LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Cresskill, NJ
![Photo of Yuval Freund, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e563d42-1b1b-4908-97e5-66b02e62a348/2/320x400.jpeg)
In these settings, I worked closely with the LGBTQ+ communities on campus by offering support, empowering individual students through their identities, and advocating on their behalf as they faced the difficulty of navigating their identities.
I am a compassionate and experienced clinical psychologist dedicated to supporting teens, young adults, and adults on their journey to mental well-being. I believe in empowering my clients by supplying a supportive environment to build connections, gain insight, and challenge oneself when necessary. Together, by utilizing a safe space for exploration and growth, we'll work on exploring patterns in relationships, problem-solving to facilitate positive change, and promoting self-discovery.
In these settings, I worked closely with the LGBTQ+ communities on campus by offering support, empowering individual students through their identities, and advocating on their behalf as they faced the difficulty of navigating their identities.
I am a compassionate and experienced clinical psychologist dedicated to supporting teens, young adults, and adults on their journey to mental well-being. I believe in empowering my clients by supplying a supportive environment to build connections, gain insight, and challenge oneself when necessary. Together, by utilizing a safe space for exploration and growth, we'll work on exploring patterns in relationships, problem-solving to facilitate positive change, and promoting self-discovery.
![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 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 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 Renata Martins, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d240a07-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am Dr. Renata Martins, a clinical psychologist licensed in New Jersey and New York with over 20 years of experience! I am also certified to provide telehealth therapy in 40 other states. I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for adolescents, college students, adults and couples with ADHD, Autism, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, in addition to other concerns. I have specialized training in working with neurodivergent populations. I currently have telehealth sessions available during the week and on Sundays - text or email me to set up a time for us to talk!
Hi! I am Dr. Renata Martins, a clinical psychologist licensed in New Jersey and New York with over 20 years of experience! I am also certified to provide telehealth therapy in 40 other states. I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for adolescents, college students, adults and couples with ADHD, Autism, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, in addition to other concerns. I have specialized training in working with neurodivergent populations. I currently have telehealth sessions available during the week and on Sundays - text or email me to set up a time for us to talk!
![Photo of Dr. Max Craig Kusovitsky, DSW, LSCW, CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18f8d831-ba1f-4ef5-bef6-845a17f987df/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Max Craig Kusovitsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LSCW, CASAC
Verified Verified
Cresskill, NJ 07626
I am a psychoanalyst specializing in the phenomena of unconscious mental life. Patients are often referred to my practice after previous efforts have felt unhelpful, limited or kept one "stuck" in and out of therapy. My focus is both on the material functioning within awareness, and dynamics operating underneath our wish--and fears--to change. This substance generates felt and unfelt strife within all individuals, regardless of symptoms, situation or diagnosis. That is to say, there is invaluable MEANING and FUNCTION to any thought, feeling or behavior. We do not operate separately from our selves.
I am a psychoanalyst specializing in the phenomena of unconscious mental life. Patients are often referred to my practice after previous efforts have felt unhelpful, limited or kept one "stuck" in and out of therapy. My focus is both on the material functioning within awareness, and dynamics operating underneath our wish--and fears--to change. This substance generates felt and unfelt strife within all individuals, regardless of symptoms, situation or diagnosis. That is to say, there is invaluable MEANING and FUNCTION to any thought, feeling or behavior. We do not operate separately from our selves.
![Photo of Katya Chizhova, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51dbbf7b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with people suffering from various mental health conditions: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, mood disorders, or grieving a loss. In my 25 years as a therapist, I have worked with patients from diverse cultural, racial, and socio-economic backgrounds. In the recent years, my focus has been psychotherapy, support and psycho-education for people with acute or chronic medical conditions. The achievements of modern medicine do not replace attention to potentially devastating psychological effects of being sick, yet doctors often overlook or ignore them, leaving us to cope with fear, loneliness, and critical decisions to make.
I work with people suffering from various mental health conditions: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, mood disorders, or grieving a loss. In my 25 years as a therapist, I have worked with patients from diverse cultural, racial, and socio-economic backgrounds. In the recent years, my focus has been psychotherapy, support and psycho-education for people with acute or chronic medical conditions. The achievements of modern medicine do not replace attention to potentially devastating psychological effects of being sick, yet doctors often overlook or ignore them, leaving us to cope with fear, loneliness, and critical decisions to make.
![Photo of Karen Nadel, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c5ca6f9-c678-4f1d-8675-9d7e324c2a38/2/320x400.jpeg)
You may be looking to address a specific challenging situation, or are even courageously looking to work on long standing issues that are impeding your ability to live up to your optimal self. I can partner with you towards your goals of healing, growth, and well-being, allowing you to thrive in your life. Using a personalized and scientifically proven approach to your issues, we can navigate treatment together through obstacles towards your pathway to growth.
You may be looking to address a specific challenging situation, or are even courageously looking to work on long standing issues that are impeding your ability to live up to your optimal self. I can partner with you towards your goals of healing, growth, and well-being, allowing you to thrive in your life. Using a personalized and scientifically proven approach to your issues, we can navigate treatment together through obstacles towards your pathway to growth.
![Photo of Emerita R Verdejo, LCSW, CCFP, IIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbb52767-e5e5-4799-8570-630ec0e1632a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emerita R Verdejo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCFP, IIC
Verified Verified
Cresskill, NJ 07626 (Online Only)
My Clients present with a wide variety of behavioural and/or mental health concerns which can include trauma/stress related disorders, mood disorders, anger management, emotion dysregulation, couples counselling, christian counselling and psychological evaluations for immigration cases. I am in general practice and treat a wide variety of illnesses.
My Clients present with a wide variety of behavioural and/or mental health concerns which can include trauma/stress related disorders, mood disorders, anger management, emotion dysregulation, couples counselling, christian counselling and psychological evaluations for immigration cases. I am in general practice and treat a wide variety of illnesses.
![Photo of Janine Hurley-Nicoll, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/403ff912-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Janine Hurley-Nicoll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cresskill, NJ 07626
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Will Mills, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c5039f6-21b3-4934-b368-7c069f87b5a7/7/320x400.png)
Will Mills
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Alpine, NJ 07620 (Online Only)
Will has over 10 years of experience providing mental health treatment to New Jerseyans. Having worked in all levels of care — from inpatient to residential programs/group homes to outpatient settings — Will is able to support an array of clients from all walks of life. As Lead Therapist and Owner of Will Inspire You Counseling, he is immensely passionate about supporting people of all ages. Will specializes in supporting individuals living with ADHD, Anxiety and other related disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as Eating Disorders and disordered eating. Within his repertoire is a particular focus on LGBTQ+ health.
Will has over 10 years of experience providing mental health treatment to New Jerseyans. Having worked in all levels of care — from inpatient to residential programs/group homes to outpatient settings — Will is able to support an array of clients from all walks of life. As Lead Therapist and Owner of Will Inspire You Counseling, he is immensely passionate about supporting people of all ages. Will specializes in supporting individuals living with ADHD, Anxiety and other related disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as Eating Disorders and disordered eating. Within his repertoire is a particular focus on LGBTQ+ health.
![Photo of Dr. Michael Jacobs, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4604fec4-488f-4ef6-b021-1d3c32014e6e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in supporting teens and adults, particularly those who identify as LGBTQIA+ or performing artists, who are feeling anxious, sad, and overwhelmed.
Struggling to navigate life's challenges? Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, work stress, or a sense of being stuck, these obstacles can trigger anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The fear of judgment or the dread of something terrible happening can weigh heavily on your mind. High standards, whether self-imposed or external, might feel impossible to meet, leaving you feeling hindered and overwhelmed. But you don't have to face these challenges alone. Together, we can develop effective strategies to help you embrace life fully, fostering a sense of control and freedom.
I specialize in supporting teens and adults, particularly those who identify as LGBTQIA+ or performing artists, who are feeling anxious, sad, and overwhelmed.
Struggling to navigate life's challenges? Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, work stress, or a sense of being stuck, these obstacles can trigger anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The fear of judgment or the dread of something terrible happening can weigh heavily on your mind. High standards, whether self-imposed or external, might feel impossible to meet, leaving you feeling hindered and overwhelmed. But you don't have to face these challenges alone. Together, we can develop effective strategies to help you embrace life fully, fostering a sense of control and freedom.
![Photo of Peter J Paterno, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40ae2798-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peter J Paterno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Offering affirming and supportive psychotherapy to the LGBTQ community.
"Helping clients to promote meaningful change in their lives." Overcome anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, relationship challenges, OCD and substance abuse. Working with Teens to adults in a warm, comfortable and supportive professional space.
Offering affirming and supportive psychotherapy to the LGBTQ community.
"Helping clients to promote meaningful change in their lives." Overcome anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, relationship challenges, OCD and substance abuse. Working with Teens to adults in a warm, comfortable and supportive professional space.
![Photo of Susan S. Turkenkopf - Susan S. Turkenkopf, MSW, LCSW, CGP, MSW, LCSW, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30b72b6d-2133-4953-9eb6-a31f49f1dc3b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Susan S. Turkenkopf, MSW, LCSW, CGP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666 (Online Only)
I, Susan S. Turkenkopf, MSW, LCSW, CGP, deal with the following issues and symptoms in my Private Practice: ADHD, Asperger's Syndrome, Eating Disorders/Body Image, Internet/Online Problems, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Adolescent-Parent/Authority Difficulties, School Phobia/School Refusal/Separation, Learning Disabilities, Self-Esteem/Confidence,Gay/Lesbian/Gender/SexualityDivorce/Marital Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Anger Management, Social Anxiety, Substance Abuse Depression/Anxiety/Panic Disorder, Separation Anxiety Disdorder, Personality Disorders, Sleep Issues, Smoking/Addictions, Available Weekends COVID low fee available
I, Susan S. Turkenkopf, MSW, LCSW, CGP, deal with the following issues and symptoms in my Private Practice: ADHD, Asperger's Syndrome, Eating Disorders/Body Image, Internet/Online Problems, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Adolescent-Parent/Authority Difficulties, School Phobia/School Refusal/Separation, Learning Disabilities, Self-Esteem/Confidence,Gay/Lesbian/Gender/SexualityDivorce/Marital Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Anger Management, Social Anxiety, Substance Abuse Depression/Anxiety/Panic Disorder, Separation Anxiety Disdorder, Personality Disorders, Sleep Issues, Smoking/Addictions, Available Weekends COVID low fee available
![Photo of Dominique Focazio, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08f42605-6db1-4222-bb80-8a910e737fa2/1/320x400.jpeg)
My experience has been with individuals, couples, and groups in an array of areas including Stress Management, Relationships, both PTSD and C-PTSD, BPD, Emotional Dysregulation, Non-Suicidal Self- Harm and LGBTQ+ identity formation.
I get it. Life happens. Sometimes you just need to talk and have someone listen. Whether therapy is new for you or you are revisiting it, my goal is help you create a fulfilling and happy life that you are excited to live. Whether you are looking to develop healthy coping skills or seek to dig deeper inside, I will work with you on your journey to a better understanding of who you are and who you may want to become. Note- To all the early birds: there is always time for therapy. I offer virtual sessions as early as 5am. There is always time for therapy!
My experience has been with individuals, couples, and groups in an array of areas including Stress Management, Relationships, both PTSD and C-PTSD, BPD, Emotional Dysregulation, Non-Suicidal Self- Harm and LGBTQ+ identity formation.
I get it. Life happens. Sometimes you just need to talk and have someone listen. Whether therapy is new for you or you are revisiting it, my goal is help you create a fulfilling and happy life that you are excited to live. Whether you are looking to develop healthy coping skills or seek to dig deeper inside, I will work with you on your journey to a better understanding of who you are and who you may want to become. Note- To all the early birds: there is always time for therapy. I offer virtual sessions as early as 5am. There is always time for therapy!
![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 Annel A Gomez, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4d3bd8d-f5d8-4f37-882f-9806dc84c696/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with native language skills in both English and Spanish. Much of my experience includes working within the LGBTQ community which has allowed me to work with diverse client populations who present with equally diverse experiences as it relates to race, ethnicity, age, gender, and sexuality. I rely on a person-centered therapeutic approach as I seek to help you gain insight on your social and behavioral patterns, develop skills to increase feelings of empowerment, and reduce feelings of shame, anxiety, and self-doubt.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with native language skills in both English and Spanish. Much of my experience includes working within the LGBTQ community which has allowed me to work with diverse client populations who present with equally diverse experiences as it relates to race, ethnicity, age, gender, and sexuality. I rely on a person-centered therapeutic approach as I seek to help you gain insight on your social and behavioral patterns, develop skills to increase feelings of empowerment, and reduce feelings of shame, anxiety, and self-doubt.
![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 April Capawana, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f3ec35e-2fbe-4eac-a1f0-e20432b91305/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience treating many different issues including: depression, anxiety, bereavement, family conflict, divorce, relationship issues, self-esteem, social skills deficits, life transitions, LGBTQ issues, behavioral problems, and many others.
Therapy can be a life-changing and empowering experience. It is a courageous step towards personal growth, self-knowledge, and self-acceptance. I offer a non-judgmental and confidential space for you to explore your feelings and personal issues at a pace that is comfortable to you. I use a mix of different therapeutic techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, psycho-dynamic approaches, mindfulness, and many others.
I have experience treating many different issues including: depression, anxiety, bereavement, family conflict, divorce, relationship issues, self-esteem, social skills deficits, life transitions, LGBTQ issues, behavioral problems, and many others.
Therapy can be a life-changing and empowering experience. It is a courageous step towards personal growth, self-knowledge, and self-acceptance. I offer a non-judgmental and confidential space for you to explore your feelings and personal issues at a pace that is comfortable to you. I use a mix of different therapeutic techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, psycho-dynamic approaches, mindfulness, and many others.
![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 an affirming (celebratory) therapist allied with the LGBTQIA+ population.
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 an affirming (celebratory) therapist allied with the LGBTQIA+ population.
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 Lisa Fedder, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, ACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d6d0c6e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Fedder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tenafly, NJ 07670
LGBTQ inclusive.
Whether struggling with anger, depression, anxiety, disordered eating, body image, or low self esteem or facing problems at school, work or home, I can help you develop your core strength to more effectively deal with life's challenges. When fixing a car, you want a top mechanic with the right set of tools to diagnose the problem and make the repairs. Why not treat yourself as well? Working together we can expand your "toolbox" so you have the confidence and skills to manage whatever comes your way.
LGBTQ inclusive.
Whether struggling with anger, depression, anxiety, disordered eating, body image, or low self esteem or facing problems at school, work or home, I can help you develop your core strength to more effectively deal with life's challenges. When fixing a car, you want a top mechanic with the right set of tools to diagnose the problem and make the repairs. Why not treat yourself as well? Working together we can expand your "toolbox" so you have the confidence and skills to manage whatever comes your way.
![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
Alpine, NJ 07620
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.
See more therapy options for Cresskill
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Cresskill
- Alpine
- Bergenfield
- Closter
- Demarest
- Dumont
- Englewood
- Englewood Cliffs
- Haworth
- Oradell
- River Edge
- Teaneck
- Tenafly
LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.