LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Shelby Township, MI

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)
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.
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 Amity Horsley, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amity Horsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Shelby Township, MI 48315
I specialize in supporting marginalized groups including women, LGBTQ+ individuals, BIPOC and minority communities.
Appointments currently available for adults or teens! Making the decision to begin therapy takes so much courage and vulnerability, and I understand the importance of finding the right therapist for you. I have experience helping people across different avenues and walks of life navigate through challenges to heal and grow. I have a collaborative approach to therapy and I'm comfortable using different treatment options that are tailored to each person, including Brainspotting therapy.
I specialize in supporting marginalized groups including women, LGBTQ+ individuals, BIPOC and minority communities.
Appointments currently available for adults or teens! Making the decision to begin therapy takes so much courage and vulnerability, and I understand the importance of finding the right therapist for you. I have experience helping people across different avenues and walks of life navigate through challenges to heal and grow. I have a collaborative approach to therapy and I'm comfortable using different treatment options that are tailored to each person, including Brainspotting therapy.
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Photo of Ashley E Lupico, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Ashley E Lupico
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Shelby Township, MI 48317
I specialize in ADHD and Autism, complex trauma and attachment, and navigating LGBTQ identities.
Overwhelm, burnout, wanting to be your best for the people you care about, and to show up and take care of yourself too, I see you. The heavy weight of parenting, the chaos of chronic trauma, the isolation of neurodivergence, the bumpy road of queerness. These paths aren't always easy but they're ours, and we can walk them together. I have been working with kids, teens, families, and individuals working their way through understanding their identities and traumas for the past 12 years.
I specialize in ADHD and Autism, complex trauma and attachment, and navigating LGBTQ identities.
Overwhelm, burnout, wanting to be your best for the people you care about, and to show up and take care of yourself too, I see you. The heavy weight of parenting, the chaos of chronic trauma, the isolation of neurodivergence, the bumpy road of queerness. These paths aren't always easy but they're ours, and we can walk them together. I have been working with kids, teens, families, and individuals working their way through understanding their identities and traumas for the past 12 years.
(586) 697-0782 View (586) 697-0782
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
Shelby Township, MI 48316  (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 Laurie Orlando, JD, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Laurie Orlando
Counselor, JD, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shelby Township, MI 48316
I offer inclusive services and have experience in LGBTQ+ issues.
Life surely isn't easy in today's ever changing world. Do you wish you had a safe, nonjudgmental person you can trust to help you regain focus, plan, problem solve, and get in touch with your true self? Together we can walk through the issues facing you. Using a client centered, creative approach combining both traditional talk therapy and experiential activities, I will help you find your own voice, access your inner strengths, and take action to create the life you want. We'll explore your personal decision making process in a way that affirms who you are, and who you want to be. Let me share what I have learned makes it better
I offer inclusive services and have experience in LGBTQ+ issues.
Life surely isn't easy in today's ever changing world. Do you wish you had a safe, nonjudgmental person you can trust to help you regain focus, plan, problem solve, and get in touch with your true self? Together we can walk through the issues facing you. Using a client centered, creative approach combining both traditional talk therapy and experiential activities, I will help you find your own voice, access your inner strengths, and take action to create the life you want. We'll explore your personal decision making process in a way that affirms who you are, and who you want to be. Let me share what I have learned makes it better
(248) 817-4679 View (248) 817-4679
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
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
Shelby Township, MI 48315
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 Paula Meerschaert, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Paula Meerschaert
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Shelby Township, MI 48317
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 Lynn Fonacier, LCSW, CTRP, SSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn Fonacier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTRP, SSW
Verified Verified
Shelby Township, MI 48315
Sometimes we feel stuck and we're not sure where to turn or who to turn to. This is where I can help. Let me guide and support you, in a safe and non-judgmental environment, to a happier and more fulfilling life. With 26 years of experience, I have had the opportunity to assist individuals of varying ages, racial and ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender identities, and disabilities. I have presented and trained individuals on such topics as; gratitude, suicide, sexual orientation, gender identity, trauma and loss, autism and positive behavior supports. Whether an individual, couple, or family, I am here to help!
Sometimes we feel stuck and we're not sure where to turn or who to turn to. This is where I can help. Let me guide and support you, in a safe and non-judgmental environment, to a happier and more fulfilling life. With 26 years of experience, I have had the opportunity to assist individuals of varying ages, racial and ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender identities, and disabilities. I have presented and trained individuals on such topics as; gratitude, suicide, sexual orientation, gender identity, trauma and loss, autism and positive behavior supports. Whether an individual, couple, or family, I am here to help!
(586) 701-7419 View (586) 701-7419
Photo of Michelle Mannina, MA, LPC, ICAADC, CCMW, Counselor
Michelle Mannina
Counselor, MA, LPC, ICAADC, CCMW
Verified Verified
Shelby Township, MI 48317
These are very trying times we are in! I am honored you chose to consider me to help you through this transition. From the comfort of your home via telehealth, or you may join me in the office as walk this path together. Feel free to contact me and start that journey to Holistic Wellness, where the mind and body profoundly work together. One's spiritual side may also be addressed, if one chooses. Why wait to make that first call, or email? You have already begun the journey by seeking help. So you are a step closer to total wellness! For more info visit: www.Mmanninatherapy.com
These are very trying times we are in! I am honored you chose to consider me to help you through this transition. From the comfort of your home via telehealth, or you may join me in the office as walk this path together. Feel free to contact me and start that journey to Holistic Wellness, where the mind and body profoundly work together. One's spiritual side may also be addressed, if one chooses. Why wait to make that first call, or email? You have already begun the journey by seeking help. So you are a step closer to total wellness! For more info visit: www.Mmanninatherapy.com
(313) 334-7562 View (313) 334-7562
Photo of Dr. Amy Rene Johnson, EdD, MAT, MA, LPC, Counselor
Dr. Amy Rene Johnson
Counselor, EdD, MAT, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shelby Township, MI 48316  (Online Only)
You are doing the best you can, but often feel like you've fallen short. It seems that your default thoughts and actions no longer serve you and you're not sure why. Maybe you just want to learn more about yourself and identify alternative ways of being. I have a lot of experience with compassion fatigue and burnout related to working with vulnerable populations and animals. If you feel ready to take that next step, unpack and explore who you really are, learn to improve communication or relationships, or develop yourself into who you want to be, what's holding you back?
You are doing the best you can, but often feel like you've fallen short. It seems that your default thoughts and actions no longer serve you and you're not sure why. Maybe you just want to learn more about yourself and identify alternative ways of being. I have a lot of experience with compassion fatigue and burnout related to working with vulnerable populations and animals. If you feel ready to take that next step, unpack and explore who you really are, learn to improve communication or relationships, or develop yourself into who you want to be, what's holding you back?
(947) 208-4177 View (947) 208-4177
Photo of Wendy Dittrich Croll - Bainbridge Center For Growth & Development, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bainbridge Center For Growth & Development
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Shelby Township, MI 48316
You have been sitting with your thoughts and seem to recycle your memories. You are excellent at suppressing your hurt and stay busy with work and life as a distraction. You may no longer connect with others the way you used to and keep friends and family at a distance. The Pandemic may have increased your anxiety and depression and you are uncertain where to begin. Your worry and fear come out as: anger, sadness and controlling behaviors, due to questioning your worth and self esteem. Will I ever feel truly happy? Will I feel truly loved? Will I find my life path and the career that makes my soul soar? Will I learn to forgive?
You have been sitting with your thoughts and seem to recycle your memories. You are excellent at suppressing your hurt and stay busy with work and life as a distraction. You may no longer connect with others the way you used to and keep friends and family at a distance. The Pandemic may have increased your anxiety and depression and you are uncertain where to begin. Your worry and fear come out as: anger, sadness and controlling behaviors, due to questioning your worth and self esteem. Will I ever feel truly happy? Will I feel truly loved? Will I find my life path and the career that makes my soul soar? Will I learn to forgive?
(734) 999-3705 View (734) 999-3705
Photo of Amy Hanes - Thrive Behavioral Health, PC, Admin, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Thrive Behavioral Health, PC
Limited Licensed Psychologist, Admin
Verified Verified
Shelby Township, MI 48315
Thrive Behavioral Health PC is an outpatient mental health group dedicated to providing experienced, compassionate, and empathetic psychological services for adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Clinicians are highly trained to provide a combination of treatment and evaluation/assessment services for a wide range of presenting conditions, including short-term and in-depth counseling and psychotherapy. Our team of licensed professionals include psychologists, professional counselors, and certified alcohol and drug counselors.
Thrive Behavioral Health PC is an outpatient mental health group dedicated to providing experienced, compassionate, and empathetic psychological services for adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Clinicians are highly trained to provide a combination of treatment and evaluation/assessment services for a wide range of presenting conditions, including short-term and in-depth counseling and psychotherapy. Our team of licensed professionals include psychologists, professional counselors, and certified alcohol and drug counselors.
(586) 331-6163 View (586) 331-6163
Photo of Aprile Klaser, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Aprile Klaser
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shelby Township, MI 48317
Managing the inevitable challenges and transitions of life can be difficult and overwhelming. At times, it may also feel very isolating. Fortunately, you do not have to cope with these difficulties alone. As a therapist, I believe clients have the resources and strengths within them to make meaningful, lasting changes. I see it as an opportunity and my responsibility to hold a safe, empathic space for you to explore, reflect, develop insight and coping skills, and create the growth you desire in order to live more authentically.
Managing the inevitable challenges and transitions of life can be difficult and overwhelming. At times, it may also feel very isolating. Fortunately, you do not have to cope with these difficulties alone. As a therapist, I believe clients have the resources and strengths within them to make meaningful, lasting changes. I see it as an opportunity and my responsibility to hold a safe, empathic space for you to explore, reflect, develop insight and coping skills, and create the growth you desire in order to live more authentically.
(248) 422-0853 View (248) 422-0853
Photo of Nicol Grishkevich, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicol Grishkevich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Shelby Township, MI 48315
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 Nicole Potapa, MA, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Potapa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Shelby Township, MI 48316  (Online Only)
People have the power to overcome adversity. My passion is to help you learn how to get back on your feet, find your inner strength, while supporting and empowering you. I am a down-to-earth and accepting person, which creates a safe space to discuss things that can be difficult to talk about. My objective is to create an atmosphere for personal growth, self-discovery, and an opportunity to learn healthier, more realistic, and positive ways of thinking without fear of judgment. I serve a diverse population of individuals, couples, and families and work with clients with an assortment of presenting problems, varying in severity.
People have the power to overcome adversity. My passion is to help you learn how to get back on your feet, find your inner strength, while supporting and empowering you. I am a down-to-earth and accepting person, which creates a safe space to discuss things that can be difficult to talk about. My objective is to create an atmosphere for personal growth, self-discovery, and an opportunity to learn healthier, more realistic, and positive ways of thinking without fear of judgment. I serve a diverse population of individuals, couples, and families and work with clients with an assortment of presenting problems, varying in severity.
(586) 797-0107 View (586) 797-0107
Photo of Elizabeth Porter - Lakeside Professional Counseling, P.C., LPC, LMSW, ACS, ICAADC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lakeside Professional Counseling, P.C.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMSW, ACS, ICAADC, CRC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Shelby Township, MI 48317
Lakeside Professional Counseling provides a safe environment for adults, teens, children, families and couples to uncover skills for positive outcomes and happier lives as we work together to process life struggles. We believe in treating people with dignity and respect and work diligently to be aware of your personal perspectives, values, and beliefs.
Lakeside Professional Counseling provides a safe environment for adults, teens, children, families and couples to uncover skills for positive outcomes and happier lives as we work together to process life struggles. We believe in treating people with dignity and respect and work diligently to be aware of your personal perspectives, values, and beliefs.
(586) 393-7584 View (586) 393-7584
Photo of Christina Byrd, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Christina Byrd
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Shelby Township, MI 48315
I believe the foundation of effective therapy is rooted in compassionate listening, honest and open communication, and respect for one another. Together, we can work towards healing and self-determination. I work with adults and adolescents of all ages to overcome challenges related to relationship & family conflict, stress, career struggles, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I offer day and evening sessions. My clinical interests include concerns related to career problems, LGBTQIA2S+ identity, intergenerational trauma, and relationships. I use a relational, non-judgmental approach and value your strengths and resilience.
I believe the foundation of effective therapy is rooted in compassionate listening, honest and open communication, and respect for one another. Together, we can work towards healing and self-determination. I work with adults and adolescents of all ages to overcome challenges related to relationship & family conflict, stress, career struggles, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I offer day and evening sessions. My clinical interests include concerns related to career problems, LGBTQIA2S+ identity, intergenerational trauma, and relationships. I use a relational, non-judgmental approach and value your strengths and resilience.
(586) 930-6190 View (586) 930-6190
Photo of Candice Ericksen - Transcendent Bodhi Psychotherapy, LLC, MA, LPC, NCC, SCL, Licensed Professional Counselor
Transcendent Bodhi Psychotherapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, SCL
Verified Verified
Shelby Township, MI 48317
My clients describe me as someone who is loving, compassionate, and provides unconditional love. Clients explain feeling "at home" and appreciate the honesty in my approach.
My clients describe me as someone who is loving, compassionate, and provides unconditional love. Clients explain feeling "at home" and appreciate the honesty in my approach.
(586) 576-9357 View (586) 576-9357
Photo of Dr. Amy Hanes, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Amy Hanes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shelby Township, MI 48315
If you are experiencing difficulty coping with daily life, chronic issues, an event in your life, or with feeling you are not living a fulfilling life, Dr. Hanes is eager to work with you in a safe, non-judgmental, caring environment. Her role is to be a partner, guide, and resource to help you reach your goals and live your optimal life. She has experience in health psychology, university counseling, crisis counseling, inpatient psychiatric hospital settings, outpatient clinics, and school psychology settings. She works with adults and adolescents with a wide range of presenting concerns. CALL FOR A FREE PHONE CONSULTATION!
If you are experiencing difficulty coping with daily life, chronic issues, an event in your life, or with feeling you are not living a fulfilling life, Dr. Hanes is eager to work with you in a safe, non-judgmental, caring environment. Her role is to be a partner, guide, and resource to help you reach your goals and live your optimal life. She has experience in health psychology, university counseling, crisis counseling, inpatient psychiatric hospital settings, outpatient clinics, and school psychology settings. She works with adults and adolescents with a wide range of presenting concerns. CALL FOR A FREE PHONE CONSULTATION!
(586) 697-3869 View (586) 697-3869
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See more therapy options for Shelby Township

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.