LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Washington, NJ

Photo of Adrianna R. Daly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrianna R. Daly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, NJ 07882
I am well-versed in treating addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues and much more.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who approaches therapy with a warm and compassionate perspective. My goal is to help empower you to unlock your full potential in a safe, non-judgmental space so you can become the best version of yourself
I am well-versed in treating addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues and much more.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who approaches therapy with a warm and compassionate perspective. My goal is to help empower you to unlock your full potential in a safe, non-judgmental space so you can become the best version of yourself
(908) 545-9744 View (908) 545-9744
Photo of Luz Villagran, MA , LPC, LMHC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Luz Villagran
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC, LMHC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, NJ 07882  (Online Only)
I am OutCare certified as culturally competent in the care of the LGBTQ+ community.
Therapy offers a safe space for personal growth and healing. If you're feeling overwhelmed, remember that reaching out is the first step towards support and understanding. My approach is centered around your unique journey. With empathy and respect, we navigate challenges together, making your well-being the top priority.
I am OutCare certified as culturally competent in the care of the LGBTQ+ community.
Therapy offers a safe space for personal growth and healing. If you're feeling overwhelmed, remember that reaching out is the first step towards support and understanding. My approach is centered around your unique journey. With empathy and respect, we navigate challenges together, making your well-being the top priority.
(732) 641-6101 View (732) 641-6101
Photo of Kayla Tarazona, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla Tarazona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, NJ 07882
Have you ever had the thought that you can’t remember what it’s like to NOT feel anxious? Does your mind continuously operate on overdrive? Are you tired of the same repetitive thought patterns? Is life feeling like one endless chore with no light at the end of the tunnel? Have you ever told yourself you know you need to make a change, but you can't muster the will power to follow through? Do you feel stuck in your relationship patterns but don't know what or how to change? If you answered yes to any of the above, we might be a great match. I believe that great therapy involves using many lenses or frameworks in order to heal. 11/12
Have you ever had the thought that you can’t remember what it’s like to NOT feel anxious? Does your mind continuously operate on overdrive? Are you tired of the same repetitive thought patterns? Is life feeling like one endless chore with no light at the end of the tunnel? Have you ever told yourself you know you need to make a change, but you can't muster the will power to follow through? Do you feel stuck in your relationship patterns but don't know what or how to change? If you answered yes to any of the above, we might be a great match. I believe that great therapy involves using many lenses or frameworks in order to heal. 11/12
(908) 460-1799 View (908) 460-1799
Photo of Kristy Romanowski - Everbrook Counseling, LLC, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Everbrook Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Washington, NJ 07882  (Online Only)
Welcome to Everbrook Counseling, LLC! We offer virtual counseling throughout NJ, CO, & WA, and soon NC. Kristy Romanowski, LPC, NCC, ACS considers herself to be a down to earth therapist, with an extremely open mind, and relaxed style which clients tell her helps them to feel comfortable and safe right away. Kristy likes to form genuine relationships with her clients. Sessions will be filled with laughter, tears, deep realizations, and growth. Please reach out to schedule an intake! Space with Kristy may be limited, but we have another excellent therapist on the team as well. We are here to help!
Welcome to Everbrook Counseling, LLC! We offer virtual counseling throughout NJ, CO, & WA, and soon NC. Kristy Romanowski, LPC, NCC, ACS considers herself to be a down to earth therapist, with an extremely open mind, and relaxed style which clients tell her helps them to feel comfortable and safe right away. Kristy likes to form genuine relationships with her clients. Sessions will be filled with laughter, tears, deep realizations, and growth. Please reach out to schedule an intake! Space with Kristy may be limited, but we have another excellent therapist on the team as well. We are here to help!
(908) 774-9174 View (908) 774-9174
Photo of Traci Leigh Neville, LPC, MEd, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Traci Leigh Neville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, MEd, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, NJ 07882  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with all different types of clients with a variety of issues. Typically, I work best with young to middle age adults. I do not have a gender preference. Many of the clients I work with have depression, trauma and/or anxiety but are not limited to these. I like working with clients that are open and honest in sessions. I, also, enjoy working clients that are willing to try new techniques and strategies. I like a client to be realistic about helping themselves. Productive therapy cannot be done in 2 sessions. Problems that a client has been dealing with for years will take some time to resolve.
I enjoy working with all different types of clients with a variety of issues. Typically, I work best with young to middle age adults. I do not have a gender preference. Many of the clients I work with have depression, trauma and/or anxiety but are not limited to these. I like working with clients that are open and honest in sessions. I, also, enjoy working clients that are willing to try new techniques and strategies. I like a client to be realistic about helping themselves. Productive therapy cannot be done in 2 sessions. Problems that a client has been dealing with for years will take some time to resolve.
(908) 259-6488 View (908) 259-6488

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Erika Pettersen - Erika Pettersen - Mind & Body CCS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erika Pettersen - Mind & Body CCS
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asbury, NJ 08802
I specialize in anxiety and depression, relationships, school issues, and LGBTQ+ populations.
I respect that every client can benefit from a different approach, and will not hold fast to a single treatment modality. I want my clients to have a space where they never feel judged, and to know that they are sitting with someone who has an open-mind and is ready to guide them on their healing journey. I consider my personality to be compassionate, empathetic, and focused. We will not only process what brings you to therapy, but develop a plan to move forward in your goals.
I specialize in anxiety and depression, relationships, school issues, and LGBTQ+ populations.
I respect that every client can benefit from a different approach, and will not hold fast to a single treatment modality. I want my clients to have a space where they never feel judged, and to know that they are sitting with someone who has an open-mind and is ready to guide them on their healing journey. I consider my personality to be compassionate, empathetic, and focused. We will not only process what brings you to therapy, but develop a plan to move forward in your goals.
(908) 373-8139 View (908) 373-8139
Photo of Olivia Pruznick - Olivia Pruznick - Mind & Body CCS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Olivia Pruznick - Mind & Body CCS
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Asbury, NJ 08802
My specialties are LGBTQ+ & gender identity, autism, and relationship issues, but I enjoy working with any client that has a desire for positive change.
I have an approach that is strength based, person-centered, and motivational. I try to take an inquisitive approach to identify and help you overcome barriers with empowerment and encouragement. My goal is to create a nonjudgmental, brave space where clients feel safe to process and find compassion for the unhealed parts of themselves. While my most common treatment modalities are attachment based, existential, internal family systems, and motivational interviewing; I will incorporate treatments best fit for each individual. I respect that your journey with change over time and our sessions will always accommodate that.
My specialties are LGBTQ+ & gender identity, autism, and relationship issues, but I enjoy working with any client that has a desire for positive change.
I have an approach that is strength based, person-centered, and motivational. I try to take an inquisitive approach to identify and help you overcome barriers with empowerment and encouragement. My goal is to create a nonjudgmental, brave space where clients feel safe to process and find compassion for the unhealed parts of themselves. While my most common treatment modalities are attachment based, existential, internal family systems, and motivational interviewing; I will incorporate treatments best fit for each individual. I respect that your journey with change over time and our sessions will always accommodate that.
(908) 402-1627 View (908) 402-1627
Photo of Israel Martinez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Israel Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Asbury, NJ 08802  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a certified sex therapist (AASECT) and trained relationship therapist (The Couples Institute) who has been working with LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM individuals on a professional basis for over fifteen years, including clinical positions at the NYC LGBT Community Center and Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC).
I specialize in work with the LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM communities. Are you worried that most therapists will not truly understand you or that you will have to censor yourself in therapy because of your sexual and/or gender minority status? I had these same concerns and they motivated me to become a psychotherapist who could help others like me. We will work together in a safe and relaxing environment to discover and actualize the solutions you need in order to live a more fulfilling life.
I am a certified sex therapist (AASECT) and trained relationship therapist (The Couples Institute) who has been working with LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM individuals on a professional basis for over fifteen years, including clinical positions at the NYC LGBT Community Center and Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC).
I specialize in work with the LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM communities. Are you worried that most therapists will not truly understand you or that you will have to censor yourself in therapy because of your sexual and/or gender minority status? I had these same concerns and they motivated me to become a psychotherapist who could help others like me. We will work together in a safe and relaxing environment to discover and actualize the solutions you need in order to live a more fulfilling life.
(973) 617-2618 View (973) 617-2618
Photo of Elise Robinson, LCSW, LICSW, CCATP, CSTIP, CAGCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elise Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CCATP, CSTIP, CAGCS
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Glen Gardner, NJ 08826  (Online Only)
I help clients with anxiety, relationship issues, self esteem, sex & more with neurodivergent & queer affirming care.
Do you wish life would slow down so you can take a breath? Stuff has been piling up and now your relationships are strained, your social life isn't what you want, and you don’t even really know who you are. However things got to this point, you know you want life to be different and don't want to wait anymore. Many of my clients are hesitant to start therapy or have had trouble connecting with other therapists. I get it! Let's be real, vulnerability is scary as hell. Together we’ll discover or reconnect with your truest self, cultivate healthy habits, identify unhelpful patterns & gain tools to go through the changes of life.
I help clients with anxiety, relationship issues, self esteem, sex & more with neurodivergent & queer affirming care.
Do you wish life would slow down so you can take a breath? Stuff has been piling up and now your relationships are strained, your social life isn't what you want, and you don’t even really know who you are. However things got to this point, you know you want life to be different and don't want to wait anymore. Many of my clients are hesitant to start therapy or have had trouble connecting with other therapists. I get it! Let's be real, vulnerability is scary as hell. Together we’ll discover or reconnect with your truest self, cultivate healthy habits, identify unhelpful patterns & gain tools to go through the changes of life.
(908) 827-6450 View (908) 827-6450
Photo of Dr. Nicole Waldron, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Nicole Waldron
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Clinton, NJ 08809  (Online Only)
New Horizons was founded by Nicole Waldron, Psy.D. and Ronald Gonzalez, MA, Ed.S., LPC. We offer both individual and group therapy for adults. Dr. Waldron specializes in treating Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Stress, Relationship issues, Forensic issues, and those in Crisis. Mr. Gonzalez specializes in Family Therapy and in treating Anger Issues, Substance Abuse Issues, Forensic Issues, and those in Crisis. We are also a welcoming and affirming practice for LGBTQ clients. We believe respect, compassion, and trust are cornerstones of every therapeutic relationship, and we will work to tailor treatment to our client's unique needs.
New Horizons was founded by Nicole Waldron, Psy.D. and Ronald Gonzalez, MA, Ed.S., LPC. We offer both individual and group therapy for adults. Dr. Waldron specializes in treating Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Stress, Relationship issues, Forensic issues, and those in Crisis. Mr. Gonzalez specializes in Family Therapy and in treating Anger Issues, Substance Abuse Issues, Forensic Issues, and those in Crisis. We are also a welcoming and affirming practice for LGBTQ clients. We believe respect, compassion, and trust are cornerstones of every therapeutic relationship, and we will work to tailor treatment to our client's unique needs.
(908) 428-8656 View (908) 428-8656
Photo of Amy E. Glaser, MA,  LPC, LPAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy E. Glaser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clinton, NJ 08809
I treat anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, loss and provide LGBTQIA-affirming care.
Overwhelming emotions such as fear and anxiety, and sadness and loss can make each day a struggle. Alternately, feeling numb may cause a hollowness in living. Perhaps you wonder what has happened to you or your life. However, becoming more at ease, stronger, and more vibrant is possible. You can find a sense of peaceful empowerment, inner strength, and an increased capacity for living. Imagine trusting yourself to handle what life may bring. There are practices to help you achieve these outcomes. I am experienced with these practices and will share them with you.
I treat anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, loss and provide LGBTQIA-affirming care.
Overwhelming emotions such as fear and anxiety, and sadness and loss can make each day a struggle. Alternately, feeling numb may cause a hollowness in living. Perhaps you wonder what has happened to you or your life. However, becoming more at ease, stronger, and more vibrant is possible. You can find a sense of peaceful empowerment, inner strength, and an increased capacity for living. Imagine trusting yourself to handle what life may bring. There are practices to help you achieve these outcomes. I am experienced with these practices and will share them with you.
(908) 345-5554 View (908) 345-5554
Photo of Ilona (Missy) Giordano, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ilona (Missy) Giordano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Asbury, NJ 08802  (Online Only)
I am a down to earth counselor whose style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered and mindfulness therapy's. I am always open to more approaches if the direction is necessary. I am kind and pride myself on being open and honest with my clients. Connection and Understanding produce trust. As trust begins to happen, Validation can start to begin and then the changing/healing whatever process you need to go through can and will begin.
I am a down to earth counselor whose style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered and mindfulness therapy's. I am always open to more approaches if the direction is necessary. I am kind and pride myself on being open and honest with my clients. Connection and Understanding produce trust. As trust begins to happen, Validation can start to begin and then the changing/healing whatever process you need to go through can and will begin.
(908) 676-6892 View (908) 676-6892
Photo of Danielle E Marino - Creative Growth Arts Therapy, MA, LPAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Creative Growth Arts Therapy
Art Therapist, MA, LPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Hampton, NJ 08827
The first step is where growth begins. I am a NJ Licensed Professional Art Therapist & a Registered-Board Certified Art Therapist. I am passionately dedicated to encouraging clients to utilize the creative arts, music, relaxation techniques and verbal expression to help persevere life challenges, identify and understand emotions, increase self-esteem, develop and/or enhance coping strategies, improve mood regulation, decrease problematic symptoms related to a diagnosis and provide support as clients let go of limitations in a safe non-judgmental space.
The first step is where growth begins. I am a NJ Licensed Professional Art Therapist & a Registered-Board Certified Art Therapist. I am passionately dedicated to encouraging clients to utilize the creative arts, music, relaxation techniques and verbal expression to help persevere life challenges, identify and understand emotions, increase self-esteem, develop and/or enhance coping strategies, improve mood regulation, decrease problematic symptoms related to a diagnosis and provide support as clients let go of limitations in a safe non-judgmental space.
(908) 540-6940 View (908) 540-6940
Photo of Osemwegie Stella, PhD, LPC, ACS, CGCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Osemwegie Stella
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ACS, CGCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stewartsville, NJ 08886
While making a flute, "Ira Wingfellow" of the TV show Northern Exposure is heard to say to "Ed"; "My father used to say, in each alder branch lies a flute, your job is to find it." Hello, I am a Licensed and Board Certified Professional Counselor with experience in the provision of mental health services to children and families. Within every boy, girl, man, and woman lies resources to address challenges of life and mental health issues. I use a client- centered and strength-based approach along with other models of treatment to help my clients effect the desired change.
While making a flute, "Ira Wingfellow" of the TV show Northern Exposure is heard to say to "Ed"; "My father used to say, in each alder branch lies a flute, your job is to find it." Hello, I am a Licensed and Board Certified Professional Counselor with experience in the provision of mental health services to children and families. Within every boy, girl, man, and woman lies resources to address challenges of life and mental health issues. I use a client- centered and strength-based approach along with other models of treatment to help my clients effect the desired change.
(908) 760-0814 View (908) 760-0814
Photo of Martine Kieffer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Martine Kieffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belvidere, NJ 07823  (Online Only)
Spiritual, Traditional, Psychotherapy. I support and guide you, helping you unravel the deeper truth of your life experiences-helping you finally heal the wounds that have kept you from fully living your life's true purpose. You will learn to instinctively heal issues that have continually gotten in the way of your being the person you were born to be. My treatment focuses on trauma, addictions, anger issues, relationship issues and issues dealing with faith and spirituality. I use an analytical process, as well as intuitive.
Spiritual, Traditional, Psychotherapy. I support and guide you, helping you unravel the deeper truth of your life experiences-helping you finally heal the wounds that have kept you from fully living your life's true purpose. You will learn to instinctively heal issues that have continually gotten in the way of your being the person you were born to be. My treatment focuses on trauma, addictions, anger issues, relationship issues and issues dealing with faith and spirituality. I use an analytical process, as well as intuitive.
(973) 459-4141 View (973) 459-4141
Photo of Jennifer Quigley, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Quigley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oxford, NJ 07863  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients! Hello, My name Jennifer Quigley and I am Licensed Professional Counselor with over a decade of experience. My therapeutic approach is characterized by support and empathy, aimed at guiding clients towards getting back to feeling like themselves. I am currently in-network with Aetna, Oscar, United Healthcare & Cigna. Please feel free to call or send me an email, or you can book directly through my website. Looking forward to working together!
Currently accepting new clients! Hello, My name Jennifer Quigley and I am Licensed Professional Counselor with over a decade of experience. My therapeutic approach is characterized by support and empathy, aimed at guiding clients towards getting back to feeling like themselves. I am currently in-network with Aetna, Oscar, United Healthcare & Cigna. Please feel free to call or send me an email, or you can book directly through my website. Looking forward to working together!
(973) 620-2805 View (973) 620-2805
Photo of Anthony T Aquino, PhD, Psychologist
Anthony T Aquino
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Great Meadows, NJ 07838
You and your family's well being are my greatest concern. I have over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults in a wide variety of clinical settings including outpatient and inpatient treatment programs, public and private school settings, and residential treatment facilities. I have a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, and am a Licensed Psychologist, as well as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am trained in couples counseling, child and adolescent therapy, family therapy, and individual therapy. In addition, I am currently conducting social skills groups for children and adolescents.
You and your family's well being are my greatest concern. I have over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults in a wide variety of clinical settings including outpatient and inpatient treatment programs, public and private school settings, and residential treatment facilities. I have a Ph.D. in clinical psychology, and am a Licensed Psychologist, as well as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am trained in couples counseling, child and adolescent therapy, family therapy, and individual therapy. In addition, I am currently conducting social skills groups for children and adolescents.
(908) 428-4755 View (908) 428-4755
Photo of Sarah Keir, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Keir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hackettstown, NJ 07840  (Online Only)
Finding a therapist is the first big step to be able to cope through the hard things and work on becoming your ideal and true self. I work to guide you on a journey towards healing, offering tools to manage both physical and emotional pain. My goal is to help empower you to overcome all of life's adversities. While specializing in chronic illness, trauma, anxiety, and depression, I have experience working with all types of clients in many ages and stages of life.
Finding a therapist is the first big step to be able to cope through the hard things and work on becoming your ideal and true self. I work to guide you on a journey towards healing, offering tools to manage both physical and emotional pain. My goal is to help empower you to overcome all of life's adversities. While specializing in chronic illness, trauma, anxiety, and depression, I have experience working with all types of clients in many ages and stages of life.
(862) 418-5574 View (862) 418-5574
Photo of Loraine Poe Marlatt, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Loraine Poe Marlatt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belvidere, NJ 07823
Waitlist for new clients
Life is not always fair, but there is help for you to find joy and balance in your life, and end the doom and gloom. My own life experiences have led me to the profession of psychotherapy. I will help you discover internal and external resources for your continued success in managing your emotional balance. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, or issues with personal relationships, sexual identify, work or career issues, acute trauma or post traumatic stress, grief and loss or other hardships, there is hope for your recovery.
Life is not always fair, but there is help for you to find joy and balance in your life, and end the doom and gloom. My own life experiences have led me to the profession of psychotherapy. I will help you discover internal and external resources for your continued success in managing your emotional balance. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, or issues with personal relationships, sexual identify, work or career issues, acute trauma or post traumatic stress, grief and loss or other hardships, there is hope for your recovery.
(201) 389-2818 View (201) 389-2818
Photo of Dana Kabisch, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana Kabisch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phillipsburg, NJ 08865  (Online Only)
Tis the season to start putting on a fake smile and try to manage your way through life. It can be draining to manage our mental health when we're constantly stressed and burnt out. Sometimes, all we really need is a supportive space where we can be ourselves and maybe even receive some gentle guidance when we're not quite hitting the mark. It's important to recognize that you deserve so much more than what life has handed you. Ask yourself this: What would your life be like if you weren't so stressed, mad at yourself, upset, or anxious?
Tis the season to start putting on a fake smile and try to manage your way through life. It can be draining to manage our mental health when we're constantly stressed and burnt out. Sometimes, all we really need is a supportive space where we can be ourselves and maybe even receive some gentle guidance when we're not quite hitting the mark. It's important to recognize that you deserve so much more than what life has handed you. Ask yourself this: What would your life be like if you weren't so stressed, mad at yourself, upset, or anxious?
(908) 676-6829 View (908) 676-6829
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.