Transgender Therapists in Shelby, NC

Photo of Sarah Philbeck, MA, NCC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Philbeck
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shelby, NC 28150
Waitlist for new clients
Many of us desire a sense of calm, connection, and well-being. Yet life circumstances and even parts of ourselves can prevent us from having these experiences in our day to day lives. Providing a safe and non-judgmental place to explore your struggles and emotional pain is essential to my practice. I feel honored to support those who desire to grow and heal.
Many of us desire a sense of calm, connection, and well-being. Yet life circumstances and even parts of ourselves can prevent us from having these experiences in our day to day lives. Providing a safe and non-judgmental place to explore your struggles and emotional pain is essential to my practice. I feel honored to support those who desire to grow and heal.
(704) 802-9945 View (704) 802-9945
Photo of Matthew S. Beal, MACO, NCC, LCMHC, LCPC, MDiv
Matthew S. Beal
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MACO, NCC, LCMHC, LCPC, MDiv
Verified Verified
Shelby, NC 28152  (Online Only)
We all need quality counseling at times, and if you are thinking about counseling, well done! Every step requires courage, and I respect yours. Whether your needs seem small or overwhelming I would be honored to walk with you on your healing journey. My goals are to help you identify what human flourishing means for you, gain insight into what keeps you from living that fully, and develop the tools you need to move into that flourishing. I provide a safe, supportive space for the vital therapeutic relationship. And I offer teletherapy with a generous sliding scale fee structure to make your flourishing as accessible as possible!
We all need quality counseling at times, and if you are thinking about counseling, well done! Every step requires courage, and I respect yours. Whether your needs seem small or overwhelming I would be honored to walk with you on your healing journey. My goals are to help you identify what human flourishing means for you, gain insight into what keeps you from living that fully, and develop the tools you need to move into that flourishing. I provide a safe, supportive space for the vital therapeutic relationship. And I offer teletherapy with a generous sliding scale fee structure to make your flourishing as accessible as possible!
(980) 291-6027 View (980) 291-6027
Photo of Yolanda Hall-Asbell - LDH Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LDH Counseling and Consulting, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Shelby, NC 28150
I look forward to assisting you with developing the skills to live a more abundant life while implementing the tools that you already have! Life can be hard at times and with the right coping skills, life can be more manageable to those experiencing depression, grief, anxiety, substance use, and other mental health issues. Working with those who have experienced relationship issues, such as infidelity, abuse (domestic, verbal and/ or physical) can learn how to become a survivor instead of a victim. I know that building a healthy therapeutic relationship is the first step in the therapy process in a non-judgmental environment.
I look forward to assisting you with developing the skills to live a more abundant life while implementing the tools that you already have! Life can be hard at times and with the right coping skills, life can be more manageable to those experiencing depression, grief, anxiety, substance use, and other mental health issues. Working with those who have experienced relationship issues, such as infidelity, abuse (domestic, verbal and/ or physical) can learn how to become a survivor instead of a victim. I know that building a healthy therapeutic relationship is the first step in the therapy process in a non-judgmental environment.
(980) 465-2533 View (980) 465-2533
Photo of Stacie Camp Bennett, PhD, LCMHCS, Counselor
Stacie Camp Bennett
Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Shelby, NC 28150
I am a sole practitioner who provides a safe, comfortable space for all individuals. I utilize a personalized approach to work with individuals, couples and families in finding their path to healthier mind, body and family dynamics. I work with individuals, couples and families suffering from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, postpartum depression, substance use disorders, career counseling, fertility issues, grief and loss, chronic pain and/or chronic illness like autoimmune disorders. My goal is to help all clients find their path and their voice in their lives. I can also utilize video appointments.
I am a sole practitioner who provides a safe, comfortable space for all individuals. I utilize a personalized approach to work with individuals, couples and families in finding their path to healthier mind, body and family dynamics. I work with individuals, couples and families suffering from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, postpartum depression, substance use disorders, career counseling, fertility issues, grief and loss, chronic pain and/or chronic illness like autoimmune disorders. My goal is to help all clients find their path and their voice in their lives. I can also utilize video appointments.
(980) 409-4360 View (980) 409-4360
Photo of Julie G McGinnis, MA, EdS, LCMHCS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie G McGinnis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shelby, NC 28150
I have experience providing treatment to children, adolescents, and adults in the areas of ADHD, ODD, Adjustment Disorders, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Divorce, Physical and Sexual Abuse, Neglect, and parenting struggles. I have a background in Child Protective Services which focused on reuniting families, Intensive In-Home treatment, individual and family therapy, and community engagement. Coming Soon: Our team is currently developing a model to address contentious divorce cases to best meet the individual and family needs of all parties.
I have experience providing treatment to children, adolescents, and adults in the areas of ADHD, ODD, Adjustment Disorders, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Divorce, Physical and Sexual Abuse, Neglect, and parenting struggles. I have a background in Child Protective Services which focused on reuniting families, Intensive In-Home treatment, individual and family therapy, and community engagement. Coming Soon: Our team is currently developing a model to address contentious divorce cases to best meet the individual and family needs of all parties.
(828) 351-3042 View (828) 351-3042

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Courtney Hudson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Hudson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boiling Springs, NC 28017  (Online Only)
I'm a queer, gender fluid therapist that understands the effects and difficulties that often accompany coming out and being our authentic selves...how maintaining relationships with loved ones in a society that struggle to accept and/or understand us can take a significant toll on our ability to approach life wholeheartedly. We are living in tumultuous times where our rights hang in the balance, often leaving us feeling disconnected and shamed. I am dedicated to serving our community, building you up so that you can face challenges with confidence. I would love to know why you are seeking help today...
I'm a queer, gender fluid therapist that understands the effects and difficulties that often accompany coming out and being our authentic selves...how maintaining relationships with loved ones in a society that struggle to accept and/or understand us can take a significant toll on our ability to approach life wholeheartedly. We are living in tumultuous times where our rights hang in the balance, often leaving us feeling disconnected and shamed. I am dedicated to serving our community, building you up so that you can face challenges with confidence. I would love to know why you are seeking help today...
(980) 261-3521 View (980) 261-3521

Online Therapists

Photo of David Stefan Bathory, PsyD, Psychologist
David Stefan Bathory
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
There is a sliding fee scale available for transgender clients due to insurance inequities.
I am a Psychologist/Neuropsychologist who specializes in trauma and gender identity (WPATH member). I practice in a group setting with another clinician. We offer individual individualized psychotherapy, designed to meet your needs using different best practice models of therapy. We provide evaluations for HRT and gender affirming surgeries (usually within 3 sessions). My practice specialties in working with children and adults; Gender, Relational Dynamics, Complex Trauma, & Rare Neuropsychological Disorders I help people across the world to find ways to work together and will help you to move forward in your journey.
There is a sliding fee scale available for transgender clients due to insurance inequities.
I am a Psychologist/Neuropsychologist who specializes in trauma and gender identity (WPATH member). I practice in a group setting with another clinician. We offer individual individualized psychotherapy, designed to meet your needs using different best practice models of therapy. We provide evaluations for HRT and gender affirming surgeries (usually within 3 sessions). My practice specialties in working with children and adults; Gender, Relational Dynamics, Complex Trauma, & Rare Neuropsychological Disorders I help people across the world to find ways to work together and will help you to move forward in your journey.
(908) 444-1524 View (908) 444-1524
Photo of Chris E Carson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris E Carson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychotherapist for adult individuals and couples. Do you want stronger, clearer and healthier relationships? My clients consist mainly of open minded, artistic and unconventional persons wanting more intimacy and connection or wanting to explore their innate gifts and talents. I also work with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and non-binary persons. However, I love working with anyone who is seeking growth, wholeness and perspective.
I am a psychotherapist for adult individuals and couples. Do you want stronger, clearer and healthier relationships? My clients consist mainly of open minded, artistic and unconventional persons wanting more intimacy and connection or wanting to explore their innate gifts and talents. I also work with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and non-binary persons. However, I love working with anyone who is seeking growth, wholeness and perspective.
(804) 651-3941 View (804) 651-3941
Photo of Daphne Krantz, LCMHCA, MA, NCC, Counselor
Daphne Krantz
Counselor, LCMHCA, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28806  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My passion in life is supporting you to become your most authentic, joyous self. I believe you already have a wellspring of wisdom and clarity within, and I take great pleasure in helping you clear the way to your own inner guidance. As a proud, openly transgender woman, I find fulfillment in working with individuals and couples on transition and identity issues, communication, codependency, relational/cultural/ancestral trauma, gender, sexuality, poly/non-monogamy, depression, addiction, anxiety, psychedelic integration, and spirituality. Perhaps the path isn't quite clear, yet you're ready to take a step towards something better.
My passion in life is supporting you to become your most authentic, joyous self. I believe you already have a wellspring of wisdom and clarity within, and I take great pleasure in helping you clear the way to your own inner guidance. As a proud, openly transgender woman, I find fulfillment in working with individuals and couples on transition and identity issues, communication, codependency, relational/cultural/ancestral trauma, gender, sexuality, poly/non-monogamy, depression, addiction, anxiety, psychedelic integration, and spirituality. Perhaps the path isn't quite clear, yet you're ready to take a step towards something better.
(828) 944-4273 View (828) 944-4273
Photo of Jemma Battaglia, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jemma Battaglia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Welcome to a space where Daria and Judith Butler meet at a 100 Gecs show. Navigating late stage capitalism is no easy task. I am here to serve as your doom doula. I am here to engage in a collaborative experience with teens and adults, utilizing an eclectic approach to provide you with meaningful support and deep care. My approach is intersectional, sex-positive, trauma informed, and centered in a constant pursuit for radical change. Various flavors of gentle and mean are offered to meet you where you are at. I am especially enthusiastic to work with individuals who are of a queer or transgender experience.
Welcome to a space where Daria and Judith Butler meet at a 100 Gecs show. Navigating late stage capitalism is no easy task. I am here to serve as your doom doula. I am here to engage in a collaborative experience with teens and adults, utilizing an eclectic approach to provide you with meaningful support and deep care. My approach is intersectional, sex-positive, trauma informed, and centered in a constant pursuit for radical change. Various flavors of gentle and mean are offered to meet you where you are at. I am especially enthusiastic to work with individuals who are of a queer or transgender experience.
(828) 675-7823 View (828) 675-7823
Photo of Trey Greene, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trey Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28215
I am a member of the Charlotte Transgender Healthcare Group and an expert in LGBTQ issues.
My top priority is to provide a safe, supportive environment for anyone struggling with their identity, experiences, or beliefs in addition to other mental health concerns. I work with a variety of issues with a focus on PTSD, depression, anxiety, dissociation, trauma, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, relationship difficulties, spirituality and/or religious trauma in addition to other concerns. I am especially passionate about work with anyone seeking a supportive space to heal, discover who they are, or navigate existential concerns, welcoming those of all beliefs in finding connection, hope, and peace.
I am a member of the Charlotte Transgender Healthcare Group and an expert in LGBTQ issues.
My top priority is to provide a safe, supportive environment for anyone struggling with their identity, experiences, or beliefs in addition to other mental health concerns. I work with a variety of issues with a focus on PTSD, depression, anxiety, dissociation, trauma, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, relationship difficulties, spirituality and/or religious trauma in addition to other concerns. I am especially passionate about work with anyone seeking a supportive space to heal, discover who they are, or navigate existential concerns, welcoming those of all beliefs in finding connection, hope, and peace.
(704) 419-8509 View (704) 419-8509
Photo of Scarlett Greene, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scarlett Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28269  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients from various backgrounds, but I have a passion for serving the transgender and queer community.
Thank you for taking the first step in mental health self-care; so tell me, how are you? No really, how are you? If the answer is not great, maybe it’s time to open up an honest dialogue about starting therapy. I'm Scarlett; I am the owner and therapist at Grounded Guidance Counseling, PLLC, where I provide outpatient therapy services to individuals and couples. I strive to meet my clients exactly where they are emotionally in a professional but relatable manner, as I desire to break down barriers that could make therapy feel intimidating for anyone involved.
I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients from various backgrounds, but I have a passion for serving the transgender and queer community.
Thank you for taking the first step in mental health self-care; so tell me, how are you? No really, how are you? If the answer is not great, maybe it’s time to open up an honest dialogue about starting therapy. I'm Scarlett; I am the owner and therapist at Grounded Guidance Counseling, PLLC, where I provide outpatient therapy services to individuals and couples. I strive to meet my clients exactly where they are emotionally in a professional but relatable manner, as I desire to break down barriers that could make therapy feel intimidating for anyone involved.
(980) 385-8205 View (980) 385-8205
Photo of Rachael Lastoff, LCMHC, LMHC, LPCC
Rachael Lastoff
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I am a member of WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) and am LGBTQIA welcoming and affirming.
Whether you have experienced a recent setback or are trying to come to terms with an ongoing struggle, my goal is to be an unbiased listener providing reflective and direct feedback to help you gain insight and clarity. I am a gender-affirming therapist specializing in working with those in a life transition, struggling with their identity, or looking to evolve from the way they were raised. In couples counseling, I work with monogamous, open/poly, and kink relationships.
I am a member of WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) and am LGBTQIA welcoming and affirming.
Whether you have experienced a recent setback or are trying to come to terms with an ongoing struggle, my goal is to be an unbiased listener providing reflective and direct feedback to help you gain insight and clarity. I am a gender-affirming therapist specializing in working with those in a life transition, struggling with their identity, or looking to evolve from the way they were raised. In couples counseling, I work with monogamous, open/poly, and kink relationships.
(859) 600-6738 View (859) 600-6738
Photo of Becky Stamler, MA, LCMHC
Becky Stamler
MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Waitlist for new clients
Waiting List. Use the "Email Me" link only to request the form to get on the Waiting List. The date of return will indicate your spot on the wait list. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, with over 13 years of experience. My focus is to provide services to adult Transgender clients, ages 18-64. My professional training and experiences may assist with issues and concerns related to: your gender transition, WPATH letters, gender identity development, gender dysphoria, gender questioning, Queer, Informed Consent, & sexual orientation. Please DO NOT call at this time due to spam issues.
Waiting List. Use the "Email Me" link only to request the form to get on the Waiting List. The date of return will indicate your spot on the wait list. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, with over 13 years of experience. My focus is to provide services to adult Transgender clients, ages 18-64. My professional training and experiences may assist with issues and concerns related to: your gender transition, WPATH letters, gender identity development, gender dysphoria, gender questioning, Queer, Informed Consent, & sexual orientation. Please DO NOT call at this time due to spam issues.
(704) 912-0957 View (704) 912-0957
Photo of Annada Hypes, PhD, Psychologist
Annada Hypes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Adolescence can be a rocky time for many people, but I believe therapy can be of great help. I work with teenagers and young adults, struggling primarily with mood, identity, and impulse control difficulties. My goals are to help young people build their strengths and relationships in order to find happiness and success as emerging adults. Some of the things I treat are: depression, self-harm, anxiety, family conflict, gender dysphoria, transition to young adulthood stress, and disordered eating habits. Generally I practice cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectal-behavior therapy (DBT) within a caring, humanistic approach.
Adolescence can be a rocky time for many people, but I believe therapy can be of great help. I work with teenagers and young adults, struggling primarily with mood, identity, and impulse control difficulties. My goals are to help young people build their strengths and relationships in order to find happiness and success as emerging adults. Some of the things I treat are: depression, self-harm, anxiety, family conflict, gender dysphoria, transition to young adulthood stress, and disordered eating habits. Generally I practice cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectal-behavior therapy (DBT) within a caring, humanistic approach.
(704) 256-0987 View (704) 256-0987
Photo of Beverly (Mecca) L Moss, MA, LCMHC-S, LCAS-A, Counselor
Beverly (Mecca) L Moss
Counselor, MA, LCMHC-S, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
Moss Counseling Services specializes in the following populations: Transgender, gender non-conforming, Lesbian ,Gay , Sexually aggressive youth, Trauma Focused(CBT), ADHD * Anxiety Disorder * Bipolar Disorder * Compulsive Disorder * Depression * Sexuality Identity * Childhood /adolescent Behavioral concerns, Learning /academic Disabilities * Panic Disorder * schizophrenia * Substance Abuse * Grief and Loss.
"Beginning therapy can be a very difficult decision for one to make. I am so excited that you have taken the first step in this rewarding journey!" My passion and goals are to assist others to experience healing and wholeness in life through management of the symptoms that cause dysfunction in everyday lives. Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As an integrated therapist my goal is to help you figure out how to use your own resiliency."
Moss Counseling Services specializes in the following populations: Transgender, gender non-conforming, Lesbian ,Gay , Sexually aggressive youth, Trauma Focused(CBT), ADHD * Anxiety Disorder * Bipolar Disorder * Compulsive Disorder * Depression * Sexuality Identity * Childhood /adolescent Behavioral concerns, Learning /academic Disabilities * Panic Disorder * schizophrenia * Substance Abuse * Grief and Loss.
"Beginning therapy can be a very difficult decision for one to make. I am so excited that you have taken the first step in this rewarding journey!" My passion and goals are to assist others to experience healing and wholeness in life through management of the symptoms that cause dysfunction in everyday lives. Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As an integrated therapist my goal is to help you figure out how to use your own resiliency."
(704) 493-8535 View (704) 493-8535
Photo of Bill Stewart, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Bill Stewart
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
I firmly believe in two core tenets to therapy: no judgment and confidentiality. I strive to make you feel comfortable enough to share your challenging experiences and thoughts. I see a variety of clients with a focus on depression, anxiety, PTSD, moral injury, and gender dysphoria. I have a passion for working with the military community as I am a former paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division (AATW). Additionally, I have a passion for supporting marginalized and vulnerable communities to include the LGBTQ+ communities.
I firmly believe in two core tenets to therapy: no judgment and confidentiality. I strive to make you feel comfortable enough to share your challenging experiences and thoughts. I see a variety of clients with a focus on depression, anxiety, PTSD, moral injury, and gender dysphoria. I have a passion for working with the military community as I am a former paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division (AATW). Additionally, I have a passion for supporting marginalized and vulnerable communities to include the LGBTQ+ communities.
(704) 850-9629 View (704) 850-9629
Photo of Kimberly Lynn Childress, MA, LPC, LCMHCS
Kimberly Lynn Childress
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in North Carolina. I have worked successfully with individuals, marriage/relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, transgender, and many other issues and concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in North Carolina. I have worked successfully with individuals, marriage/relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, transgender, and many other issues and concerns.
(704) 610-2297 View (704) 610-2297
Photo of Tia Evans - THE Change From Within Counseling Center PLLC, MSW, MEd, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
THE Change From Within Counseling Center PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601
We also specialize in working with those who identify as Transgender, through all stages of their journey.
Are you walking through life feeling as though something is missing? Maybe, it's joy, fulfillment, success, career advancement, or even a relationship? Do you try to please others to avoid working on yourself? Is it possible you've tried to fix yourself, but it was just a matter of time before you fell back into your old habits? If you answered yes to any of those you questions you are not alone & you don't have to go through these feelings by yourself any longer. We want to you get the life you desire, the life you deserve. Let us help you get your life back on track TODAY! Please email us to get started on your journey of change.
We also specialize in working with those who identify as Transgender, through all stages of their journey.
Are you walking through life feeling as though something is missing? Maybe, it's joy, fulfillment, success, career advancement, or even a relationship? Do you try to please others to avoid working on yourself? Is it possible you've tried to fix yourself, but it was just a matter of time before you fell back into your old habits? If you answered yes to any of those you questions you are not alone & you don't have to go through these feelings by yourself any longer. We want to you get the life you desire, the life you deserve. Let us help you get your life back on track TODAY! Please email us to get started on your journey of change.
(828) 604-6241 View (828) 604-6241
Photo of Rebecca Campbell, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Rebecca Campbell
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Candler, NC 28715
Adolescence to early adulthood can be a confusing and overwhelming time in a person’s development, but it’s a time with potential for powerful growth and healing. Your teen or young adult may be navigating sexual and gender preferences, peer relationships, and school responsibilities. They may be suffering from discrimination or bullying. Often these experiences can erupt in an array of struggles: anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, anger, isolation, body image issues, or lack of focus. You want your kid to feel comfortable in their own skin; to learn ways to accept themselves and to thrive on whatever path they choose.
Adolescence to early adulthood can be a confusing and overwhelming time in a person’s development, but it’s a time with potential for powerful growth and healing. Your teen or young adult may be navigating sexual and gender preferences, peer relationships, and school responsibilities. They may be suffering from discrimination or bullying. Often these experiences can erupt in an array of struggles: anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, anger, isolation, body image issues, or lack of focus. You want your kid to feel comfortable in their own skin; to learn ways to accept themselves and to thrive on whatever path they choose.
(828) 656-5612 View (828) 656-5612
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.