LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Washington, MI
![Photo of Naomi Margaret Baba - Shine Wellness Clinic, PLLC, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44fb5b12-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shine Wellness Clinic, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, MI 48095
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.
![Photo of Amy Zauel, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd75c2a7-254c-4929-abfb-9156e0a5f575/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Zauel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, MI 48094 (Online Only)
It would be hard to argue that our lives haven't been a lot more complicated over the last few years. Whether you are a child or teen dealing with peer pressure or the stressors at school, a stay at home parent trying to manage everyones busy schedules, a working professional balancing family life and the stress a job can bring, a single or divorced parent struggling to get through each day, a young adult looking for direction in life, or part of a family trying to raise your kids in this increasingly complex world, I have extensive experience in all of these areas. I am committed to helping you work through these challenges.
It would be hard to argue that our lives haven't been a lot more complicated over the last few years. Whether you are a child or teen dealing with peer pressure or the stressors at school, a stay at home parent trying to manage everyones busy schedules, a working professional balancing family life and the stress a job can bring, a single or divorced parent struggling to get through each day, a young adult looking for direction in life, or part of a family trying to raise your kids in this increasingly complex world, I have extensive experience in all of these areas. I am committed to helping you work through these challenges.
![Photo of Lauren Bongiorno, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/482ca862-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Bongiorno
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, MI 48094
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.
![Photo of Matthew Rosenberg - Specialized Mental Health Services, LMSW, MSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46c1c47f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are a specialized Mental health outpatient clinic. We provide specialized assessment, forensic psychosexual evaluations, treatment and consulting services in the areas of sexual addictions, pornography addiction, sexual abuse, perversions, anger management, impulse control, and other behavioral issues. Sexual addictions can destroy marriages and families, and often times can lead to significant legal issues. The first step is reaching out for help. We are compassionate and very well trained therapists, and we u deratand what the person and family are going through. Rosenberg & Associates Specialized Mental Health separates itself from the other providers by placing a premium on the client therapeutic relationship and detailed and comprehensive evaluation and assessment. We also work with clients that other providers refuse to or are unable to treat. We also provide drivers license restoration evaluations, risk assessments, and other types of evaluations. Choosing the right program and therapist is critical in getting effective and long term help! Call us today to speak with a specialist. The road to recovery is here!
We are a specialized Mental health outpatient clinic. We provide specialized assessment, forensic psychosexual evaluations, treatment and consulting services in the areas of sexual addictions, pornography addiction, sexual abuse, perversions, anger management, impulse control, and other behavioral issues. Sexual addictions can destroy marriages and families, and often times can lead to significant legal issues. The first step is reaching out for help. We are compassionate and very well trained therapists, and we u deratand what the person and family are going through. Rosenberg & Associates Specialized Mental Health separates itself from the other providers by placing a premium on the client therapeutic relationship and detailed and comprehensive evaluation and assessment. We also work with clients that other providers refuse to or are unable to treat. We also provide drivers license restoration evaluations, risk assessments, and other types of evaluations. Choosing the right program and therapist is critical in getting effective and long term help! Call us today to speak with a specialist. The road to recovery is here!
![Photo of Matthew Rosenberg - Rosenberg & Associates, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cbaae3e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
With 27 years of experience we offer effective treatment for sexual abuse, sexual addiction, pornography addiction, paraphilias, childhood sexual behavioral problems, and psychosexual evaluations. We work with spouses, children, an other family members. We provide psychosexual evaluations for attorneys and courts including risk assessment and treatment planning. Matthew Rosenberg also can provide Restorative Justice therapy sessions between victims and his or her offender when appropriate. Rosenberg & Associates offers intensive outpatient programs for sexual addicts
With 27 years of experience we offer effective treatment for sexual abuse, sexual addiction, pornography addiction, paraphilias, childhood sexual behavioral problems, and psychosexual evaluations. We work with spouses, children, an other family members. We provide psychosexual evaluations for attorneys and courts including risk assessment and treatment planning. Matthew Rosenberg also can provide Restorative Justice therapy sessions between victims and his or her offender when appropriate. Rosenberg & Associates offers intensive outpatient programs for sexual addicts
![Photo of Rebecca L Verkest, MA, LPC, NCE, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/327ccc9f-6e29-40b2-b32b-cbe0c091320c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Everyone can benefit from a non-biased professional to help them sort out any internal conflict or struggle they are experiencing that causes distress. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma and/or a life changing event, you no longer need to do this alone. I have over 23 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in crisis, offering high quality counseling to individuals seeking the life they deserve.
Everyone can benefit from a non-biased professional to help them sort out any internal conflict or struggle they are experiencing that causes distress. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma and/or a life changing event, you no longer need to do this alone. I have over 23 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in crisis, offering high quality counseling to individuals seeking the life they deserve.
![Photo of Michelle Mannina, MA, LPC, ICAADC, CCMW, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c347b76-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
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
![Photo of Courtney Richey, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/faa6e155-4cf0-4570-9adb-73a35bf2cef0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Courtney Richey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, MI 48094
Not accepting new clients
Taking the first step towards making a change can be an intimidating process. While it can be exciting, it can also feel overwhelming on where to begin. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, or are going through a challenging life event, I provide an empathetic, nonjudgmental environment where we can explore and work towards your individual goals.
Taking the first step towards making a change can be an intimidating process. While it can be exciting, it can also feel overwhelming on where to begin. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, or are going through a challenging life event, I provide an empathetic, nonjudgmental environment where we can explore and work towards your individual goals.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Kristina A. Fronrath, LMSW, CAADC, CCTP-II, CTMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2e41a9a-2f97-4d75-aaad-4af691069e8b/1/320x400.jpeg)
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!
![Photo of Ashley E Lupico, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51837b9d-69f2-4b8a-8039-05f267539ca5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley E Lupico
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Rochester Hills, MI 48309
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.
![Photo of Amity Horsley, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0a3e6e3-cc19-46fa-9363-7ab5abe96737/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Matthew C Orlando, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d8f8420-a6a8-4900-9954-a293965e7906/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Edward Werdene, LLC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aba98695-1c36-486c-8454-204a49046fa5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with the LGBTQ+ population, couples, & adolescents.
I am accepting new patients! Are you experiencing a difficult time in your life right now? I want to help you through this difficult or transitional period in your life, so that you can shine brighter and be the best you that you can be. Life can be difficult. My passion is to walk with my clients through the ups and downs of the day, and help guide them through their unique journey so that they can become the best versions of themselves. My goal is to establish a friendly and welcoming space for each person that seeks support. We will work each session to address your needs.
I work with the LGBTQ+ population, couples, & adolescents.
I am accepting new patients! Are you experiencing a difficult time in your life right now? I want to help you through this difficult or transitional period in your life, so that you can shine brighter and be the best you that you can be. Life can be difficult. My passion is to walk with my clients through the ups and downs of the day, and help guide them through their unique journey so that they can become the best versions of themselves. My goal is to establish a friendly and welcoming space for each person that seeks support. We will work each session to address your needs.
![Photo of Kevin Kinsel, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/264e0314-9017-4076-8d11-a264fceebc19/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Aubrey Rutkowski - Aubrey Rutkowski, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7716446-473b-4683-b491-4bf145c1a04d/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jay Hall - Jay Hall - MindBloom Psychological Services, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a6f4ad7-b53b-4a25-9d2c-ba996551a9b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jay Hall - MindBloom Psychological Services
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (Online Only)
Throughout my experience of providing therapy, I have worked with conditions including, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, life adjustments, caregiver burnout, grief/loss, anger issues, trauma, and LGBTQIA support.
I work with a wide range of ages and backgrounds, but focus mostly on 18 and older. I provide therapy with a background in existential-humanistic psychology; this can provide an insightful and individualized therapeutic experience.
Throughout my experience of providing therapy, I have worked with conditions including, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, life adjustments, caregiver burnout, grief/loss, anger issues, trauma, and LGBTQIA support.
I work with a wide range of ages and backgrounds, but focus mostly on 18 and older. I provide therapy with a background in existential-humanistic psychology; this can provide an insightful and individualized therapeutic experience.
![Photo of Sarah Hunt, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3271e104-fdef-461b-a339-f729a0b0d83e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rochester Hills, MI 48307 (Online Only)
I have extra training and experience in working with queer clients, polyamory, and those recovering from religious trauma.
Are you struggling with sexual, gender, or relationship anxiety? Do you wish you and your partner/s knew how to communicate without it ending in a fight or disappointment? Are you tired of feeling frustrated, but don't know what else to try? You're ready for support to find a better way. I specialize in helping individuals and couples develop clear and positive communication, increase their confidence, and deepen their intimacy and sexual satisfaction. I help you understand the root of what's going on and provide you with the tools to feel secure and connected.
I have extra training and experience in working with queer clients, polyamory, and those recovering from religious trauma.
Are you struggling with sexual, gender, or relationship anxiety? Do you wish you and your partner/s knew how to communicate without it ending in a fight or disappointment? Are you tired of feeling frustrated, but don't know what else to try? You're ready for support to find a better way. I specialize in helping individuals and couples develop clear and positive communication, increase their confidence, and deepen their intimacy and sexual satisfaction. I help you understand the root of what's going on and provide you with the tools to feel secure and connected.
![Photo of Laurie Orlando, JD, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf05763-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
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
![Photo of Latha Ravi, Rev Latha Ravi, LMSW, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d2a5fbd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Latha Ravi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Rev Latha Ravi, LMSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Rochester, MI 48307
***Attention I do not take HAP. The insurance listed is incorrect. I am not able to take HAP insurance.******** I am open to working with LGBTQIA+ clients. Since we live in a heteronormative homophobic, transphobic society I feel it is absolutely essential to fight such oppression intentionally and persistently. My hope is to offer LGBTQIA+ clients support, love, compassion and a place of healing and peace where they can find liberation and truly express the fabulous individual they are. I also have extensive experience working with rape crisis, domestic violence, and sexual assault survivors.
***Attention I do not take HAP. The insurance listed is incorrect. I am not able to take HAP insurance.******** I am open to working with LGBTQIA+ clients. Since we live in a heteronormative homophobic, transphobic society I feel it is absolutely essential to fight such oppression intentionally and persistently. My hope is to offer LGBTQIA+ clients support, love, compassion and a place of healing and peace where they can find liberation and truly express the fabulous individual they are. I also have extensive experience working with rape crisis, domestic violence, and sexual assault survivors.
![Photo of Kait Sedorchuk, MA, LLPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e0df6e1-f00f-4b20-92d9-15b3f7eda7be/3/320x400.jpeg)
I strive to meet my clients wherever they’re at in their lives, helping them achieve their goals and find out new things about themselves. I have experience working with college students and other adults, as well as with issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and self-worth; I also wish to work with folks who are part of the LGBTQ+ community.
I strive to meet my clients wherever they’re at in their lives, helping them achieve their goals and find out new things about themselves. I have experience working with college students and other adults, as well as with issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and self-worth; I also wish to work with folks who are part of the LGBTQ+ community.
See more therapy options for Washington
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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.