LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Rolesville, NC

Photo of Julie Sams - Bowman Family Services, MA, LCMHCS, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bowman Family Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rolesville, NC 27571
We understand the benefits of wellness, nutrition, exercise, spiritual balance, and strong mental health to help individuals thrive! We have therapists who focus on Christian therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, LGBTQ+ (including a support group for middle and high schoolers), Women's Issues, & Grief & Loss.
I am the owner of Bowman Family Services, and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Supervisor with over 26 years of experience working with children, adults, and families. My carefully selected team of child, adolescent, adult, couples and family therapists, and psychologists utilize play, art and yoga therapy, sound therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, trauma-focused CBT, DBT, Pre-Marital and psychological testing. We receive ongoing trainings to utilize the best therapy approaches in our field. We specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. We have offices in Wake Forest, Raleigh, Rolesville, Wilmington, and Cary NC.
We understand the benefits of wellness, nutrition, exercise, spiritual balance, and strong mental health to help individuals thrive! We have therapists who focus on Christian therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, LGBTQ+ (including a support group for middle and high schoolers), Women's Issues, & Grief & Loss.
I am the owner of Bowman Family Services, and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Supervisor with over 26 years of experience working with children, adults, and families. My carefully selected team of child, adolescent, adult, couples and family therapists, and psychologists utilize play, art and yoga therapy, sound therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, trauma-focused CBT, DBT, Pre-Marital and psychological testing. We receive ongoing trainings to utilize the best therapy approaches in our field. We specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma. We have offices in Wake Forest, Raleigh, Rolesville, Wilmington, and Cary NC.
(919) 229-8943 View (919) 229-8943
Photo of Bonnie B Tronzo, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bonnie B Tronzo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Rolesville, NC 27571
You are not alone in your journey and I would welcome the opportunity to help you find support and guidance through the transition into parenthood.
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead the life that you want. While no one can change difficult situations of the past, I will work with you to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, I will help you change long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
You are not alone in your journey and I would welcome the opportunity to help you find support and guidance through the transition into parenthood.
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead the life that you want. While no one can change difficult situations of the past, I will work with you to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, I will help you change long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(919) 680-1736 View (919) 680-1736
Photo of Rasheede Hicks - This is for Me Therapy and Life Counseling, LLC , LCMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
This is for Me Therapy and Life Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rolesville, NC 27571  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt like no one can relate to your feelings and thoughts? Have you ever felt all alone? Are you overwhelmed or stressed out with life, work, and relationships? Are you discouraged or depressed because you’re not where you should be in life? Do you feel like you can no longer control your emotions, no matter how hard you try? Have you ever felt the urge to confide in someone only to find that you have no one to confide in? Well, I am here to help you.
Have you ever felt like no one can relate to your feelings and thoughts? Have you ever felt all alone? Are you overwhelmed or stressed out with life, work, and relationships? Are you discouraged or depressed because you’re not where you should be in life? Do you feel like you can no longer control your emotions, no matter how hard you try? Have you ever felt the urge to confide in someone only to find that you have no one to confide in? Well, I am here to help you.
(252) 888-9846 View (252) 888-9846
Photo of Kristian Gibson-Ford, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristian Gibson-Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rolesville, NC 27571
I also help those same adults manage work and life stressors and transitions, burnout, compassion fatigue, and spiritual crises.
Now Accepting New Clients! Tell me what’s going on. I am here for you. I understand that you may be going through a lot right now, and may be feeling overwhelmed, depressed, stressed, or anxious, but that is why I am here to help you. I enjoy working with those in all stages of their career life whether they are just getting started, in the middle, or in retirement. My practice areas include: Trauma and emotional safety, relationship and communication, self-esteem and shame, life and career transitions, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, stress and time management, emotional wellbeing and mindfulness.
I also help those same adults manage work and life stressors and transitions, burnout, compassion fatigue, and spiritual crises.
Now Accepting New Clients! Tell me what’s going on. I am here for you. I understand that you may be going through a lot right now, and may be feeling overwhelmed, depressed, stressed, or anxious, but that is why I am here to help you. I enjoy working with those in all stages of their career life whether they are just getting started, in the middle, or in retirement. My practice areas include: Trauma and emotional safety, relationship and communication, self-esteem and shame, life and career transitions, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, stress and time management, emotional wellbeing and mindfulness.
(919) 205-5021 View (919) 205-5021
Photo of Carole Cullen - My-Therapist, Inc, Marriage & Family Therapist
My-Therapist, Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rolesville, NC 27571
At My-Therapist, we are a compassionate and dedicated team of licensed therapists with years of experience in the field of mental health. We are committed to helping individuals and couples achieve their emotional well-being through evidence-based therapeutic approaches. We can help couples & families in the greater Raleigh area of North Carolina and online in North Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia.
At My-Therapist, we are a compassionate and dedicated team of licensed therapists with years of experience in the field of mental health. We are committed to helping individuals and couples achieve their emotional well-being through evidence-based therapeutic approaches. We can help couples & families in the greater Raleigh area of North Carolina and online in North Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia.
(984) 224-6451 View (984) 224-6451
Photo of Patty Roberts, LPC, Counselor
Patty Roberts
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Rolesville, NC 27571
Patty Roberts is the former owner of Patricia G. Roberts, LLC, a private counseling practice in Raleigh, NC where she worked with individuals, adolescents, young adults, and the aging population. Prior to private counseling, Patty worked for and retired from Wake County Public School System as a mental health counselor at Leesville Road High School. Patty’s approach is holistic, believing there are psychological, emotional, biological, social, interpersonal, and spiritual dimensions to your problematic behaviors. She uses the most current and effective research-based approaches in working with her clients who experience
Patty Roberts is the former owner of Patricia G. Roberts, LLC, a private counseling practice in Raleigh, NC where she worked with individuals, adolescents, young adults, and the aging population. Prior to private counseling, Patty worked for and retired from Wake County Public School System as a mental health counselor at Leesville Road High School. Patty’s approach is holistic, believing there are psychological, emotional, biological, social, interpersonal, and spiritual dimensions to your problematic behaviors. She uses the most current and effective research-based approaches in working with her clients who experience
(984) 217-4531 View (984) 217-4531
Photo of Jeremy Phan, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Jeremy Phan
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rolesville, NC 27571
My name is Jeremy Phan. I am a licensed mental health professional (LCMHCA) with a wide array of experience, not only as a counselor, but as a father, a mentor, and a coach. We all have a story to tell and one that will continue to be told years to come. My goal is to help you navigate the present, learn to manage your past, and help you prepare for the future YOU want.
My name is Jeremy Phan. I am a licensed mental health professional (LCMHCA) with a wide array of experience, not only as a counselor, but as a father, a mentor, and a coach. We all have a story to tell and one that will continue to be told years to come. My goal is to help you navigate the present, learn to manage your past, and help you prepare for the future YOU want.
(984) 231-8473 View (984) 231-8473
Photo of Tonya Williams Todd, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tonya Williams Todd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rolesville, NC 27571  (Online Only)
Offering ONLINE/VIDEO Telehealth Counseling sessions to all of NORTH Carolina! I work with individuals, adolescents, and adults with a variety of needs. I specialize in working with anxiety, grief, self esteem building, depression and life transitions. My approach to counseling is a person centered approach which pulls from a variety of therapy modalities.
Offering ONLINE/VIDEO Telehealth Counseling sessions to all of NORTH Carolina! I work with individuals, adolescents, and adults with a variety of needs. I specialize in working with anxiety, grief, self esteem building, depression and life transitions. My approach to counseling is a person centered approach which pulls from a variety of therapy modalities.
(984) 231-8776 View (984) 231-8776

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Andrew Orchowsky, MS, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Andrew Orchowsky
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
My name is Andrew and I want to help you heal your relationship. I work with relationships of all kinds: romantic partners, couples, open relationships, families, siblings, etc. If you are wanting to strengthen your relationship and deepen your connection with your partner, I may be a good fit. I work with relationships that have been affected by infidelity, substance use, conflict, communication issues, and attachment concerns. While I work with all demographics, I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ relationships and individuals.
My name is Andrew and I want to help you heal your relationship. I work with relationships of all kinds: romantic partners, couples, open relationships, families, siblings, etc. If you are wanting to strengthen your relationship and deepen your connection with your partner, I may be a good fit. I work with relationships that have been affected by infidelity, substance use, conflict, communication issues, and attachment concerns. While I work with all demographics, I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ relationships and individuals.
(984) 360-7960 View (984) 360-7960
Photo of Adria Goulet, LCSWA
Adria Goulet
LCSW Associate , LCSWA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folx, as well as survivors of conversion therapy, therapeutic abuse, and the Troubled Teen Industry.
My name is Adria Goulet (they/them/theirs) and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. During sessions, I strive to meet clients where they are at in their healing process, empowering them to navigate uncomfortable emotions, maladaptive coping skills, or intrusive thoughts. I recognize that during crisis situations, harmful or self-destructive behaviors can be necessary for survival. As a therapist, my goal is to help you find new coping skills, process traumatic events, navigate oppressive systems, cultivate healthier beliefs about yourself, and build more effective interpersonal skills.
I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folx, as well as survivors of conversion therapy, therapeutic abuse, and the Troubled Teen Industry.
My name is Adria Goulet (they/them/theirs) and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. During sessions, I strive to meet clients where they are at in their healing process, empowering them to navigate uncomfortable emotions, maladaptive coping skills, or intrusive thoughts. I recognize that during crisis situations, harmful or self-destructive behaviors can be necessary for survival. As a therapist, my goal is to help you find new coping skills, process traumatic events, navigate oppressive systems, cultivate healthier beliefs about yourself, and build more effective interpersonal skills.
(919) 813-6326 View (919) 813-6326
Photo of Mel Johnson-Norwood, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mel Johnson-Norwood
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614  (Online Only)
I work with adults of all ages, especially Black and brown men, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and college students. As a personal witness to the lack of competent mental health care, especially for queer Black men, I work towards closing that gap. My work with clients encompasses career transitions, relocation, relationship issues, life transitions, living with physical disabilities, suicidal ideations, and depression.
I work with adults of all ages, especially Black and brown men, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and college students. As a personal witness to the lack of competent mental health care, especially for queer Black men, I work towards closing that gap. My work with clients encompasses career transitions, relocation, relationship issues, life transitions, living with physical disabilities, suicidal ideations, and depression.
(984) 369-9915 View (984) 369-9915
Photo of Dr. Michael Eason, PhD, LCMHC, NCC
Dr. Michael Eason
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, sex therapy, maladaptive behaviors, trauma-informed care, and multiculturalism.
As a PhD-level counselor with 17+ years of experience, my approach is rooted in Humanistic Psychology, focusing on authenticity, unconditional positive regard, and respect for your unique journey. I integrate a variety of theoretical approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), to help you identify and embrace your values, guiding you to live more meaningfully despite challenges. I tailor our sessions to help you replace unhealthy thought patterns with more grounded, rational ways of thinking. Together, we'll co-create a personalized treatment plan to support your path toward a more fulfilling life.
I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, sex therapy, maladaptive behaviors, trauma-informed care, and multiculturalism.
As a PhD-level counselor with 17+ years of experience, my approach is rooted in Humanistic Psychology, focusing on authenticity, unconditional positive regard, and respect for your unique journey. I integrate a variety of theoretical approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), to help you identify and embrace your values, guiding you to live more meaningfully despite challenges. I tailor our sessions to help you replace unhealthy thought patterns with more grounded, rational ways of thinking. Together, we'll co-create a personalized treatment plan to support your path toward a more fulfilling life.
(984) 357-1455 View (984) 357-1455
Photo of Caroline Rusk, LCMHCA
Caroline Rusk
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614  (Online Only)
Before becoming a licensed therapist, I've worked with adolescents in high school settings, coached women’s soccer, and worked with college students at the NC State LGBTQ Pride Center.
I work with individuals (12+) on topics of LGBTQ+ concerns, anxiety, depression, emotional trauma, and family/relationship challenges. As someone who grew up in a large, blended, family, I have a deep appreciation for complex family dynamics and the challenges of adjustment. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I understand the difficulty of being in spaces where one cannot fully express their authentic self. My previous experience within a strict evangelical organization offers me perspective on healing from religious trauma. These lived experiences developed a natural compassion for others with these and other layered identities.
Before becoming a licensed therapist, I've worked with adolescents in high school settings, coached women’s soccer, and worked with college students at the NC State LGBTQ Pride Center.
I work with individuals (12+) on topics of LGBTQ+ concerns, anxiety, depression, emotional trauma, and family/relationship challenges. As someone who grew up in a large, blended, family, I have a deep appreciation for complex family dynamics and the challenges of adjustment. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I understand the difficulty of being in spaces where one cannot fully express their authentic self. My previous experience within a strict evangelical organization offers me perspective on healing from religious trauma. These lived experiences developed a natural compassion for others with these and other layered identities.
(984) 310-8707 View (984) 310-8707
Photo of Erin M Schicht, MS, LCMHC
Erin M Schicht
MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Finally, I have extensive experience in working with the LGBTQ community as well as those with severe depression and anxiety.
Everyone has the potential to unlock who they want to become and achieve a balanced life. If this is your first time seeking a therapist or if you have been in therapy before, I find ways to help client's feel comfortable to be able to speak freely to reach their goals. Having experience in working with children and adults in different capacities over my career, it has become my desire to help those I work with find their own potential and assist in empowerment. I have an extensive background in woking with those with a variety of mental health issues in the community mental health setting and hospital setting.
Finally, I have extensive experience in working with the LGBTQ community as well as those with severe depression and anxiety.
Everyone has the potential to unlock who they want to become and achieve a balanced life. If this is your first time seeking a therapist or if you have been in therapy before, I find ways to help client's feel comfortable to be able to speak freely to reach their goals. Having experience in working with children and adults in different capacities over my career, it has become my desire to help those I work with find their own potential and assist in empowerment. I have an extensive background in woking with those with a variety of mental health issues in the community mental health setting and hospital setting.
(919) 525-3182 View (919) 525-3182
Photo of Frances De Los Santos, MEd, LCMHCA
Frances De Los Santos
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MEd, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614  (Online Only)
I work with adult clients with various backgrounds and experiences focusing on concerns of depression, relationship challenges, neurodivergence, cultural and LGBTQ+ identity, sexuality, burnout, life transitions, and self-acceptance.
Do you sometimes worry if who you are is "wrong," stuck focusing on harmful messages or unrealistic expectations? Do you feel a little lost in who you are and what you want, then find thinking about it gets overwhelming? If there are times when life feels heavy or you feel like hiding away until you're "put together," you are not alone. It helps to have a space to put life's many complexities aside - to take the rules, systemic barriers, and needs of yourself and others, put them all down, breathe, and unpack. Looking for that space is a big step. I'm here to create that space with you.
I work with adult clients with various backgrounds and experiences focusing on concerns of depression, relationship challenges, neurodivergence, cultural and LGBTQ+ identity, sexuality, burnout, life transitions, and self-acceptance.
Do you sometimes worry if who you are is "wrong," stuck focusing on harmful messages or unrealistic expectations? Do you feel a little lost in who you are and what you want, then find thinking about it gets overwhelming? If there are times when life feels heavy or you feel like hiding away until you're "put together," you are not alone. It helps to have a space to put life's many complexities aside - to take the rules, systemic barriers, and needs of yourself and others, put them all down, breathe, and unpack. Looking for that space is a big step. I'm here to create that space with you.
(919) 246-8753 View (919) 246-8753
Photo of Heather R Ryan, PsyD, Psychologist
Heather R Ryan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614
My specialty areas include LGBTQ+ concerns, identity concerns, life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief, and personal growth.
I love the Shannon L. Alder quote "Courage doesn't happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life." Taking the first step toward change is scary and difficult. I strive to make a safe space where these steps can be taken in a judgment-free environment. It's important to feel heard and have your experience valued.
My specialty areas include LGBTQ+ concerns, identity concerns, life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief, and personal growth.
I love the Shannon L. Alder quote "Courage doesn't happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life." Taking the first step toward change is scary and difficult. I strive to make a safe space where these steps can be taken in a judgment-free environment. It's important to feel heard and have your experience valued.
(984) 464-8108 View (984) 464-8108
Photo of Tiffany R. Baker-Chapman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany R. Baker-Chapman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knightdale, NC 27545  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Tiffany! I am Accepting New Clients. My ideal client's are adults ages 18+ who might struggle with being highly self-critical and negative self-talk, feelings of not fitting in / fear of missing out, if you're processing past experiences that have changed your perspective on life, and/or find yourself often living in chronic survival mode; often due to things outside of your control. As a neurodivergent, queer, BIPOC therapist, I also see clients of many marginalized communities looking to gain support, build confidence, and work on past traumas.
Hi, I'm Tiffany! I am Accepting New Clients. My ideal client's are adults ages 18+ who might struggle with being highly self-critical and negative self-talk, feelings of not fitting in / fear of missing out, if you're processing past experiences that have changed your perspective on life, and/or find yourself often living in chronic survival mode; often due to things outside of your control. As a neurodivergent, queer, BIPOC therapist, I also see clients of many marginalized communities looking to gain support, build confidence, and work on past traumas.
(919) 343-0858 View (919) 343-0858
Photo of Willow Wilder, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Willow Wilder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27604  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Limited Availability - My clinical practice mainly consists of fellow queer and neurodivergent folx who struggle with complex trauma. Common concerns include self-abandonment through people pleasing, exploring gender/sexual identity, executive dysfunction, immense shame/guilt, perfectionism, identifying community supports, and processing underlying traumatic experiences. My clients often come into session looking to better understand who they are and what really works for them. Many times they feel so detached from themselves and their own bodies that it has been hard to even know what they want from life or who they are
Limited Availability - My clinical practice mainly consists of fellow queer and neurodivergent folx who struggle with complex trauma. Common concerns include self-abandonment through people pleasing, exploring gender/sexual identity, executive dysfunction, immense shame/guilt, perfectionism, identifying community supports, and processing underlying traumatic experiences. My clients often come into session looking to better understand who they are and what really works for them. Many times they feel so detached from themselves and their own bodies that it has been hard to even know what they want from life or who they are
(919) 877-6269 View (919) 877-6269
Photo of Marilyn Anne Minton, BS, MSW, LCSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marilyn Anne Minton
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27616  (Online Only)
My goal is to help clients nurture their self-worth, self-love, and self-exploration, especially within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Do you need support facing the challenges of life? Life is extremely difficult, but I can help you discover more about yourself and deepen your quality of life and life experience. I have worked extensively with trauma, anxiety and depression and understand the difficulty of change and healing. I have seen the adversities faced by many clients and supported them through some of life’s most difficult times.
My goal is to help clients nurture their self-worth, self-love, and self-exploration, especially within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Do you need support facing the challenges of life? Life is extremely difficult, but I can help you discover more about yourself and deepen your quality of life and life experience. I have worked extensively with trauma, anxiety and depression and understand the difficulty of change and healing. I have seen the adversities faced by many clients and supported them through some of life’s most difficult times.
(984) 353-2582 View (984) 353-2582
Photo of Gabby Boatwright, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gabby Boatwright
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27614  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people to find and use their voice, particularly adults, adolescents, people in the LGBTQ+ community, and those who struggle with ADHD.
My goal as a therapist is to give people a safe space to be themselves. Life is tough sometimes, and having support is important to the healing and self-discovery processes. I learned through my own life’s challenges the value in having someone to be an accepting, empathetic listener who helps you unpack the bags that weigh you down.
I specialize in helping people to find and use their voice, particularly adults, adolescents, people in the LGBTQ+ community, and those who struggle with ADHD.
My goal as a therapist is to give people a safe space to be themselves. Life is tough sometimes, and having support is important to the healing and self-discovery processes. I learned through my own life’s challenges the value in having someone to be an accepting, empathetic listener who helps you unpack the bags that weigh you down.
(267) 459-9748 View (267) 459-9748

See more therapy options for Rolesville

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.