LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Romeo, MI

Photo of Naomi Margaret Baba - Shine Wellness Clinic, PLLC, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shine Wellness Clinic, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Romeo, MI 48065
Intervention with anxiety & depression, grief & loss, LGBTQ Issues, and abuse & neglect are just some of the areas in which we treat.
My vision began several years ago when I realized that most counseling agencies tend to concentrate on only one aspect of wellbeing, "Mental Health". Many people seeking whole body wellness are forced to travel to multiple providers to gain the full experience. Why not have one agency that meets the multiple aspect in achieving the "Whole Body Wellness" concept? I truly believe that maximizing personal wellbeing is dependent on the emotional, physical and spiritual health of every individual. I am proud to provide the surrounding community with a comprehensive clinic that addresses whole body wellness.
Intervention with anxiety & depression, grief & loss, LGBTQ Issues, and abuse & neglect are just some of the areas in which we treat.
My vision began several years ago when I realized that most counseling agencies tend to concentrate on only one aspect of wellbeing, "Mental Health". Many people seeking whole body wellness are forced to travel to multiple providers to gain the full experience. Why not have one agency that meets the multiple aspect in achieving the "Whole Body Wellness" concept? I truly believe that maximizing personal wellbeing is dependent on the emotional, physical and spiritual health of every individual. I am proud to provide the surrounding community with a comprehensive clinic that addresses whole body wellness.
(586) 789-9541 View (586) 789-9541
Photo of Karen R Smigelski - Willows Edge, Inc, MA, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Willows Edge, Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Romeo, MI 48065
Willows Edge prides itself on not being your “traditional” therapy center. We provide comprehensive services that encompass the mind, body, and spirit in a nonclinical, non judgmental environment. We offer all of our clients unconditional positive regard with a belief that ALL people deserve quality care. Our clients will leave with a new sense of purpose and well-being. Counseling is offered to individuals of all ages (3 to senior), couples and families, and we encompass all areas of concerns. Our philosophy is to be the premier center for all psychological, creative, intellectual, physical, social, & spiritual needs to all people.
Willows Edge prides itself on not being your “traditional” therapy center. We provide comprehensive services that encompass the mind, body, and spirit in a nonclinical, non judgmental environment. We offer all of our clients unconditional positive regard with a belief that ALL people deserve quality care. Our clients will leave with a new sense of purpose and well-being. Counseling is offered to individuals of all ages (3 to senior), couples and families, and we encompass all areas of concerns. Our philosophy is to be the premier center for all psychological, creative, intellectual, physical, social, & spiritual needs to all people.
(586) 250-4043 View (586) 250-4043
Photo of Jenna Budd, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Jenna Budd
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Romeo, MI 48065
I believe that clients are the expert of their life, and have the ability to determine their own solutions to their concerns when in a space that is supportive and understanding. Through therapy, clients can explore both internal and external factors that can then lead to finding solutions for their concerns.
I believe that clients are the expert of their life, and have the ability to determine their own solutions to their concerns when in a space that is supportive and understanding. Through therapy, clients can explore both internal and external factors that can then lead to finding solutions for their concerns.
(947) 207-4782 View (947) 207-4782
Photo of Karen L Broski, MA, LPC, NT, Counselor
Karen L Broski
Counselor, MA, LPC, NT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Romeo, MI 48065
Are you feeling as though you have no one to talk to or no one who is willing to listen to your concerns and frustrations as well as your successes? Listening is one of the most effective ways one can demonstrate empathy to others. I am here to be that someone and to help guide you to be the best version of yourself. I have worked with many diagnoses including Anxiety, Depression, Suicidal Ideation, Trauma, ADHD, and Personality Disorders. I am here to provide a neutral and safe space for my clients.
Are you feeling as though you have no one to talk to or no one who is willing to listen to your concerns and frustrations as well as your successes? Listening is one of the most effective ways one can demonstrate empathy to others. I am here to be that someone and to help guide you to be the best version of yourself. I have worked with many diagnoses including Anxiety, Depression, Suicidal Ideation, Trauma, ADHD, and Personality Disorders. I am here to provide a neutral and safe space for my clients.
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Photo of Nina Tamou, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nina Tamou
Licensed Professional Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Romeo, MI 48065
I have experience working with a diverse populations, children to adults with a range of presenting concerns, but not limited to; Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Anger & Stress Management, Autism and ADHD, Major Life Transitions/Events, Trauma, PTSD, CPTSD, Relational Conflicts, Sexuality and Reproductive Health, Gender Identity,.
Accepting new clients! The human experience of healing is as unique as everyone; therefore, I integrate healing techniques that target a spectrum of emotional distress and mental conditions. Rather than referring to a general template, I curate holistic treatment plans to meet the client's therapeutic goals. I incorporate an integrative theoretical approach that borrows from various counseling strategies.
I have experience working with a diverse populations, children to adults with a range of presenting concerns, but not limited to; Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Anger & Stress Management, Autism and ADHD, Major Life Transitions/Events, Trauma, PTSD, CPTSD, Relational Conflicts, Sexuality and Reproductive Health, Gender Identity,.
Accepting new clients! The human experience of healing is as unique as everyone; therefore, I integrate healing techniques that target a spectrum of emotional distress and mental conditions. Rather than referring to a general template, I curate holistic treatment plans to meet the client's therapeutic goals. I incorporate an integrative theoretical approach that borrows from various counseling strategies.
(586) 300-2036 View (586) 300-2036
Photo of Kari Spatafore, MS,  LLC, Counselor
Kari Spatafore
Counselor, MS, LLC
Verified Verified
Romeo, MI 48065
I have been trained to work with the following presenting issues: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, intimate partner violence, suicide, trauma, crisis counseling, PTSD, life transitions, human sexuality, and life skills/career counseling.
I implement a straight- forward holistic approach to care, while maintaining a nurturing, non-judgmental, and empathetic therapeutic environment. I believe achieving a greater level of wellness and fulfillment through self-awareness and acceptance helps to contribute to individual and relational growth, along with positively impacting the creation of a happy, healthy lifestyle. Further, I bring real-life experiences coupled with professional knowledge and expertise into the clinical setting, which helps to create a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients.
I have been trained to work with the following presenting issues: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, intimate partner violence, suicide, trauma, crisis counseling, PTSD, life transitions, human sexuality, and life skills/career counseling.
I implement a straight- forward holistic approach to care, while maintaining a nurturing, non-judgmental, and empathetic therapeutic environment. I believe achieving a greater level of wellness and fulfillment through self-awareness and acceptance helps to contribute to individual and relational growth, along with positively impacting the creation of a happy, healthy lifestyle. Further, I bring real-life experiences coupled with professional knowledge and expertise into the clinical setting, which helps to create a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients.
(248) 988-9453 View (248) 988-9453
Photo of Lauren Bongiorno, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Bongiorno
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Romeo, MI 48065
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is apart of the national certified counselors association. My specialties include working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, identity issues, adjustment issues, trauma, and the effects of these in our daily lives.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is apart of the national certified counselors association. My specialties include working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, identity issues, adjustment issues, trauma, and the effects of these in our daily lives.
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Photo of Jennifer Laboda, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Laboda
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Romeo, MI 48065
Contact my office (email or phone) or visit: www.LakesideProfessionalCounseling.com for assistance scheduling an Intake with me. "Your treatment will be guided by your personal needs with respect and no judgment. There are times and situations in life that become overwhelming and emotionally unmanageable without help. Treatment includes talk therapy, both personal and educational as well as activities or homework that will assist in illuminating hidden solutions. My goal is to help you stop feeling stuck where you are and begin moving toward what you want."
Contact my office (email or phone) or visit: www.LakesideProfessionalCounseling.com for assistance scheduling an Intake with me. "Your treatment will be guided by your personal needs with respect and no judgment. There are times and situations in life that become overwhelming and emotionally unmanageable without help. Treatment includes talk therapy, both personal and educational as well as activities or homework that will assist in illuminating hidden solutions. My goal is to help you stop feeling stuck where you are and begin moving toward what you want."
(586) 204-1737 View (586) 204-1737
Photo of Nicol Grishkevich, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicol Grishkevich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Romeo, MI 48065
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy It's Personal, is private pay. I accept insurance through Great Lakes Psycology group. I specialize in working with people who are overwhelmed by an obstacle preventing them from becoming their best self. This may be personal anxiety, identity, or depression. This may also be relationships, communication, or everyday stress. It is my belief that we are all on a unique journey, and each person needs individualized therapy that is tailored to help them. I do this by providing a safe space to share your personal story, while also providing acceptance, and understanding. I believe in providing a welcoming environment for all.
Therapy It's Personal, is private pay. I accept insurance through Great Lakes Psycology group. I specialize in working with people who are overwhelmed by an obstacle preventing them from becoming their best self. This may be personal anxiety, identity, or depression. This may also be relationships, communication, or everyday stress. It is my belief that we are all on a unique journey, and each person needs individualized therapy that is tailored to help them. I do this by providing a safe space to share your personal story, while also providing acceptance, and understanding. I believe in providing a welcoming environment for all.
(607) 300-5501 View (607) 300-5501
Photo of Samantha Colavecchia, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Colavecchia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Romeo, MI 48065  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with managing the anxiety and mental exhaustion of being a working parent or a parent of a child with high medical needs? Do the challenges of day-to-day life have you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and lost? Do you wish that you had the support of a professional to navigate these difficulties? I want to help provide support to not only help you survive these difficult times, but help change your perspective of what life could actually be like. I enjoy utilizing EMDR to help you get to the root of your anxiety.
Do you struggle with managing the anxiety and mental exhaustion of being a working parent or a parent of a child with high medical needs? Do the challenges of day-to-day life have you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and lost? Do you wish that you had the support of a professional to navigate these difficulties? I want to help provide support to not only help you survive these difficult times, but help change your perspective of what life could actually be like. I enjoy utilizing EMDR to help you get to the root of your anxiety.
(586) 300-1543 View (586) 300-1543
Photo of Ashley Soleau, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Soleau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Romeo, MI 48065
Contact my office (email or phone) or visit: www.LakesideProfessionalCounseling.com for assistance scheduling an Intake with me. "My approach to treatment is person-centered, meaning you will always be in charge of directing your therapeutic process, and be treated with dignity and respect throughout each stage of your healing. I have experience working with individuals and groups struggling with addiction, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I also believe strongly in the positive impact of mindfulness, meditation, and holistic practices to mental health and recovery."
Contact my office (email or phone) or visit: www.LakesideProfessionalCounseling.com for assistance scheduling an Intake with me. "My approach to treatment is person-centered, meaning you will always be in charge of directing your therapeutic process, and be treated with dignity and respect throughout each stage of your healing. I have experience working with individuals and groups struggling with addiction, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I also believe strongly in the positive impact of mindfulness, meditation, and holistic practices to mental health and recovery."
(586) 745-9353 View (586) 745-9353

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Matthew C Orlando, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew C Orlando
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Shelby Township, MI 48316  (Online Only)
I do this by providing a safe space where everyone is invited to be just who they are and see how caring can transform us from within.
It's hard being human. We don't come with an owner's manual and no one really knows what it's like to live our lives. There's no certain formula for how to be happy. Often we don't know what we want, or sometimes even who we truly want to be. We just know: "I want to feel better." Being our own unique person in the world we live in is incredibly messy and immensely complicated, and everyone gets stuck sometimes. Many things can cause us to get stuck like life events, grief and loss, trauma, issues in relationships, chronic illness, anxiety, depression, and even being LGBTQ+ or neurodiverse in a neurotypical heteronormative world.
I do this by providing a safe space where everyone is invited to be just who they are and see how caring can transform us from within.
It's hard being human. We don't come with an owner's manual and no one really knows what it's like to live our lives. There's no certain formula for how to be happy. Often we don't know what we want, or sometimes even who we truly want to be. We just know: "I want to feel better." Being our own unique person in the world we live in is incredibly messy and immensely complicated, and everyone gets stuck sometimes. Many things can cause us to get stuck like life events, grief and loss, trauma, issues in relationships, chronic illness, anxiety, depression, and even being LGBTQ+ or neurodiverse in a neurotypical heteronormative world.
(586) 745-9559 View (586) 745-9559
Photo of Lauren Johnston, LLMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Johnston
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Rochester Hills, MI 48306
Whether you're seeking support for mental health issues, navigating life transitions, or needing assistance with resource connections, I am here to offer guidance and support.
Going to therapy is a brave first step to bettering yourself, and I am here to support individuals and families on all levels through their unique challenges. I have experience working with clients on a variety of topics such as self-harm, anxiety, depression, and LGBT+ affirming care.
Whether you're seeking support for mental health issues, navigating life transitions, or needing assistance with resource connections, I am here to offer guidance and support.
Going to therapy is a brave first step to bettering yourself, and I am here to support individuals and families on all levels through their unique challenges. I have experience working with clients on a variety of topics such as self-harm, anxiety, depression, and LGBT+ affirming care.
(248) 988-9092 View (248) 988-9092
Photo of Kevin Kinsel, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin Kinsel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Macomb, MI 48042  (Online Only)
My experience and training with the cis and LGBTQ+ community has made me uniquely qualified to assist you in making life better, by finding resolutions and resources to better equip you to manage any of your difficulties or concerns.
If you are struggling with mental health, situational or adjustment concerns and have not been able to manage without assistance from a professional like me, it is time to reach out. Why are you making life harder? My theory is that we most often already have the solutions to our problems within us, but may need an objective person (like a therapist) to identify how our own strengths can be used as a vehicle to resolution.
My experience and training with the cis and LGBTQ+ community has made me uniquely qualified to assist you in making life better, by finding resolutions and resources to better equip you to manage any of your difficulties or concerns.
If you are struggling with mental health, situational or adjustment concerns and have not been able to manage without assistance from a professional like me, it is time to reach out. Why are you making life harder? My theory is that we most often already have the solutions to our problems within us, but may need an objective person (like a therapist) to identify how our own strengths can be used as a vehicle to resolution.
(586) 203-2715 View (586) 203-2715
Photo of Tara L Campbell, MA, LLPC, SCL, Counselor
Tara L Campbell
Counselor, MA, LLPC, SCL
Verified Verified
Oxford, MI 48370  (Online Only)
I have training and experience in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and their family members.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, stressful and isolating; I am here to remind you that you are not alone in that journey! I use a person-centered approach integrating aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Solution Focused counseling to collaborate with you to identify and achieve your goals. It is my intention to work alongside you to restore hope and healing within your life.
I have training and experience in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and their family members.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming, stressful and isolating; I am here to remind you that you are not alone in that journey! I use a person-centered approach integrating aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Solution Focused counseling to collaborate with you to identify and achieve your goals. It is my intention to work alongside you to restore hope and healing within your life.
(248) 418-4352 View (248) 418-4352
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Korenchuk, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jennifer Korenchuk
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, MI 48306
I specialize in family therapy and working with LGBTQIA+ youth, and teens facing self-harm, suicidal ideation, and trauma.
Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, trauma, or challenges related to their LGBTQIA+ identity? These issues can deeply impact their well-being, family relationships, friendships, and school. As a caregiver, you may feel overwhelmed by the pressure to provide the right support, especially when societal expectations may fuel feelings of shame, blame, or guilt. You are not alone. I understand how hard you're working, shaped by your own experiences and upbringing. With empathy and support, we can partner in a plan toward healing and connection for your child and your whole family.
I specialize in family therapy and working with LGBTQIA+ youth, and teens facing self-harm, suicidal ideation, and trauma.
Is your child or teen struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, trauma, or challenges related to their LGBTQIA+ identity? These issues can deeply impact their well-being, family relationships, friendships, and school. As a caregiver, you may feel overwhelmed by the pressure to provide the right support, especially when societal expectations may fuel feelings of shame, blame, or guilt. You are not alone. I understand how hard you're working, shaped by your own experiences and upbringing. With empathy and support, we can partner in a plan toward healing and connection for your child and your whole family.
(947) 222-4215 View (947) 222-4215
Photo of Aubrey Rutkowski - Aubrey Rutkowski, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aubrey Rutkowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, MI 48306
My specialties include ADHD, Grief, Autism, LGBTQ+, Developmental Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, School Issues, Family Conflict, Anger Management, Divorce, Peer Relationships, Stress Management and more.
Have you been searching for someone who will listen and support you or your child without judgment? Look no further- I can help! I have over 10 years of experience working with young children, elementary aged children, teenagers, young adults, middle aged adults, and older adults. I have worked doing outpatient therapy, in the schools as a School Social Worker, and in a partial hospitalization program as well. All of these experiences have given me insight into the many modalities of treatment. Additionally, I am passionate about being the bridge between clients and their communities to provide the best care possible.
My specialties include ADHD, Grief, Autism, LGBTQ+, Developmental Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, School Issues, Family Conflict, Anger Management, Divorce, Peer Relationships, Stress Management and more.
Have you been searching for someone who will listen and support you or your child without judgment? Look no further- I can help! I have over 10 years of experience working with young children, elementary aged children, teenagers, young adults, middle aged adults, and older adults. I have worked doing outpatient therapy, in the schools as a School Social Worker, and in a partial hospitalization program as well. All of these experiences have given me insight into the many modalities of treatment. Additionally, I am passionate about being the bridge between clients and their communities to provide the best care possible.
(248) 780-1082 View (248) 780-1082
Photo of Deanne M Honeycutt, MA, LLPC, NCC, Counselor
Deanne M Honeycutt
Counselor, MA, LLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Macomb, MI 48042
I provide therapeutic services to adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, family conflict, life transitions, personality disorders, gender dysphoria, trauma and PTSD, marital issues, LGBTQ+ identities and relationships, and adjustment issues.
Life is filled with ups and downs, success and stress, triumphs and tragedy. Emotional pain and psychological distress manifests itself differently for everyone. My purpose is to help you overcome these obstacles and start living a more authentic, healthy, and fulfilling life. My goal is to help you thrive and grow while attaining your short and long-term goals. I am committed to helping you through the therapeutic process professionally, and with confidentiality and sensitivity.
I provide therapeutic services to adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, family conflict, life transitions, personality disorders, gender dysphoria, trauma and PTSD, marital issues, LGBTQ+ identities and relationships, and adjustment issues.
Life is filled with ups and downs, success and stress, triumphs and tragedy. Emotional pain and psychological distress manifests itself differently for everyone. My purpose is to help you overcome these obstacles and start living a more authentic, healthy, and fulfilling life. My goal is to help you thrive and grow while attaining your short and long-term goals. I am committed to helping you through the therapeutic process professionally, and with confidentiality and sensitivity.
(586) 238-3399 View (586) 238-3399
Photo of Paula Meerschaert, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Paula Meerschaert
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Utica, MI 48315
I have also worked with the LGBTQ+ community on a number of different topics.
Asking for help is not easy. My goal is to work with my clients on an individualized plan to best suit their needs. Not everyone will respond to therapy the same way, and so each treatment plan should be tailored to each specific individual. I like to incorporate different styles of interventions and think outside the box with treatment. I utilize different interventions for each client to ensure treatment is working to the best of its ability.
I have also worked with the LGBTQ+ community on a number of different topics.
Asking for help is not easy. My goal is to work with my clients on an individualized plan to best suit their needs. Not everyone will respond to therapy the same way, and so each treatment plan should be tailored to each specific individual. I like to incorporate different styles of interventions and think outside the box with treatment. I utilize different interventions for each client to ensure treatment is working to the best of its ability.
(248) 277-5353 View (248) 277-5353
Photo of Macomb Therapy Group - Macomb Therapy Group, PLLC, LMSW, LPC, LLP, CAADC, PA-C, Counselor
Macomb Therapy Group, PLLC
Counselor, LMSW, LPC, LLP, CAADC, PA-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shelby Township, MI 48315
Our clinicians offer a wide variety of exceptional therapeutic approaches, incorporating a spectrum of techniques, including: Marriage and Family, Person Centered, Dialectical Behavior (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), LGBTQ+, the Gottman Method, Solution Focused-Brief Therapy, Somatic, Developmental, Integrative, Multicultural, Art and Play Therapy.
We all need a friendly ear, especially in difficult times. With someone in your corner you can build the coping skills needed to handle life's challenges with confidence. Macomb Therapy Group works with adults, adolescents, families and couples. Our clinicians have experience counseling people from a range of backgrounds and ages; facing a variety of challenges: from individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder; to children and adults in crisis and families with relational problems.
Our clinicians offer a wide variety of exceptional therapeutic approaches, incorporating a spectrum of techniques, including: Marriage and Family, Person Centered, Dialectical Behavior (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), LGBTQ+, the Gottman Method, Solution Focused-Brief Therapy, Somatic, Developmental, Integrative, Multicultural, Art and Play Therapy.
We all need a friendly ear, especially in difficult times. With someone in your corner you can build the coping skills needed to handle life's challenges with confidence. Macomb Therapy Group works with adults, adolescents, families and couples. Our clinicians have experience counseling people from a range of backgrounds and ages; facing a variety of challenges: from individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder; to children and adults in crisis and families with relational problems.
(586) 551-7289 View (586) 551-7289

See more therapy options for Romeo

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.