LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Raytown, MO

Photo of Aimee Hubbard, MS, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aimee Hubbard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raytown, MO 64129
Relationships face so many challenges, but I'm here to help couples navigate these ups and downs. In our sessions, I aim to offer expertise while honoring your lived experience. I take a trauma informed and non-judgmental approach that blends compassion with humor to help you find the best path forward. Embracing diversity and supporting the LGBTQ+ community are integral parts of my practice, ensuring that everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Beyond my formal education, I'm a lifelong learner that is committed to providing the best care.
Relationships face so many challenges, but I'm here to help couples navigate these ups and downs. In our sessions, I aim to offer expertise while honoring your lived experience. I take a trauma informed and non-judgmental approach that blends compassion with humor to help you find the best path forward. Embracing diversity and supporting the LGBTQ+ community are integral parts of my practice, ensuring that everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Beyond my formal education, I'm a lifelong learner that is committed to providing the best care.
(816) 253-6209 View (816) 253-6209
Photo of Megan Deaver, MS, PLPC
Megan Deaver
MS, PLPC
Verified Verified
Raytown, MO 64129
Life gets tough sometimes and everyone needs a little help. Sometimes that help comes from friends or family, but other times that help can come from a professional. Reaching out to a counselor is tough but frequently can be the first step towards improvement in life. It is important to find a counselor with whom you feel comfortable enough to do the tough work and talk about the hard issues. I enjoy learning whether that is from formal training and classwork or from the people I work with. I consider therapy a collaborative experience where we learn from each other.
Life gets tough sometimes and everyone needs a little help. Sometimes that help comes from friends or family, but other times that help can come from a professional. Reaching out to a counselor is tough but frequently can be the first step towards improvement in life. It is important to find a counselor with whom you feel comfortable enough to do the tough work and talk about the hard issues. I enjoy learning whether that is from formal training and classwork or from the people I work with. I consider therapy a collaborative experience where we learn from each other.
(816) 396-8195 View (816) 396-8195
Photo of Katrina Stoddard, MS, LMFT, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katrina Stoddard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raytown, MO 64133
I am Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist (LCMFT) in the states of Kansas and Missouri. In addition to being in private practice, I teach a graduate course at the University of Kansas as well as provide guidance and therapy skills to graduate level students at Friends University. I specialize in couples therapy and maternal mental health. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which I use with my in my trauma work.
I am Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist (LCMFT) in the states of Kansas and Missouri. In addition to being in private practice, I teach a graduate course at the University of Kansas as well as provide guidance and therapy skills to graduate level students at Friends University. I specialize in couples therapy and maternal mental health. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which I use with my in my trauma work.
(816) 656-3947 View (816) 656-3947
Photo of Sophia Palmerin - Accepting New Clients!, MA, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sophia Palmerin - Accepting New Clients!
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
Raytown, MO 64129
Welcome! I am a dedicated therapist specializing in trauma therapy for teens and adults up to age 65. With a passion for guiding individuals through their healing journeys, I utilize an eclectic approach, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). My approach is direct and straightforward—I believe in addressing issues head-on rather than sugar-coating. I create a supportive environment where vulnerability and accountability are key components of the healing process.
Welcome! I am a dedicated therapist specializing in trauma therapy for teens and adults up to age 65. With a passion for guiding individuals through their healing journeys, I utilize an eclectic approach, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). My approach is direct and straightforward—I believe in addressing issues head-on rather than sugar-coating. I create a supportive environment where vulnerability and accountability are key components of the healing process.
(816) 430-2691 View (816) 430-2691

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Megan MacKenzie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan MacKenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64102
Drawing primarily from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), modern psychodynamic theory, and intersectional queer theory, I provide a validating and non-judgmental space for people to explore how past experiences have shaped current beliefs and patterns.
As a relationship, sex, and gender therapist, I help couples, relationships, and individuals explore explore identities, experience greater pleasure and intimacy, and recalibrate toward more authentic, compassionate, and courageous lives. I am passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ folks in exploring and healing from the negative impacts of internalized homophobia and transphobia as they often manifest in shame, guilt, and low self-esteem.
Drawing primarily from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), modern psychodynamic theory, and intersectional queer theory, I provide a validating and non-judgmental space for people to explore how past experiences have shaped current beliefs and patterns.
As a relationship, sex, and gender therapist, I help couples, relationships, and individuals explore explore identities, experience greater pleasure and intimacy, and recalibrate toward more authentic, compassionate, and courageous lives. I am passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ folks in exploring and healing from the negative impacts of internalized homophobia and transphobia as they often manifest in shame, guilt, and low self-esteem.
(314) 626-0543 View (314) 626-0543
Photo of Laura Dixon, MA, LPC, LCPC, RBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Dixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, RBT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
Waitlist for new clients
I am an LGBTQ+ ally and specialize in positive approaches to becoming your best self, including autism support.
Do you wish there was someone out there that understood you? Do you feel separate from others, different somehow and struggle to find someone to relate to? Possibly you feel inauthentic in your relationships with others or in the roles that you find yourself in. Human connection is something that we all need and strive for and yet is difficult to obtain at times especially with our fast-paced, individual-centric lives. The therapeutic relationship can provide a safe space to explore identities, challenge obstacles to connection and learn to overcome our difficulties in new and exciting ways.
I am an LGBTQ+ ally and specialize in positive approaches to becoming your best self, including autism support.
Do you wish there was someone out there that understood you? Do you feel separate from others, different somehow and struggle to find someone to relate to? Possibly you feel inauthentic in your relationships with others or in the roles that you find yourself in. Human connection is something that we all need and strive for and yet is difficult to obtain at times especially with our fast-paced, individual-centric lives. The therapeutic relationship can provide a safe space to explore identities, challenge obstacles to connection and learn to overcome our difficulties in new and exciting ways.
(816) 934-5212 View (816) 934-5212
Photo of Krissi Franzen, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krissi Franzen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Most of my experience is working with the LGBTQIA+, kink, and poly communities, and I am a WPATH and IFS informed counselor! I like to use curiosity, expression, and experimentation to support you towards your goals!.
My role is to help support you to lead happier, healthier life. Sometimes this means lessening your symptoms of anxiety or depression, or maybe it's working towards a specific goal like changing jobs or making friends. It can also look like wanting to find your true, authentic self, which can be exploring gender, sexuality, life after loss, or even just trying to figure out who you are!
Most of my experience is working with the LGBTQIA+, kink, and poly communities, and I am a WPATH and IFS informed counselor! I like to use curiosity, expression, and experimentation to support you towards your goals!.
My role is to help support you to lead happier, healthier life. Sometimes this means lessening your symptoms of anxiety or depression, or maybe it's working towards a specific goal like changing jobs or making friends. It can also look like wanting to find your true, authentic self, which can be exploring gender, sexuality, life after loss, or even just trying to figure out who you are!
(314) 370-2758 View (314) 370-2758
Photo of Sarah Middleton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Middleton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64056  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have trained as a child and family therapist working with trauma and acute crisis situations. I now offer Telehealth services for youth and adults throughout the state of Missouri. I am trained in several modalities, with specific competency training in working with queer and transgender individuals, neurodivergence, disability, as well as caregivers wanting to better support their children. I also have training in play therapy and several body-based perspectives, including polyvagal theory and MNRI.
I have trained as a child and family therapist working with trauma and acute crisis situations. I now offer Telehealth services for youth and adults throughout the state of Missouri. I am trained in several modalities, with specific competency training in working with queer and transgender individuals, neurodivergence, disability, as well as caregivers wanting to better support their children. I also have training in play therapy and several body-based perspectives, including polyvagal theory and MNRI.
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Photo of Jennifer (Jenni) D Liles, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer (Jenni) D Liles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64050  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
For LGBTQ+ people and to the polyamorous and kink communities.
Jennifer (Jenni) Liles is the owner of Responsive Mental Health Services LLC. I believe that all of us can live fulfilling lives that contains moments of joy in between and around the difficult times. Therapy should allow us to experience ourselves as valuable human beings with something to offer. I would like to help you achieve that. I have extensive experiencing helping people through trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety, and out the other side. I work from a queer-friendly and neurodivergent perspective with people aged 12 and up.
For LGBTQ+ people and to the polyamorous and kink communities.
Jennifer (Jenni) Liles is the owner of Responsive Mental Health Services LLC. I believe that all of us can live fulfilling lives that contains moments of joy in between and around the difficult times. Therapy should allow us to experience ourselves as valuable human beings with something to offer. I would like to help you achieve that. I have extensive experiencing helping people through trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety, and out the other side. I work from a queer-friendly and neurodivergent perspective with people aged 12 and up.
(816) 448-8183 View (816) 448-8183
Photo of Caitlyn Crawford, MS, LCMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caitlyn Crawford
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64109
Passion Populations & Specializations: LGBTQ+, Couples of all varieties, Sex Therapy, Women-Empowerment, Teens. I'm in the business of story-shaping. I believe we become the stories we tell ourselves about ourselves. People are not defined by their problems. Are you stuck in a story that feels disempowering or defeating? Do you no longer feel like your own narrator? Let me be your co-author and collaborator in creating your counter story—a brand new, one-of-a-kind tale that aligns with your truest, most authentic self.
Passion Populations & Specializations: LGBTQ+, Couples of all varieties, Sex Therapy, Women-Empowerment, Teens. I'm in the business of story-shaping. I believe we become the stories we tell ourselves about ourselves. People are not defined by their problems. Are you stuck in a story that feels disempowering or defeating? Do you no longer feel like your own narrator? Let me be your co-author and collaborator in creating your counter story—a brand new, one-of-a-kind tale that aligns with your truest, most authentic self.
(913) 246-5085 View (913) 246-5085
Photo of Joy S Whitman, PhD, LCMHC, LCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joy S Whitman
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64101  (Online Only)
I have expertise with people with eating disorders, clients who have experienced trauma, and with LGBTQ clients.
I have been working with clients since 1991. Over the course of my training and experience, my style of therapy has evolved to an integrative approach combining humanistic, feminist, and psychodynamic theories of personality development with an approach that emphasizes the adaptive development of identity across the lifespan within broad interpersonal, social, and cultural contexts. I seek to find what is working well for you, help you understand the experiences that brought you to this place in your life, and use your strengths to help you grow and develop insight as well as create behavioral change.
I have expertise with people with eating disorders, clients who have experienced trauma, and with LGBTQ clients.
I have been working with clients since 1991. Over the course of my training and experience, my style of therapy has evolved to an integrative approach combining humanistic, feminist, and psychodynamic theories of personality development with an approach that emphasizes the adaptive development of identity across the lifespan within broad interpersonal, social, and cultural contexts. I seek to find what is working well for you, help you understand the experiences that brought you to this place in your life, and use your strengths to help you grow and develop insight as well as create behavioral change.
(773) 570-2522 View (773) 570-2522
Photo of Ailee Sykes, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ailee Sykes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64105
I welcome individuals from LGBTQIA+ and CNM/polyam communities and take an affirming stance when working with individuals who do sex work.
Feeling stuck, apathetic, overwhelmed, angry, worried, depressed, anxious, hopeless, or disconnected is exhausting and isolating. Many of our systems are designed to keep you this way, and you deserve more. I believe every person has an innate resilience, that helps us adapt to an ever changing world. I work to meet people where they are, connecting to the strength, courage, and insight already present and exploring areas for transformation and growth.
I welcome individuals from LGBTQIA+ and CNM/polyam communities and take an affirming stance when working with individuals who do sex work.
Feeling stuck, apathetic, overwhelmed, angry, worried, depressed, anxious, hopeless, or disconnected is exhausting and isolating. Many of our systems are designed to keep you this way, and you deserve more. I believe every person has an innate resilience, that helps us adapt to an ever changing world. I work to meet people where they are, connecting to the strength, courage, and insight already present and exploring areas for transformation and growth.
(816) 653-3740 View (816) 653-3740
Photo of Kali Boydston, MA, PLPC, NCC
Kali Boydston
MA, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64086
Finding a therapist can be hard, especially when you feel like no one really "gets" you. I'm hoping that's where I come in- I am a queer, autistic therapist passionate about working with other LGBTQIA+ and/or neurodivergent people that may struggle to find the right therapist for them, or who have felt unheard or invalidated by other mental health professionals. Currently, I am offering services to individuals age 12 and older, as well as families, couples, and diverse relationships.
Finding a therapist can be hard, especially when you feel like no one really "gets" you. I'm hoping that's where I come in- I am a queer, autistic therapist passionate about working with other LGBTQIA+ and/or neurodivergent people that may struggle to find the right therapist for them, or who have felt unheard or invalidated by other mental health professionals. Currently, I am offering services to individuals age 12 and older, as well as families, couples, and diverse relationships.
(816) 839-9427 View (816) 839-9427
Photo of DeAnn Fleming, MS, LCPC, LPC, SEP, Counselor
DeAnn Fleming
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64086  (Online Only)
I also love working with LGBTQIA+, and consensual non-monogomy as a subspecialty.
Are you feeling stuck? Has overwhelm, anxiety and/or depression, taken over your life? Are you struggling in your relationships, at work, or feeling negative towards yourself? Have you tried other therapists and struggled to find a good fit? I have specialized training with PTSD, mood disorders, personality disorder diagnoses and anxiety. I can also help with management of shock trauma and/or childhood trauma including trauma bonding, sexual assault, addiction and pervasive feelings of self hate. Lets connect! I am here to help. Lets connect!
I also love working with LGBTQIA+, and consensual non-monogomy as a subspecialty.
Are you feeling stuck? Has overwhelm, anxiety and/or depression, taken over your life? Are you struggling in your relationships, at work, or feeling negative towards yourself? Have you tried other therapists and struggled to find a good fit? I have specialized training with PTSD, mood disorders, personality disorder diagnoses and anxiety. I can also help with management of shock trauma and/or childhood trauma including trauma bonding, sexual assault, addiction and pervasive feelings of self hate. Lets connect! I am here to help. Lets connect!
(913) 423-2917 View (913) 423-2917
Photo of Tristan Connor, LCSW, CADC, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tristan Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CCM
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64106  (Online Only)
As a transgender therapist, one of my passions is working with clients who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ population. I enjoy collaborating with individuals who are exploring their gender and/or sexual identities and hope to offer guidance and compassion as they let go of any residual societal expectations. I have undergone the entire process of hormones, top surgery, and bottom surgeries, and I am open with my clients about my experiences as we work to decrease their gender dysphoria and move toward the eventual goal of gender euphoria.
As a transgender therapist, one of my passions is working with clients who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ population. I enjoy collaborating with individuals who are exploring their gender and/or sexual identities and hope to offer guidance and compassion as they let go of any residual societal expectations. I have undergone the entire process of hormones, top surgery, and bottom surgeries, and I am open with my clients about my experiences as we work to decrease their gender dysphoria and move toward the eventual goal of gender euphoria.
(314) 501-6096 View (314) 501-6096
Photo of Charity Ann Clavey, LCSW, LSCSW, LCAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charity Ann Clavey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64055  (Online Only)
I am licensed in the states of Missouri, Kansas, and Utah as a LSCSW, LCSW, and LCAC. I am trained in Trauma Informed Care, CBT trained, and thoroughly trained in Motivational Interviewing/Person Centered approaches to ensure that my clients are able to make progress with issues that are important to and for them. I use modern approaches to help individuals achieve goals and make personal improvements in their lives. My passion is to help you through difficult, accomplish your goals, and have the life you want. I ALSO focus on the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am licensed in the states of Missouri, Kansas, and Utah as a LSCSW, LCSW, and LCAC. I am trained in Trauma Informed Care, CBT trained, and thoroughly trained in Motivational Interviewing/Person Centered approaches to ensure that my clients are able to make progress with issues that are important to and for them. I use modern approaches to help individuals achieve goals and make personal improvements in their lives. My passion is to help you through difficult, accomplish your goals, and have the life you want. I ALSO focus on the LGBTQIA+ community.
(816) 323-5589 View (816) 323-5589
Photo of Dr. Luke Allen, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Luke Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64064  (Online Only)
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
(314) 668-1760 View (314) 668-1760
Photo of Sophie Pellegrini, MSW, LCSW
Sophie Pellegrini
MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64102  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a queer, neurodivergent therapist who is passionate about supporting clients as they uncover and connect with their most authentic, grounded selves. I specialize in working with queer, trans, and non-binary folks, with a focus on sexuality/asexuality, gender, neurodivergence, consensual non-monogamy, and trauma. My clients are often exploring emergent identities, unpacking relational patterns, learning to unmask, and seeking a greater sense of belonging. Our work together will likely be less focused on coping skills or quick solutions, but instead involve deep reflection, processing, and relationship building.
I am a queer, neurodivergent therapist who is passionate about supporting clients as they uncover and connect with their most authentic, grounded selves. I specialize in working with queer, trans, and non-binary folks, with a focus on sexuality/asexuality, gender, neurodivergence, consensual non-monogamy, and trauma. My clients are often exploring emergent identities, unpacking relational patterns, learning to unmask, and seeking a greater sense of belonging. Our work together will likely be less focused on coping skills or quick solutions, but instead involve deep reflection, processing, and relationship building.
(314) 207-9104 View (314) 207-9104
Photo of Mariah Eikleberry, LPC-T, PLPC, Counselor
Mariah Eikleberry
Counselor, LPC-T, PLPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
I have an integrative approach to therapy and keep an open mind when working with my clients to choose the best treatment plan for the individual. I am knowledgeable in Positive Psychotherapy, LGBTQ+ Therapy, Multicultural Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I also encourage creative forms of therapy and nature exposure.
I have an integrative approach to therapy and keep an open mind when working with my clients to choose the best treatment plan for the individual. I am knowledgeable in Positive Psychotherapy, LGBTQ+ Therapy, Multicultural Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I also encourage creative forms of therapy and nature exposure.
(785) 693-6034 View (785) 693-6034
Photo of L. Charlie Janski-Ogunfidodo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
L. Charlie Janski-Ogunfidodo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64101  (Online Only)
During my career, I have worked with both individual and group settings, including adults with people living with HIV, veterans, incarcerated people and transgender/gender variant individuals. These populations included people with depression, bi-polar disorder, personality disorders, anxiety, PTSD and depression. I co-facilitated a group for trans youth and co-coordinated it for 6 years. As a proud bisexual, trans man, I love to work with my LGBT communities. I celebrate kinky and poly people. I strive to be an imperfect ally to non-binary trans people and people of color. I take private pay/in person through findingnormalstl.com
During my career, I have worked with both individual and group settings, including adults with people living with HIV, veterans, incarcerated people and transgender/gender variant individuals. These populations included people with depression, bi-polar disorder, personality disorders, anxiety, PTSD and depression. I co-facilitated a group for trans youth and co-coordinated it for 6 years. As a proud bisexual, trans man, I love to work with my LGBT communities. I celebrate kinky and poly people. I strive to be an imperfect ally to non-binary trans people and people of color. I take private pay/in person through findingnormalstl.com
(314) 350-4422 View (314) 350-4422

See more therapy options for Raytown

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.