LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Royal Oak, MI

Photo of Steven Nakisher, PsyD, Psychologist
Steven Nakisher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
He also specializes in working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Dr. Steven Nakisher offers a practical approach in a supportive, yet challenging atmosphere to help clients gain insight, make lasting changes in life and "get out your own way". With over 25 years of experience, he works particularly well with people who have previously experienced therapy as unhelpful. Dr. Nakisher also works a business consultant to major corporations, improving business through human capital.
He also specializes in working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Dr. Steven Nakisher offers a practical approach in a supportive, yet challenging atmosphere to help clients gain insight, make lasting changes in life and "get out your own way". With over 25 years of experience, he works particularly well with people who have previously experienced therapy as unhelpful. Dr. Nakisher also works a business consultant to major corporations, improving business through human capital.
(312) 626-5648 View (312) 626-5648
Photo of Matthew John McCormick, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Matthew John McCormick
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
In addition to general practice, I also have experience in providing services to LGBTQIA+ persons.
Hello! I'm a licensed psychologist experienced in helping people with adjustment problems, grief work, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, and other psychological problems in individual therapy. I feel creating a supportive, judgment-free environment is key in developing a positive therapeutic relationship and have experience with cognitive, behavioral, psychodynamic, and humanistic perspectives. I also want to help clients understand how their body's stress response can impact their mental and physical well-being. I believe therapy works best when we can work collaboratively to tailor the treatment to best fit your needs.
In addition to general practice, I also have experience in providing services to LGBTQIA+ persons.
Hello! I'm a licensed psychologist experienced in helping people with adjustment problems, grief work, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, and other psychological problems in individual therapy. I feel creating a supportive, judgment-free environment is key in developing a positive therapeutic relationship and have experience with cognitive, behavioral, psychodynamic, and humanistic perspectives. I also want to help clients understand how their body's stress response can impact their mental and physical well-being. I believe therapy works best when we can work collaboratively to tailor the treatment to best fit your needs.
(248) 236-1105 View (248) 236-1105
Photo of Josh Curie, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Josh Curie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I have extensive experience with a wide range of diverse clients but feel particularly suited to serve the following communities; LGBTQ, HIV+, polyamorous, kink/fetish, substance abuse, mixed-orientation marriages, couples.
While I am full, we have other therapists within the practice who have some availability. Sometimes life throws challenges at us and it is hard to know how to keep moving forward. I see myself as a collaborator in the messiness of life, coming alongside you to help maneuver through challenges and obstacles. I meet you exactly where you are, serving as a supportive person that helps you identify and accomplish your goals. I treat each client as a unique person and do not employ a one size fits all approach. I am direct and non-judgmental and see an equal amount of individuals and couples/groups.
I have extensive experience with a wide range of diverse clients but feel particularly suited to serve the following communities; LGBTQ, HIV+, polyamorous, kink/fetish, substance abuse, mixed-orientation marriages, couples.
While I am full, we have other therapists within the practice who have some availability. Sometimes life throws challenges at us and it is hard to know how to keep moving forward. I see myself as a collaborator in the messiness of life, coming alongside you to help maneuver through challenges and obstacles. I meet you exactly where you are, serving as a supportive person that helps you identify and accomplish your goals. I treat each client as a unique person and do not employ a one size fits all approach. I am direct and non-judgmental and see an equal amount of individuals and couples/groups.
(248) 744-6855 View (248) 744-6855
Rosemary A. Jozwiak, and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LPC, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Rosemary A. Jozwiak and Associates have over 25 years of experience and specializations in the areas of: trauma, resulting from childhood sexual abuse, emotional and physical abuse. Struggles with depression, anxiety, addiction, anger management, grief and loss, life transitions, child and adolescent issues, parenting challenges, women’s issues, sexual identity, self esteem, relationship challenges, divorce or breakup recovery, health and wellness, chronic illness, learning disabilities, self-harming behavior, LGBTQIA life struggles, gender confusion, transgender transitioning plus relevant issues for their family members.
Rosemary A. Jozwiak and Associates have over 25 years of experience and specializations in the areas of: trauma, resulting from childhood sexual abuse, emotional and physical abuse. Struggles with depression, anxiety, addiction, anger management, grief and loss, life transitions, child and adolescent issues, parenting challenges, women’s issues, sexual identity, self esteem, relationship challenges, divorce or breakup recovery, health and wellness, chronic illness, learning disabilities, self-harming behavior, LGBTQIA life struggles, gender confusion, transgender transitioning plus relevant issues for their family members.
(248) 243-4655 View (248) 243-4655
Photo of Craig Vankempen, LMSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Craig Vankempen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073
I am here to support LGBTQIA youth and adults and those that love and support them. I work with all types of relationship structures, including polyam, open, and kink, and want to help people find out how to live their best life.
I am here to support LGBTQIA youth and adults and those that love and support them. I work with all types of relationship structures, including polyam, open, and kink, and want to help people find out how to live their best life.
View
Photo of Gregory Johnson, LMSW, QMPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gregory Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, QMPH
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Are you struggling with your sexual orientation and/or gender identity? Do feel isolated within the LGBTQIA community? Are your mental health symptoms (i.e. depression, anxiety, mood instability, insomnia, addiction, low self-esteem, poor body image) holding you back from fulfilling your dreams? Is trauma/PTSD ruining your life and your relationships? Do you often wonder how to help yourself? You may feel alone, isolated and withdrawn. Your challenges are not insurmountable! There is real help and the biggest step is to ask. There is no shame in asking for help. Be free from addiction, mental health and relationship struggles.
Are you struggling with your sexual orientation and/or gender identity? Do feel isolated within the LGBTQIA community? Are your mental health symptoms (i.e. depression, anxiety, mood instability, insomnia, addiction, low self-esteem, poor body image) holding you back from fulfilling your dreams? Is trauma/PTSD ruining your life and your relationships? Do you often wonder how to help yourself? You may feel alone, isolated and withdrawn. Your challenges are not insurmountable! There is real help and the biggest step is to ask. There is no shame in asking for help. Be free from addiction, mental health and relationship struggles.
(248) 290-8082 View (248) 290-8082
Photo of Missy Davis, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Missy Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and I enjoy working with other therapists.
My ideal client may have to deal with anxiety or health issues or not being accepted by those around you for your gender/sexuality adds another challenge to navigating life. Working together using holistic somatic approaches like Brainspotting and EMDR I want to provide you with a safe, affirming and non-judgmental space for you to heal and grow from harmful life experiences. Together we can work toward your goals using trauma informed interventions in individual counseling sessions. Schedule a free consultation here www.therapyportal.com/p/misfitsregrowth/
I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and I enjoy working with other therapists.
My ideal client may have to deal with anxiety or health issues or not being accepted by those around you for your gender/sexuality adds another challenge to navigating life. Working together using holistic somatic approaches like Brainspotting and EMDR I want to provide you with a safe, affirming and non-judgmental space for you to heal and grow from harmful life experiences. Together we can work toward your goals using trauma informed interventions in individual counseling sessions. Schedule a free consultation here www.therapyportal.com/p/misfitsregrowth/
(248) 218-9662 View (248) 218-9662
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Korenchuk, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jennifer Korenchuk
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
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 Kaitlin Vens, MA, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaitlin Vens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I have specialized training in working with folks of the LGBTQIA+ community.
If you feel that you are overwhelmed, unfulfilled and searching for peace, belonging and acceptance - it can be the loneliest feeling in the world. You don't have to navigate these challenges alone. Through our work together, we will make progress identifying those issues that are holding you back from the life you want. As a person-centered therapist skilled in cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral approaches, I will help you understand yourself more deeply and create strategies to create the life and relationships you wish for. I will be there with you to celebrate your progress and encourage your continued work.
I have specialized training in working with folks of the LGBTQIA+ community.
If you feel that you are overwhelmed, unfulfilled and searching for peace, belonging and acceptance - it can be the loneliest feeling in the world. You don't have to navigate these challenges alone. Through our work together, we will make progress identifying those issues that are holding you back from the life you want. As a person-centered therapist skilled in cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral approaches, I will help you understand yourself more deeply and create strategies to create the life and relationships you wish for. I will be there with you to celebrate your progress and encourage your continued work.
(248) 845-1373 View (248) 845-1373
Photo of Stephanie DiPonio, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie DiPonio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
I am passionate about social justice and I bring a queer and intersectional feminist lens to all the work I do.
I believe that therapy is a process for self-exploration and healing. My goal is to create an inclusive safe space for you to be your authentic self and we can work on your goals together. My knowledge and specialties include gender and sexuality, intuitive eating, sexual health, non-monogamy/polyamory, kink/BDSM, sexual and relationship violence, and attachment theory. I aim to affirm individual needs and experiences while maintaining an awareness of how structural issues, societal expectations, and community connections uniquely impact each person.
I am passionate about social justice and I bring a queer and intersectional feminist lens to all the work I do.
I believe that therapy is a process for self-exploration and healing. My goal is to create an inclusive safe space for you to be your authentic self and we can work on your goals together. My knowledge and specialties include gender and sexuality, intuitive eating, sexual health, non-monogamy/polyamory, kink/BDSM, sexual and relationship violence, and attachment theory. I aim to affirm individual needs and experiences while maintaining an awareness of how structural issues, societal expectations, and community connections uniquely impact each person.
(517) 300-3001 View (517) 300-3001
Photo of Melissa Hill, MA, LLC, Counselor
Melissa Hill
Counselor, MA, LLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Waitlist for new clients
I am a queer, neurodivergent practitioner.
With a curious, collaborative, warm, and direct perspective, I help LGBTQIA+ adults working through trauma, anxiety, stress, depression, and identity exploration. Everyone has a unique story, perspective, and experience. Sometimes it helps to have someone walk with us to explore our identity, work through life challenges or traumas, and to find fulfillment. What do you want to do in your life? Where do you want to go? How do you want to be true to yourself? I have some maps to suggest, but you have the power to choose the one best for you.
I am a queer, neurodivergent practitioner.
With a curious, collaborative, warm, and direct perspective, I help LGBTQIA+ adults working through trauma, anxiety, stress, depression, and identity exploration. Everyone has a unique story, perspective, and experience. Sometimes it helps to have someone walk with us to explore our identity, work through life challenges or traumas, and to find fulfillment. What do you want to do in your life? Where do you want to go? How do you want to be true to yourself? I have some maps to suggest, but you have the power to choose the one best for you.
(248) 780-0447 View (248) 780-0447
Photo of Kristina A. Fronrath, LMSW, CAADC, CCTP-II, CTMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina A. Fronrath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, CCTP-II, CTMH
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
I graduated from the University of Michigan with my MSW in Interpersonal Practice and Mental Health in 2016. I am a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. As a person in recovery from SUD and as a queer woman, I have a passion for working with addiction and with LGBTQ+ people. I create a safe space for complex issues. I am affirming of polyamorous, kinky, BDSM, and fetishes. As a survivor of trauma and Certified Complex Trauma Professional, I empower individuals to understand and heal from the effects of trauma and abuse. I value honesty, integrity, and respect. I will create an individualized counselling experience for you!
I graduated from the University of Michigan with my MSW in Interpersonal Practice and Mental Health in 2016. I am a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. As a person in recovery from SUD and as a queer woman, I have a passion for working with addiction and with LGBTQ+ people. I create a safe space for complex issues. I am affirming of polyamorous, kinky, BDSM, and fetishes. As a survivor of trauma and Certified Complex Trauma Professional, I empower individuals to understand and heal from the effects of trauma and abuse. I value honesty, integrity, and respect. I will create an individualized counselling experience for you!
(586) 784-6563 View (586) 784-6563
Photo of Jasper H Wurster, MA, MAAT, LCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jasper H Wurster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MAAT, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
Several of my lived identities help clients feel connected during our work, such as: transgender, nonbinary, first gen biracial Asian, queer, Autistic/neurodivergent, ADHDer, birthing parent.
Do you feel stuck, unmotivated, or not like "yourself"? I'm here to help you find peace of mind, freedom, & personal relief to take charge of your life. I'm an Integrative Internal Family Systems counselor & Adlerian art therapist, with 12+ years of experience, who excels in addressing mood shifts, anxiety, work-life balance, grief, & trauma. I listen with an insightful, patient disposition and an engaging, compassionate heart when we talk about your values, identities, and challenges. Together, we approach obstacles to discover new solutions & apply intuitive skill sets, gaining newfound confidence, authenticity, & wholeness.
Several of my lived identities help clients feel connected during our work, such as: transgender, nonbinary, first gen biracial Asian, queer, Autistic/neurodivergent, ADHDer, birthing parent.
Do you feel stuck, unmotivated, or not like "yourself"? I'm here to help you find peace of mind, freedom, & personal relief to take charge of your life. I'm an Integrative Internal Family Systems counselor & Adlerian art therapist, with 12+ years of experience, who excels in addressing mood shifts, anxiety, work-life balance, grief, & trauma. I listen with an insightful, patient disposition and an engaging, compassionate heart when we talk about your values, identities, and challenges. Together, we approach obstacles to discover new solutions & apply intuitive skill sets, gaining newfound confidence, authenticity, & wholeness.
(331) 214-5354 View (331) 214-5354
Photo of Mike Migdat, LCSW, MSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mike Migdat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, and I am deeply committed to supporting individuals from all walks of life.
Everyone deserves a life filled with meaning, purpose, and fulfillment, regardless of the challenges they may face. My goal is to provide a supportive and affirming space where you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself, explore the obstacles in your life—both internal and external—and discover healthy, effective ways to achieve your goals. Throughout our work together you will always receive unconditional acceptance, respect, and care.
I have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, and I am deeply committed to supporting individuals from all walks of life.
Everyone deserves a life filled with meaning, purpose, and fulfillment, regardless of the challenges they may face. My goal is to provide a supportive and affirming space where you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself, explore the obstacles in your life—both internal and external—and discover healthy, effective ways to achieve your goals. Throughout our work together you will always receive unconditional acceptance, respect, and care.
(248) 831-1870 View (248) 831-1870
Photo of Nick Brooks, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Nick Brooks
Limited Licensed Psychologist, TLLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
Immediate Openings! You don’t have to navigate this alone. Let’s explore your thoughts, feelings, and recurring patterns together to uncover what’s holding you back. We’ll discover what’s working well and fine-tune what isn’t. I work with adults of all ages, with a passion for supporting young adults and gay/bi men on their unique journeys. Many of my clients are navigating major life transitions, facing relationship challenges, struggling with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, or experiencing feelings of isolation. If that sounds like you, I might be your guy.
Immediate Openings! You don’t have to navigate this alone. Let’s explore your thoughts, feelings, and recurring patterns together to uncover what’s holding you back. We’ll discover what’s working well and fine-tune what isn’t. I work with adults of all ages, with a passion for supporting young adults and gay/bi men on their unique journeys. Many of my clients are navigating major life transitions, facing relationship challenges, struggling with chronic stress, anxiety, depression, or experiencing feelings of isolation. If that sounds like you, I might be your guy.
(586) 900-8547 View (586) 900-8547
Photo of Ian Gackowski, PsyD, LP, PLLC, Psychologist
Ian Gackowski
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
As a member of and advocate for the queer community, I work with the diverse spectrum of sexual orientations and attraction as well as concerns related to gender identity/gender expansive populations.
Currently accepting new clients (self-pay and insurance)! I provide a comfortable and judgment-free environment while also helping address the needs that are most important to you. I have provided therapy to both college-aged and adult populations in a variety of settings including several colleges and universities throughout the Midwest. I’ve worked with individuals facing a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, adjustment-related stress, challenging relationship dynamics, grief/loss, and identity development.
As a member of and advocate for the queer community, I work with the diverse spectrum of sexual orientations and attraction as well as concerns related to gender identity/gender expansive populations.
Currently accepting new clients (self-pay and insurance)! I provide a comfortable and judgment-free environment while also helping address the needs that are most important to you. I have provided therapy to both college-aged and adult populations in a variety of settings including several colleges and universities throughout the Midwest. I’ve worked with individuals facing a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, adjustment-related stress, challenging relationship dynamics, grief/loss, and identity development.
(734) 619-8130 View (734) 619-8130
Photo of Julie Rotenheber, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Julie Rotenheber
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48073  (Online Only)
I work with adults who suffer with depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief and loss, gender identity issues, and the LGBTQ community.
My intention as a psychologist is to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental atmosphere to empower clients in order to facilitate change that is congruent with living an authentic life. Through a collaborative approach, clients have an opportunity to reach their full potential. I strive to help my clients uncover meaning in the midst of pain and suffering inherent in the human experience through a humanistic and existential methodology.
I work with adults who suffer with depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief and loss, gender identity issues, and the LGBTQ community.
My intention as a psychologist is to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental atmosphere to empower clients in order to facilitate change that is congruent with living an authentic life. Through a collaborative approach, clients have an opportunity to reach their full potential. I strive to help my clients uncover meaning in the midst of pain and suffering inherent in the human experience through a humanistic and existential methodology.
(248) 572-1632 View (248) 572-1632
Photo of Lauren Dandridge, LLMSW, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Dandridge
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down or lonely? Have you felt numb or noticed yourself losing interest in the things you used to enjoy? Are you wanting to reflect deeper and make changes in your life however, struggle with where to start? We all experience the weight of difficult times and it can be hard to find support when we are experiencing: anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, autism, familial and relationship concerns, grief and loss, career concerns, SA, LGBTQIA+, or gender exploration.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down or lonely? Have you felt numb or noticed yourself losing interest in the things you used to enjoy? Are you wanting to reflect deeper and make changes in your life however, struggle with where to start? We all experience the weight of difficult times and it can be hard to find support when we are experiencing: anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, autism, familial and relationship concerns, grief and loss, career concerns, SA, LGBTQIA+, or gender exploration.
(248) 826-1410 View (248) 826-1410
Photo of Kel Weller, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kel Weller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I work with couples experiencing relationship and marital issues including communication difficulties, parenting issues, sexual issues, and struggles involving sexual identity. I treat adults in individual therapy, couple's therapy, family therapy and group therapy. I also provide LGBT Affirmative Therapy for couples and families. I work with gay, bisexual, lesbian and straight parents who are struggling with parenting issues.
I work with couples experiencing relationship and marital issues including communication difficulties, parenting issues, sexual issues, and struggles involving sexual identity. I treat adults in individual therapy, couple's therapy, family therapy and group therapy. I also provide LGBT Affirmative Therapy for couples and families. I work with gay, bisexual, lesbian and straight parents who are struggling with parenting issues.
(248) 213-8494 View (248) 213-8494
Photo of Caity Waldorf, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caity Waldorf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Let's embark on this journey together using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Trauma Focus, and Queer Affirmative Therapy.
Do you think you might be neurodivergent such as being on the autism spectrum or ADHD? Do you have unhealed trauma? Have you questioned your sexuality or gender identity? Are you seeking compassionate support on your journey to healing and self-discovery? As a skilled psychotherapist specializing in ADHD, autism, trauma and sexuality and gender issues, I offer space for clients to explore their unique challenges and strengths.
Let's embark on this journey together using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Trauma Focus, and Queer Affirmative Therapy.
Do you think you might be neurodivergent such as being on the autism spectrum or ADHD? Do you have unhealed trauma? Have you questioned your sexuality or gender identity? Are you seeking compassionate support on your journey to healing and self-discovery? As a skilled psychotherapist specializing in ADHD, autism, trauma and sexuality and gender issues, I offer space for clients to explore their unique challenges and strengths.
(947) 300-5062 View (947) 300-5062
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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.