LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Howard Beach, NY
![Photo of Gianna Moglia, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14721312-a1eb-4b96-95f8-306a6c4ccd38/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gianna Moglia
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Howard Beach, NY 11414 (Online Only)
Life is hard, but asking for help? That's harder. If you've stumbled across my profile, I want to congratulate you on taking the first step to finding a healthier you. My goal is to collaborate with you on your goals, create a safe space for healing, utilizing humor and laughter, and ensuring I have an environment that allows for full transparency throughout your therapeutic journey.
Life is hard, but asking for help? That's harder. If you've stumbled across my profile, I want to congratulate you on taking the first step to finding a healthier you. My goal is to collaborate with you on your goals, create a safe space for healing, utilizing humor and laughter, and ensuring I have an environment that allows for full transparency throughout your therapeutic journey.
![Photo of Ron Villano - Family & Personal Counseling, MS, LMHC, ASAC, CCH](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc6e4345-21c1-4ee9-a48e-672a54594d83/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Ronald Villano - Family and Personal Counseling, MS, LMHC, ASAC, CCH, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50df7c2f-69e5-4ac0-84d5-b98a7e99865a/1/320x400.png)
Family and Personal Counseling
Counselor, MS, LMHC, ASAC, CCH
Verified Verified
Howard Beach, NY 11414
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.
![Photo of Lillian Medina - New Era Court Liaison & Advocacy Program, LMSW, CASAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49627161-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
New Era Court Liaison & Advocacy Program
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LMSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
Howard Beach, NY 11414
I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Master Social Worker, Psychotherapist and a Substance Abuse Counselor for over 10 years of experience. I have had work with different populations. I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents and adults. I use an integrative and advanced approach combining techniques from various orientations including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Theory, Family Systems Theory and Play therapy. I have also work for Defense Attorneys, NY Courts, NY State parole and District Attorney's office. we provide DWI Assessment, Anger Management and Parenting.
I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Master Social Worker, Psychotherapist and a Substance Abuse Counselor for over 10 years of experience. I have had work with different populations. I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents and adults. I use an integrative and advanced approach combining techniques from various orientations including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Theory, Family Systems Theory and Play therapy. I have also work for Defense Attorneys, NY Courts, NY State parole and District Attorney's office. we provide DWI Assessment, Anger Management and Parenting.
![Photo of Hena Ali-Bernard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0cdd0857-8b94-4f63-ab3a-27bef89770ff/1/320x400.png)
Life can be overwhelming and it can cause us to feel less confident, find things more challenging, or just have us feeling down. It is important when seeking a therapist to find someone you can develop a trusting, judgment free relationship with. I provide a supportive, safe, empathetic, and understanding space. We will have a partnership in your treatment because you are the expert in your life. I am just here to advance your self growth using your strengths and insight.
Life can be overwhelming and it can cause us to feel less confident, find things more challenging, or just have us feeling down. It is important when seeking a therapist to find someone you can develop a trusting, judgment free relationship with. I provide a supportive, safe, empathetic, and understanding space. We will have a partnership in your treatment because you are the expert in your life. I am just here to advance your self growth using your strengths and insight.
![Photo of Dr. James J Colangelo, PsyD, LMHC, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c263f85-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. James J Colangelo
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMHC, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Howard Beach, NY 11414 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Life's difficulties can be overwhelming at times. Reaching out for help is a courageous (positive) first step. I have over 39 years experience as a psychotherapist specializing in marriage and couples therapy, sex therapy, and mental health counseling, working with individuals, and couples. Blame is counter therapeutic and it is not allowed to become a focus of attention in treatment. Rather, emphasis is placed on developing strengths to overcome or manage problems more effectively. A main goal of therapy is helping people identify and access their strengths, as well as empowering them to lead more satisfying and healthier lives.
Life's difficulties can be overwhelming at times. Reaching out for help is a courageous (positive) first step. I have over 39 years experience as a psychotherapist specializing in marriage and couples therapy, sex therapy, and mental health counseling, working with individuals, and couples. Blame is counter therapeutic and it is not allowed to become a focus of attention in treatment. Rather, emphasis is placed on developing strengths to overcome or manage problems more effectively. A main goal of therapy is helping people identify and access their strengths, as well as empowering them to lead more satisfying and healthier lives.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Jessica Hardial, MA, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc102554-92c6-4e0b-b38b-d3ed12309a4f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Hardial
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jamaica, NY 11421
I am a proud queer Latina.
Are you someone who is coming to terms with your identity? A person struggling with anxiety, trauma or coming out? Someone looking for an inclusive safe space where you can finally be honest and begin healing? If you are looking for a Queer Latina to provide you with support and healing from those challenges in life, you found her. I am passionate about my work with BIPOC individuals, LGBTQIA+ community members and those in non-monogamous relationships.
I am a proud queer Latina.
Are you someone who is coming to terms with your identity? A person struggling with anxiety, trauma or coming out? Someone looking for an inclusive safe space where you can finally be honest and begin healing? If you are looking for a Queer Latina to provide you with support and healing from those challenges in life, you found her. I am passionate about my work with BIPOC individuals, LGBTQIA+ community members and those in non-monogamous relationships.
![Photo of Nicholas Hakimi](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/494961fb-1e9c-4683-aec5-801a1324e32f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicholas Hakimi
Licensed Master Social Worker
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11207 (Online Only)
Hi, my name’s Nicholas (he/they), and I’m a Latinx, Middle Eastern, Jewish, and queer psychotherapist in NYC. My multicultural upbringing, experiences with immigration, and growing up in a low-income household have not only inspired me to help people who are marginalized because of how they identify, but also those who experience systematic violence. Through diverse lived and clinical experiences, I'm able to help you discover your inner thoughts surrounding identities, relationships, and social issues that affect how you show up in the world.
Hi, my name’s Nicholas (he/they), and I’m a Latinx, Middle Eastern, Jewish, and queer psychotherapist in NYC. My multicultural upbringing, experiences with immigration, and growing up in a low-income household have not only inspired me to help people who are marginalized because of how they identify, but also those who experience systematic violence. Through diverse lived and clinical experiences, I'm able to help you discover your inner thoughts surrounding identities, relationships, and social issues that affect how you show up in the world.
![Photo of Lewis Elliott, MHC-LP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/776e32ef-08f0-4bf3-b980-c132a4eff7c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have a specific concentration on ADHD, anxiety/stress-related concerns, & LGBTQIA+ needs.
Hello and welcome! I'm Lewis and I am a clinical mental health counselor. I provide an encouraging and diverse approach with evidence-based treatment options that cater to various individuals and situations. Whether you're looking to heal from past trauma, navigating a challenging life phase, or a parent seeking support for your child's success in school and personal growth – I'm here for you! I am educated in addressing issues like anxiety, depression, adult ADHD-related challenges, as well as gender and sexuality counseling.
I have a specific concentration on ADHD, anxiety/stress-related concerns, & LGBTQIA+ needs.
Hello and welcome! I'm Lewis and I am a clinical mental health counselor. I provide an encouraging and diverse approach with evidence-based treatment options that cater to various individuals and situations. Whether you're looking to heal from past trauma, navigating a challenging life phase, or a parent seeking support for your child's success in school and personal growth – I'm here for you! I am educated in addressing issues like anxiety, depression, adult ADHD-related challenges, as well as gender and sexuality counseling.
![Photo of Bernie A Crowl, LMHC, CTP, CDBT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80458c2a-7797-4e34-bf8a-63df20a807f1/3/320x400.jpeg)
As an active member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I understand from a personal perspective the struggles that many people in this population face at home and in society.
Are you finding yourself constantly overwhelmed by anxiety? Are the symptoms of your lingering anxiety impacting the quality of your life? I know exactly what you are experiencing: the pounding chest, tightened muscles, clenched jaw, and on/off cold sweats. People often suffer from anxiety for many years without seeking treatment. I believe that holistic and evidence based practices can reduce anxiety and panic, and I look forward to teaching you tools to help take your life back. I also work with LGBTQ couples who are struggling with a variety of concerns like sexual/intimacy issues, communication, codependency, and infidelity.
As an active member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I understand from a personal perspective the struggles that many people in this population face at home and in society.
Are you finding yourself constantly overwhelmed by anxiety? Are the symptoms of your lingering anxiety impacting the quality of your life? I know exactly what you are experiencing: the pounding chest, tightened muscles, clenched jaw, and on/off cold sweats. People often suffer from anxiety for many years without seeking treatment. I believe that holistic and evidence based practices can reduce anxiety and panic, and I look forward to teaching you tools to help take your life back. I also work with LGBTQ couples who are struggling with a variety of concerns like sexual/intimacy issues, communication, codependency, and infidelity.
![Photo of Miranda R. Deebrah, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78bdf4ff-0c40-49c3-8c1e-4ec0aad1d587/1/320x400.jpeg)
Miranda R. Deebrah
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
South Richmond Hill, NY 11419 (Online Only)
I am experienced in working with survivors of DV/IPV and sexual abuse, immigrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, neurodivergent individuals, and people from all cultural backgrounds across NYC.
My hope is to provide a gentle and affirming therapeutic space where those I work with can be their most free and authentic selves. Using a trauma-informed lens and culturally sensitive methods and modalities, I offer a safe environment in which others can feel wholly supported as they tap into their natural gifts and skills to meet their unique needs, navigate life stressors and challenges, and find healing within themselves. I am very client-led as I believe each person is the expert of their own life. The relationship we build is sacred and I honor the identities and experiences each individual bring with them into the room.
I am experienced in working with survivors of DV/IPV and sexual abuse, immigrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, neurodivergent individuals, and people from all cultural backgrounds across NYC.
My hope is to provide a gentle and affirming therapeutic space where those I work with can be their most free and authentic selves. Using a trauma-informed lens and culturally sensitive methods and modalities, I offer a safe environment in which others can feel wholly supported as they tap into their natural gifts and skills to meet their unique needs, navigate life stressors and challenges, and find healing within themselves. I am very client-led as I believe each person is the expert of their own life. The relationship we build is sacred and I honor the identities and experiences each individual bring with them into the room.
![Photo of Kathalina Rivas, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/977a406a-7aa0-4854-abb2-dea536821bf0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathalina Rivas
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Jamaica, NY 11419 (Online Only)
Do you need a space where you can speak your truth, even if you don't know where to start? Hi, my name is Kat. I welcome and join you on this journey of self-discovery in an affirming and supportive environment to be your authentic self. I am passionate about my work with BIPOC, Latinx, and LGBTQ+ communities with a history of anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, criminal justice involvement, and life transitions. There is beauty in our struggle and strength in our lived experiences. Healing flows differently in all of us.
Do you need a space where you can speak your truth, even if you don't know where to start? Hi, my name is Kat. I welcome and join you on this journey of self-discovery in an affirming and supportive environment to be your authentic self. I am passionate about my work with BIPOC, Latinx, and LGBTQ+ communities with a history of anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, criminal justice involvement, and life transitions. There is beauty in our struggle and strength in our lived experiences. Healing flows differently in all of us.
![Photo of Hillary Hernandez, MHC-LP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/402b24f4-79b9-4874-8aaf-1d26e228210c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you interested in developing skills to enhance self-care and effectively navigate and heal from trauma? As a Hispanic therapist, I specialize in applying Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help individuals from diverse backgrounds, including BIPOC and LGBTQIA communities, overcome mental and emotional challenges.
Are you interested in developing skills to enhance self-care and effectively navigate and heal from trauma? As a Hispanic therapist, I specialize in applying Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help individuals from diverse backgrounds, including BIPOC and LGBTQIA communities, overcome mental and emotional challenges.
![Photo of Darrlyn Moorer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1ab46d9-1675-4b9f-b6ea-bfa1091d348b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Darrlyn Moorer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jamaica, NY 11420 (Online Only)
I’m a native New Yorker passionate about serving the needs of my community. I view the relationship between the clinician and client as a collaboration; I want my clients to truly feel like they are a part of the therapeutic process and are in charge of their counseling experience. I have a broad range of clinical experience in the child welfare, family homelessness and healthcare fields, and have worked with adults, children and families. I also have an extensive background of providing support to diverse groups of people including but not limited to those who identified as BIPOC and/or LGBTQIA+.
I’m a native New Yorker passionate about serving the needs of my community. I view the relationship between the clinician and client as a collaboration; I want my clients to truly feel like they are a part of the therapeutic process and are in charge of their counseling experience. I have a broad range of clinical experience in the child welfare, family homelessness and healthcare fields, and have worked with adults, children and families. I also have an extensive background of providing support to diverse groups of people including but not limited to those who identified as BIPOC and/or LGBTQIA+.
![Photo of Olivia Clavie, MA, MHC-LP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a10780e0-9fd2-4745-9297-6886676d8aa9/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Nadira Jackson, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58eb39fe-6593-4280-8b37-2609a6816d08/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nadira Jackson
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11236 (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.
![Photo of Marcus Jones, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac736874-e4fb-41ff-8599-43e47599fbce/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marcus Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Ozone Park, NY 11420 (Online Only)
I work with a diverse client base of various cultures, races, ethnicities, gender identities - including the LGBTQ + Community.
Clients would describe me as a warm, supportive and a great listener. I work with people on helping them develop a positive, self-accepting, and holistic love of themselves. I have in-depth experience working with people who are encountering grief and bereavement, and this has evolved into my certification in palliative care. I'm a licensed psychotherapist and PhD candidate in social work. This combination allow me to explore the difficulties in life with intellectual curiosity and compassionate to create approaches for clients that are hurting and seeking therapy as this time.
I work with a diverse client base of various cultures, races, ethnicities, gender identities - including the LGBTQ + Community.
Clients would describe me as a warm, supportive and a great listener. I work with people on helping them develop a positive, self-accepting, and holistic love of themselves. I have in-depth experience working with people who are encountering grief and bereavement, and this has evolved into my certification in palliative care. I'm a licensed psychotherapist and PhD candidate in social work. This combination allow me to explore the difficulties in life with intellectual curiosity and compassionate to create approaches for clients that are hurting and seeking therapy as this time.
![Photo of Lisa Gladden, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/871f197e-512c-4e2a-ad98-99ce414d9a1d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Great News! You’ve made it. Way to go. Life can be so changing and demanding. Dealing with everyday stressors can get us down. However, I am here to help support you on your journey to healing and recovery. I have been working in the Social Service field for over 20 plus years. I have dealt with homelessness, domestic violence, adolescents, LGBTQIA+, mental health, sexual abuse, substance abuse and the criminal justice system. I am a therapist with my MSW under the supervision of Amira Crawford, LCSW at Amira For Her, a group practice dedicated to supporting BIPOC with their mental health.
Great News! You’ve made it. Way to go. Life can be so changing and demanding. Dealing with everyday stressors can get us down. However, I am here to help support you on your journey to healing and recovery. I have been working in the Social Service field for over 20 plus years. I have dealt with homelessness, domestic violence, adolescents, LGBTQIA+, mental health, sexual abuse, substance abuse and the criminal justice system. I am a therapist with my MSW under the supervision of Amira Crawford, LCSW at Amira For Her, a group practice dedicated to supporting BIPOC with their mental health.
![Photo of Megan Fitzgerald, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf033c2f-2ce4-41ec-b9c5-b92f8fb90407/2/320x400.jpeg)
She treats a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, grief, life transition, relationship issues, self-esteem problems, sleep disorders, stress, trauma, women’s issues, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Megan Fitzgerald is a licensed mental health counselor. Megan approaches each patient with respect, empathy, and an open mind to hold space and assist them through life’s difficulties. Megan believes the patient is truly the expert of their own experience. She hopes to create a space where patients feel free to express themselves and work on improving their lives. During sessions with Megan, patients can expect her to be a non-judgmental ally. Her goal is to engage with her patients and provide the support they need to improve their lives.
She treats a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, grief, life transition, relationship issues, self-esteem problems, sleep disorders, stress, trauma, women’s issues, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Megan Fitzgerald is a licensed mental health counselor. Megan approaches each patient with respect, empathy, and an open mind to hold space and assist them through life’s difficulties. Megan believes the patient is truly the expert of their own experience. She hopes to create a space where patients feel free to express themselves and work on improving their lives. During sessions with Megan, patients can expect her to be a non-judgmental ally. Her goal is to engage with her patients and provide the support they need to improve their lives.
![Photo of Lee Delegard, MHC-LP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/413d5eb6-93e5-4cef-9600-3614fb17529a/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a nonbinary/Queer member of the community myself, I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ population.
As a therapist I draw from cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems, mindfulness, and yoga. Inspired by my own yoga practice I take a holistic approach, striving to integrate the body into talk therapy. I find exploration of somatic experiences to be a doorway into understanding how emotions are stored in, and processed through, the body, mind, and spirit. In sessions I endeavor to create a trauma informed collaborative environment of mutual trust and safety. I follow the lead of the client, believing that the client is the expert of their own experiences.
As a nonbinary/Queer member of the community myself, I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ population.
As a therapist I draw from cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems, mindfulness, and yoga. Inspired by my own yoga practice I take a holistic approach, striving to integrate the body into talk therapy. I find exploration of somatic experiences to be a doorway into understanding how emotions are stored in, and processed through, the body, mind, and spirit. In sessions I endeavor to create a trauma informed collaborative environment of mutual trust and safety. I follow the lead of the client, believing that the client is the expert of their own experiences.
See more therapy options for Howard Beach
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Howard Beach
- Forest Hills
- Glendale
- Jamaica
- Kew Gardens
- Maspeth
- Middle Village
- Ozone Park
- Rego Park
- Ridgewood
- Rockaway Beach
- South Richmond Hill
- Springfield Gardens
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.