LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in College Point, NY

Photo of Giulia M Trojer - College Point Wellness, MPA, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
College Point Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPA, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Point, NY 11356
We are a group of licensed Mental Health Clinicians and provide high quality psychotherapy and counseling services. Dedicated to the total well being of all clients, we help to foster awareness of core issues and recurring themes. We blend traditional psychotherapy with trauma treatment, such as EMDR, hypnotherapy, yoga therapy and energy healing. This holistic and comprehensive approach facilitates an escape from old patterns and provides integrative techniques to reduce stress, depression and anxiety, while awakening the body and mind's innate wisdom to heal itself.
We are a group of licensed Mental Health Clinicians and provide high quality psychotherapy and counseling services. Dedicated to the total well being of all clients, we help to foster awareness of core issues and recurring themes. We blend traditional psychotherapy with trauma treatment, such as EMDR, hypnotherapy, yoga therapy and energy healing. This holistic and comprehensive approach facilitates an escape from old patterns and provides integrative techniques to reduce stress, depression and anxiety, while awakening the body and mind's innate wisdom to heal itself.
(929) 205-8554 View (929) 205-8554
Photo of Arlene Detchkov, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arlene Detchkov
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Point, NY 11356  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Latina Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Neurodivergent affirming therapist. My clinical focus centers on helping others improve and enhance their lives. My strengths are in delivering compassionate care, especially when focusing on reducing anxiety, depression, and trauma symptoms. I am deeply passionate about helping to identify accommodations to help manage the executive functioning issues, overwhelm, and sensory overload that often accompanies ADHD and Autistic individuals.
I am a Latina Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Neurodivergent affirming therapist. My clinical focus centers on helping others improve and enhance their lives. My strengths are in delivering compassionate care, especially when focusing on reducing anxiety, depression, and trauma symptoms. I am deeply passionate about helping to identify accommodations to help manage the executive functioning issues, overwhelm, and sensory overload that often accompanies ADHD and Autistic individuals.
(929) 493-5719 View (929) 493-5719
Photo of Ron Villano - Family and Personal Counseling, MS, LMHC, ASAC, CCH, Counselor
Family and Personal Counseling
Counselor, MS, LMHC, ASAC, CCH
Verified Verified
College Point, NY 11356
We are by your side! No matter the issue that you are facing... anxiety, depression, life issues, family issues, grief, trauma, couples therapy, stress relief, etc... we are ready to help. In this widely acclaimed practice, Ron Villano, M.S., LMHC, ASAC, CCH has assembled an elite team of over 35 providers. Our decades of success in talk therapy comes from creating a customized approach designed to encourage you to face your challenges with new life skills and professional support. You are here looking for that fresh start... and we will answer your call TODAY.
We are by your side! No matter the issue that you are facing... anxiety, depression, life issues, family issues, grief, trauma, couples therapy, stress relief, etc... we are ready to help. In this widely acclaimed practice, Ron Villano, M.S., LMHC, ASAC, CCH has assembled an elite team of over 35 providers. Our decades of success in talk therapy comes from creating a customized approach designed to encourage you to face your challenges with new life skills and professional support. You are here looking for that fresh start... and we will answer your call TODAY.
(631) 832-4316 View (631) 832-4316
Photo of Stephanie Tolli-Abraham - Integral Mental Health Counseling, LMHC, CASAC, LCSW
Integral Mental Health Counseling
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, CASAC, LCSW
Verified Verified
College Point, NY 11356
We are a private psychotherapy practice in Corona, Queens. We have extensive experience successfully assessing, counseling and supporting varying client populations in multiple settings, We have multiple bilingual specialized professionals for your service and care. We specialize in all types of psychological disorders, ADHD, ADD, ODD, Depression, Anxiety to name a few. We provide parenting classes, marriage counseling, psychotherapy for adolescents, group family therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, play therapy for children, students with academic and behavioral problems, response prevention and more.
We are a private psychotherapy practice in Corona, Queens. We have extensive experience successfully assessing, counseling and supporting varying client populations in multiple settings, We have multiple bilingual specialized professionals for your service and care. We specialize in all types of psychological disorders, ADHD, ADD, ODD, Depression, Anxiety to name a few. We provide parenting classes, marriage counseling, psychotherapy for adolescents, group family therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, play therapy for children, students with academic and behavioral problems, response prevention and more.
(929) 227-6147 View (929) 227-6147

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Marina Green, MS, MHC-LP
Marina Green
MS, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11352  (Online Only)
As a queer-identifying Asian American, I understand the importance of culturally competent care. I am dedicated to creating a safe and affirming space where we can openly explore and address mental health challenges as they intersect with your diverse identities without fear of judgment. While I specialize in working with individuals struggling with eating disorders and body image concerns, I have experience treating a range of concerns and presentations.
As a queer-identifying Asian American, I understand the importance of culturally competent care. I am dedicated to creating a safe and affirming space where we can openly explore and address mental health challenges as they intersect with your diverse identities without fear of judgment. While I specialize in working with individuals struggling with eating disorders and body image concerns, I have experience treating a range of concerns and presentations.
(914) 601-1360 View (914) 601-1360
Photo of Sugandha Sharma, LMHC, Counselor
Sugandha Sharma
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Corona, NY 11368  (Online Only)
I am a multicultural, holistic, trauma-informed, LGBT+ affirmative therapist and a core believer in resiliency of human spirit. Though you may consider me as the professional/expert, you are the expert of your lived experiences. I strongly believe that the client has a right to both be a recipient as well as an influencer within the therapeutic relationship. My job as a therapist is to act as guide while you are empowered to tackle both inner and outer barriers. I aim to hold a space for those who may not have access to any other arenas to feel heard and understood.
I am a multicultural, holistic, trauma-informed, LGBT+ affirmative therapist and a core believer in resiliency of human spirit. Though you may consider me as the professional/expert, you are the expert of your lived experiences. I strongly believe that the client has a right to both be a recipient as well as an influencer within the therapeutic relationship. My job as a therapist is to act as guide while you are empowered to tackle both inner and outer barriers. I aim to hold a space for those who may not have access to any other arenas to feel heard and understood.
(347) 427-5301 View (347) 427-5301
Photo of Jasmine Hussain, LMHC, Counselor
Jasmine Hussain
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11368
Jasmine Hussain is an LMHC that holds a non-judgmental, safe space for the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC community. She specializes in CBT, mindfulness, spirituality, and psychodynamic for those who struggle with anxiety, depression, and sexual identity. Each session is tailored specifically to the client's needs. With my expertise in CBT, mindfulness, spirituality, and psychodynamic, together we will move through sessions that best fit your needs.
Jasmine Hussain is an LMHC that holds a non-judgmental, safe space for the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC community. She specializes in CBT, mindfulness, spirituality, and psychodynamic for those who struggle with anxiety, depression, and sexual identity. Each session is tailored specifically to the client's needs. With my expertise in CBT, mindfulness, spirituality, and psychodynamic, together we will move through sessions that best fit your needs.
(347) 797-5058 View (347) 797-5058
Photo of Robert S. Babich, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Robert S. Babich
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitestone, NY 11357
I also embrace a multicultural lens with clients, and recognize the effects of race, ethnicity, and social context, welcoming members of the LGBTQ community and those with alternate relationship lifestyles.
I Help people experience healing and growth by discovering pathways to understanding and change through examining thoughts, body, and emotion in regard to relationships, family, career, parenting, health, and self-esteem. My primary focus involves establishing a strong therapeutic relationship that allows freedom of expression and exploration within a warm, discreet, safe, and non-judgmental container. We will work together, at your own pace, acknowledging your specific challenges with the understanding that you are the best authority on what you need to gain resolution, empowerment and autonomy.
I also embrace a multicultural lens with clients, and recognize the effects of race, ethnicity, and social context, welcoming members of the LGBTQ community and those with alternate relationship lifestyles.
I Help people experience healing and growth by discovering pathways to understanding and change through examining thoughts, body, and emotion in regard to relationships, family, career, parenting, health, and self-esteem. My primary focus involves establishing a strong therapeutic relationship that allows freedom of expression and exploration within a warm, discreet, safe, and non-judgmental container. We will work together, at your own pace, acknowledging your specific challenges with the understanding that you are the best authority on what you need to gain resolution, empowerment and autonomy.
(929) 560-6146 View (929) 560-6146
Photo of Nadira Jackson, LMHC
Nadira Jackson
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11380  (Online Only)
Before becoming a therapist, I spent years in NYC working as a Case Manager in foster care, family homeless shelters, the LGBTQ+ community, and with developmentally disabled individuals.
My therapeutic space is approached with curiosity, warmth, and genuine compassion. Working collaboratively with my clients, we explore their experiences in relation to their environment and ask, “What’s impacting the client’s experience?” I support my clients in discovering their strengths and potential, helping them navigate their environments to become their authentic selves.
Before becoming a therapist, I spent years in NYC working as a Case Manager in foster care, family homeless shelters, the LGBTQ+ community, and with developmentally disabled individuals.
My therapeutic space is approached with curiosity, warmth, and genuine compassion. Working collaboratively with my clients, we explore their experiences in relation to their environment and ask, “What’s impacting the client’s experience?” I support my clients in discovering their strengths and potential, helping them navigate their environments to become their authentic selves.
(347) 395-3527 View (347) 395-3527
Photo of Cesar Ureta, PsyD, Psychologist
Cesar Ureta
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11369
Dr. Ureta holds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Wright Institute as well as a Master’s in Public Health from Columbia University. Dr. Ureta has worked in community mental health centers across the Coachella Valley. Although Dr. Ureta treats a wide range of presenting issues, he holds sub-specialties in working with the LGBTQ population and is on staff with the Desert AIDS Project (DAP Health). He uses a gentle, supportive, and consistent approach to client care. Outside of his work as a therapist, Dr. Ureta can be found connecting with nature, including hiking and taking walks along the beach.
Dr. Ureta holds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Wright Institute as well as a Master’s in Public Health from Columbia University. Dr. Ureta has worked in community mental health centers across the Coachella Valley. Although Dr. Ureta treats a wide range of presenting issues, he holds sub-specialties in working with the LGBTQ population and is on staff with the Desert AIDS Project (DAP Health). He uses a gentle, supportive, and consistent approach to client care. Outside of his work as a therapist, Dr. Ureta can be found connecting with nature, including hiking and taking walks along the beach.
(646) 762-9166 View (646) 762-9166
Photo of Olivia Clavie, MA, MHC-LP
Olivia Clavie
MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11368  (Online Only)
I love to work with people of diverse backgrounds experiencing challenges in their everyday lives. I specialized in working with those seeking help with depression, anxiety, relationships, trauma, and any other challenges they may face. I also have a passion for working with couples (Gottman Method Level 1 Trained) and incorporating sex therapy, as well as working with the LGBTQ+ community and polyamorous relationships. I also provide family therapy for various concerns. I am Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) certified to work with family members to support their loved ones experiencing substance abuse challenges.
I love to work with people of diverse backgrounds experiencing challenges in their everyday lives. I specialized in working with those seeking help with depression, anxiety, relationships, trauma, and any other challenges they may face. I also have a passion for working with couples (Gottman Method Level 1 Trained) and incorporating sex therapy, as well as working with the LGBTQ+ community and polyamorous relationships. I also provide family therapy for various concerns. I am Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) certified to work with family members to support their loved ones experiencing substance abuse challenges.
(845) 261-0849 View (845) 261-0849
Photo of Gabriel Sanchez, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gabriel Sanchez
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Corona, NY 11368
Are you finding it hard to muster the motivation to pursue what you want in life? Do you often find yourself consumed by worry or trapped in thoughts of the past? Are you grappling with questions about who you are and who you want to become? If any of this resonates with you, I am glad you are here. I am a bilingual Latine therapist specializing in supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and identity-related challenges. My dedication lies in serving marginalized, neurodivergent, and LGBTQ+ communities.
Are you finding it hard to muster the motivation to pursue what you want in life? Do you often find yourself consumed by worry or trapped in thoughts of the past? Are you grappling with questions about who you are and who you want to become? If any of this resonates with you, I am glad you are here. I am a bilingual Latine therapist specializing in supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and identity-related challenges. My dedication lies in serving marginalized, neurodivergent, and LGBTQ+ communities.
(347) 923-6498 View (347) 923-6498
Photo of Judy Lau, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judy Lau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11354  (Online Only)
I passionately enjoy working with diverse people “from all walks of life”— professionals, essential workers, parents, students, immigrants, artists, LGBTQA+ community members, caregivers, and allies to people experiencing medical or mental health issues. In therapy, we can appreciate your emotions, problem solve and cope with daily issues, change “undesirable” behaviors, cultivate physical and mental wellness, pursue life/work goals and satisfaction, and practice effective communication skills for interpersonal relationships.
I passionately enjoy working with diverse people “from all walks of life”— professionals, essential workers, parents, students, immigrants, artists, LGBTQA+ community members, caregivers, and allies to people experiencing medical or mental health issues. In therapy, we can appreciate your emotions, problem solve and cope with daily issues, change “undesirable” behaviors, cultivate physical and mental wellness, pursue life/work goals and satisfaction, and practice effective communication skills for interpersonal relationships.
(347) 396-0991 View (347) 396-0991
Photo of Trevor Kalman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trevor Kalman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11368  (Online Only)
Trevor has worked on a horse ranch helping hard-to-place foster children (ages 13-21) with destructive behavioral patterns, LGBT youth, men with and individuals with depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
Trevor gets his hands dirty, so to speak. He builds a strong rapport with his clients so that together they can determine the best therapeutic approach (CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, psycho-dynamic, solution-focused, etc). The client is always in the driver’s seat. Sometimes our truths are hidden from us and it is beneficial to have a side-kick to help us learn how to utilize our experiences, strengths, and hopes to benefit our overall well-being.
Trevor has worked on a horse ranch helping hard-to-place foster children (ages 13-21) with destructive behavioral patterns, LGBT youth, men with and individuals with depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
Trevor gets his hands dirty, so to speak. He builds a strong rapport with his clients so that together they can determine the best therapeutic approach (CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, psycho-dynamic, solution-focused, etc). The client is always in the driver’s seat. Sometimes our truths are hidden from us and it is beneficial to have a side-kick to help us learn how to utilize our experiences, strengths, and hopes to benefit our overall well-being.
(929) 207-5123 View (929) 207-5123
Photo of Alyce Short, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyce Short
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Corona, NY 11368  (Online Only)
She treats ADHD, anxiety, maladaptive coping skills, depression, life transitions, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), peer relationships, relationship issues, school issues, self-esteem problems, stress, divorce, infidelity, women’s issues, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, and LGBTQ issues.
Alyce Newman is a licensed clinical social worker. Alyce’s style is relaxed, raw, and old soul oriented. She understands that her patients need to feel comfortable around her in order to open up about difficult topics. She also sprinkles humor into sessions when appropriate. She’s found that being able to laugh with a therapist makes it easier to feel safe crying around them. Her main goal is to create an atmosphere where patients can find clarity, confidence, and hope. Alyce uses cognitive behavioral therapy,motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, strengths-based approaches and solution-focused therapy approaches
She treats ADHD, anxiety, maladaptive coping skills, depression, life transitions, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), peer relationships, relationship issues, school issues, self-esteem problems, stress, divorce, infidelity, women’s issues, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, and LGBTQ issues.
Alyce Newman is a licensed clinical social worker. Alyce’s style is relaxed, raw, and old soul oriented. She understands that her patients need to feel comfortable around her in order to open up about difficult topics. She also sprinkles humor into sessions when appropriate. She’s found that being able to laugh with a therapist makes it easier to feel safe crying around them. Her main goal is to create an atmosphere where patients can find clarity, confidence, and hope. Alyce uses cognitive behavioral therapy,motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, strengths-based approaches and solution-focused therapy approaches
(646) 859-1611 View (646) 859-1611
Photo of Lisa Ho, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Ho
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11355  (Online Only)
The parts of ourselves that we struggle with are sometimes our greatest assets. Therapy can be a place to better realize our strengths and identify where long-term patterns of narratives and behaviors are no longer serving us. I am passionate about working with LGBTQ and POC on topics such as: gender/sexual identity, anxiety, depression, OCD, acculturation, multiracial identity, social skills, and relationships. Oftentimes religion and spirituality come up in my work. My therapeutic approach incorporates both systemic and relational pieces. We do not exist in a vacuum. All of our experiences shape the person we are today.
The parts of ourselves that we struggle with are sometimes our greatest assets. Therapy can be a place to better realize our strengths and identify where long-term patterns of narratives and behaviors are no longer serving us. I am passionate about working with LGBTQ and POC on topics such as: gender/sexual identity, anxiety, depression, OCD, acculturation, multiracial identity, social skills, and relationships. Oftentimes religion and spirituality come up in my work. My therapeutic approach incorporates both systemic and relational pieces. We do not exist in a vacuum. All of our experiences shape the person we are today.
(347) 329-4273 View (347) 329-4273
Photo of Tracy L. Liang, MS, LMHC, NCC, C-DBT, CTMH, Counselor
Tracy L. Liang
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, C-DBT, CTMH
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11355  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider and a Certified Personality Treatment Provider. I work full-time as a Psychotherapist at a non-profit community mental health clinic. I am experienced working with Mood Disorders, Trauma & PTSD, Behavioral Disorders, Personality Disorders, Substance Abuse, and the LGBTQ community. I am competent in working with multiple cultural backgrounds. I have a Certification in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Prior to my current experience, I worked as a Bilingual Psychotherapist at a Chinese Psychiatry practice. I have many years of research experience in mental health.
I am a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider and a Certified Personality Treatment Provider. I work full-time as a Psychotherapist at a non-profit community mental health clinic. I am experienced working with Mood Disorders, Trauma & PTSD, Behavioral Disorders, Personality Disorders, Substance Abuse, and the LGBTQ community. I am competent in working with multiple cultural backgrounds. I have a Certification in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Prior to my current experience, I worked as a Bilingual Psychotherapist at a Chinese Psychiatry practice. I have many years of research experience in mental health.
(646) 920-0993 View (646) 920-0993
Photo of Jenny Lee, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Jenny Lee
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11358  (Online Only)
She provides psychotherapy services for individuals and couples with specialization in depression, anxiety, bereavement, LGBTQIA+, self-esteem, multiculturalism, adjustment, identity, interpersonal issues, sexual issues, anger, and career counseling.
As a therapist, Jenny Jinhee Lee aids individuals in achieving life goals and overcoming life difficulties by allowing them to creatively express themselves through art. Like her form of therapy, Jenny’s work is about the processing energy and how it can creatively be reflected onto the world in a positive way. She believes in a client-focused practice and guides clients towards a goal-oriented treatment.
She provides psychotherapy services for individuals and couples with specialization in depression, anxiety, bereavement, LGBTQIA+, self-esteem, multiculturalism, adjustment, identity, interpersonal issues, sexual issues, anger, and career counseling.
As a therapist, Jenny Jinhee Lee aids individuals in achieving life goals and overcoming life difficulties by allowing them to creatively express themselves through art. Like her form of therapy, Jenny’s work is about the processing energy and how it can creatively be reflected onto the world in a positive way. She believes in a client-focused practice and guides clients towards a goal-oriented treatment.
(929) 335-9685 View (929) 335-9685
Photo of Amanda Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11358
My focus includes depression, anxiety, life changes/transitions, racial/cultural/environmental stressors, and LGBTQIA+ support.
My Name is Amanda J. Smith. I'm a psychotherapist under the License of Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of New York & New Jersey and have 5+ years in the mental health field. I have worked with clients from the adolescent to the geriatric population, with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, life changes/transitions, racial/cultural/environmental stressors, and LGBTQIA+ support. My counseling style is non-judgmental, warm, and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
My focus includes depression, anxiety, life changes/transitions, racial/cultural/environmental stressors, and LGBTQIA+ support.
My Name is Amanda J. Smith. I'm a psychotherapist under the License of Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of New York & New Jersey and have 5+ years in the mental health field. I have worked with clients from the adolescent to the geriatric population, with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, life changes/transitions, racial/cultural/environmental stressors, and LGBTQIA+ support. My counseling style is non-judgmental, warm, and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
(347) 580-5433 View (347) 580-5433
Photo of Jill May, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill May
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11358  (Online Only)
I am a queer social worker who uses a relational approach that is motivated by empathy and support. My work focuses on how an individual interacts with the world around them because of the identities they hold. Together we can examine the strengths, needs and implications of those identities and how I can assist you. Life is hard. Asking for help can be almost as difficult as realizing you need it in the first place. Taking those first steps are hard, and I want to meet you where you’re at. With the world more isolating than ever, we need connection and places to talk about what’s going on in our lives.
I am a queer social worker who uses a relational approach that is motivated by empathy and support. My work focuses on how an individual interacts with the world around them because of the identities they hold. Together we can examine the strengths, needs and implications of those identities and how I can assist you. Life is hard. Asking for help can be almost as difficult as realizing you need it in the first place. Taking those first steps are hard, and I want to meet you where you’re at. With the world more isolating than ever, we need connection and places to talk about what’s going on in our lives.
(929) 394-5707 View (929) 394-5707

See more therapy options for College Point

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.