Transgender Therapists in Wake Forest, NC
![Photo of Meghan Tikekar, LCMHC-A, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6825253-f01f-41ec-96b4-35fc4cdb445b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy is more than a comfy couch and a good listener; it’s a safe space to examine, reflect, goal-set, and learn new skills to align with such goals. My hope for you is that when you step into my office you feel supported in a non-judgmental collaborative setting while being provided space for autonomy, diversity, free-thinking, authenticity, and mutual respect. I specialize in treating clients with trauma-related disorders, anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, as well as grief, and loss. I am most passionate about working with members of the trans community as well as all individuals within the LGBTQIA+ umbrella.
Therapy is more than a comfy couch and a good listener; it’s a safe space to examine, reflect, goal-set, and learn new skills to align with such goals. My hope for you is that when you step into my office you feel supported in a non-judgmental collaborative setting while being provided space for autonomy, diversity, free-thinking, authenticity, and mutual respect. I specialize in treating clients with trauma-related disorders, anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, as well as grief, and loss. I am most passionate about working with members of the trans community as well as all individuals within the LGBTQIA+ umbrella.
![Photo of Kimberley L Benton, PsyD, CEDS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5207ed00-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Benton is the owner of Oak City Psychology. She is a Licensed Psychologist and a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS). Dr. Benton also specializes in working with people who identify as LGBTQ+ and women who have lost a pregnancy. While these are her primary specialties, she enjoys working with anyone who is open to examining their own life and making changes. Dr. Benton believes that each of us possess our own wisdom. Unfortunately, there are times when we are unable to access that wisdom. That's where therapy can help.
Dr. Benton is the owner of Oak City Psychology. She is a Licensed Psychologist and a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS). Dr. Benton also specializes in working with people who identify as LGBTQ+ and women who have lost a pregnancy. While these are her primary specialties, she enjoys working with anyone who is open to examining their own life and making changes. Dr. Benton believes that each of us possess our own wisdom. Unfortunately, there are times when we are unable to access that wisdom. That's where therapy can help.
![Photo of Frank Paul Green - Charis Wellness Counseling Center (Foundation), DMin, MA, LMFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f9e8eff-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Charis Wellness Counseling Center (Foundation)
DMin, MA, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Charis Foundation has two counseling therapeutic opportunities: 1.) Charis Counseling Wellness Center, a out patient service, is dedicated to providing non-judgmental treatment for Adults, Adolescents, Children, individuals, couples, and families. We are committed to non-biased assessment and treatment our clients, with respect to their cultural, ethnic, sexual, and religious difference, in an effort to gain insight, promote wellness and encourage healing and growth. 2.) Serenity Grace Farm is dedicated to equine therapy, Therapeutic Horseback Riding, and other horse riding activities. This works towards enhancing and improving physical, emotional, social, cognitive, behavioral and educational skills. Trail rides, party opportunities, special events for focus groups such as service groups, churches, civic organizations, and special needs are also part of the repertoire of therapeutic experiences available.
Charis Foundation has two counseling therapeutic opportunities: 1.) Charis Counseling Wellness Center, a out patient service, is dedicated to providing non-judgmental treatment for Adults, Adolescents, Children, individuals, couples, and families. We are committed to non-biased assessment and treatment our clients, with respect to their cultural, ethnic, sexual, and religious difference, in an effort to gain insight, promote wellness and encourage healing and growth. 2.) Serenity Grace Farm is dedicated to equine therapy, Therapeutic Horseback Riding, and other horse riding activities. This works towards enhancing and improving physical, emotional, social, cognitive, behavioral and educational skills. Trail rides, party opportunities, special events for focus groups such as service groups, churches, civic organizations, and special needs are also part of the repertoire of therapeutic experiences available.
![Photo of Mary Candace Bryant, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9af7490a-93f0-4591-9e7f-4f5ac94b4287/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Candace Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587 (Online Only)
Life can just feel really HARD sometimes. Coming to therapy can give you a place to unpack, unburden and untangle all of the “stuff” that’s weighing you down. I love connecting with my clients in a relaxed, open-minded, inclusive space that allows them to feel free to be themselves! In therapy, we will work together to figure out what feeling "OK" or "better" would look like, then we will collaborate on how to move towards that.
Life can just feel really HARD sometimes. Coming to therapy can give you a place to unpack, unburden and untangle all of the “stuff” that’s weighing you down. I love connecting with my clients in a relaxed, open-minded, inclusive space that allows them to feel free to be themselves! In therapy, we will work together to figure out what feeling "OK" or "better" would look like, then we will collaborate on how to move towards that.
![Photo of Frank Paul Green, DMin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e00873e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Frank Paul Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587 (Online Only)
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist comfortable working with families, couples, individuals and groups. I have experience with personal, relational, social and spiritual issues. Over the years my clients have come with a wide range of concerns, such as identity issues, depression, anxiety, stress management, physical and emotional abuse, grief, blended family adjustments, divorce, life management, situational concerns, etc. I have also been involved in a number of other activities, e.g. teaching, consulting, psychological assessment, supervising therapists in training. But, the place I am most at home is the counseling room.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist comfortable working with families, couples, individuals and groups. I have experience with personal, relational, social and spiritual issues. Over the years my clients have come with a wide range of concerns, such as identity issues, depression, anxiety, stress management, physical and emotional abuse, grief, blended family adjustments, divorce, life management, situational concerns, etc. I have also been involved in a number of other activities, e.g. teaching, consulting, psychological assessment, supervising therapists in training. But, the place I am most at home is the counseling room.
![Photo of Katherine E. Walker, PhD, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83021158-074f-49a4-bf0c-547e48710b1a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katherine E. Walker
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Combining a number of evidenced-based and complementary therapeutic approaches, I work with clients to achieve a greater sense of awareness, empowerment, and develop better solutions and strategies to resolve their intrapersonal and interpersonal issues and problems. I believe that, as people become more aware and accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding peace and contentment in their lives. Together we will work to identify goals, explore areas where you feel stuck or lost, approach it in a way that feels safe and manageable, and strive to improve resiliency, adaptability, assertiveness, and empowerment.
Combining a number of evidenced-based and complementary therapeutic approaches, I work with clients to achieve a greater sense of awareness, empowerment, and develop better solutions and strategies to resolve their intrapersonal and interpersonal issues and problems. I believe that, as people become more aware and accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding peace and contentment in their lives. Together we will work to identify goals, explore areas where you feel stuck or lost, approach it in a way that feels safe and manageable, and strive to improve resiliency, adaptability, assertiveness, and empowerment.
![Photo of Jeremy Phan, MA, LCMHCA, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd892a1b-0dbd-4214-81da-65cb8c2a5b5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeremy Phan
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
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.
![Photo of Meghan Sabba Hall Rauen, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91586db7-2f17-419b-9feb-d44692bd7a19/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meghan Sabba Hall Rauen
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Waitlist for new clients
I have clinical experience working with children, teens, adults, multicultural, and LGBTQ+ population struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, PTSD, behavioral issues, academic/school problems, ADD/ADHD, sexual/gender identity issues, personality issues, domestic issues, adjustment issues, and health/medical issues. I also have expertise working multiculturally and with individuals of the Abrahamic traditions, folks from Jewish, Christian and Islamic faith traditions, and counseling for these faiths.
I have clinical experience working with children, teens, adults, multicultural, and LGBTQ+ population struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, PTSD, behavioral issues, academic/school problems, ADD/ADHD, sexual/gender identity issues, personality issues, domestic issues, adjustment issues, and health/medical issues. I also have expertise working multiculturally and with individuals of the Abrahamic traditions, folks from Jewish, Christian and Islamic faith traditions, and counseling for these faiths.
![Photo of Corinne N Green, PhD, LP, HSP-P, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3554e2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dr. Corinne Green. I am a Licensed Psychologist and Health Service Provider-Psychologist in the state of North Carolina.
I have received extensive training in providing diagnostic assessment and psychotherapy for all age groups in a variety of settings. I provide supportive and solution-focused individual, couple's, and family therapies from a systems approach; helping individuals recognize patterns in their thoughts, feelings, behaviors and relationships that have developed as they have adapted to their unique backgrounds and experiences. I consider it a privilege to join others in their personal journies toward healing, growth, health and wellness.
My name is Dr. Corinne Green. I am a Licensed Psychologist and Health Service Provider-Psychologist in the state of North Carolina.
I have received extensive training in providing diagnostic assessment and psychotherapy for all age groups in a variety of settings. I provide supportive and solution-focused individual, couple's, and family therapies from a systems approach; helping individuals recognize patterns in their thoughts, feelings, behaviors and relationships that have developed as they have adapted to their unique backgrounds and experiences. I consider it a privilege to join others in their personal journies toward healing, growth, health and wellness.
![Photo of Ariel Galarza, MS, LCMHCA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47a013e7-311d-42d5-976b-f0acc2f3f33e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ariel Galarza
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587 (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! Do you feel like something is holding you back? Whether it’s past trauma, the challenges of ADHD or autism, or the grip of anxiety or depression, I’m here to help. I’m committed to supporting older adolescents and adults who are ready to thrive. Together, we’ll work on processing trauma, understanding your neurodivergence, and finding strategies that work for you. Whether you’re aiming to build better relationships, achieve your goals, or find peace, I’m here to walk with you on that journey. Let’s make it happen.
Accepting new clients! Do you feel like something is holding you back? Whether it’s past trauma, the challenges of ADHD or autism, or the grip of anxiety or depression, I’m here to help. I’m committed to supporting older adolescents and adults who are ready to thrive. Together, we’ll work on processing trauma, understanding your neurodivergence, and finding strategies that work for you. Whether you’re aiming to build better relationships, achieve your goals, or find peace, I’m here to walk with you on that journey. Let’s make it happen.
![Photo of Krista Etchison - The Counseling Collective, PLLC, MA, LCMHCS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c15ddd3-58d9-4129-bf11-6adb7aa4d2cb/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Counseling Collective, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Currently accepting clients both in office and telehealth sessions. Please go to our webiste: www.counselingcollectivepllc.com and click "Request An Appointment" to get started. We are a group of practioners who provide individual, family, and group therapy and enjoy working with children, teens, and adults. Our therapists have experience working with various mental health diagnoses including, but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Autism, PTSD, Bipolar Disorders, and Personality Disorders. We are trained in evidenced-based approaches for trauma, Solution Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, and Child-Centered Play Therapy and many more.
Currently accepting clients both in office and telehealth sessions. Please go to our webiste: www.counselingcollectivepllc.com and click "Request An Appointment" to get started. We are a group of practioners who provide individual, family, and group therapy and enjoy working with children, teens, and adults. Our therapists have experience working with various mental health diagnoses including, but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Autism, PTSD, Bipolar Disorders, and Personality Disorders. We are trained in evidenced-based approaches for trauma, Solution Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, and Child-Centered Play Therapy and many more.
![Photo of Kristen Baez, LCMHC-A, MT-BC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/815d400f-9d67-498c-9c0e-27c495e0a977/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen Baez
Counselor, LCMHC-A, MT-BC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Waitlist for new clients
Life is full of beautiful moments, trying times, and everything in between. Maybe you are going through a big life transition, or you are simply wanting to try something new to better your mental health. I believe in an open, honest, and authentic therapeutic relationship. Together we can creatively navigate the challenges you face and work toward goals to enhance your life.
Life is full of beautiful moments, trying times, and everything in between. Maybe you are going through a big life transition, or you are simply wanting to try something new to better your mental health. I believe in an open, honest, and authentic therapeutic relationship. Together we can creatively navigate the challenges you face and work toward goals to enhance your life.
![Photo of Alyssa Davis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28229892-3d72-4470-ba01-bf507ef53b47/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alyssa Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587 (Online Only)
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associate I work with all types of couples, relationship constellations, and individuals to collaboratively find their path to healing and wholeness. I pull from Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method and Collaborative Therapy models when working with clients. I work with my clients to explore their challenges and overcome the obstacles that might be getting in the way of their goals. My motivation is to practice from a social justice lens taking into account how issues like power, gender, race, and sexual identity influence one’s journey.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associate I work with all types of couples, relationship constellations, and individuals to collaboratively find their path to healing and wholeness. I pull from Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method and Collaborative Therapy models when working with clients. I work with my clients to explore their challenges and overcome the obstacles that might be getting in the way of their goals. My motivation is to practice from a social justice lens taking into account how issues like power, gender, race, and sexual identity influence one’s journey.
![Photo of Cree Jones, LMFTA, MA, BA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07ff1108-6b79-44da-b10c-b2d0e29f6ed4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cree Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Accepting New Clients! Welcome! My name is Cree Jones and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (LMFTA). I would love to become a part of your journey to be the best you that you can be. Life is not easy and it sometimes requires someone who can support you with your needs and wants and I can be that person. I strive to offer guidance and understanding to couples, families, and individuals and vows to create a safe environment for my clients that will allow them to identify their strengths in their individual and/or relational conflicts.
Accepting New Clients! Welcome! My name is Cree Jones and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (LMFTA). I would love to become a part of your journey to be the best you that you can be. Life is not easy and it sometimes requires someone who can support you with your needs and wants and I can be that person. I strive to offer guidance and understanding to couples, families, and individuals and vows to create a safe environment for my clients that will allow them to identify their strengths in their individual and/or relational conflicts.
![Photo of Lori D'Elia - D'Elia Family Solutions, Counseling & Coaching, MA, LMFT, CPC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b726fa6-3869-45dd-ae72-4282f4106080/3/320x400.jpeg)
D'Elia Family Solutions, Counseling & Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist as well as a certified life coach. In 2017, I moved my practice from Brooklyn, NY to Raleigh, NC. In my counseling and coaching practice I use a solution focused approach to both traditional and non-traditional therapy services. Whether it be Premarital Coaching ahead of your wedding day or traditional therapy for individuals, couples and families, I enjoy working with my clients to help them grow into better versions of themselves.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist as well as a certified life coach. In 2017, I moved my practice from Brooklyn, NY to Raleigh, NC. In my counseling and coaching practice I use a solution focused approach to both traditional and non-traditional therapy services. Whether it be Premarital Coaching ahead of your wedding day or traditional therapy for individuals, couples and families, I enjoy working with my clients to help them grow into better versions of themselves.
![Photo of Dr. Timothy Rainey, LCMHCQS, LCASA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fe12178-67b1-41e9-94e9-52e75e7d02bd/3/320x400.jpeg)
The process of working with a new client is to gather pertinent information about the client's psychosocial, environment, and past family history to help accurately diagnose the client. Once a diagnosis is made then a treatment plan would be developed conjointly between the client and me utilizing S.M.A.R.T. goals. S.M.A.R.T. goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based goals that would help the client be successful in treatment. If you are looking for a counselor who is genuine, compassionate, authentic, and who will listen and care about your concerns. Then I am here to help you restore your self-worth.
The process of working with a new client is to gather pertinent information about the client's psychosocial, environment, and past family history to help accurately diagnose the client. Once a diagnosis is made then a treatment plan would be developed conjointly between the client and me utilizing S.M.A.R.T. goals. S.M.A.R.T. goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based goals that would help the client be successful in treatment. If you are looking for a counselor who is genuine, compassionate, authentic, and who will listen and care about your concerns. Then I am here to help you restore your self-worth.
![Photo of Shery Anne Clark - Carolina Counseling and Therapeutic Solutions, MA, LPC-A, LCAS-A, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42301edc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Carolina Counseling and Therapeutic Solutions
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC-A, LCAS-A, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Providing safety for you to talk about what's on your mind is important to me. Whether this is the first time you've sought help or you've been in therapy before, I can help you cope with your life in meaningful ways. I work collaboratively with you toward your goals. Your courage and desire for change coupled with my compassion and experience helps you to make improvements in your life. Together we will develop goals which can become a long term plan of action. I will help you create a plan for a better future.
Providing safety for you to talk about what's on your mind is important to me. Whether this is the first time you've sought help or you've been in therapy before, I can help you cope with your life in meaningful ways. I work collaboratively with you toward your goals. Your courage and desire for change coupled with my compassion and experience helps you to make improvements in your life. Together we will develop goals which can become a long term plan of action. I will help you create a plan for a better future.
![Photo of Jessica Ann Frawley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f17046a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a graduate degree from Columbia University, NYC. I have 10 years of experience providing mental health therapy. Life can get overwhelming while balancing life's responsibilities, relationships and self awareness. I am dedicated to creating a space for you to be heard, listened to with compassion and respected. This space will allow for you to develop insight, knowledge and development of your personal goals. Whatever you are struggling with, whether it is sadness, worry, family issues, self esteem/identity issues, life adjustments/traumas, grief, etc. I look forward to working with you.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a graduate degree from Columbia University, NYC. I have 10 years of experience providing mental health therapy. Life can get overwhelming while balancing life's responsibilities, relationships and self awareness. I am dedicated to creating a space for you to be heard, listened to with compassion and respected. This space will allow for you to develop insight, knowledge and development of your personal goals. Whatever you are struggling with, whether it is sadness, worry, family issues, self esteem/identity issues, life adjustments/traumas, grief, etc. I look forward to working with you.
![Photo of Camille Braxton, DA, LCMHC, NCC, DCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42b97854-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Camille Braxton
Licensed Professional Counselor, DA, LCMHC, NCC, DCC
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
*Now offering Clinical Supervision*. My goal is to nurture peace and prosperity for individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, and stress. My mission is to help clients develop strategies and practical solutions that lead to healing and personal growth. I work closely with clients to uncover and resolve the underlying issues that are causing negative feelings and develop new thought patterns and behavior to help reach mental and emotional happiness. If you are ready to be empowered and experience complete peace and prosperity, contact me to begin your journey today!
*Now offering Clinical Supervision*. My goal is to nurture peace and prosperity for individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, and stress. My mission is to help clients develop strategies and practical solutions that lead to healing and personal growth. I work closely with clients to uncover and resolve the underlying issues that are causing negative feelings and develop new thought patterns and behavior to help reach mental and emotional happiness. If you are ready to be empowered and experience complete peace and prosperity, contact me to begin your journey today!
![Photo of Patrick T. Hefferan, MEd, LCMHCS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cd86407-d521-4f95-8da5-ac5981ac6067/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patrick T. Hefferan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587 (Online Only)
My clients consider me to be an empathic listener, a keen observer, and a calming presence. I bring a warm smile, a curious, gentle, friendly manner, a ready laugh, and a healthy self into my therapy sessions every day. I sincerely care about the people I work with and work hard to create a warm and trusting environment for clients of all ages. Forming and nurturing relationships is my strength. It's within the context of a healthy relationship that emotional and mental healing occurs. I'm trained to facilitate treatment for internet and technology compulsions and addictions including gaming, online pornography, and related issues.
My clients consider me to be an empathic listener, a keen observer, and a calming presence. I bring a warm smile, a curious, gentle, friendly manner, a ready laugh, and a healthy self into my therapy sessions every day. I sincerely care about the people I work with and work hard to create a warm and trusting environment for clients of all ages. Forming and nurturing relationships is my strength. It's within the context of a healthy relationship that emotional and mental healing occurs. I'm trained to facilitate treatment for internet and technology compulsions and addictions including gaming, online pornography, and related issues.
See more therapy options for Wake Forest
Nearby Transgender Therapists Searches for Wake Forest
- Apex
- Cary
- Clayton
- Durham
- Garner
- Knightdale
- Louisburg
- Morrisville
- Raleigh
- Research Triangle
- Research Triangle Park
- Youngsville
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.