LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Minneapolis, MN
![Photo of Elizabeth Douglas - Yellow Wallpaper Therapy, MA, LADC, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d941e34-72cd-4502-8d3f-96f1260614e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yellow Wallpaper Therapy
Counselor, MA, LADC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408 (Online Only)
I believe that YOU are the best expert of you! I'm Elizabeth, and over my last 18 years of helping others I've put my warm, gentle and quirky personality into creating a safe place for therapy. I have put my focus on working with depression, trauma, anxiety, BPD and those on the Autism spectrum. I enjoy working with neurodivergent adults and folx in the LGBTQ+ community. Book with me now by emailing me or clicking on my website to schedule a Free 15 min consult!
I believe that YOU are the best expert of you! I'm Elizabeth, and over my last 18 years of helping others I've put my warm, gentle and quirky personality into creating a safe place for therapy. I have put my focus on working with depression, trauma, anxiety, BPD and those on the Autism spectrum. I enjoy working with neurodivergent adults and folx in the LGBTQ+ community. Book with me now by emailing me or clicking on my website to schedule a Free 15 min consult!
![Photo of Pam McGowan, RN, BSN, BFA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4e680bf-7ed5-45a9-89b1-ff916b9d7755/1/320x400.jpeg)
Your feelings, opinions, and perspectives matter; you can expect me to listen to and respect them. You might be looking to start on your journey of healing or self-discovery. Maybe you are looking for yourself or for you and your partner(s). To that point I am LGBTQIA+ friendly and am kink and poly informed and affirming. I recognize how good it feels when you can embrace your identity in a supportive environment. I believe in the power of a good fit for a person with their therapist and will show up for you authentically and empathetically. I believe that we are all constantly learning and have opportunities for growth.
Your feelings, opinions, and perspectives matter; you can expect me to listen to and respect them. You might be looking to start on your journey of healing or self-discovery. Maybe you are looking for yourself or for you and your partner(s). To that point I am LGBTQIA+ friendly and am kink and poly informed and affirming. I recognize how good it feels when you can embrace your identity in a supportive environment. I believe in the power of a good fit for a person with their therapist and will show up for you authentically and empathetically. I believe that we are all constantly learning and have opportunities for growth.
![Photo of Kelsey Schultz, MSW, LGSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f060d05-99d1-4609-a0c4-a5394cb1f07e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Schultz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW, MA
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55423 (Online Only)
I welcome clients from all spheres of life & lived realities. I am currently accepting clients for individual, couples (including poly/non-monogamy), & group therapy. Most of my professional experience has been with communities that are underrepresented, under supported, economically limited, identify as BIPOC, neurodivergent, and/or LGBTQIA+. As a gay nonbinary person, I am especially passionate about working with folks from the queer community.
I welcome clients from all spheres of life & lived realities. I am currently accepting clients for individual, couples (including poly/non-monogamy), & group therapy. Most of my professional experience has been with communities that are underrepresented, under supported, economically limited, identify as BIPOC, neurodivergent, and/or LGBTQIA+. As a gay nonbinary person, I am especially passionate about working with folks from the queer community.
![Photo of Linda Pozen, LGSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71fc7f24-5243-4edb-9ba9-5b932a42a65c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Linda Pozen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55407
Not accepting new clients
I work with clients to help them better navigate their experiences and move through the world as their most aligned, authentic and grounded version of themselves. I have experience working with adults who were unhoused, adults and children experiencing trauma or who have received trauma-related diagnoses, adults and adolescents who identify as neurodivergent and folks in the LGTBQ+ community. I also work with trans, non-binary and gender-expansive clients to author their own identities including supporting social and medical transition.
I work with clients to help them better navigate their experiences and move through the world as their most aligned, authentic and grounded version of themselves. I have experience working with adults who were unhoused, adults and children experiencing trauma or who have received trauma-related diagnoses, adults and adolescents who identify as neurodivergent and folks in the LGTBQ+ community. I also work with trans, non-binary and gender-expansive clients to author their own identities including supporting social and medical transition.
![Photo of Daniel Mrotek, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54533f53-468c-47a6-9873-9b6d274c5c4b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I identify as a queer, cisgender therapist with extensive experience both professionally and personally within the LGBTQ+ communities.
I am a passionate, knowledgeable, and resilient licensed mental health professional who has worked with diverse client populations in clinical, supervisory, and managerial roles for over 15 years in the following settings: nonprofit community mental health clinics; an eating disorder clinic; a mood, anxiety, and self-injury clinic; Ecopsychology focused programming; a HIV/AIDS advocacy agency; mental health crisis/suicide phone lines and text lines; mobile crisis outreach teams; IRTS and crisis residential; and K-12 Day Treatment.
I identify as a queer, cisgender therapist with extensive experience both professionally and personally within the LGBTQ+ communities.
I am a passionate, knowledgeable, and resilient licensed mental health professional who has worked with diverse client populations in clinical, supervisory, and managerial roles for over 15 years in the following settings: nonprofit community mental health clinics; an eating disorder clinic; a mood, anxiety, and self-injury clinic; Ecopsychology focused programming; a HIV/AIDS advocacy agency; mental health crisis/suicide phone lines and text lines; mobile crisis outreach teams; IRTS and crisis residential; and K-12 Day Treatment.
![Photo of Vanessa Marr, PhD, LICSW, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7fd451d-8c16-4e88-b71c-b9099b3d946f/1/320x400.png)
Vanessa Marr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55405 (Online Only)
Thank you for being here and for taking this bold move toward your healing. As a somatic therapist, I practice from a holistic and trauma-informed perspective to connect mind, body, and soul. As one who values justice, I am aware of how environmental and societal factors impact our health. I meet people where they are, especially those coping with anxiety, shame, complex PTSD, life transitions, chronic stress, relationship challenges, and grief. Our work involves exploring where you have been and supporting the resilient person you desire to become. I'm deeply honored to work with those from BIPOC and/or LGBTQIA+ communities.
Thank you for being here and for taking this bold move toward your healing. As a somatic therapist, I practice from a holistic and trauma-informed perspective to connect mind, body, and soul. As one who values justice, I am aware of how environmental and societal factors impact our health. I meet people where they are, especially those coping with anxiety, shame, complex PTSD, life transitions, chronic stress, relationship challenges, and grief. Our work involves exploring where you have been and supporting the resilient person you desire to become. I'm deeply honored to work with those from BIPOC and/or LGBTQIA+ communities.
![Photo of Kaylee Audrey Bond, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45fc8da3-aea3-4d16-a32e-50261a2ecd5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kaylee Audrey Bond
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55418
I specialize with children 0-5, neurodivergent/queer/questioning people of all ages, and couples. My individual sessions are trauma informed and social justice oriented with children, teens, and adults. I love helping with skills for neurodivergence, adjusting to life changes, parenting, pre/post natal and relationship issues. My couples are often Queer, Polyam, and Kink; although all couples are welcome. I also help couples with mental health impacts, parenting, sex issues, and identity.
I specialize with children 0-5, neurodivergent/queer/questioning people of all ages, and couples. My individual sessions are trauma informed and social justice oriented with children, teens, and adults. I love helping with skills for neurodivergence, adjusting to life changes, parenting, pre/post natal and relationship issues. My couples are often Queer, Polyam, and Kink; although all couples are welcome. I also help couples with mental health impacts, parenting, sex issues, and identity.
![Photo of Sara Kelly, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ad55d0a-58da-411f-aeee-cb3692548efa/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55407
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals, and have clinical experience with managing hardships related to substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, sex and sexuality, and relationship conflict.
Existing in this world is hard, especially if you’re shouldering the burden alone. There’s no shame in seeking support and there’s no time like the present to begin rewriting your story. Through personal exploration and a deep, honest evaluation of your surrounding environments, you can foster a sense of clarity and become better equipped to face the obstacles that life hands out.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals, and have clinical experience with managing hardships related to substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, sex and sexuality, and relationship conflict.
Existing in this world is hard, especially if you’re shouldering the burden alone. There’s no shame in seeking support and there’s no time like the present to begin rewriting your story. Through personal exploration and a deep, honest evaluation of your surrounding environments, you can foster a sense of clarity and become better equipped to face the obstacles that life hands out.
![Photo of Sam Trewick, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67205de8-ac22-4a32-981d-02fa5577f9b1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sam Trewick
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Waitlist for new clients
I feel deeply connected with people who struggle to feel safe, worthy, and like they belong. I specialize in working with queer folks, trauma, anxiety and depression, body shame, high sensitivity, and an overall feeling of being stuck.
I feel deeply connected with people who struggle to feel safe, worthy, and like they belong. I specialize in working with queer folks, trauma, anxiety and depression, body shame, high sensitivity, and an overall feeling of being stuck.
![Photo of Rhiannon Arkala, LPC Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01cdf23e-0ca5-491d-95df-c1609ba01b89/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rhiannon Arkala
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55403 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
It's not easy to form genuine connections these days. It's especially challenging if you are from a marginalized community. My passion is working with teens and young adults who are experiencing challenges with work/school stress, friendships, or life transitions. As a queer counselor, I also enjoy working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Clients that work with me develop strong coping skills, gain self-acceptance, and are able to grow their social support system.
It's not easy to form genuine connections these days. It's especially challenging if you are from a marginalized community. My passion is working with teens and young adults who are experiencing challenges with work/school stress, friendships, or life transitions. As a queer counselor, I also enjoy working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Clients that work with me develop strong coping skills, gain self-acceptance, and are able to grow their social support system.
![Photo of Patricia White, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/466c2a6e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Currently, I am offering online and in-office sessions. If the whole world's a stage (as Shakespeare wrote), you are the lead actor. I take a supporting role for you or your child to achieve optimal mental health. I welcome all ages and forms of diversity, including non-binary or trans-identified individuals. I work with children/adolescents, adults, couples and families of any configuration.
Currently, I am offering online and in-office sessions. If the whole world's a stage (as Shakespeare wrote), you are the lead actor. I take a supporting role for you or your child to achieve optimal mental health. I welcome all ages and forms of diversity, including non-binary or trans-identified individuals. I work with children/adolescents, adults, couples and families of any configuration.
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![Photo of Analisa Jayasekera, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04f2c044-3c6f-45fe-a4b2-3d51ae4cf5b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Analisa Jayasekera
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55419
My clients are often LGBTQIA+ and/or mixed-race folks.
As a relational therapist who works with individuals and couples, I specialize in fostering healthy connections. Whether you're a couple facing conflict and communication issues or an individual overwhelmed by people-pleasing and lack of confidence, I can guide you toward deeper connectedness, more effective communication, and contentment. Struggling to express your authentic voice? People-pleasing can suppress your true desires, causing inner conflict and resentment. Constantly overwhelmed? That impacts your quality of life and ability to cope daily. Together, we can work to help you feel more resourced and fulfilled.
My clients are often LGBTQIA+ and/or mixed-race folks.
As a relational therapist who works with individuals and couples, I specialize in fostering healthy connections. Whether you're a couple facing conflict and communication issues or an individual overwhelmed by people-pleasing and lack of confidence, I can guide you toward deeper connectedness, more effective communication, and contentment. Struggling to express your authentic voice? People-pleasing can suppress your true desires, causing inner conflict and resentment. Constantly overwhelmed? That impacts your quality of life and ability to cope daily. Together, we can work to help you feel more resourced and fulfilled.
![Photo of Nicole Cardarella-Gasper, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93f57abc-14ac-480d-8daa-e8cc71d5d30f/2/320x400.jpeg)
"I have found, through painful experience, that the most important step a person can take is always the next one.” -Brandon Sanderson Let me help you take the next step. I enjoy providing therapy for queer folx, chronic illness, nerds, adolescents, young adults, college students, and families. I have special interests in all things nerdy, sex, trauma, and exploring identities (gender, sexuality). I primarily work from a feminist, anti-capitalist, and strength-based perspective. My ideal client wants a strong therapeutic relationship with an affirming and relatable therapist.
"I have found, through painful experience, that the most important step a person can take is always the next one.” -Brandon Sanderson Let me help you take the next step. I enjoy providing therapy for queer folx, chronic illness, nerds, adolescents, young adults, college students, and families. I have special interests in all things nerdy, sex, trauma, and exploring identities (gender, sexuality). I primarily work from a feminist, anti-capitalist, and strength-based perspective. My ideal client wants a strong therapeutic relationship with an affirming and relatable therapist.
![Photo of Mariah Hutchinson, MAAT, LPCC, ATR, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce39ecee-8a77-4998-9d70-feeb85b48288/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a white, queer ciswoman, passionate about all things process.
Therapy is a creative, collaborative relationship. As an artist and therapist passionate about process, I am here to help you uncover and cultivate the life you want to live. I am not here to fix you; you are not broken. We will work together to find new ways for you to be in relationship with the problems and the joys in your life. If you are ready to step into a curious, process-oriented journey, then I am here to offer a safe, supportive space to do just that. Let’s get curious about how to create more room for pleasure, joy, and connection as well as for the uncomfortable, tender parts of your life.
I am a white, queer ciswoman, passionate about all things process.
Therapy is a creative, collaborative relationship. As an artist and therapist passionate about process, I am here to help you uncover and cultivate the life you want to live. I am not here to fix you; you are not broken. We will work together to find new ways for you to be in relationship with the problems and the joys in your life. If you are ready to step into a curious, process-oriented journey, then I am here to offer a safe, supportive space to do just that. Let’s get curious about how to create more room for pleasure, joy, and connection as well as for the uncomfortable, tender parts of your life.
![Photo of Allison July, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c503780-b57b-4d4d-8377-9a49137d7337/3/320x400.jpeg)
Allison July
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55403 (Online Only)
I specialize in LGBTQ+, Trauma (PTSD), Mood Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, and living with Chronic Illness.
I specialize in LGBTQ+, Trauma (PTSD), Mood Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, and living with Chronic Illness.
![Photo of Amili Spaeth, MSW, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f579b0a2-166f-46b3-9630-3b03232c998c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amili Spaeth
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Immediate availability for in-person and telehealth. I am open to working with adults navigating queer identity, relationship dynamics, substance use and abuse, grief and ambiguous loss, anxiety/OCD, depression, and trauma. My collaborative therapeutic style is tailored to the unique needs of each client, with elements of mindfulness-based interventions, narrative therapy, somatic experiencing, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Asking for help is a vulnerable task, and my aim is to provide deeply compassionate, patient, non-judgmental care as a result.
Immediate availability for in-person and telehealth. I am open to working with adults navigating queer identity, relationship dynamics, substance use and abuse, grief and ambiguous loss, anxiety/OCD, depression, and trauma. My collaborative therapeutic style is tailored to the unique needs of each client, with elements of mindfulness-based interventions, narrative therapy, somatic experiencing, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Asking for help is a vulnerable task, and my aim is to provide deeply compassionate, patient, non-judgmental care as a result.
![Photo of Donald Boyer, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93aa18e6-5e06-450d-8c99-7316ab536ead/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now Accepting New Clients! My area of expertise is centered around working with individuals with a history of mental health disorders such as Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD, childhood disorders, SPMI, poverty, LGBTQ+, life changing events such as Grief and Dying. In addition, I have ample experience working with clients dealing with self-harm behaviors, suicidal ideations, chronic stress, and low self-esteem. Clients who see me aim to develop coping and adaptive skills to manage life difficulties, resolve conflicts, heal traumatic experiences, work through where they feel stuck, and engage in healing.
Now Accepting New Clients! My area of expertise is centered around working with individuals with a history of mental health disorders such as Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD, childhood disorders, SPMI, poverty, LGBTQ+, life changing events such as Grief and Dying. In addition, I have ample experience working with clients dealing with self-harm behaviors, suicidal ideations, chronic stress, and low self-esteem. Clients who see me aim to develop coping and adaptive skills to manage life difficulties, resolve conflicts, heal traumatic experiences, work through where they feel stuck, and engage in healing.
![Photo of Nicole Schefers, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1027c39-f3c0-4296-9295-16a94230c1cf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hey there, I'm Nicole, and I'm all about creating a cozy, welcoming space for you to explore life's ups and downs. My passion lies in working with women, couples, LGBTQIA+ folks, and teens. Whether it's boosting self esteem, tackling anxiety, setting healthy boundaries, healing from trauma, or navigating depression, I'm here for you.
Hey there, I'm Nicole, and I'm all about creating a cozy, welcoming space for you to explore life's ups and downs. My passion lies in working with women, couples, LGBTQIA+ folks, and teens. Whether it's boosting self esteem, tackling anxiety, setting healthy boundaries, healing from trauma, or navigating depression, I'm here for you.
![Photo of Rachel Levine, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e35883dc-c056-4472-8718-ae7a1b713d56/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Levine
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408 (Online Only)
I offer clinical expertise in working with transgender folks throughout their experience as well as substance abuse, relapse prevention, sexual addiction, HIV counseling and education.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (Minnesota, Illinois & Massachusetts) and hold a certificate in Alcohol and Drug Counseling. I offer clinical services to individuals, couples and families as well as clinical supervision to therapists. My training and who I am is heavily influenced by the LGBTQ+ community and my practice is open and affirming to any identity or relationship however defined. At this time, all sessions are provided via telehealth.
I offer clinical expertise in working with transgender folks throughout their experience as well as substance abuse, relapse prevention, sexual addiction, HIV counseling and education.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (Minnesota, Illinois & Massachusetts) and hold a certificate in Alcohol and Drug Counseling. I offer clinical services to individuals, couples and families as well as clinical supervision to therapists. My training and who I am is heavily influenced by the LGBTQ+ community and my practice is open and affirming to any identity or relationship however defined. At this time, all sessions are provided via telehealth.
![Photo of Ben A Mattson - Geekery and Growth, MS, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d0b340d-9c89-42c9-ad6f-0fec10dc1c45/2/320x400.jpeg)
Geekery and Growth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408 (Online Only)
At Geekery and Growth I focus on working with fellow adult geeks, nerds, and misfits. As a gay geek myself, I enjoy working with the LGBTQIA2S communities, and find that there is a significant overlap between the geek and queer communities. I am also passionate about helping people who are trauma survivors learn how to build or rebuild a life that reflects who they are and what they want. Because I focus on working with adults, I currently only offer evening appointments, and because I offer appointments via telehealth, you can do therapy anywhere you have privacy and an internet connection so it is easier to fit it in your life.
At Geekery and Growth I focus on working with fellow adult geeks, nerds, and misfits. As a gay geek myself, I enjoy working with the LGBTQIA2S communities, and find that there is a significant overlap between the geek and queer communities. I am also passionate about helping people who are trauma survivors learn how to build or rebuild a life that reflects who they are and what they want. Because I focus on working with adults, I currently only offer evening appointments, and because I offer appointments via telehealth, you can do therapy anywhere you have privacy and an internet connection so it is easier to fit it in your life.
See more therapy options for Minneapolis
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Minneapolis
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- Minnetonka
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- Richfield
- Robbinsdale
- Saint Anthony
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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.