LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Owings Mills, MD
![Photo of Sierra Coleman - The Haven Center, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b608e847-3ff8-4dbc-8496-c67e01c625cc/4/320x400.jpeg)
Sierra Coleman - The Haven Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117 (Online Only)
We are LGBTQ+ allied, sex positive, kink-friendly and nurturing to all clients.
My name is Sierra Coleman, and helping people is my calling. I feel lucky to be able to call myself a therapist as it’s my passion. I believe that each client has their own unique set of challenges and responds in their own way to different interventions, therefore my orientation is deeply person centered with an emphasis on experiential therapy. I believe that problems are interwoven parts of the whole person (mind, body, environment, and the interpersonal) and see counseling as a collaborative process to empower my clients.
We are LGBTQ+ allied, sex positive, kink-friendly and nurturing to all clients.
My name is Sierra Coleman, and helping people is my calling. I feel lucky to be able to call myself a therapist as it’s my passion. I believe that each client has their own unique set of challenges and responds in their own way to different interventions, therefore my orientation is deeply person centered with an emphasis on experiential therapy. I believe that problems are interwoven parts of the whole person (mind, body, environment, and the interpersonal) and see counseling as a collaborative process to empower my clients.
![Photo of Danielle Black, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1af00b78-2b34-4727-9a96-05e1e562f06f/1/320x400.jpeg)
My experience includes working with BIPOC, queer folks, adults, and couples who are looking for support with racial trauma, self-esteem, identity exploration, navigating relationships (of all forms), and women’s issues.
Looking for a therapist is a huge step! I hope you take a moment to recognize your efforts. As a clinician, I center laughter, your passions, patience, silence, and honesty. I am deeply passionate about the liberation of marginalized people and believe that we are deserving of joy, of rest, of pleasure, and of being our whole selves. I offer a collaborative and empathic approach to support you in navigating life’s challenges. In sessions, we will work together to create a safe and open therapeutic relationship to explore who you are, to understand how your contexts shape your experiences, and to reach your goals.
My experience includes working with BIPOC, queer folks, adults, and couples who are looking for support with racial trauma, self-esteem, identity exploration, navigating relationships (of all forms), and women’s issues.
Looking for a therapist is a huge step! I hope you take a moment to recognize your efforts. As a clinician, I center laughter, your passions, patience, silence, and honesty. I am deeply passionate about the liberation of marginalized people and believe that we are deserving of joy, of rest, of pleasure, and of being our whole selves. I offer a collaborative and empathic approach to support you in navigating life’s challenges. In sessions, we will work together to create a safe and open therapeutic relationship to explore who you are, to understand how your contexts shape your experiences, and to reach your goals.
![Photo of Qur'an Cave, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cd5001e-4e3b-4e3e-bbc5-d9bfc8eb608d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Qur'an Cave
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117 (Online Only)
Updated as of 09/26/23: I am accepting new clients! Please email, only. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults! I explore an abundance of social and emotional challenges you may be going experiencing, such as: trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, LGBTQIA, and self-identity issues!
Updated as of 09/26/23: I am accepting new clients! Please email, only. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults! I explore an abundance of social and emotional challenges you may be going experiencing, such as: trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, LGBTQIA, and self-identity issues!
![Photo of Kat Katz, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5ef00e-6ce7-4a83-9dc1-9eafcd902f05/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kat Katz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117 (Online Only)
I identify as non-binary and queer and enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Maryland and work with individuals in their late teens through all stages of adulthood. I have experience helping people who live with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and developmental disabilities. As an intern at Sound Behavioral Health in Seattle and Johns Hopkins Community Psychiatry Program, I provided individual and group psychotherapy to diverse populations virtually and in-person. My past volunteer experience includes counseling people on a suicide hotline and giving emotional support to people on the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) helpline.
I identify as non-binary and queer and enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Maryland and work with individuals in their late teens through all stages of adulthood. I have experience helping people who live with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and developmental disabilities. As an intern at Sound Behavioral Health in Seattle and Johns Hopkins Community Psychiatry Program, I provided individual and group psychotherapy to diverse populations virtually and in-person. My past volunteer experience includes counseling people on a suicide hotline and giving emotional support to people on the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) helpline.
![Photo of Sherry C Scott, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acbe1bd8-77b2-48d4-bafb-c4e69fb3ee2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
My clinical interests include ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, school/behavioral concerns, and supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Life can send some difficult challenges our way that can be really hard to handle. Reaching out to work with a therapist is a great first step towards managing any challenge. Whether you are dealing with feelings of hopelessness, worry, or grief. Or, you're tackling a life transition such as a new job, blending a family, a child struggling in school, or a new health condition. Please know that you don't have to manage these difficulties alone. I am here to help!
My clinical interests include ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, school/behavioral concerns, and supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Life can send some difficult challenges our way that can be really hard to handle. Reaching out to work with a therapist is a great first step towards managing any challenge. Whether you are dealing with feelings of hopelessness, worry, or grief. Or, you're tackling a life transition such as a new job, blending a family, a child struggling in school, or a new health condition. Please know that you don't have to manage these difficulties alone. I am here to help!
![Photo of Taniqua Carthens, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21091471-6a87-4d38-90f7-84dc8f3ad721/2/320x400.png)
I have over 7 years experience supporting persons from youth to older adults, in residential settings, individual and group therapy. My approach seeks to enhance the wellness of cross-cultural & historically marginalized groups like Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) and persons who are LGBTQIA+. I specialize in holistic interventions that address the mind, body and spirit of the whole person. I have experience treating anxiety, depression and adjustment disorders using interventions such as mindfulness, deep breathing, meditation and yoga.
I have over 7 years experience supporting persons from youth to older adults, in residential settings, individual and group therapy. My approach seeks to enhance the wellness of cross-cultural & historically marginalized groups like Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) and persons who are LGBTQIA+. I specialize in holistic interventions that address the mind, body and spirit of the whole person. I have experience treating anxiety, depression and adjustment disorders using interventions such as mindfulness, deep breathing, meditation and yoga.
![Photo of Dr. Maxine Taylor, PhD, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c5d2305-269c-4ec4-9e58-c18fa4314da7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Maxine Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
Verified Verified
Owings Mills, MD 21117
I specialize in treating individuals, couples, families, first responders, and LGBTQIA+ individuals experiencing symptoms such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, and relationship issues.
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* You are making the first step in improving your quality of life. Knowing that you are safe and supported is one of the best predictors of successful therapy. I know that deciding to seek therapy demonstrates an act of humility and self-love. I work from a tailored team-oriented approach with my clients to assist them in recognizing their true potentials and inner strength, which enables them to feel empowered and allow them to build on those elements to find their own path forward. As such, I utilize an intersectional framework to honor and affirm how your identities impact the way you navigate the world.
I specialize in treating individuals, couples, families, first responders, and LGBTQIA+ individuals experiencing symptoms such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, and relationship issues.
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* You are making the first step in improving your quality of life. Knowing that you are safe and supported is one of the best predictors of successful therapy. I know that deciding to seek therapy demonstrates an act of humility and self-love. I work from a tailored team-oriented approach with my clients to assist them in recognizing their true potentials and inner strength, which enables them to feel empowered and allow them to build on those elements to find their own path forward. As such, I utilize an intersectional framework to honor and affirm how your identities impact the way you navigate the world.
![Photo of India Simms- Haven Center For Therapy, MS, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2885c4a5-72a1-4042-9a3d-3aaf84260b98/2/320x400.jpeg)
India Simms- Haven Center For Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117 (Online Only)
Is your relationship on the brink of a break-up? We help couples improve their communication patterns, their sex life, or figuring out how to separate amicably. We are LGBTQ+ affirming, sex positive, and kink-friendly. We also help couples navigating interracial / cross-cultural relationships, open relationships (ENM), polyamory, and various other relationship dynamics. If your partner is not ready for therapy, we provide individual therapy to help navigate relationship situations.
Is your relationship on the brink of a break-up? We help couples improve their communication patterns, their sex life, or figuring out how to separate amicably. We are LGBTQ+ affirming, sex positive, and kink-friendly. We also help couples navigating interracial / cross-cultural relationships, open relationships (ENM), polyamory, and various other relationship dynamics. If your partner is not ready for therapy, we provide individual therapy to help navigate relationship situations.
![Photo of Jillian Ginsberg, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a2b55f6-bf2e-4b5c-8cc8-b478cb19c777/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jillian Ginsberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Owings Mills, MD 21117 (Online Only)
I work from a queer/trans-affirming, anti-racist, anti-oppressive, disability justice, and neurodiversity-affirming perspective.
My work focuses on clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, disability/chronic illness, life transitions, or who are seeking self-exploration and growth. Together we can find ways to cope with life’s uncertainties and live a life aligned with your values. It is important to have a space where you can feel seen and affirmed, and where you can show up as your authentic self. As a therapist, I aim to create a collaborative and supportive relationship, where we can identify and work towards your goals.
I work from a queer/trans-affirming, anti-racist, anti-oppressive, disability justice, and neurodiversity-affirming perspective.
My work focuses on clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, OCD, disability/chronic illness, life transitions, or who are seeking self-exploration and growth. Together we can find ways to cope with life’s uncertainties and live a life aligned with your values. It is important to have a space where you can feel seen and affirmed, and where you can show up as your authentic self. As a therapist, I aim to create a collaborative and supportive relationship, where we can identify and work towards your goals.
![Photo of Dr. Rebecca Silver, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8447bedb-d982-4db9-900a-c855ecee7e46/1/320x400.jpeg)
I welcome all people of color and those within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Have you been feeling stressed, sad, stuck, lost and/or anxious? In therapy, we can create healing and inner peace by increasing self awareness and enhancing skills to soothe intense emotions/symptoms that accompany complex life stressors. I specialize in the areas of anxiety, infertility, parenting challenges, relationship conflict, and childhood/adult trauma. I'm a compassionate listener who will challenge problematic ways of thinking/being with intention, humor, and warmth. Together, we'll explore past experiences, process ongoing struggles, and work collaboratively to maximize your emotional wellness and personal growth.
I welcome all people of color and those within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Have you been feeling stressed, sad, stuck, lost and/or anxious? In therapy, we can create healing and inner peace by increasing self awareness and enhancing skills to soothe intense emotions/symptoms that accompany complex life stressors. I specialize in the areas of anxiety, infertility, parenting challenges, relationship conflict, and childhood/adult trauma. I'm a compassionate listener who will challenge problematic ways of thinking/being with intention, humor, and warmth. Together, we'll explore past experiences, process ongoing struggles, and work collaboratively to maximize your emotional wellness and personal growth.
![Photo of Lateria Floyd, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7c9a1ee-3eea-44d5-8e8a-b61eea11543e/1/320x400.jpeg)
HPS Counseling is a client-oriented practice. We put your well-being first and together we work on and identify what solutions will work best for you, your lifestyle, and your healing/ change journey. We provide a variety of services with tools ranging from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Solution Focused Therapy, Feminist Therapy, Acceptance, and Commitment Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy, Mindfulness, Meditation, Yoga, Natural/Holistic based (aromatherapy, holistic medicine, meditative sounds, nutrition, and natural oils) and spirituality.
HPS Counseling is a client-oriented practice. We put your well-being first and together we work on and identify what solutions will work best for you, your lifestyle, and your healing/ change journey. We provide a variety of services with tools ranging from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Solution Focused Therapy, Feminist Therapy, Acceptance, and Commitment Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy, Mindfulness, Meditation, Yoga, Natural/Holistic based (aromatherapy, holistic medicine, meditative sounds, nutrition, and natural oils) and spirituality.
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![Photo of Abimelec Torres Serrano, MS, NCC, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8bfed73-bfc6-466d-a70e-b534fae3a2e4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Abimelec Torres Serrano
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117 (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome! I’m a bilingual therapist with experience working with individuals struggling with a wide range of psychiatric/emotional concerns such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and grief. I also work with individuals who identify with sexual, gender, spiritual, and/or cultural minorities, professionals in the healthcare industry or first responders, those struggling with life transitions in their personal and/or professional life, and relationship concerns. I believe that healthy relationships are essential for our well-being and enjoy helping others to develop and strengthen those relationships.
Hello and Welcome! I’m a bilingual therapist with experience working with individuals struggling with a wide range of psychiatric/emotional concerns such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and grief. I also work with individuals who identify with sexual, gender, spiritual, and/or cultural minorities, professionals in the healthcare industry or first responders, those struggling with life transitions in their personal and/or professional life, and relationship concerns. I believe that healthy relationships are essential for our well-being and enjoy helping others to develop and strengthen those relationships.
![Photo of Gabi Daigle, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a69a5c04-d645-4762-841d-4384807b00d3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Transitioning through new stages of life like; college, entering the workforce, and adulthood are filled with stress, doubt, and lots of questions. Sometimes we get overwhelmed by the weight of it all and need a little support along the way. Therapy is a safe space to explore what is getting in the way of you being the healthiest and strongest version of yourself. I believe that all people have the capacity for effective change and honest self-love.
Transitioning through new stages of life like; college, entering the workforce, and adulthood are filled with stress, doubt, and lots of questions. Sometimes we get overwhelmed by the weight of it all and need a little support along the way. Therapy is a safe space to explore what is getting in the way of you being the healthiest and strongest version of yourself. I believe that all people have the capacity for effective change and honest self-love.
![Photo of Shania S Greenwood, MS, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c9f32b1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shania S Greenwood
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117
I am so glad that you are here. Taking the steps toward healing is no easy task, so if no one has said it, I am so proud of you. Society spends so much time trying to tell us who we are and what we need to be that sometimes we forget who we are and what we are worth. The hardest part of the therapeutic process is showing up. Healing can be complicated and scary at times. However, through this process, I hope you discover all the beautiful qualities that make you exceptional.
I am so glad that you are here. Taking the steps toward healing is no easy task, so if no one has said it, I am so proud of you. Society spends so much time trying to tell us who we are and what we need to be that sometimes we forget who we are and what we are worth. The hardest part of the therapeutic process is showing up. Healing can be complicated and scary at times. However, through this process, I hope you discover all the beautiful qualities that make you exceptional.
![Photo of Marilyn Murphy, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad27460a-db5c-412e-b397-5479b3a63e79/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marilyn Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* Therapy is a highly personal and emotional experience. My experience includes working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, isolation, substance use, grief, loss, abuse, neglect, trauma, low self-esteem, life transitions, gender issues, relationship and/or family issues.
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* Therapy is a highly personal and emotional experience. My experience includes working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, isolation, substance use, grief, loss, abuse, neglect, trauma, low self-esteem, life transitions, gender issues, relationship and/or family issues.
![Photo of Jasmine Simmons - EviJoy Counseling Center, MS, LCPC, NCC, C-DBT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df05b436-6d64-4d98-8ec6-a1a9885152c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
EviJoy Counseling Center
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117
Accepting new clients! Feelings of self doubt and hopelessness can make one feel stuck. Life can be very unpredictable with the uncertainties. It is okay if you are struggling to be in touch with your emotions. Therapy can provide a sense of peace in a safe environment where there is an opportunity to better understand thought process, anxiety or triggers that are hindering you from reaching your full potential. We are here to guide you in working through the challenges that you are facing and focus on your inner strength to connect the pieces in your life that can help you build a strong foundation for growth and life fulfilment.
Accepting new clients! Feelings of self doubt and hopelessness can make one feel stuck. Life can be very unpredictable with the uncertainties. It is okay if you are struggling to be in touch with your emotions. Therapy can provide a sense of peace in a safe environment where there is an opportunity to better understand thought process, anxiety or triggers that are hindering you from reaching your full potential. We are here to guide you in working through the challenges that you are facing and focus on your inner strength to connect the pieces in your life that can help you build a strong foundation for growth and life fulfilment.
![Photo of Lillian Morales, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/205cbf04-0d34-4a89-ac25-c003ba19b437/2/320x400.png)
Lillian Morales is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for the state of Maryland. She has provided individual, family, and group therapy in a variety of settings. Lillian is bilingual and can provide services in Spanish. Lillian enjoys working with children, adolescents, and young adults and specializes in anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, trauma, relationship issues, adjustment disorders, life transitions, self-esteem, relationship/family issues, and stress management. Lillian received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Stevenson University and her Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Loyola University.
Lillian Morales is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for the state of Maryland. She has provided individual, family, and group therapy in a variety of settings. Lillian is bilingual and can provide services in Spanish. Lillian enjoys working with children, adolescents, and young adults and specializes in anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, trauma, relationship issues, adjustment disorders, life transitions, self-esteem, relationship/family issues, and stress management. Lillian received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Stevenson University and her Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Loyola University.
![Photo of Nathaniel Edmonston, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3d5e41a-d9ee-4f67-83b4-e1901dc5aea2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you going through a significant life change? Is there tension in your life that is causing anxiety or depression? Does your child or teen need someone to talk to about their feelings? Would you like help figuring out how to get better. Life can be difficult, and therapy is something that can help make it a little easier. I believe that beginning therapy is the perfect start in the pursuit of getting better, and I hope to be the therapist to assist you on your journey for wellness.
Are you going through a significant life change? Is there tension in your life that is causing anxiety or depression? Does your child or teen need someone to talk to about their feelings? Would you like help figuring out how to get better. Life can be difficult, and therapy is something that can help make it a little easier. I believe that beginning therapy is the perfect start in the pursuit of getting better, and I hope to be the therapist to assist you on your journey for wellness.
![Photo of Ebony Fowler, MEd, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83802839-cf24-4c2f-8260-a0f586f55632/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ebony Fowler
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117 (Online Only)
Are you a woman that is having trouble in relationships with other people? Are you someone that is struggling with negative thoughts, worry, or intense feelings of sadness? Maybe you’re just finding it hard to feel excited about life lately. Life can feel pretty overwhelming at times, especially when you feel like you’re going through it alone. Meeting with a therapist can help you gain a deeper awareness of yourself and how you experience the world around you. Leading to healthier relationships, more opportunities for success, and peace of mind. Let's work together to identify your needs. I'm here for you when you're ready.
Are you a woman that is having trouble in relationships with other people? Are you someone that is struggling with negative thoughts, worry, or intense feelings of sadness? Maybe you’re just finding it hard to feel excited about life lately. Life can feel pretty overwhelming at times, especially when you feel like you’re going through it alone. Meeting with a therapist can help you gain a deeper awareness of yourself and how you experience the world around you. Leading to healthier relationships, more opportunities for success, and peace of mind. Let's work together to identify your needs. I'm here for you when you're ready.
![Photo of Joanna Jackson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76d8101d-9bda-4887-ab05-9a182815dcf6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joanna Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Owings Mills, MD 21117 (Online Only)
As of May 2024, I am accepting new clients! Please email only. My goal is to assist clients in exploring and overcoming life challenges within a safe and supportive environment. Together, we will delve into your emotions, develop coping skills, and build resilience, all while embracing your true and authentic self. Please reach out to The Therapy Collective and Submit a Request to schedule an appointment with Joanna Jackson.
As of May 2024, I am accepting new clients! Please email only. My goal is to assist clients in exploring and overcoming life challenges within a safe and supportive environment. Together, we will delve into your emotions, develop coping skills, and build resilience, all while embracing your true and authentic self. Please reach out to The Therapy Collective and Submit a Request to schedule an appointment with Joanna Jackson.
See more therapy options for Owings Mills
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Owings Mills
- Garrison
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LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.