LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Glen Oaks, NY

Photo of Hannah Ellerkamp, PsyD, Psychologist
Hannah Ellerkamp
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Glen Oaks, NY 11004
Waitlist for new clients
Partnering with adolescents (ages 9-18), young adults (ages 18-30), and parents to set goals, improve lives, reduce symptoms, and affirm identity is the foundation of my work. I am behaviorally trained and experienced in providing a variety of treatments shown by research to be effective for OCD, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidality, and emotion dysregulation, including CBT, ERP, TF-CBT, and DBT-informed therapy. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community and provide gender-affirming psychotherapy to transgender folks. I enjoy working with parents on their own journey of parenting a gender-diverse youth.
Partnering with adolescents (ages 9-18), young adults (ages 18-30), and parents to set goals, improve lives, reduce symptoms, and affirm identity is the foundation of my work. I am behaviorally trained and experienced in providing a variety of treatments shown by research to be effective for OCD, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidality, and emotion dysregulation, including CBT, ERP, TF-CBT, and DBT-informed therapy. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community and provide gender-affirming psychotherapy to transgender folks. I enjoy working with parents on their own journey of parenting a gender-diverse youth.
(332) 334-4930 View (332) 334-4930
Photo of Claudia Sabino, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claudia Sabino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glen Oaks, NY 11004
Reaching out to a therapist in a critical moment is a decision that involves great courage as is one of those transitions that could drastically change a life.
I specialize in treating relational trauma and anxiety over life transitions. Relationships often cause hurt, but can also heal and help us grow. We learn to understand who we are and the world around us through relationships, this is how we become human and unique. But we might not be aware that often we are repeating patterns of relating that make us unhappy or why we do it. Therapy gives a new way of thinking and asking questions about yourself and others. Therapy liberates energy that was trapped in painful symptoms for you to build new opportunities and new connections.
Reaching out to a therapist in a critical moment is a decision that involves great courage as is one of those transitions that could drastically change a life.
I specialize in treating relational trauma and anxiety over life transitions. Relationships often cause hurt, but can also heal and help us grow. We learn to understand who we are and the world around us through relationships, this is how we become human and unique. But we might not be aware that often we are repeating patterns of relating that make us unhappy or why we do it. Therapy gives a new way of thinking and asking questions about yourself and others. Therapy liberates energy that was trapped in painful symptoms for you to build new opportunities and new connections.
(929) 267-3032 View (929) 267-3032
Photo of Rev. Nancy Dominique DESSABLES - Spiritual Exploration Practitioner , LMSW
Spiritual Exploration Practitioner
Master Social Work, LMSW
Verified Verified
Glen Oaks, NY 11004
Are you longing to connect with something bigger than your pain and fears? Would you like to try a different approach? Spiritual Exploration (SE) is a gentle, caring, supportive, process that honors your unique spiritual beliefs. It is not about proselytizing but exploring what spirituality means to you. SE can help you cultivate a more profound sense of peace, experience greater joy, find meaning and purpose, explore careers, and heal from life’s inevitable traumas and setbacks. While very similar, Spiritual Exploration is not psychotherapy. Please get in touch with me to learn about this transformational modality for free.
Are you longing to connect with something bigger than your pain and fears? Would you like to try a different approach? Spiritual Exploration (SE) is a gentle, caring, supportive, process that honors your unique spiritual beliefs. It is not about proselytizing but exploring what spirituality means to you. SE can help you cultivate a more profound sense of peace, experience greater joy, find meaning and purpose, explore careers, and heal from life’s inevitable traumas and setbacks. While very similar, Spiritual Exploration is not psychotherapy. Please get in touch with me to learn about this transformational modality for free.
(516) 703-4616 View (516) 703-4616
Photo of N'Jeri K Mitchell, PhD, Psychologist
N'Jeri K Mitchell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glen Oaks, NY 11004  (Online Only)
I am often described as a warm, empathic person who creates a comfortable, supportive, and safe therapeutic environment. Unlike the distant, silent psychoanalyst stereotype, I am a real person in the room. I respond to what you tell me, ask questions, and will even share a laugh with you. My approach is based on the premise that relationships are essential in shaping who we are as people and how we experience the world.
I am often described as a warm, empathic person who creates a comfortable, supportive, and safe therapeutic environment. Unlike the distant, silent psychoanalyst stereotype, I am a real person in the room. I respond to what you tell me, ask questions, and will even share a laugh with you. My approach is based on the premise that relationships are essential in shaping who we are as people and how we experience the world.
(718) 395-1523 View (718) 395-1523
Photo of Susan Walton, MPS, ATR-BC, LCAT, Art Therapist
Susan Walton
Art Therapist, MPS, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
Glen Oaks, NY 11004  (Online Only)
Through our work together we will uncover ways to expand your strengths, identify unproductive patterns and develop healthier ways of seeing yourself. We will explore how past experiences impact your life and examine how the behaviors, feelings and thoughts that result may interfere with your efforts to achieve a more satisfying life. I utilize a wide array of approaches to guide clients towards increased self awareness and self acceptance.
Through our work together we will uncover ways to expand your strengths, identify unproductive patterns and develop healthier ways of seeing yourself. We will explore how past experiences impact your life and examine how the behaviors, feelings and thoughts that result may interfere with your efforts to achieve a more satisfying life. I utilize a wide array of approaches to guide clients towards increased self awareness and self acceptance.
(917) 267-0404 View (917) 267-0404
Photo of Jannatun Ferdowsi, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jannatun Ferdowsi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Oaks, NY 11004  (Online Only)
When people experience life stressors and traumatic experiences, it is understandable for their lives to turn upside down. Do you suffer from constant anxiety that does not seem to go away? Do you struggle with negative thoughts that seem to ruin your mood and ultimately control your life? Do you suffer from depression and end up feeling hopeless about a better future? If this describes you, then you have come to the right place! My passion is to bring validation and healing to those who have encountered such impactful experiences. Any challenges you may be facing, we will work through them together. I promise, you are not alone.
When people experience life stressors and traumatic experiences, it is understandable for their lives to turn upside down. Do you suffer from constant anxiety that does not seem to go away? Do you struggle with negative thoughts that seem to ruin your mood and ultimately control your life? Do you suffer from depression and end up feeling hopeless about a better future? If this describes you, then you have come to the right place! My passion is to bring validation and healing to those who have encountered such impactful experiences. Any challenges you may be facing, we will work through them together. I promise, you are not alone.
(347) 960-4309 View (347) 960-4309
Photo of Vasu Chikkatur Murthy - Tri State Counseling and MediatIon, LCSWR, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tri State Counseling and MediatIon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glen Oaks, NY 11004
Trained in CBT, prefer to use a rational living approach with behavior modification and assist the client. Use DBT, CBT, Behavioral approach in Psychotherapy to achieve practical results, measurable and beneficial to the client. Short term treatment focus on result oriented approach with focus on cognitive or insight or behavioral modification is my style. Specialist in children, work with families and a fair mix of all age groups. I accept major health insurances & accept private pay. ANGER MANAGEMENT, AUTISM, ADHD, MOOD DISORDERS, ANXIETY SUBSTANCE ABUSE, ALCOHOL DOMESTIC RELATIONS/VIOLENCE ISSUES AND FORENSIC EVALUATIONS HANDLED AS WELL.
Trained in CBT, prefer to use a rational living approach with behavior modification and assist the client. Use DBT, CBT, Behavioral approach in Psychotherapy to achieve practical results, measurable and beneficial to the client. Short term treatment focus on result oriented approach with focus on cognitive or insight or behavioral modification is my style. Specialist in children, work with families and a fair mix of all age groups. I accept major health insurances & accept private pay. ANGER MANAGEMENT, AUTISM, ADHD, MOOD DISORDERS, ANXIETY SUBSTANCE ABUSE, ALCOHOL DOMESTIC RELATIONS/VIOLENCE ISSUES AND FORENSIC EVALUATIONS HANDLED AS WELL.
(646) 600-5137 View (646) 600-5137

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Athena St Juste - Success Life Skills Services , MHC
Success Life Skills Services
MHC
Verified Verified
Queens Village, NY 11428
Welcome to all clients, 13+ that feel sad or stressed regarding school, work, relationship, goal setting challenges. Clients that dislike standard cold clinical therapy. Clients that are lgbtqia identified and clients who are on the Neurodiverse spectrum. Success is different, more like an objective friend or relative. :)
Welcome to all clients, 13+ that feel sad or stressed regarding school, work, relationship, goal setting challenges. Clients that dislike standard cold clinical therapy. Clients that are lgbtqia identified and clients who are on the Neurodiverse spectrum. Success is different, more like an objective friend or relative. :)
(631) 888-9034 View (631) 888-9034
Photo of Georgia Chan, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Georgia Chan
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Great Neck, NY 11021  (Online Only)
I believe that each individual has an innate capacity to shape their own narrative and navigate life's complexities with agency and resilience. I work to create a respectful relationship with my clients, offering empathy and helping them focus on their strengths and positive aspects of their lives, even as they grapple with the challenges that they face. My goal is for clients to leave our sessions feeling empowered, more connected to themselves and the world around them, and equipped with a deeper understanding of their own journey. I help clients with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, stress, LGBTQ &identity issues.
I believe that each individual has an innate capacity to shape their own narrative and navigate life's complexities with agency and resilience. I work to create a respectful relationship with my clients, offering empathy and helping them focus on their strengths and positive aspects of their lives, even as they grapple with the challenges that they face. My goal is for clients to leave our sessions feeling empowered, more connected to themselves and the world around them, and equipped with a deeper understanding of their own journey. I help clients with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, stress, LGBTQ &identity issues.
(646) 450-3064 View (646) 450-3064
Photo of Randi Garfinkel, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Randi Garfinkel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Great Neck, NY 11020  (Online Only)
For over 15 years I have worked with teens, young adults and adults looking for help with relationships, depression, anxiety, self esteem, trauma, LGBTQ and young professionals looking to strengthen their sense of self.
Many of us struggle through the challenging times in life and seeking treatment is often a courageous first step. My goal is to provide compassionate, trustworthy, and nonjudgmental support, as we partner together on a journey of coping, healing, and thriving. I believe the therapist-client relationship is incredibly important, therefore I strive to establish an honest and warm working relationship with each client. In doing so, together we can then explore your relationships and other patterns in your life. That exploration leads to insights and understanding, geared toward discovering new ideas and finding solutions.
For over 15 years I have worked with teens, young adults and adults looking for help with relationships, depression, anxiety, self esteem, trauma, LGBTQ and young professionals looking to strengthen their sense of self.
Many of us struggle through the challenging times in life and seeking treatment is often a courageous first step. My goal is to provide compassionate, trustworthy, and nonjudgmental support, as we partner together on a journey of coping, healing, and thriving. I believe the therapist-client relationship is incredibly important, therefore I strive to establish an honest and warm working relationship with each client. In doing so, together we can then explore your relationships and other patterns in your life. That exploration leads to insights and understanding, geared toward discovering new ideas and finding solutions.
(973) 692-8324 View (973) 692-8324
Photo of Stephanie Staco, LMHC, LPC, CMHC, CCHt
Stephanie Staco
LMHC, LPC, CMHC, CCHt
Verified Verified
Queens Village, NY 11427  (Online Only)
I have first hand experience as a member of the neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, and kink communities, and thus have a unique ability to provide insight and support to other members of those communities. I was inspired to become a therapist because of my own experiences with therapy and a desire to help those in marginalized communities
I have first hand experience as a member of the neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, and kink communities, and thus have a unique ability to provide insight and support to other members of those communities. I was inspired to become a therapist because of my own experiences with therapy and a desire to help those in marginalized communities
(516) 614-4749 View (516) 614-4749
Photo of Amanda Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bellerose, NY 11426  (Online Only)
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) 836-5202 View (347) 836-5202
Photo of Mona El-Shahat, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, Counselor
Mona El-Shahat
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elmont, NY 11003  (Online Only)
I have worked with a diverse group of people with a primary focus on underrepresented groups including BIPOC, biracial, multiracial, LGBTQIA+, immigrant and first-gen communities, international students, Muslim communities and women.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who believes therapy is a collaborative journey. I take a person-centered, holistic, empathetic and culturally sensitive approach to help clients work towards achieving their goals. I operate from a multicultural lens and utilize a client-centered, trauma informed approach in my work. I provide a confidential, open-minded and supportive space where you will feel seen, heard and understood. Through this collaborative journey we will work on setting and meeting your goals.
I have worked with a diverse group of people with a primary focus on underrepresented groups including BIPOC, biracial, multiracial, LGBTQIA+, immigrant and first-gen communities, international students, Muslim communities and women.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who believes therapy is a collaborative journey. I take a person-centered, holistic, empathetic and culturally sensitive approach to help clients work towards achieving their goals. I operate from a multicultural lens and utilize a client-centered, trauma informed approach in my work. I provide a confidential, open-minded and supportive space where you will feel seen, heard and understood. Through this collaborative journey we will work on setting and meeting your goals.
(929) 207-5812 View (929) 207-5812
Photo of Danielle Cooley, BA, MS Ed, LPC Intern
Danielle Cooley
LPC Intern, BA, MS Ed
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Floral Park, NY 11001  (Online Only)
Navigating anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, or pursuing personal growth? In a safe, non-judgmental space, I blend therapeutic techniques, tailoring therapy to you.
A client who works with me seeks a safe and non-judgmental space to navigate their inner world. They grapple with various challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship complexities, trauma, or LGBTQ+ issues. Their needs are diverse and unique, requiring a tailored approach to therapy that addresses their specific concerns. Their ultimate goal is personal growth and life transformation, and they are dedicated to embracing self-care practices. Empowerment is a key aspect for them, desiring not only to overcome their current struggles but to actively shape and achieve the positive transformations they seek in their lives.
Navigating anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, or pursuing personal growth? In a safe, non-judgmental space, I blend therapeutic techniques, tailoring therapy to you.
A client who works with me seeks a safe and non-judgmental space to navigate their inner world. They grapple with various challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship complexities, trauma, or LGBTQ+ issues. Their needs are diverse and unique, requiring a tailored approach to therapy that addresses their specific concerns. Their ultimate goal is personal growth and life transformation, and they are dedicated to embracing self-care practices. Empowerment is a key aspect for them, desiring not only to overcome their current struggles but to actively shape and achieve the positive transformations they seek in their lives.
(516) 530-8479 View (516) 530-8479
Photo of Riddhi Sandil, PhD, Psychologist
Riddhi Sandil
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Queens Village, NY 11427
With expertise in CBT, EFT, Couples Therapy, Racial Cultural Therapy, LGBTQ health, women's issues, and minority stress, my approach to treatment is client centered that is aimed at empowering you to create sustainable and appropriate changes in your life.
I believe that the client's experience, both in and out of the therapy room, is most important in a helping relationship. When working with me, you can expect an active and caring therapeutic approach that is centered around exploration and collaboration. I incorporate both cognitive and emotion focused approaches in my work and help you to examine patterns, behaviors, and processes that may no longer be useful. I also specialize in couples therapy and use a process oriented approach that is focused on understanding communication patterns, increasing emotional harmony, and overall relational satisfaction.
With expertise in CBT, EFT, Couples Therapy, Racial Cultural Therapy, LGBTQ health, women's issues, and minority stress, my approach to treatment is client centered that is aimed at empowering you to create sustainable and appropriate changes in your life.
I believe that the client's experience, both in and out of the therapy room, is most important in a helping relationship. When working with me, you can expect an active and caring therapeutic approach that is centered around exploration and collaboration. I incorporate both cognitive and emotion focused approaches in my work and help you to examine patterns, behaviors, and processes that may no longer be useful. I also specialize in couples therapy and use a process oriented approach that is focused on understanding communication patterns, increasing emotional harmony, and overall relational satisfaction.
(646) 906-9098 View (646) 906-9098
Photo of Meghan McDonough, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meghan McDonough
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Queens Village, NY 11427  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My mission is to help my clients be the best version of themselves. My goal is to create a relaxing environment with a sprinkle of humor. I help my clients through many challenges including anxiety, depression, family/relationship issues, trauma, ADHD, and stress management. It is important to me to give space to those who identify as LGBTQIA+, but all are welcome.
My mission is to help my clients be the best version of themselves. My goal is to create a relaxing environment with a sprinkle of humor. I help my clients through many challenges including anxiety, depression, family/relationship issues, trauma, ADHD, and stress management. It is important to me to give space to those who identify as LGBTQIA+, but all are welcome.
(315) 658-3732 View (315) 658-3732
Photo of Kacia Cameron, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kacia Cameron
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jamaica, NY 11428  (Online Only)
Here, you can expect empathetic support, where my person-centered approach includes connecting on a candid level. My focus is on young adults experiencing depression and anxiety, and those wishing to overcome generational trauma and improve the quality of relationships. I have experience with LGBTQ+ folks, those with disabilities, and culturally diverse minorities.
Here, you can expect empathetic support, where my person-centered approach includes connecting on a candid level. My focus is on young adults experiencing depression and anxiety, and those wishing to overcome generational trauma and improve the quality of relationships. I have experience with LGBTQ+ folks, those with disabilities, and culturally diverse minorities.
(845) 539-1509 View (845) 539-1509
Photo of Peiyi He, PhD, Psychologist
Peiyi He
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Little Neck, NY 11362  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Having lived in different cultures, I have developed sensitivity to identity, diversity, social justice, and the loss & pain related to dislocation & transitions.
Hi, I am a clinical psychologist licensed in New York State. People come to me for various emotional and relational challenges. I found myself work particularly well with those who have relational trauma in their family of origin, those who struggle to find themselves or trust themselves, those who experience perpetual unhappiness or loneliness despite their achievement, as well as those who seek to understand themselves more deeply. I have a passion serving immigrants, expatriates, international students, the LGBTQ+ community and the marginalized, and I have worked closely with these populations over the years.
Having lived in different cultures, I have developed sensitivity to identity, diversity, social justice, and the loss & pain related to dislocation & transitions.
Hi, I am a clinical psychologist licensed in New York State. People come to me for various emotional and relational challenges. I found myself work particularly well with those who have relational trauma in their family of origin, those who struggle to find themselves or trust themselves, those who experience perpetual unhappiness or loneliness despite their achievement, as well as those who seek to understand themselves more deeply. I have a passion serving immigrants, expatriates, international students, the LGBTQ+ community and the marginalized, and I have worked closely with these populations over the years.
(516) 614-4115 View (516) 614-4115
Photo of Trishala Dutt, MFT-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Trishala Dutt
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT-LP
Verified Verified
Bayside, NY 11364
I have experience in treating substance abuse, relationship issues, marital conflict, grief, LGBT issues, anxiety, and depression.
I believe therapy is a gift that allows one's inner strength to emerge while our personal journey through life's experiences makes us who we are. My own journey has led me to my career as a therapist which allows me the honor and opportunity to work together with my clients to recognize their own strengths and limitations in achieving their goals. All this takes place within a strong, non-judgmental, therapeutic relationship that is built on empathy, trust, safety, and compassion. I have a calm, warm, relaxed style and believe in creating a safe space for you where compassion, support, and humour can live.
I have experience in treating substance abuse, relationship issues, marital conflict, grief, LGBT issues, anxiety, and depression.
I believe therapy is a gift that allows one's inner strength to emerge while our personal journey through life's experiences makes us who we are. My own journey has led me to my career as a therapist which allows me the honor and opportunity to work together with my clients to recognize their own strengths and limitations in achieving their goals. All this takes place within a strong, non-judgmental, therapeutic relationship that is built on empathy, trust, safety, and compassion. I have a calm, warm, relaxed style and believe in creating a safe space for you where compassion, support, and humour can live.
View
Photo of Junhong (June) Cao, PhD, Psychologist
Junhong (June) Cao
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Great Neck, NY 11021
I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and family with relationship concerns, stress, depression, anxiety, self esteem, anger, life transitions, emotional disturbance, trauma, and work related issues.
I invite you to schedule a free phone call for 15 minutes to answer your questions and concerns, discuss your insurance, and make a recommendation based on your needs. Whether you feel stuck, stressed, or unhappy for too long, I will assist you to identify your goals and figure out the way to change. I am a psychologist who speaks Chinese Mandarin and English in New York with more than 15 years of experience, I have the highest level of doctoral training to help people from different ethnic groups and LGBTQ+ community to overcome the challenges and live the best life possible.
I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and family with relationship concerns, stress, depression, anxiety, self esteem, anger, life transitions, emotional disturbance, trauma, and work related issues.
I invite you to schedule a free phone call for 15 minutes to answer your questions and concerns, discuss your insurance, and make a recommendation based on your needs. Whether you feel stuck, stressed, or unhappy for too long, I will assist you to identify your goals and figure out the way to change. I am a psychologist who speaks Chinese Mandarin and English in New York with more than 15 years of experience, I have the highest level of doctoral training to help people from different ethnic groups and LGBTQ+ community to overcome the challenges and live the best life possible.
(347) 542-8226 View (347) 542-8226

See more therapy options for Glen Oaks

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.