LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Verona, NJ

Photo of Jose M Perez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jose M Perez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
I also offer special skills for individuals in need of assistance with gender identification, including but not limited to coming out to family and friends, HIV diagnosis and various other issues confronting the gay and lesbian community.
Making the call for counseling is often the first step you can take in beginning the healing process. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in New Jersey. I can counsel individuals, couples and families and specialize in working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship problems or life transitions including but not limited to divorce, loss of a job or death of a loved one. I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment to foster your own individual strength.
I also offer special skills for individuals in need of assistance with gender identification, including but not limited to coming out to family and friends, HIV diagnosis and various other issues confronting the gay and lesbian community.
Making the call for counseling is often the first step you can take in beginning the healing process. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in New Jersey. I can counsel individuals, couples and families and specialize in working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship problems or life transitions including but not limited to divorce, loss of a job or death of a loved one. I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment to foster your own individual strength.
(973) 671-8249 View (973) 671-8249
Photo of Lenny Gallo, LCSW, ACT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lenny Gallo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
People create meaningful change when they feel heard and validated. What I love about being a therapist is the ability to be a part of that process and help them adjust their perspective, confront challenges, and realize their worth and potential so they can create a value driven life. While my primary specialty is in anxiety/panic disorders and OCD, I work in a variety of areas, including creative/entertainment/sports professionals, men’s issues, sex/porn addiction, trauma, body and muscle dysmorphia, LGBTQ+ concerns, and anger management.
People create meaningful change when they feel heard and validated. What I love about being a therapist is the ability to be a part of that process and help them adjust their perspective, confront challenges, and realize their worth and potential so they can create a value driven life. While my primary specialty is in anxiety/panic disorders and OCD, I work in a variety of areas, including creative/entertainment/sports professionals, men’s issues, sex/porn addiction, trauma, body and muscle dysmorphia, LGBTQ+ concerns, and anger management.
(732) 385-3953 View (732) 385-3953
Photo of Les Kooyman, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Les Kooyman
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
I have successfully worked with LGBTQ individuals and individuals struggling with loss (grief counseling) and relationship issues (couples counseling) for many years.
I believe therapy is a caring, supportive, challenging, and collaborative process of exploring areas of your life that are concerning to you and you'd like to learn how to manage better. I follow a strengths-based, person-centered approach where we discuss and explore areas of your life you are concerned about and I assist you in making the real changes you seek. I'm easy going guy who uses humor, homework, insight readings, and other resources to support and challenge you to create change in your life.
I have successfully worked with LGBTQ individuals and individuals struggling with loss (grief counseling) and relationship issues (couples counseling) for many years.
I believe therapy is a caring, supportive, challenging, and collaborative process of exploring areas of your life that are concerning to you and you'd like to learn how to manage better. I follow a strengths-based, person-centered approach where we discuss and explore areas of your life you are concerned about and I assist you in making the real changes you seek. I'm easy going guy who uses humor, homework, insight readings, and other resources to support and challenge you to create change in your life.
(704) 761-6736 View (704) 761-6736
Photo of Patience Moore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patience Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
I help adults in recovery and transgender kids/families.
You feel worried about your KID. They used to be so sunny. You used to feel connected. Now, your child is struggling.You feel frustrated, sad…helpless.You want to help and support them to feel better, happier.You just want your kid back. I can help. I work with ADULTS helping navigate anxiety,crises,relationship and "life" issues with compassion wisdom and practical solutions. LGBTQ welcome!
I help adults in recovery and transgender kids/families.
You feel worried about your KID. They used to be so sunny. You used to feel connected. Now, your child is struggling.You feel frustrated, sad…helpless.You want to help and support them to feel better, happier.You just want your kid back. I can help. I work with ADULTS helping navigate anxiety,crises,relationship and "life" issues with compassion wisdom and practical solutions. LGBTQ welcome!
(973) 828-0232 View (973) 828-0232
Photo of Adam Daniel - Ellie Mental Health- Montclair, NJ, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ellie Mental Health- Montclair, NJ
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
We have staff members who additionally have specialties in working with substance abuse and LGBTQ+, as well as the use of modalities like CBT, DBT, and Art Therapy.
No one’s mental health is amazing all the time. Between life events out of your control, your unique brain chemistry, and individual perspectives and tendencies, there are many reasons you might need extra support right now. We’re here to help! Let’s work together to explore strategies and resources that can support your mental health and develop a personalized plan so you can start feeling better! Our Services Include: Individual Therapy, Couples Counseling, and Family Therapy In-Person and Virtual Sessions! We work with all ages 5 and older!
We have staff members who additionally have specialties in working with substance abuse and LGBTQ+, as well as the use of modalities like CBT, DBT, and Art Therapy.
No one’s mental health is amazing all the time. Between life events out of your control, your unique brain chemistry, and individual perspectives and tendencies, there are many reasons you might need extra support right now. We’re here to help! Let’s work together to explore strategies and resources that can support your mental health and develop a personalized plan so you can start feeling better! Our Services Include: Individual Therapy, Couples Counseling, and Family Therapy In-Person and Virtual Sessions! We work with all ages 5 and older!
(973) 576-5572 View (973) 576-5572
Photo of Adrienne Riofrio, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrienne Riofrio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
Whether you are experiencing a specific challenge or a general sense that your life can be better, therapy can help. I am an empathic, insightful therapist with 20+ years of experience and training in couple's therapy, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA, anxiety, immigration, family conflict, relationship issues, loss, and parenting. I am an active participant in your journey; one who will be direct about my thoughts and observations. I am a Latina and multicultural, anti-racist, LGBTQ-affirming clinician with a focus on exploring our multiple identities. Soy Latina y hablo espanol.
Whether you are experiencing a specific challenge or a general sense that your life can be better, therapy can help. I am an empathic, insightful therapist with 20+ years of experience and training in couple's therapy, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA, anxiety, immigration, family conflict, relationship issues, loss, and parenting. I am an active participant in your journey; one who will be direct about my thoughts and observations. I am a Latina and multicultural, anti-racist, LGBTQ-affirming clinician with a focus on exploring our multiple identities. Soy Latina y hablo espanol.
(973) 860-3202 View (973) 860-3202
Photo of Alessandra Trenta, LAC, MA, EdS, Counselor
Alessandra Trenta
Counselor, LAC, MA, EdS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
Much of my work has been dedicated to helping families experiencing major life transitions, focusing on healthy co-parenting, relationship challenges, divorce, and more. Not only do I consider myself a ‘safe place’ for all my clients, but I prioritize gender affirmation and have a comprehensive understanding of the complex ways in which the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as other diverse communities, have been impacted.
Much of my work has been dedicated to helping families experiencing major life transitions, focusing on healthy co-parenting, relationship challenges, divorce, and more. Not only do I consider myself a ‘safe place’ for all my clients, but I prioritize gender affirmation and have a comprehensive understanding of the complex ways in which the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as other diverse communities, have been impacted.
(973) 453-0584 View (973) 453-0584
Photo of Maggie Ross, LPC, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maggie Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044  (Online Only)
Are you someone who identifies in the LGBTQ+ community? I know how to be your ally and help you navigate conflict within yourself, your community, and your identity.
Welcome! It takes strength to reach out for support. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified School Counselor, I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. Together we will work to develop the insight, skills, and tools you’ll need to achieve your goals. As a therapist who values a holistic approach, I work to provide a safe, brave space for you to explore the ways you want to grow, heal and feel empowered in your life. I am trained and have experience in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Are you someone who identifies in the LGBTQ+ community? I know how to be your ally and help you navigate conflict within yourself, your community, and your identity.
Welcome! It takes strength to reach out for support. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified School Counselor, I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. Together we will work to develop the insight, skills, and tools you’ll need to achieve your goals. As a therapist who values a holistic approach, I work to provide a safe, brave space for you to explore the ways you want to grow, heal and feel empowered in your life. I am trained and have experience in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
(973) 310-5517 View (973) 310-5517
Photo of Andrew Lerman, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew Lerman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
If you’ve been feeling discouraged, disconnected, or constantly comparing yourself to others, maybe it’s time to talk to someone. Therapy offers a nonjudgmental space where the priority is building an affirming therapeutic relationship that lets us move at your pace toward your goals. I work with adults of all ages and walks of life who are facing life transitions, struggling with self-esteem, feeling stuck and “going nowhere,” or coping with past trauma. You’ll be able to discover the patterns that show up in your everyday life, identify the tools and wisdom you already possess, and heal the parts of you that need attention.
If you’ve been feeling discouraged, disconnected, or constantly comparing yourself to others, maybe it’s time to talk to someone. Therapy offers a nonjudgmental space where the priority is building an affirming therapeutic relationship that lets us move at your pace toward your goals. I work with adults of all ages and walks of life who are facing life transitions, struggling with self-esteem, feeling stuck and “going nowhere,” or coping with past trauma. You’ll be able to discover the patterns that show up in your everyday life, identify the tools and wisdom you already possess, and heal the parts of you that need attention.
(973) 657-5849 View (973) 657-5849
Photo of Timothy Bracaglia, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, ACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Timothy Bracaglia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
Handling complex issues of Sex, Gender, Relationships & Sexuality-related struggles; Anxiety, Stress & Depression; Substance Use & Related Issues... None of these is easy to navigate. Each stressors can be uniquely and incredibly difficult to manage thus causing pain, hopelessness, anxiety, & depression; often seemingly paralyzing. Thankfully, there is help, there is hope. You are not broken and together we can find your path. Please, call ( / leave a VM) or email me today. With my non-judgmental approach my only goal is to help you meet your own personal goals, to achieve your own vision of fulfillment; whatever that may look like.
Handling complex issues of Sex, Gender, Relationships & Sexuality-related struggles; Anxiety, Stress & Depression; Substance Use & Related Issues... None of these is easy to navigate. Each stressors can be uniquely and incredibly difficult to manage thus causing pain, hopelessness, anxiety, & depression; often seemingly paralyzing. Thankfully, there is help, there is hope. You are not broken and together we can find your path. Please, call ( / leave a VM) or email me today. With my non-judgmental approach my only goal is to help you meet your own personal goals, to achieve your own vision of fulfillment; whatever that may look like.
(732) 646-6754 View (732) 646-6754
Photo of Lewis C Pagano, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lewis C Pagano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
Talk therapy can help you become your true self. I have worked extensively with adults and adolescents for over 30 years and have a good understanding of childhood issues.I work with individuals and families with a focus on emotions.I believe that all people have resources to solve problems.I am easy to talk to and I have great listening skills.I have worked with individuals who are depressed and with adolescents in public education with great success I also have an extensive background in substance abuse and am certified to work with clients on Suboxone (Buprenorphine) for treatment of opiate addiction.
Talk therapy can help you become your true self. I have worked extensively with adults and adolescents for over 30 years and have a good understanding of childhood issues.I work with individuals and families with a focus on emotions.I believe that all people have resources to solve problems.I am easy to talk to and I have great listening skills.I have worked with individuals who are depressed and with adolescents in public education with great success I also have an extensive background in substance abuse and am certified to work with clients on Suboxone (Buprenorphine) for treatment of opiate addiction.
(973) 310-2273 View (973) 310-2273
Photo of Jacques F Maitre, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacques F Maitre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044
I am a graduate of the MSW program at San Jose State University, with a focus on health and mental health, and have been a practicing social worker since 1995. I have worked extensively with families coping with disability, loss, behavioral challenges, and interpersonal communication difficulties. Since coming to the East Coast, I have been working with people coping with chronic stress, illness, economic and social challenges, and vocational difficulties. I provide a warm and supportive environment for clients who seek to heal. In 2023, I became a certified Therapeutic Game Master.
I am a graduate of the MSW program at San Jose State University, with a focus on health and mental health, and have been a practicing social worker since 1995. I have worked extensively with families coping with disability, loss, behavioral challenges, and interpersonal communication difficulties. Since coming to the East Coast, I have been working with people coping with chronic stress, illness, economic and social challenges, and vocational difficulties. I provide a warm and supportive environment for clients who seek to heal. In 2023, I became a certified Therapeutic Game Master.
(862) 800-2513 View (862) 800-2513
Photo of Gianni Pirelli - Pirelli Clinical and Forensic Psychology, LLC, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Pirelli Clinical and Forensic Psychology, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
We are a group of highly skilled professionals who conduct a full range of CLINICAL and FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS - in Administrative, Criminal, and Civil (incl. Tort) matters; examples include, but are not limited to FIREARM, IMMIGRATION, RISK ASSESSMENT, COMPETENCY, PERSONAL INJURY, AND SCHOOL AND EMPLOYMENT-RELATED EVALUATIONS. We have extensive experience working in a wide range of clinical settings with clients across all ages and presentations. We are committed to providing mental health services to you at the highest standards of practice and look forward to working with you!
We are a group of highly skilled professionals who conduct a full range of CLINICAL and FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS - in Administrative, Criminal, and Civil (incl. Tort) matters; examples include, but are not limited to FIREARM, IMMIGRATION, RISK ASSESSMENT, COMPETENCY, PERSONAL INJURY, AND SCHOOL AND EMPLOYMENT-RELATED EVALUATIONS. We have extensive experience working in a wide range of clinical settings with clients across all ages and presentations. We are committed to providing mental health services to you at the highest standards of practice and look forward to working with you!
(973) 287-3201 View (973) 287-3201
Photo of Sue Waldman, MA, LPC, BCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sue Waldman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
Do you want to feel better about yourself and your life? Are you challenged with relationship issues, low self -esteem or your body image? Are you suffering from grief, anxiety or depression? I am easy to talk to. I establish a safe, trustworthy relationship in which you can be yourself and express your deepest fears and concerns. Together, we examine self-defeating thoughts & behavior, identify life-transforming choices, learn new ways to manage disruptive feelings, cultivate effective communication skills and work on discovering joy, intimacy and meaning in life. Most importantly, I will help you love who you are and the life you are living.
Do you want to feel better about yourself and your life? Are you challenged with relationship issues, low self -esteem or your body image? Are you suffering from grief, anxiety or depression? I am easy to talk to. I establish a safe, trustworthy relationship in which you can be yourself and express your deepest fears and concerns. Together, we examine self-defeating thoughts & behavior, identify life-transforming choices, learn new ways to manage disruptive feelings, cultivate effective communication skills and work on discovering joy, intimacy and meaning in life. Most importantly, I will help you love who you are and the life you are living.
(973) 857-9090 View (973) 857-9090
Photo of Luciene (Lucy) Sant' Anna Takagi, PsyD, LLC, Psychologist
Luciene (Lucy) Sant' Anna Takagi
Psychologist, PsyD, LLC
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
I am interested in helping and in understanding. My ideal client would be someone, who is willing to take the necessary time to educate me about him or herself, and who would be willing to reflect on events involved in and outside of the therapy session. Relationships matter. I can provide advice, can problem solve, but prefer to work in a relational, psychodynamic approach, where together we can figure things out. I am an immigrant, who believes everyone can benefit from building a positive therapeutic relationship, where problems can be worked through and their meanings understood. Due to COVID, I also offer Telehealth.
I am interested in helping and in understanding. My ideal client would be someone, who is willing to take the necessary time to educate me about him or herself, and who would be willing to reflect on events involved in and outside of the therapy session. Relationships matter. I can provide advice, can problem solve, but prefer to work in a relational, psychodynamic approach, where together we can figure things out. I am an immigrant, who believes everyone can benefit from building a positive therapeutic relationship, where problems can be worked through and their meanings understood. Due to COVID, I also offer Telehealth.
(973) 323-2955 View (973) 323-2955
Photo of Erin Field, MA, SAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Field
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, SAC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Verona, NJ 07044  (Online Only)
As a LPC, my goal is to help my clients explore the root of their distress, identify needs and wants and work toward a more balanced life. I hope to empower my adolescent and adult clients to practice self-care and healthy coping. I have also been working with students in school settings for over 20 years, as a Special Education Teacher and then as a School Counselor and Student Assistance Counselor. I have helped my students develop executive functioning skills, organizational skills, and goal setting to help them transition into their future endeavors while supporting their mental health needs and substance abuse issues.
As a LPC, my goal is to help my clients explore the root of their distress, identify needs and wants and work toward a more balanced life. I hope to empower my adolescent and adult clients to practice self-care and healthy coping. I have also been working with students in school settings for over 20 years, as a Special Education Teacher and then as a School Counselor and Student Assistance Counselor. I have helped my students develop executive functioning skills, organizational skills, and goal setting to help them transition into their future endeavors while supporting their mental health needs and substance abuse issues.
(973) 221-9220 View (973) 221-9220
Photo of Blaine Grapsas, MA, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Blaine Grapsas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
Many of us find ourselves on a difficult path of self growth, realization, and identity. That road firmly establishes who we are; but, like anything worthwhile, is full of trials, missteps, and challenges. Nowhere, though, in our experience to build our lives does it say that our journey must be alone and without support, care, and the commitment of a dedicated collaborator. I believe everyone deserves an approach to therapy that is as unique as their own experiences, is affirmative, and consensual.
Many of us find ourselves on a difficult path of self growth, realization, and identity. That road firmly establishes who we are; but, like anything worthwhile, is full of trials, missteps, and challenges. Nowhere, though, in our experience to build our lives does it say that our journey must be alone and without support, care, and the commitment of a dedicated collaborator. I believe everyone deserves an approach to therapy that is as unique as their own experiences, is affirmative, and consensual.
(973) 566-5757 View (973) 566-5757
Photo of Francesca Peckman, PsyD, DABPS, CPQ, Psychologist
Francesca Peckman
Psychologist, PsyD, DABPS, CPQ
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
Clinical Forensic Psychologist, Imago Relationship Therapist. Family and Individual Therapy. Adults, Adolescents, Children. BILINGUAL -- Spanish/ English. "FEEL GOOD ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR DECISION MAKING". As a FAMILY Consultant, I help all family members reach their potential, parents and teens stay in touch, heal from losing a loved one, learn to speak up for yourself, learn to manage separation and divorce issues.For INDIVIDUALS (children through adult): Reach your potential through constructive problem solving, overcome stress, anger, depression, anxiety, fears; pain management.
Clinical Forensic Psychologist, Imago Relationship Therapist. Family and Individual Therapy. Adults, Adolescents, Children. BILINGUAL -- Spanish/ English. "FEEL GOOD ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR DECISION MAKING". As a FAMILY Consultant, I help all family members reach their potential, parents and teens stay in touch, heal from losing a loved one, learn to speak up for yourself, learn to manage separation and divorce issues.For INDIVIDUALS (children through adult): Reach your potential through constructive problem solving, overcome stress, anger, depression, anxiety, fears; pain management.
(973) 287-4123 View (973) 287-4123
Photo of Rosalina Manaloto Tuazon-Mossey, LPC, LCADC, Counselor
Rosalina Manaloto Tuazon-Mossey
Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
I help adults navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and relationship issues. I guide my clients toward emotional freedom and resilience using strength-based, client-centered, and solution-focused approaches rooted in trauma-informed care. As a result, they experience a sense of calm and control, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and build stronger relationships based on trust and effective communication, allowing them to engage in life with a renewed sense of purpose and joy.
I help adults navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and relationship issues. I guide my clients toward emotional freedom and resilience using strength-based, client-centered, and solution-focused approaches rooted in trauma-informed care. As a result, they experience a sense of calm and control, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and build stronger relationships based on trust and effective communication, allowing them to engage in life with a renewed sense of purpose and joy.
(973) 319-8365 View (973) 319-8365
Photo of Honor E. Randall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Honor E. Randall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The world does not always feel like it is set up for you to be a part of it. Struggles with panic, sadness, isolation, intrusive thoughts, identity, or feeling constantly overwhelmed by your environment and daily tasks and expectations make it all the more challenging. Neurodiverse adults experience the world differently, sometimes with diagnosed ADHD or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), they often face barriers to their social, emotional, and executive functioning. Many of my clients experience anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, phobias, and PTSD with or without underlying ADHD or ASD.
The world does not always feel like it is set up for you to be a part of it. Struggles with panic, sadness, isolation, intrusive thoughts, identity, or feeling constantly overwhelmed by your environment and daily tasks and expectations make it all the more challenging. Neurodiverse adults experience the world differently, sometimes with diagnosed ADHD or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), they often face barriers to their social, emotional, and executive functioning. Many of my clients experience anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), depression, phobias, and PTSD with or without underlying ADHD or ASD.
(973) 370-9021 View (973) 370-9021
1
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.