Transgender Therapists in Skillman, NJ

Photo of Erin Webb, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Webb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skillman, NJ 08558
I strive to make the process of seeking help as smooth and welcoming as possible as I believe that each client that I work with deserves individualized care and attention. My approach to counseling is client-centered & integrates various modalities through an Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) framework. I meet clients where they are at and work collaboratively with them to establish realistic goals for treatment, to identify and build on strengths, and to create a supportive environment where clients feel safe to connect to their emotions or express vulnerabilities.
I strive to make the process of seeking help as smooth and welcoming as possible as I believe that each client that I work with deserves individualized care and attention. My approach to counseling is client-centered & integrates various modalities through an Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) framework. I meet clients where they are at and work collaboratively with them to establish realistic goals for treatment, to identify and build on strengths, and to create a supportive environment where clients feel safe to connect to their emotions or express vulnerabilities.
(908) 356-4331 View (908) 356-4331
Photo of Safe Place Therapy, LPC, NCC, LCADC, LCSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Safe Place Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, LCADC, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skillman, NJ 08558
At our practice, you will be supported by a dedicated team of compassionate and caring therapists. We are a trauma-informed, community-oriented practice that only uses evidence and research-based treatment modalities for depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and other life challenges and transitions. We believe in mind/body connection, so body-oriented skills are taught and incorporated into our therapy sessions. We will teach you/work with you on integrating mindfulness, meditation, grounding, and other effective coping skills to address emotional distress, change behavioral patterns and enhance relationships. All are welcome.
At our practice, you will be supported by a dedicated team of compassionate and caring therapists. We are a trauma-informed, community-oriented practice that only uses evidence and research-based treatment modalities for depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and other life challenges and transitions. We believe in mind/body connection, so body-oriented skills are taught and incorporated into our therapy sessions. We will teach you/work with you on integrating mindfulness, meditation, grounding, and other effective coping skills to address emotional distress, change behavioral patterns and enhance relationships. All are welcome.
(609) 375-0135 View (609) 375-0135
Photo of Lisa M Zaneto, MA, LPC, ACS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa M Zaneto
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skillman, NJ 08558
Supporting you in navigating life's challenges. Different stages of an individuals life come with important emotional junctures, milestone celebrations, and stages of growth. I believe that by creating a safe and non-judgmental environment, clients can feel supported during these times and increase personal confidence allowing them to make positive decisions, meet their goals and set the foundation for future success. My therapeutic approach is to offer clients a safe space to feel heard while utilizing creative therapeutic techniques, especially when clients are having trouble verbalizing what they are experiencing or feeling.
Supporting you in navigating life's challenges. Different stages of an individuals life come with important emotional junctures, milestone celebrations, and stages of growth. I believe that by creating a safe and non-judgmental environment, clients can feel supported during these times and increase personal confidence allowing them to make positive decisions, meet their goals and set the foundation for future success. My therapeutic approach is to offer clients a safe space to feel heard while utilizing creative therapeutic techniques, especially when clients are having trouble verbalizing what they are experiencing or feeling.
(609) 795-7246 View (609) 795-7246
Cynthia V Kates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Skillman, NJ 08558
Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed? Is your mood in the dustbin: depression and anxiety becoming too incapacitating? Has your relationship/marriage taken a turn for the worse? Are you at wit's end with personal/professional roadblocks? Are sadness and grief too much to bear? Are you worried about older family-member-concerns? I can help! My 25 + years of practice and expertise - using many approaches such as cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, relationship-focused, health and wellness, communication skills, give you the opportunity to develop better skills for successful and meaningful change.
Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed? Is your mood in the dustbin: depression and anxiety becoming too incapacitating? Has your relationship/marriage taken a turn for the worse? Are you at wit's end with personal/professional roadblocks? Are sadness and grief too much to bear? Are you worried about older family-member-concerns? I can help! My 25 + years of practice and expertise - using many approaches such as cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, relationship-focused, health and wellness, communication skills, give you the opportunity to develop better skills for successful and meaningful change.
(609) 385-0533 View (609) 385-0533
Photo of Claire R Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claire R Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skillman, NJ 08558
Have you been thinking about therapy for a while, wondering if it's right for you? Are you looking for change in your life? These are questions which we may ask ourselves. I enjoy working with clients who are interested in change, increasing self-awareness, identifying patterns of thoughts and behaviors that have shaped their lives and then trying to reconfigure these in positive, grow-oriented ways. While I have worked with clients of all ages, across the lifespan, I do have deeper experience working with college and post-collegiate aged adults, new mothers, and anyone dealing with life transitions.
Have you been thinking about therapy for a while, wondering if it's right for you? Are you looking for change in your life? These are questions which we may ask ourselves. I enjoy working with clients who are interested in change, increasing self-awareness, identifying patterns of thoughts and behaviors that have shaped their lives and then trying to reconfigure these in positive, grow-oriented ways. While I have worked with clients of all ages, across the lifespan, I do have deeper experience working with college and post-collegiate aged adults, new mothers, and anyone dealing with life transitions.
(609) 375-0611 View (609) 375-0611

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Allison June Maroney-Lobell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison June Maroney-Lobell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08542  (Online Only)
Working collaboratively with interdisciplinary professionals, I provide a respectful, safe space for transgender clients seeking gender confirming assessment and counseling.
*Currently offering sessions by phone or video* I offer an open minded approach to the specific needs of every individual I meet with. Emphasizing an individual's sense of agency and inner strength, I will help provide a safe environment for clients to explore and find what strategies are right for them. I have years of experience in working with the exploration of gender, including working with children, adolescents, and adults who identify as trans* or nonbinary. I have a background in crisis, and other areas of emphasis include depression, anxiety, interpersonal issues, and grief/loss. Let me help you find yourself again.
Working collaboratively with interdisciplinary professionals, I provide a respectful, safe space for transgender clients seeking gender confirming assessment and counseling.
*Currently offering sessions by phone or video* I offer an open minded approach to the specific needs of every individual I meet with. Emphasizing an individual's sense of agency and inner strength, I will help provide a safe environment for clients to explore and find what strategies are right for them. I have years of experience in working with the exploration of gender, including working with children, adolescents, and adults who identify as trans* or nonbinary. I have a background in crisis, and other areas of emphasis include depression, anxiety, interpersonal issues, and grief/loss. Let me help you find yourself again.
(908) 460-1922 View (908) 460-1922
Photo of Alexa Borrows, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexa Borrows
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Princeton Junction, NJ 08550  (Online Only)
My goal is to empower you to identify and overcome personal obstacles that are preventing you from getting the most out of life. I strive to create a warm, empathetic, understanding and, most importantly, collaborative environment. Working together, we will tackle life’s challenges—whether they may be problems of anxiety, self-esteem, or unhealthy patterns of behavior. I specialize in treating adults with anxiety, OCD, phobias, eating disorders, and life transitions. I also work with transgender individuals. My background is in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and my hope is to help you live a more meaningful life.
My goal is to empower you to identify and overcome personal obstacles that are preventing you from getting the most out of life. I strive to create a warm, empathetic, understanding and, most importantly, collaborative environment. Working together, we will tackle life’s challenges—whether they may be problems of anxiety, self-esteem, or unhealthy patterns of behavior. I specialize in treating adults with anxiety, OCD, phobias, eating disorders, and life transitions. I also work with transgender individuals. My background is in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and my hope is to help you live a more meaningful life.
(856) 872-2669 View (856) 872-2669
Photo of Maureen Zdanis, PhD, Psychologist
Maureen Zdanis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
At any stage of development, we are bound to encounter obstacles to our ability to thrive. I help clients to become proactive agents in their own process. I have worked with all ages to reduce symptoms, promote growth, and instill lasting change. I support children, teens, adults, and families in healing from anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression and OCD. I have a speciality in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially GNC and transgender folks. I am licensed in AL, AZ, AR, CT, CO, DE, GA, FL, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY.
At any stage of development, we are bound to encounter obstacles to our ability to thrive. I help clients to become proactive agents in their own process. I have worked with all ages to reduce symptoms, promote growth, and instill lasting change. I support children, teens, adults, and families in healing from anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression and OCD. I have a speciality in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially GNC and transgender folks. I am licensed in AL, AZ, AR, CT, CO, DE, GA, FL, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY.
(267) 376-8313 View (267) 376-8313
Photo of Russell Healy, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Russell Healy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648  (Online Only)
After 37 years of clinical experience, I have limited my practice to transgender-identified minors, their parents and transgender adults. Because transgender experience is not a psychopathology, my approach emphasizes assessment, case management, referrals to medical providers, education, and counseling related to transgender experience. If you want help for a minor, please know that I follow the current standards of the World Professional Association of Transgender Health. I work in a thorough, time effective manner. If the minor is seeing a therapist for a co-occurring condition I will collaborate with that provider.
After 37 years of clinical experience, I have limited my practice to transgender-identified minors, their parents and transgender adults. Because transgender experience is not a psychopathology, my approach emphasizes assessment, case management, referrals to medical providers, education, and counseling related to transgender experience. If you want help for a minor, please know that I follow the current standards of the World Professional Association of Transgender Health. I work in a thorough, time effective manner. If the minor is seeing a therapist for a co-occurring condition I will collaborate with that provider.
(908) 349-1179 View (908) 349-1179
Photo of Lauren Shelly Jefferson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Shelly Jefferson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08542
Waitlist for new clients
I have had the pleasure of working with a varied clientele. For many years I have built rapport with and facilitated the progress of youth who are on the spectrum, who have attention disorders, who struggled with emotion regulation, who are mute, who are transgender, and have exhibited self-harming behaviors. I have also worked with families as a parent coach and as a provider of psycho-education. Many of my adult clients have had issues with abandonment, attachment, trauma, and self-harm. The goals I have facilitated my clients progression in are myriad. However, one goal most of my clients aspire to attain is self-love.
I have had the pleasure of working with a varied clientele. For many years I have built rapport with and facilitated the progress of youth who are on the spectrum, who have attention disorders, who struggled with emotion regulation, who are mute, who are transgender, and have exhibited self-harming behaviors. I have also worked with families as a parent coach and as a provider of psycho-education. Many of my adult clients have had issues with abandonment, attachment, trauma, and self-harm. The goals I have facilitated my clients progression in are myriad. However, one goal most of my clients aspire to attain is self-love.
(609) 881-1809 View (609) 881-1809
Photo of Sandra R Yarock, PsyD, Psychologist
Sandra R Yarock
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
starting/ending college/careers, transgender/sexuality, marriage/divorce, grief/loss, chronic pain/illness, eating issues).
I believe that my work for 35+ years with so many different people has helped me to continuously evolve into a more fluid and compassionate healer. I use my mind, heart, intuition and experience to help decrease the emotional distress in those seeking my help. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or emotional overwhelm, I will do my best to help you to grow into the best version of yourself. I continue to learn the most effective ways to help those w grief , trauma, gender dysphoria, etc. I work closely with people to create a therapeutic environment that fosters growth, safety, patience and mutual trust.
starting/ending college/careers, transgender/sexuality, marriage/divorce, grief/loss, chronic pain/illness, eating issues).
I believe that my work for 35+ years with so many different people has helped me to continuously evolve into a more fluid and compassionate healer. I use my mind, heart, intuition and experience to help decrease the emotional distress in those seeking my help. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or emotional overwhelm, I will do my best to help you to grow into the best version of yourself. I continue to learn the most effective ways to help those w grief , trauma, gender dysphoria, etc. I work closely with people to create a therapeutic environment that fosters growth, safety, patience and mutual trust.
(609) 778-4728 View (609) 778-4728
Photo of Simaza Sadek, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Simaza Sadek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
Finding a therapist can be difficult, especially when experiencing life challenges, symptoms of depression or anxiety, or other stressors. For those of us with marginalized identities, it is crucial to identify spaces where we can explore and address these issues. In my practice, I work with women and LGBTQIA+ people to address issues related to identity, life transitions, family, work, relational conflict, self-esteem, and shame. I specialize in working with the relational others (e.g., partners, spouses, family, and friends) of transgender people to explore self-identity and transition (social, emotional, physical, & medical).
Finding a therapist can be difficult, especially when experiencing life challenges, symptoms of depression or anxiety, or other stressors. For those of us with marginalized identities, it is crucial to identify spaces where we can explore and address these issues. In my practice, I work with women and LGBTQIA+ people to address issues related to identity, life transitions, family, work, relational conflict, self-esteem, and shame. I specialize in working with the relational others (e.g., partners, spouses, family, and friends) of transgender people to explore self-identity and transition (social, emotional, physical, & medical).
(609) 928-7452 View (609) 928-7452
Photo of Empower And Thrive Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor
Empower And Thrive Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
Our team of therapists have various specialty areas including OCD, anxiety, eating disorders/body image, ADHD, family/relationships, trauma, depression, mood disorders/bipolar, chronic illness management, LGBTQ+ support and gender dysphoria/transitioning, and grief/life changes.
Accepting new clients! Are you ready to find relief from anxiety, stress, or depression? Are you going through a stressful time in your life or relationships and need support in navigating that? Are you struggling with eating or body image? Do you have difficulty focusing or a mind that just won't "shut off"? If you are looking to make some positive changes in yourself and in your life, lets start today. There's no time like the present, and every step towards health and happiness is a win. Let's tackle these challenges together and build the life you want. Get matched with the right therapist today!
Our team of therapists have various specialty areas including OCD, anxiety, eating disorders/body image, ADHD, family/relationships, trauma, depression, mood disorders/bipolar, chronic illness management, LGBTQ+ support and gender dysphoria/transitioning, and grief/life changes.
Accepting new clients! Are you ready to find relief from anxiety, stress, or depression? Are you going through a stressful time in your life or relationships and need support in navigating that? Are you struggling with eating or body image? Do you have difficulty focusing or a mind that just won't "shut off"? If you are looking to make some positive changes in yourself and in your life, lets start today. There's no time like the present, and every step towards health and happiness is a win. Let's tackle these challenges together and build the life you want. Get matched with the right therapist today!
(848) 420-8278 View (848) 420-8278
Photo of Jessica Jensen - Growth & Empowerment, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Growth & Empowerment
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
"Life moves pretty fast, if you don't stop and look around once in a while you could miss it"- This is one of my favorite quotes from the movie Ferris Bueller's Day off because it is so true. Things happen to us throughout our lifetime that make us feel stuck, worthless, guilty, shamed, and like we are never enough. These ideas about ourselves dictate the way we learn, how we do in school and work, and how we love and connect to others. When someone has experienced trauma, these thoughts and feelings can be even more extreme which can cause significant distress. Growth and Empowerment is accepting new clients!
"Life moves pretty fast, if you don't stop and look around once in a while you could miss it"- This is one of my favorite quotes from the movie Ferris Bueller's Day off because it is so true. Things happen to us throughout our lifetime that make us feel stuck, worthless, guilty, shamed, and like we are never enough. These ideas about ourselves dictate the way we learn, how we do in school and work, and how we love and connect to others. When someone has experienced trauma, these thoughts and feelings can be even more extreme which can cause significant distress. Growth and Empowerment is accepting new clients!
(908) 451-7896 View (908) 451-7896
Photo of Roni Michaels-DeBlank, MSW, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roni Michaels-DeBlank
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
If you are experiencing feelings of stress, overwhelm, anxiety, sadness, lack of motivation, or challenges within your relationships, I am here to support you. Whether you are struggling with fear, addiction, disordered eating, insomnia, illness, clutter, or gender identity issues, I am dedicated to helping you lead a more fulfilling life.
If you are experiencing feelings of stress, overwhelm, anxiety, sadness, lack of motivation, or challenges within your relationships, I am here to support you. Whether you are struggling with fear, addiction, disordered eating, insomnia, illness, clutter, or gender identity issues, I am dedicated to helping you lead a more fulfilling life.
(908) 938-9167 View (908) 938-9167
Photo of Tracey L Post - The Princeton Center for MindBody Healing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Princeton Center for MindBody Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
The Princeton Center for MindBody Healing prioritizes holistic healing and walking with you to grow your best self: mind, body and soul. Our clinicians work on a wide range of issues with a wide range of therapeutic techniques, self-care tools and clinical styles. We offer traditional and non-traditional outpatient services for individuals, couples, and families of all forms and fashions including office and nature sessions, walking sessions, video, text and telephone. We believe in affirming & celebrating all people for who you truly are.
The Princeton Center for MindBody Healing prioritizes holistic healing and walking with you to grow your best self: mind, body and soul. Our clinicians work on a wide range of issues with a wide range of therapeutic techniques, self-care tools and clinical styles. We offer traditional and non-traditional outpatient services for individuals, couples, and families of all forms and fashions including office and nature sessions, walking sessions, video, text and telephone. We believe in affirming & celebrating all people for who you truly are.
(609) 745-0676 View (609) 745-0676
Photo of Aly Resnick - Tree of Life Counseling Center, LLC, LCSW, LMHC, LPC, ACS, LSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tree of Life Counseling Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW, LMHC, LPC, ACS, LSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
Tree of Life Counseling Center is a mental health center dedicated to helping clients improve their quality of life. We are client-centered and strive to provide a comforting environment; this is evident in the tranquil environment as you walk through the door. We offer morning, afternoon, and evening appointments. We offer individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We treat children, teens, and adults. We are currently offering Telehealth and in person counseling
Tree of Life Counseling Center is a mental health center dedicated to helping clients improve their quality of life. We are client-centered and strive to provide a comforting environment; this is evident in the tranquil environment as you walk through the door. We offer morning, afternoon, and evening appointments. We offer individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We treat children, teens, and adults. We are currently offering Telehealth and in person counseling
(732) 393-8391 View (732) 393-8391
Photo of Kelly Stolberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Stolberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
Waitlist for new clients
I am a firm believer that change and recovery are possible for everyone. Therapy and change can be both difficult and challenging experiences. My approach centers around trust and the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I am an open-minded and nonjudgmental support who can walk with a person through this journey. I hope to help individuals learn more about themselves and how to live more authentically. I love supporting people in harnessing their own individuality while helping them navigate the world and it's stress. We don't necessarily live in a world that embraces uniqueness, let me assist you in tapping into that magic.
I am a firm believer that change and recovery are possible for everyone. Therapy and change can be both difficult and challenging experiences. My approach centers around trust and the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I am an open-minded and nonjudgmental support who can walk with a person through this journey. I hope to help individuals learn more about themselves and how to live more authentically. I love supporting people in harnessing their own individuality while helping them navigate the world and it's stress. We don't necessarily live in a world that embraces uniqueness, let me assist you in tapping into that magic.
(609) 770-2031 View (609) 770-2031
Photo of Katie Lucas, MA, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Katie Lucas
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hopewell, NJ 08525
I enjoy working holistically with individuals, from teens to older adults, as well as couples/relationships to enhance communication skills and deepen connections. I utilize mindfulness, attachment, and self-compassionate approaches as well as creative interventions, such as art and horticultural therapies, and offer psychedelic integration psychotherapy. I'm an EMDRIA approved EMDR therapist and also have advanced training in Exposure and Response Prevention therapy, which I most often use in conjunction with ACT, to treat OCD and anxiety symptoms. Additionally, I am a gender specialist with advanced training through WPATH.
I enjoy working holistically with individuals, from teens to older adults, as well as couples/relationships to enhance communication skills and deepen connections. I utilize mindfulness, attachment, and self-compassionate approaches as well as creative interventions, such as art and horticultural therapies, and offer psychedelic integration psychotherapy. I'm an EMDRIA approved EMDR therapist and also have advanced training in Exposure and Response Prevention therapy, which I most often use in conjunction with ACT, to treat OCD and anxiety symptoms. Additionally, I am a gender specialist with advanced training through WPATH.
(856) 658-1469 View (856) 658-1469
Photo of Emily Anne Mattek, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Anne Mattek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
I believe in meeting clients where they are at! Every person is resilient. I intend our collaboration to remind you of your strengths, provide you tools to weather the storms of life, and a safe space to gain insight into your truest self. I come to social work from a social justice background and recognize that trauma and oppression are often intertwined. Acknowledging systemic issues is a vital part of my practice, particularly for youth and families directly impacted by it. Teaching you to advocate successfully on your own behalf, whether it be in your relationships or larger systems, is also essential.
I believe in meeting clients where they are at! Every person is resilient. I intend our collaboration to remind you of your strengths, provide you tools to weather the storms of life, and a safe space to gain insight into your truest self. I come to social work from a social justice background and recognize that trauma and oppression are often intertwined. Acknowledging systemic issues is a vital part of my practice, particularly for youth and families directly impacted by it. Teaching you to advocate successfully on your own behalf, whether it be in your relationships or larger systems, is also essential.
(609) 303-5875 View (609) 303-5875
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.