LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Jackson Heights, NY

Photo of Danushi Fernando, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Danushi Fernando
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jackson Heights, NY 11372  (Online Only)
Are you having trouble showing up as your most authentic self? Are you often worried of being revealed as an imposter? As your therapist, I would like to support you in your journey to wellness. You deserve to heal. You deserve to show up as your most honest and vibrant self in all spheres of your life. I specialize in working with college students, the LGBTQ+ community, couples navigating relationship issues, women and individuals navigating pregnancy and postpartum concerns, and adults processing their trauma histories.
Are you having trouble showing up as your most authentic self? Are you often worried of being revealed as an imposter? As your therapist, I would like to support you in your journey to wellness. You deserve to heal. You deserve to show up as your most honest and vibrant self in all spheres of your life. I specialize in working with college students, the LGBTQ+ community, couples navigating relationship issues, women and individuals navigating pregnancy and postpartum concerns, and adults processing their trauma histories.
(845) 244-5436 View (845) 244-5436
Photo of Nathan Dawson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nathan Dawson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jackson Heights, NY 11372  (Online Only)
Thank you for taking the time to care for yourself! It's can be a challenge to manage our mental health but it's so important as part of a fulfilling life. I believe change and healing occur in a warm, safe, therapeutic environment and I strive to provide you with just that. I have 6 years of experience with various populations, from children throughout adulthood in clinical and hospital settings, with a concentration in LGBTQ affirming care. I practice a blend of CBT, DBT and Mindfulness to help guide you to your very best self. I look forward to working with you!
Thank you for taking the time to care for yourself! It's can be a challenge to manage our mental health but it's so important as part of a fulfilling life. I believe change and healing occur in a warm, safe, therapeutic environment and I strive to provide you with just that. I have 6 years of experience with various populations, from children throughout adulthood in clinical and hospital settings, with a concentration in LGBTQ affirming care. I practice a blend of CBT, DBT and Mindfulness to help guide you to your very best self. I look forward to working with you!
(929) 498-5128 View (929) 498-5128
Photo of Jean Carlos Osorio - Minds Together, LCSW PC, LCSW-R, CDBT, SIFI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Minds Together, LCSW PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CDBT, SIFI
Verified Verified
Jackson Heights, NY 11372
Clinicians are specialized in Art therapy, Drug and Alcohol, LGBTQIA, Cognitive and Client-Center Therapy approach provided.
Minds Together, LCSW.PC. is a private group practice. Our mission is to improve our community one individual at a time through our culturally diverse and motivated clinicians with the hope that every person seeking treatment with us feels safe, empowered and most important treated as an individual and not as a patient. Minds Together, LCSW. P.C. offers a range of unique services in a safe and nonjudgmental setting for any one seeking therapy where their privacy and comfort is our number one priority. Locations: Astoria, Jackson Heights, and Forest Hills.
Clinicians are specialized in Art therapy, Drug and Alcohol, LGBTQIA, Cognitive and Client-Center Therapy approach provided.
Minds Together, LCSW.PC. is a private group practice. Our mission is to improve our community one individual at a time through our culturally diverse and motivated clinicians with the hope that every person seeking treatment with us feels safe, empowered and most important treated as an individual and not as a patient. Minds Together, LCSW. P.C. offers a range of unique services in a safe and nonjudgmental setting for any one seeking therapy where their privacy and comfort is our number one priority. Locations: Astoria, Jackson Heights, and Forest Hills.
(929) 205-5342 View (929) 205-5342
Photo of Jean Carlos Osorio - Minds Together, LCSWs.PC, LCSW, CDBT, SIFI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Minds Together, LCSWs.PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDBT, SIFI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jackson Heights, NY 11372
Clinicians are specialized in Art therapy, Drug and Alcohol, LGBTQIA, Cognitive and Client-Center Therapy approach provided.
SE HABLA ESPAÑOL. DUE TO COVID19, SESSIONS ARE VIA TELEHEALTH. OFFICE VISITS WITH SAFETY PROTOCOLS (NYS GUIDELINES). Minds Together, LCSW.PC. provides a safe and unique setting dedicated in improving one's mental and emotional health through our professional and compassionate staff. Our mission is to improve our community one individual at a time through our culturally diverse and motivated clinicians with the hope that every person seeking treatment with us feels safe, empowered and most important treated as an individual and not as a patient.
Clinicians are specialized in Art therapy, Drug and Alcohol, LGBTQIA, Cognitive and Client-Center Therapy approach provided.
SE HABLA ESPAÑOL. DUE TO COVID19, SESSIONS ARE VIA TELEHEALTH. OFFICE VISITS WITH SAFETY PROTOCOLS (NYS GUIDELINES). Minds Together, LCSW.PC. provides a safe and unique setting dedicated in improving one's mental and emotional health through our professional and compassionate staff. Our mission is to improve our community one individual at a time through our culturally diverse and motivated clinicians with the hope that every person seeking treatment with us feels safe, empowered and most important treated as an individual and not as a patient.
(347) 730-4249 View (347) 730-4249
Photo of Steven T. Licardi, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steven T. Licardi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jackson Heights, NY 11372
My approach is inclusive of (2S)LGBTQIA+ folx and is rooted in anti-racist practices that decolonize our bodies, minds, and spirits.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? Struggling with your emotions? Feeling lost in relationships? Looking to unlock or expand your creativity? Are you seeking a shame-free space to engage your curiosities and explore uncomfortable questions? With over a decade of experience on both sides of the couch, my holistic and empathetic practice will help you to develop new ways of thinking, feeling, relating to others, and being in the world. I work with my clients to co-create an environment of trust, honesty, and mutual accountability. I believe in the power of collective liberation and our innate ability to heal. Together.
My approach is inclusive of (2S)LGBTQIA+ folx and is rooted in anti-racist practices that decolonize our bodies, minds, and spirits.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? Struggling with your emotions? Feeling lost in relationships? Looking to unlock or expand your creativity? Are you seeking a shame-free space to engage your curiosities and explore uncomfortable questions? With over a decade of experience on both sides of the couch, my holistic and empathetic practice will help you to develop new ways of thinking, feeling, relating to others, and being in the world. I work with my clients to co-create an environment of trust, honesty, and mutual accountability. I believe in the power of collective liberation and our innate ability to heal. Together.
(718) 509-6632 View (718) 509-6632
Photo of Tate Benson, LMSW
Tate Benson
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Jackson Heights, NY 11372
I specialize in working with queer and trans people of color in transformational moments in your life that might promote feeling stuck that might manifest as anxiety, depression, and how different identities that we hold play a role influencing how grounded we feel in navigating through it all. I additionally have a deep history in working with queer and trans youth of color. I love finding creative ways to approach conversation, whether through music, art, or tv shows. Anything important for you to bring into the space will be welcome.
I specialize in working with queer and trans people of color in transformational moments in your life that might promote feeling stuck that might manifest as anxiety, depression, and how different identities that we hold play a role influencing how grounded we feel in navigating through it all. I additionally have a deep history in working with queer and trans youth of color. I love finding creative ways to approach conversation, whether through music, art, or tv shows. Anything important for you to bring into the space will be welcome.
(929) 368-5761 View (929) 368-5761
Photo of Jesse Berkowitz, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jesse Berkowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Jackson Heights, NY 11372  (Online Only)
I gladly work with all walks of life, and I am particularly passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
In my eyes, one of the most powerful aspects of therapy is the relationship that forms between the therapist and the client. The process of establishing a safe and supportive partnership makes room for us to collaborate on rewarding emotional work. My goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and supported along your journey of self-discovery, and to help you find resilience, authenticity, healing, and self-love. My approach begins with warmth and having an open-mind. I am here to help guide you towards the goals that you set for yourself.
I gladly work with all walks of life, and I am particularly passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
In my eyes, one of the most powerful aspects of therapy is the relationship that forms between the therapist and the client. The process of establishing a safe and supportive partnership makes room for us to collaborate on rewarding emotional work. My goal is to help you feel seen, heard, and supported along your journey of self-discovery, and to help you find resilience, authenticity, healing, and self-love. My approach begins with warmth and having an open-mind. I am here to help guide you towards the goals that you set for yourself.
(929) 209-6713 View (929) 209-6713
Photo of Nuna Eboe, MHCC, Intern, Coach, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nuna Eboe
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHCC, Intern, Coach
Verified Verified
Jackson Heights, NY 11372  (Online Only)
I am therapist-in-training & therapeutic coach, & prioritize the client/therapist relationship. You may be facing challenges like anxiety, depression, &/or navigating relationships & belong to a marginalized community—LGBTQIA+, immigrant/1st gen, sex worker, or in a non-traditional relationship—seeking a therapist who genuinely cares for & respects your unique experiences. Here you'll find a safe, affirming space where you can explore your identity, confront personal challenges, & work towards mental & emotional well-being. Beyond the pursuit of coping - to thrive, find empowerment, self-discovery, & self-awareness.
I am therapist-in-training & therapeutic coach, & prioritize the client/therapist relationship. You may be facing challenges like anxiety, depression, &/or navigating relationships & belong to a marginalized community—LGBTQIA+, immigrant/1st gen, sex worker, or in a non-traditional relationship—seeking a therapist who genuinely cares for & respects your unique experiences. Here you'll find a safe, affirming space where you can explore your identity, confront personal challenges, & work towards mental & emotional well-being. Beyond the pursuit of coping - to thrive, find empowerment, self-discovery, & self-awareness.
(718) 550-4193 View (718) 550-4193
Photo of Dr. Thandika Brown, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Thandika Brown
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson Heights, NY 11372  (Online Only)
I often work with older adolescents, adults, professionals, people of color, immigrants, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Psychotherapy is a transformative experience that empowers you to explore your inner self in an affirming and nonjudgmental environment. This collaborative process involves us working together to navigate challenges and foster personal growth in a way that is uniquely tailored to your needs. I will accompany you on a journey of deep introspection into your thoughts and emotions, aiming to enhance your understanding of yourself, your patterns, and your potential for positive change. Ultimately, psychotherapy is a powerful tool for navigating life's complexities, fostering empowerment, and facilitating genuine, lasting transformation.
I often work with older adolescents, adults, professionals, people of color, immigrants, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Psychotherapy is a transformative experience that empowers you to explore your inner self in an affirming and nonjudgmental environment. This collaborative process involves us working together to navigate challenges and foster personal growth in a way that is uniquely tailored to your needs. I will accompany you on a journey of deep introspection into your thoughts and emotions, aiming to enhance your understanding of yourself, your patterns, and your potential for positive change. Ultimately, psychotherapy is a powerful tool for navigating life's complexities, fostering empowerment, and facilitating genuine, lasting transformation.
View
Photo of Azaadi Khan - Azaadi Khan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Azaadi Khan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson Heights, NY 11372
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ folks, folks of color, migrants, survivors of sexual violence and relationships in which there are cultural and/or racial differences.
I believe when we're given the right kind of support we're able to thrive despite the challenges we may face. I am a seasoned professional who can help you navigate barriers, work through past trauma, connect with your authentic inner voice, improve your relationships, and build the kind of life that brings you joy and sustenance. Sometimes change is difficult to even imagine. Once imagined, it can still be incredibly hard to pursue. I will honor whatever brought you here and together we can find a path forward.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ folks, folks of color, migrants, survivors of sexual violence and relationships in which there are cultural and/or racial differences.
I believe when we're given the right kind of support we're able to thrive despite the challenges we may face. I am a seasoned professional who can help you navigate barriers, work through past trauma, connect with your authentic inner voice, improve your relationships, and build the kind of life that brings you joy and sustenance. Sometimes change is difficult to even imagine. Once imagined, it can still be incredibly hard to pursue. I will honor whatever brought you here and together we can find a path forward.
(718) 568-7127 View (718) 568-7127
Photo of Nicole Sanchez, LCSW, MSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Jackson Heights, NY 11372  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing integrated EMDR to LGBTQ+ youth and adults, who are struggling with complex trauma and feeling disturbed by painful past experiences. They most often feel like they are a burden, incompetent or often find themselves endlessly ruminating over worst case scenarios. Therapy is initiated when they realize that they are ready to stop spiraling and begin experiencing a sense of grounding and connection. There has been an acknowledgement that they do not have to stay stuck. Their desire to feel confident, secure, and live authentically outweighs the fear to work through their pain.
I specialize in providing integrated EMDR to LGBTQ+ youth and adults, who are struggling with complex trauma and feeling disturbed by painful past experiences. They most often feel like they are a burden, incompetent or often find themselves endlessly ruminating over worst case scenarios. Therapy is initiated when they realize that they are ready to stop spiraling and begin experiencing a sense of grounding and connection. There has been an acknowledgement that they do not have to stay stuck. Their desire to feel confident, secure, and live authentically outweighs the fear to work through their pain.
(646) 762-9341 View (646) 762-9341
Photo of Yi Zhou, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yi Zhou
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jackson Heights, NY 11372  (Online Only)
In my practice, I play a crucial role in helping clients navigate the complexities of mental health challenges and various life transitions. Specializing in gender dysphoria and the intricate processes of transition, I provide dedicated support to individuals navigating these unique journeys. In recognizing the diversity of human relationships, I work with clients across various relationship forms, including those engaged in non-monogamous dynamics. My goal is to assist individuals, couples and families in achieving a greater sense of unity and satisfaction in their lives.
In my practice, I play a crucial role in helping clients navigate the complexities of mental health challenges and various life transitions. Specializing in gender dysphoria and the intricate processes of transition, I provide dedicated support to individuals navigating these unique journeys. In recognizing the diversity of human relationships, I work with clients across various relationship forms, including those engaged in non-monogamous dynamics. My goal is to assist individuals, couples and families in achieving a greater sense of unity and satisfaction in their lives.
(646) 751-0647 View (646) 751-0647
Photo of Samantha Bennahum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Bennahum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Jackson Heights, NY 11372
The impact that a life-changing diagnosis can have on individuals and their families can be profound. It can feel like a betrayal when our bodies don’t allow us to live our lives the way we expect, impacting our relationships, careers, and hopes. How can we move forward in life when it feels like our bodies are holding us back? How do we grieve our hopes and dreams while trying to fully understand how they are affected by our new circumstances? How do we do all of this while trying to navigate a medical system that often leaves us feeling unheard and unseen?
The impact that a life-changing diagnosis can have on individuals and their families can be profound. It can feel like a betrayal when our bodies don’t allow us to live our lives the way we expect, impacting our relationships, careers, and hopes. How can we move forward in life when it feels like our bodies are holding us back? How do we grieve our hopes and dreams while trying to fully understand how they are affected by our new circumstances? How do we do all of this while trying to navigate a medical system that often leaves us feeling unheard and unseen?
(347) 897-0548 View (347) 897-0548
Photo of Patricio Destvet, LMHC, Counselor
Patricio Destvet
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jackson Heights, NY 11372
IN-OFFICE SERVICES BACK Our Center is a Community Based Facility oriented to serve families and individuals. Our Director, Patricio Destvet, has over twenty years providing services for our community. We provide treatment for depression, anxiety, panic attacks, chronic illness, domestic violence, and family problems. We also treat children with school problems, ADHD/ADD, ODD, learning, and behavior problems. In the case of children and adolescents, we always provide parenting counseling. We do provide services to couples or families. Hours Monday to Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 9 am to 5 pm Sunday 9:30 am to 6 pm
IN-OFFICE SERVICES BACK Our Center is a Community Based Facility oriented to serve families and individuals. Our Director, Patricio Destvet, has over twenty years providing services for our community. We provide treatment for depression, anxiety, panic attacks, chronic illness, domestic violence, and family problems. We also treat children with school problems, ADHD/ADD, ODD, learning, and behavior problems. In the case of children and adolescents, we always provide parenting counseling. We do provide services to couples or families. Hours Monday to Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 9 am to 5 pm Sunday 9:30 am to 6 pm
(347) 682-3983 View (347) 682-3983
Photo of Rohan Francis, LMHC, Counselor
Rohan Francis
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jackson Heights, NY 11372  (Online Only)
Are you feeling anxious or overwhelmed? Stressed or defeated? Life seems complex in new and insurmountable ways these days. Many people struggle to find answers to problems they were never prepared for. I know it’s hard to acknowledge that we don’t know what to do. I understand the weight of asking yourself “Where do I go from here?” I support my clients by providing clarity on how their behavior and unresolved issues affect them in their daily lives. I help my clients slow down and understand what's going on cognitively and physically so that we can break cycles and create new strategies to start finishing unfinished business.
Are you feeling anxious or overwhelmed? Stressed or defeated? Life seems complex in new and insurmountable ways these days. Many people struggle to find answers to problems they were never prepared for. I know it’s hard to acknowledge that we don’t know what to do. I understand the weight of asking yourself “Where do I go from here?” I support my clients by providing clarity on how their behavior and unresolved issues affect them in their daily lives. I help my clients slow down and understand what's going on cognitively and physically so that we can break cycles and create new strategies to start finishing unfinished business.
(347) 572-7038 View (347) 572-7038
Photo of Kayla Elder, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla Elder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jackson Heights, NY 11372
My name is Kayla Elder and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of NY. I like to take a client-centered, eclectic approach to therapy and I believe people should be in the drivers seat of their own wellness. My focus areas include working with those who suffer from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and ADHD. I tend to work with adult individuals who suffer from anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and ADHD.
My name is Kayla Elder and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of NY. I like to take a client-centered, eclectic approach to therapy and I believe people should be in the drivers seat of their own wellness. My focus areas include working with those who suffer from anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and ADHD. I tend to work with adult individuals who suffer from anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and ADHD.
(646) 845-7814 View (646) 845-7814
Photo of Afshan Rezwi, LMHC,  , Counselor
Afshan Rezwi
Counselor, LMHC,
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson Heights, NY 11372  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome. There is tremendous potential in human potential of self-growth and positive reformation. I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be difficult, but it is a brave and important step towards improving your well-being and psychotherapy is an amazing tool that caters to that. Through therapy and small insightful 'aha' moments, one gains self-awareness that helps make gradual and meaningful changes, to live holistically. My work entails a journey of self discover and self love, aiming towards building a healthier inner core. In the process there is so much to learn from one another.
Hello and welcome. There is tremendous potential in human potential of self-growth and positive reformation. I understand that seeking help for mental health concerns can be difficult, but it is a brave and important step towards improving your well-being and psychotherapy is an amazing tool that caters to that. Through therapy and small insightful 'aha' moments, one gains self-awareness that helps make gradual and meaningful changes, to live holistically. My work entails a journey of self discover and self love, aiming towards building a healthier inner core. In the process there is so much to learn from one another.
(917) 920-2570 View (917) 920-2570
Photo of Patricio Destvet - A Center at Western Queens, LMHC, MA, Counselor
A Center at Western Queens
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson Heights, NY 11372
Our Center is a Community Based Facility oriented to serve families and individuals. Our Director, Patricio Destvet, has over twenty years providing services for our community. We provide treatment for depression, anxiety, panic attacks, chronic illness,domestic violence, and family problems. We also treat children with school problems, ADHD/ADD, ODD,learning and behavior problems. In the case of children and adolescents, we always provide parenting counseling. We do provide services to couples or families. Hours Monday to Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 9 am to 5 pm Sunday 9:30 am to 6 pm
Our Center is a Community Based Facility oriented to serve families and individuals. Our Director, Patricio Destvet, has over twenty years providing services for our community. We provide treatment for depression, anxiety, panic attacks, chronic illness,domestic violence, and family problems. We also treat children with school problems, ADHD/ADD, ODD,learning and behavior problems. In the case of children and adolescents, we always provide parenting counseling. We do provide services to couples or families. Hours Monday to Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 9 am to 5 pm Sunday 9:30 am to 6 pm
(718) 569-7388 View (718) 569-7388
Photo of Dr. René Gilberto Vázquez del Valle, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. René Gilberto Vázquez del Valle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jackson Heights, NY 11372  (Online Only)
My ideal client is a person who wants to succeed in life, by becoming aware of their mind, body and spirit interactions and how to utilize this awareness in their intimate relationships. Their issues can be improving their self esteem, overcoming past traumas, and developing their emotional, intellectual and sexual connections with others. If you strive to have better relationships and/or safeguard your current relationship, I can offer you the understanding and techniques of how to do so. I can do this without years of therapy, in a short term focused way that addresses how to overcome struggles fast and effectively.
My ideal client is a person who wants to succeed in life, by becoming aware of their mind, body and spirit interactions and how to utilize this awareness in their intimate relationships. Their issues can be improving their self esteem, overcoming past traumas, and developing their emotional, intellectual and sexual connections with others. If you strive to have better relationships and/or safeguard your current relationship, I can offer you the understanding and techniques of how to do so. I can do this without years of therapy, in a short term focused way that addresses how to overcome struggles fast and effectively.
(631) 502-4845 View (631) 502-4845
Photo of Amina Nikocevic, MA, LMHC
Amina Nikocevic
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jackson Heights, NY 11372  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling confused, lost, or misunderstood in a world where the only constant is change? Are you having trouble opening up to the people around you out of fear of judgment? Asking for help can be difficult, but therapy can serve as the first step toward taking back your autonomy. Sometimes, to get what we need, we rely on the skills that have, out of habit, come to be like second nature. Our ability to get what we need does not always equate to using healthy mechanisms to do so. Together we can identify different aspects of your identity in order to replace any negative coping strategies.
Do you find yourself feeling confused, lost, or misunderstood in a world where the only constant is change? Are you having trouble opening up to the people around you out of fear of judgment? Asking for help can be difficult, but therapy can serve as the first step toward taking back your autonomy. Sometimes, to get what we need, we rely on the skills that have, out of habit, come to be like second nature. Our ability to get what we need does not always equate to using healthy mechanisms to do so. Together we can identify different aspects of your identity in order to replace any negative coping strategies.
(718) 514-6148 View (718) 514-6148
1

See more therapy options for Jackson Heights

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.