LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Elizabeth, NJ
![Photo of Carmen Hernandez, MSW , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44bc9373-c1f9-4f7f-a069-485e2cde0a01/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carmen Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, NJ 07202 (Online Only)
I have expertise supporting individuals who have undergone traumatic experiences, working with women and girls of color, and working with the LGBTQ+ community.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and earned my master's degree from Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. I encourage my clients to share their feelings while working towards their goals in a comforting and judgement free environment. At times, we may feel alone, lost or confused during difficult moments in our lives. With compassion and empathy, I will join you in your journey.
I have expertise supporting individuals who have undergone traumatic experiences, working with women and girls of color, and working with the LGBTQ+ community.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and earned my master's degree from Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. I encourage my clients to share their feelings while working towards their goals in a comforting and judgement free environment. At times, we may feel alone, lost or confused during difficult moments in our lives. With compassion and empathy, I will join you in your journey.
![Photo of Kirsten Kennedy - Kirsten Kennedy: kids, teens, adults and couples, LAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9809758f-860f-4785-a2d2-41bc5cec1ea7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kirsten Kennedy: kids, teens, adults and couples
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, NJ 07201
I enjoy helping children, teens, and adults navigate issues related to anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ care, relationship issues and academic challenges. I utilize play therapy, psychodynamic and existential therapies, & mindfulness approaches to assist kids, teens and adults in learning skills to improve their coping with life's challenges. In my work with couples, I utilize the Gottman Method to provide couples with skills to improve their problem solving and communication. I would be honored to assist you on your journey.
I enjoy helping children, teens, and adults navigate issues related to anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ care, relationship issues and academic challenges. I utilize play therapy, psychodynamic and existential therapies, & mindfulness approaches to assist kids, teens and adults in learning skills to improve their coping with life's challenges. In my work with couples, I utilize the Gottman Method to provide couples with skills to improve their problem solving and communication. I would be honored to assist you on your journey.
![Photo of Meir Brevda - Meir Brevda: EMDR, Couples, Adults, Teens, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f8d1131-65ea-4393-a55f-9794ff7d3453/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meir Brevda: EMDR, Couples, Adults, Teens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, NJ 07208
I am an experienced trauma-oriented therapist and I work with adults, couples, and teens facing grief, trauma, family conflict, ADHD, bipolar disorder, relationship issues and LGBTQIA+ challenges. I am certified in EMDR for trauma recovery which means I can offer talk therapy and somatic work to process intrusive memories and re-connect your body with your experiences and mindset. I help people of Jewish identity explore, navigate and cope with their unique cultural experiences. I also work with cutting and self harm behaviors, chronic suicide ideation, and psychotic symptoms. Book online anytime at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I am an experienced trauma-oriented therapist and I work with adults, couples, and teens facing grief, trauma, family conflict, ADHD, bipolar disorder, relationship issues and LGBTQIA+ challenges. I am certified in EMDR for trauma recovery which means I can offer talk therapy and somatic work to process intrusive memories and re-connect your body with your experiences and mindset. I help people of Jewish identity explore, navigate and cope with their unique cultural experiences. I also work with cutting and self harm behaviors, chronic suicide ideation, and psychotic symptoms. Book online anytime at www.resolutioncc.com/team
![Photo of Erin O'Donnell: Teens Adults Couples - Erin O'Donnell: Teen, Adults and Couples, MS, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5cfbf51-cd96-429e-9add-13563603990c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin O'Donnell: Teen, Adults and Couples
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LSW
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, NJ 07202
I love to work with adults, couples, teens, and the queer community. I firmly believe in spending time to understand early experiences and patterns from your past so that we can shape your present. We will draw on Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), CBT, and Gottman Method couples techniques to explore and manage depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and family conflict. I will work with you to gain insight into old patterns, set and meet goals for change, heal from trauma, and build meaningful relationships with people you can trust. See if I am accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I love to work with adults, couples, teens, and the queer community. I firmly believe in spending time to understand early experiences and patterns from your past so that we can shape your present. We will draw on Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), CBT, and Gottman Method couples techniques to explore and manage depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and family conflict. I will work with you to gain insight into old patterns, set and meet goals for change, heal from trauma, and build meaningful relationships with people you can trust. See if I am accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
![Photo of Miguel A Matos, MS, ACS, MFT, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c7cb23a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Miguel A Matos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, ACS, MFT, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, NJ 07201
Mental Health therapy helps people of all ages live happier, healthier and more productive lives.” Through the use of various psychotherapy methods and collaborative treatment measures, my patients develop life-changing habits to help them cope with any of life’s various obstacles. My therapy sessions are designed to dissect personal issues and provide patients with effective tools to help them see the glass half full instead of half empty. We offer Individual Psychotherapy, Family and Couple Therapy. La Terapias pueden ser conducidas en Espanol.
Mental Health therapy helps people of all ages live happier, healthier and more productive lives.” Through the use of various psychotherapy methods and collaborative treatment measures, my patients develop life-changing habits to help them cope with any of life’s various obstacles. My therapy sessions are designed to dissect personal issues and provide patients with effective tools to help them see the glass half full instead of half empty. We offer Individual Psychotherapy, Family and Couple Therapy. La Terapias pueden ser conducidas en Espanol.
![Photo of John A Gore - Clear Conscience Counseling, EdD, LPC, LCADC, CAMS-II, CCS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f9cc529-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Clear Conscience Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, EdD, LPC, LCADC, CAMS-II, CCS
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, NJ 07202
Let's talk about it, and work together towards solutions.
Let's talk about it, and work together towards solutions.
![Photo of Ronald G Silikovitz, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b79f183-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I, Ron Silikovitz, Ph.D., am a licensed clinical psychologist. I have offices in West Orange and Elizabeth, New Jersey. My specialty areas include: Forensic psychology (parent coordination, therapeutic visitation, custody/parenting time evaluation, relocation evaluation, risk assessment, personal injury, assessment and treatment of sexual offenders and victims, competency, termination of parental rights and adoption, and expert witness testimony), individual psychotherapy, couples therapy,family therapy.
I, Ron Silikovitz, Ph.D., am a licensed clinical psychologist. I have offices in West Orange and Elizabeth, New Jersey. My specialty areas include: Forensic psychology (parent coordination, therapeutic visitation, custody/parenting time evaluation, relocation evaluation, risk assessment, personal injury, assessment and treatment of sexual offenders and victims, competency, termination of parental rights and adoption, and expert witness testimony), individual psychotherapy, couples therapy,family therapy.
![Photo of Noreen M Mahony, MSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c219a908-1c3c-454e-b123-d3ae6491c506/2/320x400.jpeg)
Noreen M Mahony
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elizabeth, NJ 07201 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT) with extensive and diversified experience & training in the counseling profession from over 30+ years in the field. If you are feeling overwhelmed, marginalized, or facing a personal life crisis, I'm here to help!
Welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT) with extensive and diversified experience & training in the counseling profession from over 30+ years in the field. If you are feeling overwhelmed, marginalized, or facing a personal life crisis, I'm here to help!
![Photo of Anne M Arena, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcf624c3-5b71-4755-aa6f-99e0d97144d6/1/320x400.png)
The decison to seek therapy is often not an easy one. This takes a tremendous amount of courage and initiative. With compassion and sensitivity, I will work with you to resolve current problems, gain insight toward long-standing patterns, and help to build on your strengths to achieve life goals and gain a sense of personal empowerment.
The decison to seek therapy is often not an easy one. This takes a tremendous amount of courage and initiative. With compassion and sensitivity, I will work with you to resolve current problems, gain insight toward long-standing patterns, and help to build on your strengths to achieve life goals and gain a sense of personal empowerment.
![Photo of La'Tesha Sampson - Great Joy Counseling and Consulting Services , PhD, DSW, MPA, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e4e829e-56e8-4d3a-b37c-d8624229bbd3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Great Joy Counseling and Consulting Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, DSW, MPA, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elizabeth, NJ 07202
Great Joy Counseling & Consulting Services, led by Dr. La’Tesha Sampson, a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience, is a group practice with a dedicated team of LCSWs, LSWs, LPCs, LACs, LMFTs, LAMFTs, RNs, and APNs. We are committed to delivering specialized services through various treatment modalities. Clients often praise our team's keen insight, non-judgmental approach, and extensive experience as what sets us apart in the field.
Great Joy Counseling & Consulting Services, led by Dr. La’Tesha Sampson, a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience, is a group practice with a dedicated team of LCSWs, LSWs, LPCs, LACs, LMFTs, LAMFTs, RNs, and APNs. We are committed to delivering specialized services through various treatment modalities. Clients often praise our team's keen insight, non-judgmental approach, and extensive experience as what sets us apart in the field.
![Photo of Stacy-Ann D Lambert, MSW, LCSW, CCS, CSS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47edf3ed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stacy-Ann D Lambert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCS, CSS
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, NJ 07201 (Online Only)
Seeking therapeutic help is challenging, therefore my utmost reward as a therapist is assisting my client(s) to explore ways to make life changes that allows them to look forward to a future with hope. I specialize in trauma focused treatment and working with adults, adolescents and their families.
Seeking therapeutic help is challenging, therefore my utmost reward as a therapist is assisting my client(s) to explore ways to make life changes that allows them to look forward to a future with hope. I specialize in trauma focused treatment and working with adults, adolescents and their families.
15 Second Videos
Kirsten Kennedy: kids, teens, adults and couples
Meir Brevda: EMDR, Couples, Adults, Teens
Erin O'Donnell: Teen, Adults and Couples
Mary Ann Maino-Socienski
Faith Based Psychotherapy LLC- Rossell Ferrer
Francisco Vásquez-Martínez (Psicoterapeuta En Español)
![Photo of Julio C Olivo II, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/476676db-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, I have witnessed a lot that has helped me as a psychologist. I am experienced with working with children who have trauma and/or behavioral issues and adults who have mental health issues ranging from minimal stress to schizophrenia. I have worked with families that are dealing with infertility, infidelity, and separation. I am also a certified school psychologist. Hence, I understand academic difficulties and its impact on both the child and parent.
Born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, I have witnessed a lot that has helped me as a psychologist. I am experienced with working with children who have trauma and/or behavioral issues and adults who have mental health issues ranging from minimal stress to schizophrenia. I have worked with families that are dealing with infertility, infidelity, and separation. I am also a certified school psychologist. Hence, I understand academic difficulties and its impact on both the child and parent.
![Photo of Alejandro Molina Rendon, LCSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16926df8-d5ee-478f-b279-6c210d003147/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer individualized and tailored care with strong humanistic approach especially oriented to resolve problems and improve quality of life. I am humble and committed and you can count with my professional expertise to move forward with your goals.
I offer individualized and tailored care with strong humanistic approach especially oriented to resolve problems and improve quality of life. I am humble and committed and you can count with my professional expertise to move forward with your goals.
![Photo of Darlene Posey, MSW , LSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/792b7e1b-e448-4ee1-a2a8-c6ed3e562889/3/320x400.jpeg)
Darlene Posey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, NJ 07201 (Online Only)
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!!!!!!!!! In my opinion, most people tend to see therapy as a one-sided conversation with little opportunity for interaction and/or getting to experience each other as real people. My motto is to be authentic, genuine and realistic with my clients. I want to help you accomplish whatever solutions you are looking for. The end goal is for you to enjoy the process while you experience yourself in new ways. Seeing a therapist may bring painful emotions to the surface, but seeking therapy doesn't have to be a painful thing.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!!!!!!!!! In my opinion, most people tend to see therapy as a one-sided conversation with little opportunity for interaction and/or getting to experience each other as real people. My motto is to be authentic, genuine and realistic with my clients. I want to help you accomplish whatever solutions you are looking for. The end goal is for you to enjoy the process while you experience yourself in new ways. Seeing a therapist may bring painful emotions to the surface, but seeking therapy doesn't have to be a painful thing.
![Photo of Mary Ann Maino-Socienski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/856889d1-c369-44ae-843d-c197d1a0c643/1/320x400.png)
Mary Ann Maino-Socienski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, NJ 07202 (Online Only)
Mary Ann treats trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, self-esteem problems, stress, executive functioning difficulties, maladaptive coping skills, grief, life transitions, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship issues, school issues, peer relationships, self-esteem problems, multiple disorders, trauma, PTSD, and women’s issues.
Mary Ann Maino-Socienski is a licensed clinical social worker. Mary Ann helps her patients find solutions to real-life problems by setting realistic goals to calm their body and mind. Her patients often find themselves actively enjoying their therapy sessions, rather than simply going through the motions. She aims to inspire her patients to make positive changes in their lives. Mary Ann has been providing therapy since 2010 and works with patients ages 12-64. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and breath work.
Mary Ann treats trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, self-esteem problems, stress, executive functioning difficulties, maladaptive coping skills, grief, life transitions, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship issues, school issues, peer relationships, self-esteem problems, multiple disorders, trauma, PTSD, and women’s issues.
Mary Ann Maino-Socienski is a licensed clinical social worker. Mary Ann helps her patients find solutions to real-life problems by setting realistic goals to calm their body and mind. Her patients often find themselves actively enjoying their therapy sessions, rather than simply going through the motions. She aims to inspire her patients to make positive changes in their lives. Mary Ann has been providing therapy since 2010 and works with patients ages 12-64. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and breath work.
![Photo of Rossell Ferrer - Faith Based Psychotherapy LLC- Rossell Ferrer, MA, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efe14388-d784-4989-a930-be2c994603d8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Faith Based Psychotherapy LLC- Rossell Ferrer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, NJ 07202
Do you have a child or are you an adolescents, adult, or family and have issues related to depression/anxiety, foster care/adoption, behavioral concerns, parenting, relationships/family issues, adjustment/ transitions, trauma, spiritual issues or concerns, domestic violence, vocational counseling, co-dependency, guilt/ shame, woman issues, life purpose, relationship issues and multicultural problems? I have experience in counseling clients from diverse populations, and spiritual backgrounds. - Tambien hablamos Español...
Do you have a child or are you an adolescents, adult, or family and have issues related to depression/anxiety, foster care/adoption, behavioral concerns, parenting, relationships/family issues, adjustment/ transitions, trauma, spiritual issues or concerns, domestic violence, vocational counseling, co-dependency, guilt/ shame, woman issues, life purpose, relationship issues and multicultural problems? I have experience in counseling clients from diverse populations, and spiritual backgrounds. - Tambien hablamos Español...
![Photo of Orlando Alonso Calvo Cespedes, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80f2f44e-c333-4114-9f03-2a97accc3967/3/320x400.jpeg)
Orlando Alonso Calvo Cespedes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Elizabeth, NJ 07201 (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of anxiety, depression, career stress, relationships, identity, and trauma. With extensive experience working with clients from diverse cultures, ethnicities, sexualities, and backgrounds, I am committed to guiding each person through their unique challenges and uncovering effective strategies for personal growth. My culturally informed approach allows me to connect deeply with a wide range of clients, providing a supportive space where they can work towards better understanding and improving their mental health.
I specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of anxiety, depression, career stress, relationships, identity, and trauma. With extensive experience working with clients from diverse cultures, ethnicities, sexualities, and backgrounds, I am committed to guiding each person through their unique challenges and uncovering effective strategies for personal growth. My culturally informed approach allows me to connect deeply with a wide range of clients, providing a supportive space where they can work towards better understanding and improving their mental health.
![Photo of Francisco Vásquez-Martínez (Psicoterapeuta En Español), MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74445ed5-a828-4ea2-afbd-91732fbf85f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Francisco Vásquez-Martínez (Psicoterapeuta En Español)
MA
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, NJ 07202 (Online Only)
Llevo más de una década como psicólogo clínico online, acompañando personas en su proceso de estabilización y crecimiento personal bajo un enfoque ecléctico. Con amplia experiencia en DEPENDENCIA EMOCIONAL, ANSIEDAD, DEPRESIÓN, PAREJAS, BIPOLARIDAD, obsesiones-compulsiones, violencia de género, duelo, envejecimiento, etc..
Llevo más de una década como psicólogo clínico online, acompañando personas en su proceso de estabilización y crecimiento personal bajo un enfoque ecléctico. Con amplia experiencia en DEPENDENCIA EMOCIONAL, ANSIEDAD, DEPRESIÓN, PAREJAS, BIPOLARIDAD, obsesiones-compulsiones, violencia de género, duelo, envejecimiento, etc..
![Photo of Suzelle Marques, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c27584c-9629-4d95-8872-2bbfb0b3dfc1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Suzelle Marques
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elizabeth, NJ 07201
Not accepting new clients
I believe there is no single approach that can treat each client in all situations. We will work together to create goals to help achieve your individual/family needs. Some modalities used may include supportive counseling, solution focused counseling, or other evidence based modalities (Trauma Focused CBT). These services may be provided in English, Spanish, or Portuguese. I hope to encourage the use of positive problem solving skills, healthy coping skills, and self-expression skills. Together, we can work to meet your goals/needs to achieve your desired outcome.
I believe there is no single approach that can treat each client in all situations. We will work together to create goals to help achieve your individual/family needs. Some modalities used may include supportive counseling, solution focused counseling, or other evidence based modalities (Trauma Focused CBT). These services may be provided in English, Spanish, or Portuguese. I hope to encourage the use of positive problem solving skills, healthy coping skills, and self-expression skills. Together, we can work to meet your goals/needs to achieve your desired outcome.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Sara Lewis, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9db7368-1b1c-4677-b5a0-d0978cf6b257/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in fostering healthy relationships and communication, anxiety, depression, life transitions, chronic illness, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and LGBTQIA+.
I am a LCSW and certified School SW with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. The decision to ask for help takes courage and can be intimidating. My goal is to provide you with a safe, compassionate and accepting environment for you to comfortably share your thoughts and feelings. I will consistently engage and encourage you to do your best as we work together to develop your treatment plan and identify the important issues that have brought you to therapy.
I specialize in fostering healthy relationships and communication, anxiety, depression, life transitions, chronic illness, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and LGBTQIA+.
I am a LCSW and certified School SW with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. The decision to ask for help takes courage and can be intimidating. My goal is to provide you with a safe, compassionate and accepting environment for you to comfortably share your thoughts and feelings. I will consistently engage and encourage you to do your best as we work together to develop your treatment plan and identify the important issues that have brought you to therapy.
See more therapy options for Elizabeth
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.