Transgender Therapists in Richmond Heights, MO
![Photo of Matt Shatzman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d63c369e-0711-46a4-b535-9874b9fae2e8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matt Shatzman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Therapy is an experience where human beings learn to live differently. Differently is the key word. Different can look like less depression, more spontaneity, or deeper and more mutual relationships. Different can be learning to say "yes," "no," or "maybe." Different can be improved physical health, less anxiety, or sustained sobriety. When one begins treatment there's usually a percolating idea of what needs to be different. Helping you clarify the ways you'd like to live differently, what has gotten in your way up to this point, and how those changes can be made is psychotherapy.
Therapy is an experience where human beings learn to live differently. Differently is the key word. Different can look like less depression, more spontaneity, or deeper and more mutual relationships. Different can be learning to say "yes," "no," or "maybe." Different can be improved physical health, less anxiety, or sustained sobriety. When one begins treatment there's usually a percolating idea of what needs to be different. Helping you clarify the ways you'd like to live differently, what has gotten in your way up to this point, and how those changes can be made is psychotherapy.
![Photo of Emily Klamer, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ffd5b8d-2407-478d-950a-41c3cfc62f52/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Klamer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
I work with individuals who seek depth in their lives and their therapy. I work with folks struggling with life transitions, trauma, depression, anxiety, and inhibition. I work with those who think and feel deeply: from creatives, writers, and academics; to other professionals in the mental health field; to entrepreneurs, clergy, and community organizers. A common thread is a recognition that greater self-awareness can imbue our lives with agency and vitality.
I work with individuals who seek depth in their lives and their therapy. I work with folks struggling with life transitions, trauma, depression, anxiety, and inhibition. I work with those who think and feel deeply: from creatives, writers, and academics; to other professionals in the mental health field; to entrepreneurs, clergy, and community organizers. A common thread is a recognition that greater self-awareness can imbue our lives with agency and vitality.
![Photo of Joy Hathaway, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a79829a7-0b93-4473-94a4-db3a3a944e95/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joy Hathaway, LPC Joy Hathaway is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri who has been practicing since 2014. She has a Master of Education in Counseling from the University of Missouri, St. Louis, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from University of Missouri, St. Louis. Joy enjoys working with people to find the best path for them, personally, to help them move their lives forward. Her approach is based mostly on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, incorporating elements from ACT, DBT, strengths-based, person-centered, and trauma-informed.
Joy Hathaway, LPC Joy Hathaway is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri who has been practicing since 2014. She has a Master of Education in Counseling from the University of Missouri, St. Louis, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from University of Missouri, St. Louis. Joy enjoys working with people to find the best path for them, personally, to help them move their lives forward. Her approach is based mostly on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, incorporating elements from ACT, DBT, strengths-based, person-centered, and trauma-informed.
![Photo of Eva Sedjo, ATR, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45eb7448-6542-4154-9156-eda2c94c46f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Eva Sedjo is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri who has been practicing since 2021. She has an MA in Art Therapy Counseling. Eva provides art therapy and talk therapy services to a variety of populations and target areas, including eating disorder treatment, LGBTQIA+ folks, and youth/young adult services. She brings a curious and playful attitude as well as the clinical skill sets to support behavior change and explore the psychological facilitating factors to the presenting problems.
Eva Sedjo is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri who has been practicing since 2021. She has an MA in Art Therapy Counseling. Eva provides art therapy and talk therapy services to a variety of populations and target areas, including eating disorder treatment, LGBTQIA+ folks, and youth/young adult services. She brings a curious and playful attitude as well as the clinical skill sets to support behavior change and explore the psychological facilitating factors to the presenting problems.
![Photo of Lukas M Presley, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71dcc590-b23d-4ca7-a8fc-7a9a6ea9c5dd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lukas M Presley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Throughout our lives, we all have thresholds we must cross. Some of these are easier than others. When these thresholds become a sticking point or seem impossible to cross is when the therapeutic journey can be most impactful. As a polyamorous gay man that grew up in the South, I have often found myself at different thresholds trying to figure out how to move through them. Because of this, as your therapist, I will work to help you find the ability to push through your own thresholds.
Throughout our lives, we all have thresholds we must cross. Some of these are easier than others. When these thresholds become a sticking point or seem impossible to cross is when the therapeutic journey can be most impactful. As a polyamorous gay man that grew up in the South, I have often found myself at different thresholds trying to figure out how to move through them. Because of this, as your therapist, I will work to help you find the ability to push through your own thresholds.
![Photo of Mary Benhoff, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84565cd0-c708-4a09-8c2d-ae2aa2c330b0/1/320x400.png)
Mary Benhoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Mary is a counselor, who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from Lindenwood University with a Masters in Professional Counseling. Mary believes in Client-Centered, Solution-Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Her main areas of focus include Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD. In her spare time, Mary enjoys hiking, cooking, and spending time with loved ones.
Mary is a counselor, who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from Lindenwood University with a Masters in Professional Counseling. Mary believes in Client-Centered, Solution-Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Her main areas of focus include Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD. In her spare time, Mary enjoys hiking, cooking, and spending time with loved ones.
![Photo of Ilia (Eye-Lee-Uh) Silverman Esrig, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c044574-2124-426c-a26c-b36b1358158e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ilia (Eye-Lee-Uh) Silverman Esrig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Waitlist for new clients
Examining and shifting age-old patterns can be overwhelming to do alone. I offer folks a compassionate and non-judgmental space to begin this journey in. I support individuals to cultivate joy, ease, and meaning in their lives, even when doing so feels impossible. This might include strengthening executive functioning, exploring gender or sexual identity, processing trauma, or learning self-validation in an often invalidating world. Together, we'll identify effective ways to move through life's most difficult moments - the past can't be changed, but we can shift how it influences our present and future.
Examining and shifting age-old patterns can be overwhelming to do alone. I offer folks a compassionate and non-judgmental space to begin this journey in. I support individuals to cultivate joy, ease, and meaning in their lives, even when doing so feels impossible. This might include strengthening executive functioning, exploring gender or sexual identity, processing trauma, or learning self-validation in an often invalidating world. Together, we'll identify effective ways to move through life's most difficult moments - the past can't be changed, but we can shift how it influences our present and future.
![Photo of Laura Ranalletta, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9322ba4b-c175-438a-aa14-e9ed6d0c6072/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Ranalletta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Accepting New Clients Summer '22 - I believe that we're all doing the best we can, and also: we can all be doing better! Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or a life circumstance which is difficult to navigate, I'm here to help. Chances are you are feeling alone, confused, or dissatisfied with your life at this moment. Maybe you're ready for deep healing from the past. Maybe you're looking for ways to cope with the present. Maybe you want to better understand yourself and your emotions. Maybe you're just looking to talk with a neutral third party about daily stressors. Wherever you're at, welcome!
Accepting New Clients Summer '22 - I believe that we're all doing the best we can, and also: we can all be doing better! Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or a life circumstance which is difficult to navigate, I'm here to help. Chances are you are feeling alone, confused, or dissatisfied with your life at this moment. Maybe you're ready for deep healing from the past. Maybe you're looking for ways to cope with the present. Maybe you want to better understand yourself and your emotions. Maybe you're just looking to talk with a neutral third party about daily stressors. Wherever you're at, welcome!
![Photo of Leah Gregory, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbd96d6f-827d-472d-9c2d-d42ff583871e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leah Gregory is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri who has been practicing since 2016. She obtained her Bachelor in Social Work from Missouri State University and her Master in Social Worker from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Leah aims to provide a safe, unconditionally supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can feel vulnerable and empowered to heal and grow. She is here to be present with you through your deepest struggles, listen to your most difficult feelings, and work through the challenges you are facing.
Leah Gregory is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri who has been practicing since 2016. She obtained her Bachelor in Social Work from Missouri State University and her Master in Social Worker from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Leah aims to provide a safe, unconditionally supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you can feel vulnerable and empowered to heal and grow. She is here to be present with you through your deepest struggles, listen to your most difficult feelings, and work through the challenges you are facing.
![Photo of Austin E Wilmot, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4b482f5-6213-4eca-bcfb-65a710e6c11f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Austin E Wilmot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
I have experience treating all ages with an in-depth approach, beginning with meeting you and working to understand the difficulties you are facing. I offer a space that fosters fuller experiencing and understanding of your inner emotional life, including feelings, thoughts, dreams and fantasies. In connection with me, your symptoms and problematic patterns can become understood in new ways, leading to emotional growth and a greater capacity to make meaningful changes in your life. I provide dynamic therapy in-office and by videoconference to people whose location or commitments make it difficult to attend in-person meetings.
I have experience treating all ages with an in-depth approach, beginning with meeting you and working to understand the difficulties you are facing. I offer a space that fosters fuller experiencing and understanding of your inner emotional life, including feelings, thoughts, dreams and fantasies. In connection with me, your symptoms and problematic patterns can become understood in new ways, leading to emotional growth and a greater capacity to make meaningful changes in your life. I provide dynamic therapy in-office and by videoconference to people whose location or commitments make it difficult to attend in-person meetings.
![Photo of Brittany N. Murphy, PhD, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38ed21b4-b6da-4db7-ac45-3a412cd79cd7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany N. Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117 (Online Only)
You're in the right place! You're ready for your mood and motivation to improve, your relationships to be better, your work to be more enjoyable, and your life to feel more meaningful. I work well with people who feel stuck or that things aren't as they could or should be. My clients want clarity about their experiences, their relationships, and the direction of their lives.
You're in the right place! You're ready for your mood and motivation to improve, your relationships to be better, your work to be more enjoyable, and your life to feel more meaningful. I work well with people who feel stuck or that things aren't as they could or should be. My clients want clarity about their experiences, their relationships, and the direction of their lives.
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![Photo of Meg Meyers, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81afaf01-a10f-4614-ba05-67f4e667dd7e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meg Meyers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Sexual Assault, Childhood Trauma, Intimate Partner Violence are as traumatic as warfare. Those who have experienced these things often battle through life, struggling to make sense of wounds that don't seem to heal even with time. There is hope! Trauma is treatable. Getting treatment can lead to a better quality of life. Many clients with PTSD no longer meet criteria for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after two years of treatment.
Sexual Assault, Childhood Trauma, Intimate Partner Violence are as traumatic as warfare. Those who have experienced these things often battle through life, struggling to make sense of wounds that don't seem to heal even with time. There is hope! Trauma is treatable. Getting treatment can lead to a better quality of life. Many clients with PTSD no longer meet criteria for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after two years of treatment.
![Photo of Jessica Kay Dowling, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/678c23ec-5bc4-4861-8fe7-e5f54fe796af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Kay Dowling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
What do you notice happening when life's demands feel too much? Do you begin to feel consumed by a critical voice? Perhaps hopelessness or shame takeover, and you can’t focus on what you need. You feel lost and your coping strategies aren't working. You are exhausted, life isn’t satisfying, and you are ready for something different. With your guidance, we will embark on the process of change and bring meaning to your struggles. I work from a depth-oriented approach which allows for all sides of you to have a voice, to be understood, and to have the space to grow.
What do you notice happening when life's demands feel too much? Do you begin to feel consumed by a critical voice? Perhaps hopelessness or shame takeover, and you can’t focus on what you need. You feel lost and your coping strategies aren't working. You are exhausted, life isn’t satisfying, and you are ready for something different. With your guidance, we will embark on the process of change and bring meaning to your struggles. I work from a depth-oriented approach which allows for all sides of you to have a voice, to be understood, and to have the space to grow.
![Photo of Rafaella Smith-Fiallo - Healing Exchange LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0b5d373-6cda-4eb2-bda3-a10451aec2e6/1/320x400.png)
Healing Exchange LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Are you ready to set healthy boundaries in your relationships? Have you been wanting to explore your sexuality but didn't know where to start? Is your non-monogamous relationship experiencing friction? Maybe you are the survivor, strong friend, and problem solver who appears to have it all together. Yet on the inside you feel overwhelmed while also wondering, "Is this worth going to therapy for?" If your boundaries leave you questioning yourself, if you want to explore your sexuality, or if you and your partner(s) want support, it's worth going to therapy for. Our relationship, sexuality, and trauma experts are here for you.
Are you ready to set healthy boundaries in your relationships? Have you been wanting to explore your sexuality but didn't know where to start? Is your non-monogamous relationship experiencing friction? Maybe you are the survivor, strong friend, and problem solver who appears to have it all together. Yet on the inside you feel overwhelmed while also wondering, "Is this worth going to therapy for?" If your boundaries leave you questioning yourself, if you want to explore your sexuality, or if you and your partner(s) want support, it's worth going to therapy for. Our relationship, sexuality, and trauma experts are here for you.
![Photo of Sunyata Kopriva, RYT, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b5e85e5-e7ee-43f6-afc9-1e184087c4e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sunyata Kopriva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RYT, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond Heights, MO 63117 (Online Only)
*ACCEPTING CALIFORNIA, ILLINOIS, AND MISSOURI CLIENTS* Come be seen & be known in a relational space with me, so that you can finally arrive home in yourself. Are you curious if you have experienced trauma, or if trauma may still be affecting you? Have you worked with many healers & still feel stuck in certain places? Have you experienced a spiritual awakening & need to integrate the experience(s)? If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions, then you may be in the right place. Trauma can express itself in PTSD & Complex PTSD symptoms, various types of depression & anxiety, & many other symptoms. Lets get to the root.
*ACCEPTING CALIFORNIA, ILLINOIS, AND MISSOURI CLIENTS* Come be seen & be known in a relational space with me, so that you can finally arrive home in yourself. Are you curious if you have experienced trauma, or if trauma may still be affecting you? Have you worked with many healers & still feel stuck in certain places? Have you experienced a spiritual awakening & need to integrate the experience(s)? If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions, then you may be in the right place. Trauma can express itself in PTSD & Complex PTSD symptoms, various types of depression & anxiety, & many other symptoms. Lets get to the root.
![Photo of River Chew, LMSW, REAT-IT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef065e28-2de9-4026-94c7-dd0a36d511a9/1/320x400.jpeg)
River Chew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, REAT-IT
Verified Verified
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Not accepting new clients
Hi, my name is River! I'm a therapist and I’m passionate about working with people who have been impacted by trauma and painful life experiences. I believe that our bodies and minds have innate wisdom and flexibility. When we are exposed to hardships we adapt to keep ourselves safe from danger. This may look like shutting down our emotions to cope, looking for warning signs everywhere we go, or being hesitant to trust those closest to us. These responses can become second nature, and we sometimes keep using them even after the danger is gone. In cases like these the behaviors that once protected us can start to cause pain instead.
Hi, my name is River! I'm a therapist and I’m passionate about working with people who have been impacted by trauma and painful life experiences. I believe that our bodies and minds have innate wisdom and flexibility. When we are exposed to hardships we adapt to keep ourselves safe from danger. This may look like shutting down our emotions to cope, looking for warning signs everywhere we go, or being hesitant to trust those closest to us. These responses can become second nature, and we sometimes keep using them even after the danger is gone. In cases like these the behaviors that once protected us can start to cause pain instead.
![Photo of Gregory A Goldman, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df72f6ae-24d1-4577-8d4e-f100e83e1cfa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gregory A Goldman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Not accepting new clients
I am co-owner of Psychological services of St. Louis, LLC, where I provide psychotherapy to adults. I have helped people manage a wide variety of problems including anxiety and mood disorders, substance use issues, adjustment difficulties, social/relationship problems, self-esteem and assertiveness issues, anger and impulsivity, career and life direction issues, sexual orientation and gender-related problems, unusual experiences, and existential concerns. I believe strongly in taking the time to know and understand my clients so we can collaboratively find a treatment approach that fits and is as effective as possible.
I am co-owner of Psychological services of St. Louis, LLC, where I provide psychotherapy to adults. I have helped people manage a wide variety of problems including anxiety and mood disorders, substance use issues, adjustment difficulties, social/relationship problems, self-esteem and assertiveness issues, anger and impulsivity, career and life direction issues, sexual orientation and gender-related problems, unusual experiences, and existential concerns. I believe strongly in taking the time to know and understand my clients so we can collaboratively find a treatment approach that fits and is as effective as possible.
![Photo of Joshua P Beaman-Kogan, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d76d0be-6d6c-40b7-9eb7-3455adb0b319/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joshua P Beaman-Kogan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Not accepting new clients
Many of us face challenges that affect all aspects of our lives. If you are worried about your health or the health of a loved one, your financial situation, adjusting to working from home, currently not working or afraid that you will not be able to work, dealing with increased family tensions, feeling the loss of not being able to see your family members, or the grief of having lost someone, you don’t need to face these challenges alone.
Many of us face challenges that affect all aspects of our lives. If you are worried about your health or the health of a loved one, your financial situation, adjusting to working from home, currently not working or afraid that you will not be able to work, dealing with increased family tensions, feeling the loss of not being able to see your family members, or the grief of having lost someone, you don’t need to face these challenges alone.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Lori Becker - Dr. Lori Becker, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ab69b8b-cdf9-46b1-b476-4350041613d2/2/320x400.jpeg)
A major part of my therapy practice is dedicated to working with people who identify as transgender, gender diverse, or gender questioning.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing in psychotherapy and diagnostic assessment. I am committed to providing ethical care in a safe and trusting environment. I work with clients to help them build the skills they need to improve their lives and relationships, so they can live a rewarding life that is balanced, fulfilling, and consistent with their values. My focus in therapy is to help clients examine what may be contributing to their current distress and help them to find meaning, purpose, and growth.
A major part of my therapy practice is dedicated to working with people who identify as transgender, gender diverse, or gender questioning.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing in psychotherapy and diagnostic assessment. I am committed to providing ethical care in a safe and trusting environment. I work with clients to help them build the skills they need to improve their lives and relationships, so they can live a rewarding life that is balanced, fulfilling, and consistent with their values. My focus in therapy is to help clients examine what may be contributing to their current distress and help them to find meaning, purpose, and growth.
![Photo of Cindy Betz - LGBTQ+ Counseling St. Louis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7040f1ee-aa7d-4785-afd5-34e5607a6606/2/320x400.jpeg)
LGBTQ+ Counseling St. Louis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139
Transgender brothers and sisters, I'll support you in every facet of your emergence.
While I provide individual and relationship counseling for all people, my special interest is to support marginalized populations. My primary expertise is providing counseling and supportive services for the LGBTQ+ constituency. As human beings, we all struggle with feelings of not being good enough, important enough, lovable or able to love. These feelings embed themselves very early in life producing defense mechanisms, although no longer needed, continue to operate below the surface, wreaking havoc on life, relationships and success. The battle is often a daily one; sometimes minute by minute. Don't suffer alone.
Transgender brothers and sisters, I'll support you in every facet of your emergence.
While I provide individual and relationship counseling for all people, my special interest is to support marginalized populations. My primary expertise is providing counseling and supportive services for the LGBTQ+ constituency. As human beings, we all struggle with feelings of not being good enough, important enough, lovable or able to love. These feelings embed themselves very early in life producing defense mechanisms, although no longer needed, continue to operate below the surface, wreaking havoc on life, relationships and success. The battle is often a daily one; sometimes minute by minute. Don't suffer alone.
See more therapy options for Richmond Heights
Nearby Transgender Therapists Searches for Richmond Heights
- Affton
- Brentwood
- Clayton
- Des Peres
- Frontenac
- Kirkwood
- Ladue
- Maplewood
- Olivette
- Saint Louis
- University City
- Webster Groves
Transgender Therapists
As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?
A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.
What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?
Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.
How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?
An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?
Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.