Transgender Therapists in Closter, NJ
![Photo of Susan Dowd Stone, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b91f1061-b56c-4e03-9b63-ddc3c6e20222/2/320x400.jpeg)
Reading through these profiles can feel daunting when you are unsure of who can best help you. You need an able, expert guide worthy of your own commitment to face unresolved challenges. Good therapy gives causative insight, but GREAT therapy supports YOUR vision of creating a "life worth living". My work covers; career and relationships, animal companion loss, trauma related to pregnancy, childbirth and infertility, chronic or terminal illness, disordered eating, grief and loss (including child and fetal loss). My latest book, Mourning Companion Animals, Guiding Clients from Loss to Legacy is available on Amazon and other vendors.
Reading through these profiles can feel daunting when you are unsure of who can best help you. You need an able, expert guide worthy of your own commitment to face unresolved challenges. Good therapy gives causative insight, but GREAT therapy supports YOUR vision of creating a "life worth living". My work covers; career and relationships, animal companion loss, trauma related to pregnancy, childbirth and infertility, chronic or terminal illness, disordered eating, grief and loss (including child and fetal loss). My latest book, Mourning Companion Animals, Guiding Clients from Loss to Legacy is available on Amazon and other vendors.
![Photo of Marianela Cortes, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9b05941-adf2-45d7-88bd-e9ec009fe55b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marianela Cortes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Closter, NJ 07624
Therapy can be a healing and ultimately freeing journey. In my experience, it allows individuals at any age to get in touch with and learn to understand their feelings. In being able to better understand ourselves, we can better recognize not only what prevents us, but also, what allows us to have a more fulfilling life. There is no better feeling as a therapist than seeing your clients realize and embrace their inner strengths, humbling resilience, and acquire the tools to manage their struggles in healthier and more productive ways.
Therapy can be a healing and ultimately freeing journey. In my experience, it allows individuals at any age to get in touch with and learn to understand their feelings. In being able to better understand ourselves, we can better recognize not only what prevents us, but also, what allows us to have a more fulfilling life. There is no better feeling as a therapist than seeing your clients realize and embrace their inner strengths, humbling resilience, and acquire the tools to manage their struggles in healthier and more productive ways.
![Photo of Alizah K. Lowell, LCSW-R, CEDS-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3decdfc1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alizah K. Lowell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Closter, NJ 07624
Alizah K. Lowell is the founder of AKL Therapy, a small group practice serving NY and NJ. We believe in helping people build on their individual strengths, gain insight and develop effective coping skills. We have extensive experience working with individuals, couples and families in a variety of settings. We understand how difficult it can be to open up and begin working on deeply personal issues. Finding a therapist who is a good match for you is a critical part of that process. We encourage you to explore your options so you can find a therapist who is right for you.
Alizah K. Lowell is the founder of AKL Therapy, a small group practice serving NY and NJ. We believe in helping people build on their individual strengths, gain insight and develop effective coping skills. We have extensive experience working with individuals, couples and families in a variety of settings. We understand how difficult it can be to open up and begin working on deeply personal issues. Finding a therapist who is a good match for you is a critical part of that process. We encourage you to explore your options so you can find a therapist who is right for you.
![Photo of Joel Simon, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ff4fe1c-2c6c-4694-9847-def22c74a769/2/320x400.jpeg)
Experienced New Jersey Licenced Psychotherapist, Offers a warm, caring and supportive environment, specializes in treating individuals of all ages with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bi Polar Disorder, Couples Relations, Anger Management, Stress Related Disorders, Parenting issues and more. I choose from a number of treatment modalities to best meet your needs, and just to name a few such as Cognitive Behavioral, Psycho Dynamics, Stress Reduction to get passed personal blocks and to achieve your desired goals such as improved relationships at home and better productivity at work. I am also a Certified Supervisor providing supervision to other LCSW Therapists in the area.
Experienced New Jersey Licenced Psychotherapist, Offers a warm, caring and supportive environment, specializes in treating individuals of all ages with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bi Polar Disorder, Couples Relations, Anger Management, Stress Related Disorders, Parenting issues and more. I choose from a number of treatment modalities to best meet your needs, and just to name a few such as Cognitive Behavioral, Psycho Dynamics, Stress Reduction to get passed personal blocks and to achieve your desired goals such as improved relationships at home and better productivity at work. I am also a Certified Supervisor providing supervision to other LCSW Therapists in the area.
![Photo of Alicia Nashel- Watts, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c18ca2e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alicia Nashel- Watts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Closter, NJ 07624
Waitlist for new clients
I subscribe to the belief that the unexamined life is not conducive to living your best life. I am a psychodynamic, eclectic and holistic psychotherapist working with adults, adolescents and couples whom experience symptoms of depression, anxiety or interpersonal conflict, and often those working through deep existential crisis. With my guidance and empathetic stance, I will help you explore and challenge old beliefs and current behaviors so that you may gain insight and deep understanding into how some past events, (even those which are seemingly insignificant) are having an effect on your current functioning.
I subscribe to the belief that the unexamined life is not conducive to living your best life. I am a psychodynamic, eclectic and holistic psychotherapist working with adults, adolescents and couples whom experience symptoms of depression, anxiety or interpersonal conflict, and often those working through deep existential crisis. With my guidance and empathetic stance, I will help you explore and challenge old beliefs and current behaviors so that you may gain insight and deep understanding into how some past events, (even those which are seemingly insignificant) are having an effect on your current functioning.
![Photo of Ashley Leeds, LMSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d954fac1-1d60-4c52-9ee2-4f13b11bd72b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Leeds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Closter, NJ 07624
My motto is that progress is a process when implementing growth. Through exploration of thoughts and feelings, we will build a collaborative avenue for change. I utilize a patient-centered, strengths-based perspective, and trauma-informed lens. Through relationally-oriented psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis, we will create a safe space filled with empathy, warmth, and challenge. We will partner together to better understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and how you will build the tools to navigate both positive and difficult situations.
My motto is that progress is a process when implementing growth. Through exploration of thoughts and feelings, we will build a collaborative avenue for change. I utilize a patient-centered, strengths-based perspective, and trauma-informed lens. Through relationally-oriented psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis, we will create a safe space filled with empathy, warmth, and challenge. We will partner together to better understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and how you will build the tools to navigate both positive and difficult situations.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Kevin Goldwater, MA, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3909177d-488c-4066-bba2-ce73afe19471/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kevin Goldwater
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpine, NJ 07620 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I often work with adults dealing with depression, anxiety, complex PTSD, gender dysphoria, substance use, self harm, LGBQ and TGNB identities, eating disorders and men’s health.
I believe the dynamic between client and therapist is one of our most valuable assets in therapy. I strive to meet you where you are to support and hold space for you to reach honest emotional expression, an integrated understanding of your experiences, and embodied satisfaction. I approach my work with compassion and curiosity, offering a welcoming, creative and humorous space. Every individual brings their own perception of their needs and worldview. I place great focus on identity, culture, and environment for this space to not only process personal struggles but to also combat oppressive exteriors that compromise our wellbeing.
I often work with adults dealing with depression, anxiety, complex PTSD, gender dysphoria, substance use, self harm, LGBQ and TGNB identities, eating disorders and men’s health.
I believe the dynamic between client and therapist is one of our most valuable assets in therapy. I strive to meet you where you are to support and hold space for you to reach honest emotional expression, an integrated understanding of your experiences, and embodied satisfaction. I approach my work with compassion and curiosity, offering a welcoming, creative and humorous space. Every individual brings their own perception of their needs and worldview. I place great focus on identity, culture, and environment for this space to not only process personal struggles but to also combat oppressive exteriors that compromise our wellbeing.
![Photo of Yusra Aziz, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/008ec969-a1d0-4a00-b23e-d7f28d8dae58/1/320x400.png)
For people who have experienced anxiety, persistent stress or trauma— one of the greatest fears is feeling helpless to a pattern that keeps repeating itself over and over. In our painful search for relief, we might feel lonely and disconnected from friends/family. In the process, we might wear a “mask” to please others. The moments of self-doubt can leave us uncertain about our authentic voice and question whether we can truly trust ourselves. You deserve to feel acceptance and security within yourself. I believe our work together can help you move towards a life of meaningful healing and growth.
For people who have experienced anxiety, persistent stress or trauma— one of the greatest fears is feeling helpless to a pattern that keeps repeating itself over and over. In our painful search for relief, we might feel lonely and disconnected from friends/family. In the process, we might wear a “mask” to please others. The moments of self-doubt can leave us uncertain about our authentic voice and question whether we can truly trust ourselves. You deserve to feel acceptance and security within yourself. I believe our work together can help you move towards a life of meaningful healing and growth.
![Photo of Caroline Hubschman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35d3007d-ad48-482d-a338-ce8a3ad8e4bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Hubschman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cresskill, NJ 07626 (Online Only)
Life's ups and downs can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to face them alone. I am here to support you through these challenges and help you develop new coping skills. We will work together to understand the root causes of your concerns and come up with effective strategies to improve your mental health. My practice provides a judgment-free space where you can freely express yourself, and I am dedicated to creating a safe and affirming environment for individuals who identify as neurodivergent and/or part of the LGBTQ+ community.
Life's ups and downs can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to face them alone. I am here to support you through these challenges and help you develop new coping skills. We will work together to understand the root causes of your concerns and come up with effective strategies to improve your mental health. My practice provides a judgment-free space where you can freely express yourself, and I am dedicated to creating a safe and affirming environment for individuals who identify as neurodivergent and/or part of the LGBTQ+ community.
![Photo of Joseph Bioletti, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2b3f773-82f8-424a-b3e7-02647d70affb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joe is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) working at a group practice called Inspire Wellness LLC. Joe has experience providing individual/family/group therapy to clients ages of 6 and 58, specializing in working individually with teens and young adults. He has experience with a variety of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, identity issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, grief/loss, chronic COVID-19 symptoms, and life transitions. Joe utilizes an integrative approach drawing from multiple modalities of therapy such as CBT, Person-Centered, Existentialism and more.
Joe is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) working at a group practice called Inspire Wellness LLC. Joe has experience providing individual/family/group therapy to clients ages of 6 and 58, specializing in working individually with teens and young adults. He has experience with a variety of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, identity issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, grief/loss, chronic COVID-19 symptoms, and life transitions. Joe utilizes an integrative approach drawing from multiple modalities of therapy such as CBT, Person-Centered, Existentialism and more.
![Photo of Adrienne Lee Smith, LCSW-R, LIMHP, CMSW, SIFI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e5e11f8-f3b9-4357-8c1b-e31f2ba4ffb1/3/320x400.png)
Adrienne Lee Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LIMHP, CMSW, SIFI
Verified Verified
Alpine, NJ 07620 (Online Only)
Adrienne is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-R) practicing psychotherapy and providing clinical consultation in New York, New Jersey, Nebraska, and Florida. She is a warm, attentive therapist who works with you to determine your individual needs and goals and to help you move toward finding clarity, healing, and happiness. Adrienne’s interest in counseling began as a volunteer on The Trevor Project’s suicide prevention and crisis intervention lifeline. Her early career focused on working with LGBTQIA+ youth at The Ali Forney Center before transitioning to an outpatient hospital clinic for adolescents and adults with HIV/AIDS.
Adrienne is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-R) practicing psychotherapy and providing clinical consultation in New York, New Jersey, Nebraska, and Florida. She is a warm, attentive therapist who works with you to determine your individual needs and goals and to help you move toward finding clarity, healing, and happiness. Adrienne’s interest in counseling began as a volunteer on The Trevor Project’s suicide prevention and crisis intervention lifeline. Her early career focused on working with LGBTQIA+ youth at The Ali Forney Center before transitioning to an outpatient hospital clinic for adolescents and adults with HIV/AIDS.
![Photo of Erick D Rubel, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c1dd39a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Each of us is a truly original, unrepeatable, irreplaceable, unique, sacred, precious, creative, talented and healthy self that through a process of nature and nurture spends each moment of time evolving and expressing ourselves through love, compassion, caring, empathy and other virtuous relationships.
Therapy is a process of celebrating the evolution of each person's true self. It is our way, modern and ancient, eastern and western, artistic and technological, spiritual and practical of Self development. Therapy is also our newest and oldest path of protecting, nurturing, supporting and upholding all that is virtuous, positive, meritorious, innocent, ethical, benevolent and philanthropic in ourselves while learning to handle, manage, cope, organize, and select our purpose, meaning and priorities in life. Therapy teaches us the surivival skills that help us become efficacious and masterful in life. We establish, goals we wish to achieve, priorities we wish to establish, a clear plan of action, which evolves as we evolve, with the help of a trained professional who respects both our free will and our fate, our unique mission and our destiny.
Each of us is a truly original, unrepeatable, irreplaceable, unique, sacred, precious, creative, talented and healthy self that through a process of nature and nurture spends each moment of time evolving and expressing ourselves through love, compassion, caring, empathy and other virtuous relationships.
Therapy is a process of celebrating the evolution of each person's true self. It is our way, modern and ancient, eastern and western, artistic and technological, spiritual and practical of Self development. Therapy is also our newest and oldest path of protecting, nurturing, supporting and upholding all that is virtuous, positive, meritorious, innocent, ethical, benevolent and philanthropic in ourselves while learning to handle, manage, cope, organize, and select our purpose, meaning and priorities in life. Therapy teaches us the surivival skills that help us become efficacious and masterful in life. We establish, goals we wish to achieve, priorities we wish to establish, a clear plan of action, which evolves as we evolve, with the help of a trained professional who respects both our free will and our fate, our unique mission and our destiny.
![Photo of Danielle Laino, LAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f93bfa0c-e4ca-41d4-acbe-6ebfb55fefd6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leaving a toxic relationship is very, very difficult. Manipulation, gaslighting, coercion, shame, self-doubt and sense of a lost self can keep you trapped in the abuse. In these types of romantic and familial relationships, people are left feeling confused and selfish for having their own needs and convinced that they must make the other person happy at all costs. Even when people want to leave, the trauma bond ignites regions of the brain that cause you to feel out of control and "tied" to the relationship. Disengaging from this type of emotional tyranny is possible but requires a deep internal rewiring and grieving.
Leaving a toxic relationship is very, very difficult. Manipulation, gaslighting, coercion, shame, self-doubt and sense of a lost self can keep you trapped in the abuse. In these types of romantic and familial relationships, people are left feeling confused and selfish for having their own needs and convinced that they must make the other person happy at all costs. Even when people want to leave, the trauma bond ignites regions of the brain that cause you to feel out of control and "tied" to the relationship. Disengaging from this type of emotional tyranny is possible but requires a deep internal rewiring and grieving.
![Photo of Becky Diaz, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63128adc-1b27-4871-87e1-52071a12b77f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Becky Diaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpine, NJ 07620 (Online Only)
I am available to come alongside my clients in their pain, challenges, and also successes. I provide a compassionate ear that understands the reality of the patterns that shape our lives. I believe I can work with you towards growth, self-compassion, and empowerment. I recognize the real challenges developing and keeping healthy and healing relationships. Therefore I can help individuals, couples, and families to begin a journey of healing and repair that will benefit their relationships, past, present and future.
I am available to come alongside my clients in their pain, challenges, and also successes. I provide a compassionate ear that understands the reality of the patterns that shape our lives. I believe I can work with you towards growth, self-compassion, and empowerment. I recognize the real challenges developing and keeping healthy and healing relationships. Therefore I can help individuals, couples, and families to begin a journey of healing and repair that will benefit their relationships, past, present and future.
![Photo of Patricia Ann Mahmarian, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0446390a-d3f7-41a3-b4bb-4efb79b46083/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in the inherent strength we all have within us to work to overcome adversity in our lives. If you, a family member of any age, or someone you may know are struggling with depression, anxiety, family dynamic challenges, or any life stressor that is keeping you from living the authentic and happy life you deserve, I am here to give you the help and guidance needed to overcome those obstacles and challenges. Sometimes adversity is a call to action to make changes in our lives we are all capable of doing with commitment and effort. The choice to ask for help is a choice made in strength, and I will guide you on your journey!
I believe in the inherent strength we all have within us to work to overcome adversity in our lives. If you, a family member of any age, or someone you may know are struggling with depression, anxiety, family dynamic challenges, or any life stressor that is keeping you from living the authentic and happy life you deserve, I am here to give you the help and guidance needed to overcome those obstacles and challenges. Sometimes adversity is a call to action to make changes in our lives we are all capable of doing with commitment and effort. The choice to ask for help is a choice made in strength, and I will guide you on your journey!
During 51 years of practice, I have treated cases ranging from toilet training, school phobias, heart-break, good marriages and bad marriages, depressed adults, homocidal and suicidal persons, and every behavior disorder common to daily living. For the past several years my work has been largely related to family, marital, child development issues, and sadly many family court related cases. My practice is behavioral, and problem oriented. I have always attempted to avoid the, "purchase of friendship" consequences of long term therapy. I may not "cure" many persons, but I am certain that I have helped thousands.
During 51 years of practice, I have treated cases ranging from toilet training, school phobias, heart-break, good marriages and bad marriages, depressed adults, homocidal and suicidal persons, and every behavior disorder common to daily living. For the past several years my work has been largely related to family, marital, child development issues, and sadly many family court related cases. My practice is behavioral, and problem oriented. I have always attempted to avoid the, "purchase of friendship" consequences of long term therapy. I may not "cure" many persons, but I am certain that I have helped thousands.
![Photo of James L Fosshage, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c32fb25-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that each of us is endowed with a fundamental striving to grow. However, in life's journey we encounter both joy and sorrow. What is important is how we negotiate these experiences. If you are feeling undermined from negative attitudes or facing difficult challenges, help is available through a safe, in-depth psychoanalytic psychotherapy experience. We will explore the relational origins of harmful self-feelings and painful experiences to seek new pathways to enhance your sense of wellbeing. In psychotherapy, we will embark on an in-depth reflective adventure together to facilitate your growth to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
I believe that each of us is endowed with a fundamental striving to grow. However, in life's journey we encounter both joy and sorrow. What is important is how we negotiate these experiences. If you are feeling undermined from negative attitudes or facing difficult challenges, help is available through a safe, in-depth psychoanalytic psychotherapy experience. We will explore the relational origins of harmful self-feelings and painful experiences to seek new pathways to enhance your sense of wellbeing. In psychotherapy, we will embark on an in-depth reflective adventure together to facilitate your growth to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Jon Prezant, LMSW, LSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d4dab84-6042-402e-87ad-1d33fbf50242/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jon Prezant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LSW, MA
Verified Verified
Haworth, NJ 07641 (Online Only)
As a licensed social worker specializing in sex therapy and existentital and emotionally focused approaches, I offer a safe space for individuals, couples, and poly relationships to explore and heal. My expertise includes LGBTQIA+ concerns, sexual functioning, desire issues, and trauma recovery. Whether you're grappling with depression, anxiety, shame, or identity questions, we'll work together to build resilience and authenticity. With experience supporting diverse clients, including refugees and assault survivors, I'm committed to fostering growth through a strong therapeutic alliance.
As a licensed social worker specializing in sex therapy and existentital and emotionally focused approaches, I offer a safe space for individuals, couples, and poly relationships to explore and heal. My expertise includes LGBTQIA+ concerns, sexual functioning, desire issues, and trauma recovery. Whether you're grappling with depression, anxiety, shame, or identity questions, we'll work together to build resilience and authenticity. With experience supporting diverse clients, including refugees and assault survivors, I'm committed to fostering growth through a strong therapeutic alliance.
![Photo of Sonia Byrd, PsyD, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20026346-b892-4814-84ac-4316d0c69b6f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a School Psychologist and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has worked with diverse clientele from many cultural, religious, socioeconomic and educational backgrounds. Clients should expect a decrease in their anxiety, an improvement in their affect, an improved mood and strategies to improve their daily coping skills and functioning.
I am a School Psychologist and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has worked with diverse clientele from many cultural, religious, socioeconomic and educational backgrounds. Clients should expect a decrease in their anxiety, an improvement in their affect, an improved mood and strategies to improve their daily coping skills and functioning.
![Photo of Amy Henry, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66358793-1333-4dbf-91f9-bfb1f1681704/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Henry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpine, NJ 07620 (Online Only)
Licensed in MD, DC, VA, NJ. If you’re reading this, then you’ve already taken the first step toward healing. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, trauma, or other challenges, I can help you forge a path forward. I will work collaboratively with you to establish personalized therapy goals tailored to your specific needs. I will work diligently to foster an environment in which you feel safe, accepted, seen, heard, and never judged. In our work together, you can expect me to be compassionate, honest, and real; I will be patient and encourage you to confront the deeper, underlying issues.
Licensed in MD, DC, VA, NJ. If you’re reading this, then you’ve already taken the first step toward healing. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, trauma, or other challenges, I can help you forge a path forward. I will work collaboratively with you to establish personalized therapy goals tailored to your specific needs. I will work diligently to foster an environment in which you feel safe, accepted, seen, heard, and never judged. In our work together, you can expect me to be compassionate, honest, and real; I will be patient and encourage you to confront the deeper, underlying issues.
See more therapy options for Closter
Nearby Transgender Therapists Searches for Closter
- Alpine
- Bergenfield
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- Oradell
- Paramus
- Park Ridge
- River Edge
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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.