LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Fanwood, NJ

Photo of Peter G. Vosseler - Voss's Corner Counseling Center, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Voss's Corner Counseling Center, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fanwood, NJ 07023
"Restore Harmony & Peace Within" We offer individual and family counseling and supportive services utilizing a strengths and empowerment approach that focuses on cognitive-behavioral therapeutic techniques. We counsel clients from pre-adolescence through adulthood. Our practice focuses in treating adults with depression/major depression, bi-polar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, anger and stress management difficulties, gay/ lesbian factors and substance abuse issues. It is of utmost importance to assist the client in restructuring thought processes while stressing the power of positive thinking for positive results.
"Restore Harmony & Peace Within" We offer individual and family counseling and supportive services utilizing a strengths and empowerment approach that focuses on cognitive-behavioral therapeutic techniques. We counsel clients from pre-adolescence through adulthood. Our practice focuses in treating adults with depression/major depression, bi-polar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, anger and stress management difficulties, gay/ lesbian factors and substance abuse issues. It is of utmost importance to assist the client in restructuring thought processes while stressing the power of positive thinking for positive results.
(908) 280-0537 View (908) 280-0537
Photo of Michele K. Netter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele K. Netter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fanwood, NJ 07023
Do you feel stuck? Tired of repeating the same patterns and behaviors? I believe every person possesses the potential to transform their life. Developing a deeper understanding and awareness of what motivates and drives your behavior is a powerful tool for change. You will be the force that creates the change you seek and I will serve as your supportive guide through this collaborative process. I offer a safe and nurturing space where trust and understanding allow the therapeutic alliance to develop organically. Goals and plans for treatment will be created together and tailored to suit your individual needs.
Do you feel stuck? Tired of repeating the same patterns and behaviors? I believe every person possesses the potential to transform their life. Developing a deeper understanding and awareness of what motivates and drives your behavior is a powerful tool for change. You will be the force that creates the change you seek and I will serve as your supportive guide through this collaborative process. I offer a safe and nurturing space where trust and understanding allow the therapeutic alliance to develop organically. Goals and plans for treatment will be created together and tailored to suit your individual needs.
(732) 538-8543 View (732) 538-8543
Photo of Jennifer Laura Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Laura Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fanwood, NJ 07023
My practice includes folks of all ages/stages from young children to those entering the third third of life, I work with people who seek to know themselves more deeply & who want to uncover patterns & ways of being that no longer serve them. I especially love high conflict family work & working with parent/child connections. I utilize art, sandtray,movement & play as I see fit. I find couples therapy to be a potent vehicle of change for both the individual and for the couple. I blend Non-Violent Communication, IFS, Synergetic Play Therapy, Gestalt & Radical Aliveness in all my sessions. I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
My practice includes folks of all ages/stages from young children to those entering the third third of life, I work with people who seek to know themselves more deeply & who want to uncover patterns & ways of being that no longer serve them. I especially love high conflict family work & working with parent/child connections. I utilize art, sandtray,movement & play as I see fit. I find couples therapy to be a potent vehicle of change for both the individual and for the couple. I blend Non-Violent Communication, IFS, Synergetic Play Therapy, Gestalt & Radical Aliveness in all my sessions. I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
(908) 854-0239 View (908) 854-0239
Photo of Alex Lesaski, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alex Lesaski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Fanwood, NJ 07023
Alex has clinical experience with people seeking therapy for substance abuse issues, co-occurring mental health issues, adjustment and life transitions, relationship issues, family issues, and personal/professional growth and development. He has experience working with adults of all ages in individual and group therapy. Alex believes it is important for the client to feel supported, heard, and understood but also challenged to figure out their own path through the therapeutic process. He believes addressing issues in therapy can help people make real changes in their lives and gain more insight and awareness in who they are.
Alex has clinical experience with people seeking therapy for substance abuse issues, co-occurring mental health issues, adjustment and life transitions, relationship issues, family issues, and personal/professional growth and development. He has experience working with adults of all ages in individual and group therapy. Alex believes it is important for the client to feel supported, heard, and understood but also challenged to figure out their own path through the therapeutic process. He believes addressing issues in therapy can help people make real changes in their lives and gain more insight and awareness in who they are.
(908) 663-5816 View (908) 663-5816
Photo of Lidia D Abrams - Resolve Community Counseling Center, Inc, PhD
Resolve Community Counseling Center, Inc
PhD
Verified Verified
Fanwood, NJ 07023
Resolve Community Counseling Center offers the services of 14 masters' and doctoral level mental health clinicians (LPCs, LAC's, LCADC's, PsyD), under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. We work with families and children of all ages, couples and adults experiencing a variety of mental health challenges. We also carry out psychological evaluations for clinical and forensic purposes. With our large clinical staff, we are able to accommodate the needs of most every person seeking assistance. We are a private nonprofit agency, with a mission to help our community members with low cost but quality, confidential and caring mental health services.
Resolve Community Counseling Center offers the services of 14 masters' and doctoral level mental health clinicians (LPCs, LAC's, LCADC's, PsyD), under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. We work with families and children of all ages, couples and adults experiencing a variety of mental health challenges. We also carry out psychological evaluations for clinical and forensic purposes. With our large clinical staff, we are able to accommodate the needs of most every person seeking assistance. We are a private nonprofit agency, with a mission to help our community members with low cost but quality, confidential and caring mental health services.
(908) 365-1160 View (908) 365-1160
Photo of Yevgenia (Gina) Levi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yevgenia (Gina) Levi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fanwood, NJ 07023  (Online Only)
Gina Levi has extensive experience working with adults, children, and couples from various cultural backgrounds. Her background consists of various settings including foster care and adoption, school, community centers as well as grief and bereavement counseling. Gina focuses on mindfulness and a holistic approach to help her clients make meaningful changes. Gina creates a safe space where her clients are encouraged to share their feelings as well as set and meet unique goals.
Gina Levi has extensive experience working with adults, children, and couples from various cultural backgrounds. Her background consists of various settings including foster care and adoption, school, community centers as well as grief and bereavement counseling. Gina focuses on mindfulness and a holistic approach to help her clients make meaningful changes. Gina creates a safe space where her clients are encouraged to share their feelings as well as set and meet unique goals.
(862) 263-9598 View (862) 263-9598
Photo of Marie A. Di Iorio, MSW, LCSW
Marie A. Di Iorio
MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fanwood, NJ 07023
Hello! Thank you for visiting my page. I provide psychotherapy to clients who are looking for some extra support—someone in their corner to help them navigate and cope with life’s challenges. My therapy practice focuses on teens and adults (of all ages).
Hello! Thank you for visiting my page. I provide psychotherapy to clients who are looking for some extra support—someone in their corner to help them navigate and cope with life’s challenges. My therapy practice focuses on teens and adults (of all ages).
(908) 650-1566 View (908) 650-1566
Photo of Gwendolyn L Shapiro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwendolyn L Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fanwood, NJ 07023
Not accepting new clients
If a deep dive meant transformation, would you be willing? Dipping in one toe at a time until you felt safe in the therapeutic relationship to take the plunge? Have you had a sense that your younger selves have things to share with you, that they are ready for you to release them from the confines of core beliefs born out of trauma, no matter how big or little it seems? If you are curious about what inner child work, exploring and understanding with compassion all of your parts, reparenting, and EMDR can do for you, let's connect. We are partners. www.healingwithgwen.com. IG healing.with.gwen
If a deep dive meant transformation, would you be willing? Dipping in one toe at a time until you felt safe in the therapeutic relationship to take the plunge? Have you had a sense that your younger selves have things to share with you, that they are ready for you to release them from the confines of core beliefs born out of trauma, no matter how big or little it seems? If you are curious about what inner child work, exploring and understanding with compassion all of your parts, reparenting, and EMDR can do for you, let's connect. We are partners. www.healingwithgwen.com. IG healing.with.gwen
(732) 272-0895 View (732) 272-0895

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kate Martin - Kate Martin: Therapy and Parenting Consultation, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate Martin: Therapy and Parenting Consultation
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I help people cope with difficult situations and learn ways to manage stress at home, work, or school. People work with me to develop effective communication skills and the ability to advocate for themselves, their needs, and their interests. My clients find more meaning, purpose, and connection in their day-to-day lives by better understanding themselves and their capacity for self-compassion, peace, and joy. I also help people learn practical skills for managing time and responsibilities, navigate life transitions and changes, explore body image and relationships with food, and process LGBTQIA+ issues and experiences.
I help people cope with difficult situations and learn ways to manage stress at home, work, or school. People work with me to develop effective communication skills and the ability to advocate for themselves, their needs, and their interests. My clients find more meaning, purpose, and connection in their day-to-day lives by better understanding themselves and their capacity for self-compassion, peace, and joy. I also help people learn practical skills for managing time and responsibilities, navigate life transitions and changes, explore body image and relationships with food, and process LGBTQIA+ issues and experiences.
(732) 338-7091 View (732) 338-7091
Photo of Live Wonderfully Therapy - Live Wonderfully Therapy, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Live Wonderfully Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090  (Online Only)
We help teens, adults, LGBTQIA+ folks, couples, families and parents manage anxiety, depression, relationship and parenting challenges. We are a female owned and operated virtual practice, led by Raelyn Sprenkle, LCSW, MEd, with over a decade of experience offering support. Our mission is to create a safe, judgment-free space for you to explore your emotions. We offer tailored therapy services, including individual, couples, and family therapy, all centered around your unique needs and goals.
We help teens, adults, LGBTQIA+ folks, couples, families and parents manage anxiety, depression, relationship and parenting challenges. We are a female owned and operated virtual practice, led by Raelyn Sprenkle, LCSW, MEd, with over a decade of experience offering support. Our mission is to create a safe, judgment-free space for you to explore your emotions. We offer tailored therapy services, including individual, couples, and family therapy, all centered around your unique needs and goals.
(732) 838-5216 View (732) 838-5216
Photo of Samantha Merse, LAC, ATR-P, Counselor
Samantha Merse
Counselor, LAC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
My ideal client is someone who is motivated and ready to work on themselves. They are a client who attends each session as scheduled and on time, coming into it with an open mind and willingness to grow. The client would ideally be an adult who is within the LGBTQIA+ community and is coming to me to work on bettering themselves. Their issues would include depression, anxiety, and questioning their gender and sexual identity.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated and ready to work on themselves. They are a client who attends each session as scheduled and on time, coming into it with an open mind and willingness to grow. The client would ideally be an adult who is within the LGBTQIA+ community and is coming to me to work on bettering themselves. Their issues would include depression, anxiety, and questioning their gender and sexual identity.
(908) 845-8876 View (908) 845-8876
Photo of Leo Hirsch Massey, LMSW
Leo Hirsch Massey
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
I pursue ongoing education through institutional programs including Yale's and Rutgers' culturally sensitive care with LGBTQ+, Jewish, and Israeli clients.
Struggling with intrusive thoughts, downward spirals, lack of motivation, effects of trauma or feeling invalidated? Playing those “what if” scenarios again and again in your head? If you’re seeking an authentic, empathetic connection to overcome challenges around anxiety, trauma, depression, or identity issues then I am here for you. As a passionate therapist, I strive to understand your needs, whether you're a child, teenager, or young adult. Through evidence-based treatments, I'll provide you with the right tools to help you reduce worries and symptoms, while making sure you achieve your life goals!
I pursue ongoing education through institutional programs including Yale's and Rutgers' culturally sensitive care with LGBTQ+, Jewish, and Israeli clients.
Struggling with intrusive thoughts, downward spirals, lack of motivation, effects of trauma or feeling invalidated? Playing those “what if” scenarios again and again in your head? If you’re seeking an authentic, empathetic connection to overcome challenges around anxiety, trauma, depression, or identity issues then I am here for you. As a passionate therapist, I strive to understand your needs, whether you're a child, teenager, or young adult. Through evidence-based treatments, I'll provide you with the right tools to help you reduce worries and symptoms, while making sure you achieve your life goals!
(646) 718-6092 View (646) 718-6092
Photo of Rebecca Gillespie, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Gillespie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
In addition to my traditional therapy services, I also offer LGBTQIA Clinical Consultation Services to colleagues seeking dialogue around either navigating the intersection of being a therapist in the LGBTQ+ Community and/or all other colleagues seeking to consult around challenging cases involving members of the community.
My goal is to create a safe space where everyone can feel heard and validated. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, relationship problems, grief, and transitional issues. I have a passion for working with adolescents, both individually and with their families. Adolescence can be a challenging times for families and I believe in creating an open environment for encouraging both communication and the acceptance of needed privacy. I have extensive training and experience in systemic family therapy. This means that I am able to treat not only the individual, but also the entire family of origin, where appropriate.
In addition to my traditional therapy services, I also offer LGBTQIA Clinical Consultation Services to colleagues seeking dialogue around either navigating the intersection of being a therapist in the LGBTQ+ Community and/or all other colleagues seeking to consult around challenging cases involving members of the community.
My goal is to create a safe space where everyone can feel heard and validated. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, relationship problems, grief, and transitional issues. I have a passion for working with adolescents, both individually and with their families. Adolescence can be a challenging times for families and I believe in creating an open environment for encouraging both communication and the acceptance of needed privacy. I have extensive training and experience in systemic family therapy. This means that I am able to treat not only the individual, but also the entire family of origin, where appropriate.
(848) 222-3601 View (848) 222-3601
Photo of Kathleen Bakos, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Bakos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
It's hard to admit needing help sometimes. Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed, lost, or inertia about self-motivated change? If you're struggling with managing anxiety or depression, infertility, adoption issues, trauma, LGBTQ, ADHD, child behavior, mariage, or impulse control I can help. I will "meet you where you are" emotionally, and together we can navigate what you are experiencing. I want to walk with you while you find mental wellness, manage stressors, obtain clarity, and gain the peace of mind that you deserve. There's much healing in being heard, understood, and taking time to process emotions.
It's hard to admit needing help sometimes. Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed, lost, or inertia about self-motivated change? If you're struggling with managing anxiety or depression, infertility, adoption issues, trauma, LGBTQ, ADHD, child behavior, mariage, or impulse control I can help. I will "meet you where you are" emotionally, and together we can navigate what you are experiencing. I want to walk with you while you find mental wellness, manage stressors, obtain clarity, and gain the peace of mind that you deserve. There's much healing in being heard, understood, and taking time to process emotions.
(908) 224-5237 View (908) 224-5237
Photo of Jessica Perrella, MSW, MEd, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Perrella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community and am a kink and poly affirming therapist.
I ONLY see individual clients, no couples. Hi! I'm Jess. Starting therapy can be REALLY hard! Making yourself vulnerable to a perfect stranger can feel uncomfortable - especially if you're dealing with sexuality or relationship concerns. I bring my most authentic self to the session, in the hope that you will, too. My hope is that our work together can improve your ability to manage big feelings, empower you with tools to handle life's challenges, and improve communication in your relationships.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community and am a kink and poly affirming therapist.
I ONLY see individual clients, no couples. Hi! I'm Jess. Starting therapy can be REALLY hard! Making yourself vulnerable to a perfect stranger can feel uncomfortable - especially if you're dealing with sexuality or relationship concerns. I bring my most authentic self to the session, in the hope that you will, too. My hope is that our work together can improve your ability to manage big feelings, empower you with tools to handle life's challenges, and improve communication in your relationships.
(732) 355-3392 View (732) 355-3392
Photo of Stephanie Willoughby, LCSW, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Willoughby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090  (Online Only)
My practice is focused primarily on treating adults who identify as female and being a welcoming space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I place a high value on authenticity, empathy, & self-awareness as critical parts of the therapeutic process & aim to validate my clients’ experiences without judgment & provide the most basic of needs: to feel seen and heard. Hi! My name is Stephanie (Stephanie or Stevie is fine) & I have provided therapy exclusively via telehealth for the last 4 years (previously in person). If you have been struggling with depression or anxiety, particularly if related to a traumatic experience, I would love the opportunity to work with you and to help you experience a present that is not negatively impacted by events from your past.
My practice is focused primarily on treating adults who identify as female and being a welcoming space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I place a high value on authenticity, empathy, & self-awareness as critical parts of the therapeutic process & aim to validate my clients’ experiences without judgment & provide the most basic of needs: to feel seen and heard. Hi! My name is Stephanie (Stephanie or Stevie is fine) & I have provided therapy exclusively via telehealth for the last 4 years (previously in person). If you have been struggling with depression or anxiety, particularly if related to a traumatic experience, I would love the opportunity to work with you and to help you experience a present that is not negatively impacted by events from your past.
(973) 620-2493 View (973) 620-2493
Photo of Christine Scally, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Scally
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating clients with interpersonal conflicts, relationship issues, mood disturbances, women's health issues, and am LGBTQ friendly.
Depression and anxiety are not signs of weakness but can instead be an indication that you have been strong for too long. I am a supportive and compassionate therapist. The collaborative approach between therapist and client brings about the most successful outcomes. I have been told that I am extremely easy to relate to and am never judgmental. My goal in working with clients is to help them to identify what changes they would like to make and together form a plan to implement those changes. Additionally, I will assist you in developing healthier coping strategies.
I specialize in treating clients with interpersonal conflicts, relationship issues, mood disturbances, women's health issues, and am LGBTQ friendly.
Depression and anxiety are not signs of weakness but can instead be an indication that you have been strong for too long. I am a supportive and compassionate therapist. The collaborative approach between therapist and client brings about the most successful outcomes. I have been told that I am extremely easy to relate to and am never judgmental. My goal in working with clients is to help them to identify what changes they would like to make and together form a plan to implement those changes. Additionally, I will assist you in developing healthier coping strategies.
(732) 551-3905 View (732) 551-3905
Photo of Elizabeth Connolly, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Connolly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090  (Online Only)
I have experience working with various demographics including sex workers, immigrants, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and BIPOC.
In my opinion, there is no such thing as an ideal client. The human experience is far too vast and varying for one to be considered an ideal therapeutic client. It is my pleasure to engage with any individual who has the strength and awareness to seek mental health treatment and it is my privilege to be allowed into their lives. In my work as a therapist, it is my hope to work with my clients in such a way that encourages and inspires them to pursue their authentic-selves while building healthy, sustainable skills to cope with the myriad of struggles, obstacles, and experiences that life can entail.
I have experience working with various demographics including sex workers, immigrants, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and BIPOC.
In my opinion, there is no such thing as an ideal client. The human experience is far too vast and varying for one to be considered an ideal therapeutic client. It is my pleasure to engage with any individual who has the strength and awareness to seek mental health treatment and it is my privilege to be allowed into their lives. In my work as a therapist, it is my hope to work with my clients in such a way that encourages and inspires them to pursue their authentic-selves while building healthy, sustainable skills to cope with the myriad of struggles, obstacles, and experiences that life can entail.
(201) 820-0165 View (201) 820-0165
Photo of Rene Silver, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rene Silver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
I have experience working with individuals that are heterosexual or part of the LGBTQ community.
All of our lives are full of ups and downs, heartache and happiness, life and death. Do you feel alone in a room full of people? Do you feel like you are in the middle of a tunnel and you can't see the way out? Do you put a smile on your face to walk into work after crying on the commute? Do you make excuses to stay home so people don't see you have gained weight, lost your job, are depressed, do you have social anxiety? Do you stay at work late or out with friends so you don't have to face your partner, children, empty house? Do you feel like a stranger in your own home?
I have experience working with individuals that are heterosexual or part of the LGBTQ community.
All of our lives are full of ups and downs, heartache and happiness, life and death. Do you feel alone in a room full of people? Do you feel like you are in the middle of a tunnel and you can't see the way out? Do you put a smile on your face to walk into work after crying on the commute? Do you make excuses to stay home so people don't see you have gained weight, lost your job, are depressed, do you have social anxiety? Do you stay at work late or out with friends so you don't have to face your partner, children, empty house? Do you feel like a stranger in your own home?
(732) 860-2029 View (732) 860-2029
Photo of Katherine De Vito, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine De Vito
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
I specialize in children, teens, and young adults with anxiety, stress, and school, relationship, and peer issues, as well as working with LGBTQ+ population.
Working with children, adolescents, and young adults is my passion and specialty. In working with my clients, my goal is to establish a connection and trusting therapeutic relationship in a nonjudgmental and safe environment that can encourage emotional growth. Each client is unique, so treatment will be tailored to individual needs. My approach is eclectic, incorporating various therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, psychodynamic, and solution-focused therapy. I hold a Masters of Science in Social Work from Columbia University and a Doctorate in Social Work from Rutgers University.
I specialize in children, teens, and young adults with anxiety, stress, and school, relationship, and peer issues, as well as working with LGBTQ+ population.
Working with children, adolescents, and young adults is my passion and specialty. In working with my clients, my goal is to establish a connection and trusting therapeutic relationship in a nonjudgmental and safe environment that can encourage emotional growth. Each client is unique, so treatment will be tailored to individual needs. My approach is eclectic, incorporating various therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, psychodynamic, and solution-focused therapy. I hold a Masters of Science in Social Work from Columbia University and a Doctorate in Social Work from Rutgers University.
(908) 913-7655 View (908) 913-7655

See more therapy options for Fanwood

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.