENT WAY TO THINK ABOUT YOUR RELATIONSHIPS. IT WOULD BE MY HONOR TO COACH YOUR FAMILY, TEEN, YOUNG ADULT OR RELATIONSHIP TOWARD EMPOWERMENT, PEACE AND HARMONY.
(774) 489-3141 View (774) 489-3141
Photo of Victoria Gonzalez, PsyD, Psychologist
Victoria Gonzalez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Grafton, MA 01519  (Online Only)
How much time have you spent avoiding things and feeling tired of engaging in patterns that no longer serve you? Life isn't what you want it to be, but you're unsure where to start? Frequently people put their own needs on the back burner and sacrifice self care. Listen closely to what your heart is telling you and take the steps to invest in yourself and build the life you truly want. Therapy is not always easy, but it is often a very connecting and rewarding experience that fosters the personal growth many of us are seeking.
How much time have you spent avoiding things and feeling tired of engaging in patterns that no longer serve you? Life isn't what you want it to be, but you're unsure where to start? Frequently people put their own needs on the back burner and sacrifice self care. Listen closely to what your heart is telling you and take the steps to invest in yourself and build the life you truly want. Therapy is not always easy, but it is often a very connecting and rewarding experience that fosters the personal growth many of us are seeking.
(954) 363-0366 View (954) 363-0366
Photo of Kristy Boshell - Clarity Counseling, LLC, LMHC, Counselor
Clarity Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Grafton, MA 01519  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, self-harm behaviors, sexual assault recovery, transition to adulthood, and addiction.
Asking for help is a major strength and you deserve to feel safe, protected, and valid in your journey to clarity. I hope to offer guidance, a listening ear, and a supportive voice to help with whatever it is you're struggling with. I primarily work with teens and adults and when I work with teens, I aim to provide a safe place to explore all of those questions you're facing at this point in your life. Adolescent years are exciting and terrifying and you deserve to have a place you can process all of those feelings- free of judgment. When working with adults, I also aim to provide safety and reassurance when navigating life!
I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, self-harm behaviors, sexual assault recovery, transition to adulthood, and addiction.
Asking for help is a major strength and you deserve to feel safe, protected, and valid in your journey to clarity. I hope to offer guidance, a listening ear, and a supportive voice to help with whatever it is you're struggling with. I primarily work with teens and adults and when I work with teens, I aim to provide a safe place to explore all of those questions you're facing at this point in your life. Adolescent years are exciting and terrifying and you deserve to have a place you can process all of those feelings- free of judgment. When working with adults, I also aim to provide safety and reassurance when navigating life!
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Photo of Dorene Calmus, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dorene Calmus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Grafton, MA 01519
Not accepting new clients
I have been in the field of social work for 36 years, with 14 of those years in an inpatient psychiatric setting for adolescents with chronic mental health and trauma issues. I work with children, teens, adults, and families, and have an extensive practice with trauma related issues, including sexual trauma. An active participant in the therapeutic process, I provide insight, feedback, and thoughtful questions to assist individuals to recognize their strengths, utilize their coping skills, and reclaim their voice in order to lead a more fulfilled affirmative life.
I have been in the field of social work for 36 years, with 14 of those years in an inpatient psychiatric setting for adolescents with chronic mental health and trauma issues. I work with children, teens, adults, and families, and have an extensive practice with trauma related issues, including sexual trauma. An active participant in the therapeutic process, I provide insight, feedback, and thoughtful questions to assist individuals to recognize their strengths, utilize their coping skills, and reclaim their voice in order to lead a more fulfilled affirmative life.
(508) 534-8745 View (508) 534-8745
Photo of Stephanie Stilla-Petrie, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Stephanie Stilla-Petrie
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Grafton, MA 01519
Not accepting new clients
Working in a variety of settings over many years, I have developed an expertise in many different areas including but not limited to trauma, autism spectrum disorders, developmental transitions, depression, anxiety, parenting, grief, prenatal and postnatal loss, and sexual identity.
Everyday living is not without stressors. How we react to events or interact in relationships can be a struggle as well as puzzling. Why do we feel the way we do? Why do we continue to make the same mistakes over and over again? How can our perceptions be so different from others? How do early experiences impact our perceptions, feelings, and behaviors? I provide a safe, comforting environment for you to explore and reflect on your past and recent experiences, feelings, and relationships. My approach is to facilitate change based on your expressed needs and goals.
Working in a variety of settings over many years, I have developed an expertise in many different areas including but not limited to trauma, autism spectrum disorders, developmental transitions, depression, anxiety, parenting, grief, prenatal and postnatal loss, and sexual identity.
Everyday living is not without stressors. How we react to events or interact in relationships can be a struggle as well as puzzling. Why do we feel the way we do? Why do we continue to make the same mistakes over and over again? How can our perceptions be so different from others? How do early experiences impact our perceptions, feelings, and behaviors? I provide a safe, comforting environment for you to explore and reflect on your past and recent experiences, feelings, and relationships. My approach is to facilitate change based on your expressed needs and goals.
(508) 401-7291 View (508) 401-7291
Photo of Gloria Tower, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gloria Tower
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Grafton, MA 01519
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and a 200-hour Kripalu Yoga teacher. I have a passion for holistic healing & and enjoy empowering my clients toward their goals. I use a range of approaches such as CBT, DBT, Internal Family systems, anger management, and peaceful communication strategies. I work with adults who are 18+.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and a 200-hour Kripalu Yoga teacher. I have a passion for holistic healing & and enjoy empowering my clients toward their goals. I use a range of approaches such as CBT, DBT, Internal Family systems, anger management, and peaceful communication strategies. I work with adults who are 18+.
(508) 388-1606 View (508) 388-1606

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Anthony Rofino, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Anthony Rofino
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01608
My particular areas of interests include (but are not limited to): depression/anxiety, life transitions, college mental health, LGBTQIA+ issues, emotion regulation, and issues with relationships. I have significant experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as with the poly/kink community.
My particular areas of interests include (but are not limited to): depression/anxiety, life transitions, college mental health, LGBTQIA+ issues, emotion regulation, and issues with relationships. I have significant experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as with the poly/kink community.
(508) 213-9995 View (508) 213-9995
Photo of Amber Considine, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amber Considine
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01603  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My own identities inform my work, as a result I place a high importance on being sex work-, poly/CNM-, kink-, and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
I am a pre-Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in relationship and sex therapy. Many people tell me that I am the first person they have ever talked to about "this stuff". I primarily enjoy working with motivated clients who are interested in navigating the complexities of their intimate lives with openness and honesty. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and multi partner relationships exploring intimacy, sexual functioning, power dynamics, and communication. My passion lies with helping others feel empowered by their sexuality and supporting the creation of sexual authenticity.
My own identities inform my work, as a result I place a high importance on being sex work-, poly/CNM-, kink-, and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
I am a pre-Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in relationship and sex therapy. Many people tell me that I am the first person they have ever talked to about "this stuff". I primarily enjoy working with motivated clients who are interested in navigating the complexities of their intimate lives with openness and honesty. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and multi partner relationships exploring intimacy, sexual functioning, power dynamics, and communication. My passion lies with helping others feel empowered by their sexuality and supporting the creation of sexual authenticity.
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Photo of Andrew Knorr, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Andrew Knorr
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01605
In addition, my experience working with LGBT ( Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) clients is extensive, and I identify as a gay-affirmative therapist.
I specialize in work with college students and the LGBT ( Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) community. If you want to work with an experienced therapist with 27 years of service in the mental heatlh professions, please visit my website now - www.aknorrtherapy.com to learn more about how I might be of assistance to you. I have extensive experience with a broad range of clinical issues, including: depression, anxiety, sexual identity issues, relationship issues, transitions, loss, and change related concerns.
In addition, my experience working with LGBT ( Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) clients is extensive, and I identify as a gay-affirmative therapist.
I specialize in work with college students and the LGBT ( Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) community. If you want to work with an experienced therapist with 27 years of service in the mental heatlh professions, please visit my website now - www.aknorrtherapy.com to learn more about how I might be of assistance to you. I have extensive experience with a broad range of clinical issues, including: depression, anxiety, sexual identity issues, relationship issues, transitions, loss, and change related concerns.
(508) 812-0015 View (508) 812-0015
Photo of Will Dempsey - Heads Held High Counseling, LICSW, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heads Held High Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01608  (Online Only)
We are a group of LGBTQIA+ therapists of various clinical and cultural backgrounds who work virtually across MA from Boston to Northampton, from Lowell to Fall River and everywhere in between, we are here to support you.
Are you a queer or trans person who struggles to find a therapist who understands you? Do you find that you often have to educate therapists, who are allies, but don't quite have the cultural understanding of someone who's a part of the community themselves? We are here to help.
We are a group of LGBTQIA+ therapists of various clinical and cultural backgrounds who work virtually across MA from Boston to Northampton, from Lowell to Fall River and everywhere in between, we are here to support you.
Are you a queer or trans person who struggles to find a therapist who understands you? Do you find that you often have to educate therapists, who are allies, but don't quite have the cultural understanding of someone who's a part of the community themselves? We are here to help.
(857) 877-3999 View (857) 877-3999
Photo of Cassidy Dallas, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassidy Dallas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01602
Cassidy works through a trauma informed lens with LGBTQIA+ people and those who love us, navigating gender identity exploration, ADHD, autism, and more.
Welcome! The process of starting therapy seeking self-discovery, change, and growth can feel as scary and overwhelming as it can feel hopeful and necessary. You deserve compassionate, skilled support while you face these challenges, and to work with someone who makes you feel safe, listened to, understood and seen. Within a professional and supportive therapeutic environment, Cassidy will guide you with sensitivity and kindness through a psychotherapy journey tailored to your unique needs and desires. The result will be that you will navigate complexities and build a meaningful life with warmth, authenticity, connection, and joy.
Cassidy works through a trauma informed lens with LGBTQIA+ people and those who love us, navigating gender identity exploration, ADHD, autism, and more.
Welcome! The process of starting therapy seeking self-discovery, change, and growth can feel as scary and overwhelming as it can feel hopeful and necessary. You deserve compassionate, skilled support while you face these challenges, and to work with someone who makes you feel safe, listened to, understood and seen. Within a professional and supportive therapeutic environment, Cassidy will guide you with sensitivity and kindness through a psychotherapy journey tailored to your unique needs and desires. The result will be that you will navigate complexities and build a meaningful life with warmth, authenticity, connection, and joy.
(978) 216-2986 View (978) 216-2986
Photo of Vox VanDyke - Austin Mind Body, LGBTQ+ Counseling & Supervision, LPC-S, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Austin Mind Body, LGBTQ+ Counseling & Supervision
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01608  (Online Only)
I identify as a Queer Trans man and use he/him/they/them pronouns.
Struggling with life transitions, creative ruts, and relationships are difficult in any situation but especially so if you do not follow the heteronormative path. It can be difficult to open up to someone when you are not certain that they understand Queer and Alternative relationship structures. I use an individualized approach with each client to build a therapeutic relationship based on specific goals. I focus my work around issues regarding LGBTQ+, sexuality, non-binary and transgender, complex relationships, power dynamics, sexual health, BDSM/Kink, and other dynamics.
I identify as a Queer Trans man and use he/him/they/them pronouns.
Struggling with life transitions, creative ruts, and relationships are difficult in any situation but especially so if you do not follow the heteronormative path. It can be difficult to open up to someone when you are not certain that they understand Queer and Alternative relationship structures. I use an individualized approach with each client to build a therapeutic relationship based on specific goals. I focus my work around issues regarding LGBTQ+, sexuality, non-binary and transgender, complex relationships, power dynamics, sexual health, BDSM/Kink, and other dynamics.
(512) 765-9528 View (512) 765-9528
Photo of Rhiannon Chiacchiaro, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rhiannon Chiacchiaro
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
Westborough, MA 01581
Healing is a very personal process. Therapy does not just occur in 45 minute sessions, but throughout your daily life. We feel the wounds of past generations, the systems around us, and the experiences we have survived. I am a Master's level clinician with 3+ years of experience supporting people who have survived adversity on a personal, family, and systemic level. I specialize in working with queer, neurodiverse teenagers and young adults with a trauma history, and approach my work from a social justice and culturally humble lens.
Healing is a very personal process. Therapy does not just occur in 45 minute sessions, but throughout your daily life. We feel the wounds of past generations, the systems around us, and the experiences we have survived. I am a Master's level clinician with 3+ years of experience supporting people who have survived adversity on a personal, family, and systemic level. I specialize in working with queer, neurodiverse teenagers and young adults with a trauma history, and approach my work from a social justice and culturally humble lens.
(508) 734-4927 View (508) 734-4927
Photo of JJ Jarrard - Rainbow Counseling & Consultation LLC, LMHC, Counselor
Rainbow Counseling & Consultation LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545  (Online Only)
Rainbow Counseling & Consultation LLC is a practice that specializes in affirmative therapy for LGBTQ+ people, couples, families and allies.
Are you looking for a therapist that understands what it is like to be queer? Or a therapist that can help you navigate the ups and downs of non traditional relationships or family styles? You deserve therapy that is affirming and judgement-free while working through difficulties with communication, intimacy, mental health, sleep, eating, addiction, career stress, faith/religion, gender dysphoria and/or transitioning. You deserve therapy in the comfort of your own home that is easily accessible through computer or phone via secure tele-health.
Rainbow Counseling & Consultation LLC is a practice that specializes in affirmative therapy for LGBTQ+ people, couples, families and allies.
Are you looking for a therapist that understands what it is like to be queer? Or a therapist that can help you navigate the ups and downs of non traditional relationships or family styles? You deserve therapy that is affirming and judgement-free while working through difficulties with communication, intimacy, mental health, sleep, eating, addiction, career stress, faith/religion, gender dysphoria and/or transitioning. You deserve therapy in the comfort of your own home that is easily accessible through computer or phone via secure tele-health.
(508) 403-9111 View (508) 403-9111
Photo of Krystle M Coons-Melanson, MA, MHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Krystle M Coons-Melanson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01601  (Online Only)
As a trans identified, queer, non-binary person- I use an eclectic style which consists of many modalities. I want to provide a safe space that is gender affirming, sex/kink/ body positive, and BIPOC allied that allows you the space to participate in therapy in the way that works best for YOU. I will challenge you when needed but will always fiercely support you. I am a Cancer sun, Capricorn moon, and a Pisces rising! I work in a queer group practice- Leaves of Change Counseling.
As a trans identified, queer, non-binary person- I use an eclectic style which consists of many modalities. I want to provide a safe space that is gender affirming, sex/kink/ body positive, and BIPOC allied that allows you the space to participate in therapy in the way that works best for YOU. I will challenge you when needed but will always fiercely support you. I am a Cancer sun, Capricorn moon, and a Pisces rising! I work in a queer group practice- Leaves of Change Counseling.
(413) 366-9916 View (413) 366-9916

See more therapy options for Grafton

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.