LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Ridgewood, NY
![Photo of Cathy Becker, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8a1dc89-c136-4414-8234-0a00b61471a1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide an affirming space LGBTQ+ individuals.
I believe healing happens through relationships. When we can share all parts of ourselves with another and be truly seen. Witnessed. Understood. The messy, the dark, the confusing and the seemingly unlovable. All parts of you are welcome here. You’re invited to bring your whole self to each session where you will be seen, heard, and validated. From a place of openness and curiosity, I provide a warm and affirming space for you to heal and grow. You don’t have to do it alone, I would be honored and humbled to join you.
I provide an affirming space LGBTQ+ individuals.
I believe healing happens through relationships. When we can share all parts of ourselves with another and be truly seen. Witnessed. Understood. The messy, the dark, the confusing and the seemingly unlovable. All parts of you are welcome here. You’re invited to bring your whole self to each session where you will be seen, heard, and validated. From a place of openness and curiosity, I provide a warm and affirming space for you to heal and grow. You don’t have to do it alone, I would be honored and humbled to join you.
![Photo of Alex Cristina-Garcia (Sobieraj), LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02e90457-1676-4c46-98d6-006b446dbf5b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alex Cristina-Garcia (Sobieraj)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NY 11385 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer a nonjudgmental, empathic, and genuine approach with all of my clients. I bring empathy into every interaction I have with every person & I operate from a radical, social justice, abolitionist, anti-oppressive perspective. I incorporate the Liberation Health Framework into my work, paying close attention to how oppression/systems affect everyone's experiences moving through the world. My identity as a queer mixed race woman of color strongly influences my practice and work with clients. I have experience working with QTPOC communities, disenfranchised & marginalized identities, and folks navigating mental health challenges.
I offer a nonjudgmental, empathic, and genuine approach with all of my clients. I bring empathy into every interaction I have with every person & I operate from a radical, social justice, abolitionist, anti-oppressive perspective. I incorporate the Liberation Health Framework into my work, paying close attention to how oppression/systems affect everyone's experiences moving through the world. My identity as a queer mixed race woman of color strongly influences my practice and work with clients. I have experience working with QTPOC communities, disenfranchised & marginalized identities, and folks navigating mental health challenges.
![Photo of Emily Brunsten, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b82db0e-2d78-4f67-b08b-c4548f9451e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I also have specific expertise in supporting queer and trans-identified clients, as well as young adults navigating the process of acclimating to our challenging world.
I approach the therapeutic process with reverence, openness, curiosity, and a desire to understand your unique experience. My goal is to provide a warm, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and deepen your knowledge of yourself. I believe in the importance of cultural competency and responsiveness: I understand that your identity, your relationships, and your lived experiences provide meaning and context to your inner world. Let's be curious together as we figure out what contributes to and amplifies the challenges in your life, and explore ways to uncover your healthy self.
I also have specific expertise in supporting queer and trans-identified clients, as well as young adults navigating the process of acclimating to our challenging world.
I approach the therapeutic process with reverence, openness, curiosity, and a desire to understand your unique experience. My goal is to provide a warm, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and deepen your knowledge of yourself. I believe in the importance of cultural competency and responsiveness: I understand that your identity, your relationships, and your lived experiences provide meaning and context to your inner world. Let's be curious together as we figure out what contributes to and amplifies the challenges in your life, and explore ways to uncover your healthy self.
![Photo of Lauren Ann Urban, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85aca175-460e-4794-ad66-41931fd18898/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community and with clients in recovery or considering recovery for drug and alcohol use.
I believe that you are the architect and the builder of the life you want, and I want to be there to support you in that. I believe that you are more than your current struggles and more than a diagnosis. I believe that every person has the right to grow into the fullest, most expansive version of themself, and that it's never too late to start. I believe that every person has the innate capacity to create whatever lasting changes that they seek, and is deserving of the support they need to do so.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community and with clients in recovery or considering recovery for drug and alcohol use.
I believe that you are the architect and the builder of the life you want, and I want to be there to support you in that. I believe that you are more than your current struggles and more than a diagnosis. I believe that every person has the right to grow into the fullest, most expansive version of themself, and that it's never too late to start. I believe that every person has the innate capacity to create whatever lasting changes that they seek, and is deserving of the support they need to do so.
![Photo of Eleni Vradi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85f96e89-3f1b-4dbb-8444-fc43d56af8d6/2/320x400.jpeg)
My work is primarily with folks from immigrant, LGBTQ+ and activist communities.
I offer individual psychotherapy for adults in Queens, NY and online. In my collaborative work with clients I help people gain more insight in themselves and their relationships, examine the role of the past into the present and bring attention and curiosity to different parts of themselves in order to help them feel empowered to create the changes they want to make. I also use Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), a powerful technique for reprocessing trauma if needed.
My work is primarily with folks from immigrant, LGBTQ+ and activist communities.
I offer individual psychotherapy for adults in Queens, NY and online. In my collaborative work with clients I help people gain more insight in themselves and their relationships, examine the role of the past into the present and bring attention and curiosity to different parts of themselves in order to help them feel empowered to create the changes they want to make. I also use Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), a powerful technique for reprocessing trauma if needed.
![Photo of H. C. Cristina, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52cb16fd-ff48-4bd6-b7cb-ebdffb6f830e/1/320x400.jpeg)
H. C. Cristina
LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NY 11385 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Working with LGBTQ/GNC clients, especially clients of color, is what I've always been passionate about. As a queer, trans-masculine, Black clinician, I am dedicated to not only working with the communities that mirror my own marginalized identities, but also those who fall within, between, and among populations facing oppression and discrimination. Clients are often in the throes of identify formation, large life changes, processing trauma, and navigating difficult relational dynamics, leading to the desire to be seen and heard. To be human is to experience pain, but within that pain is a vast space to learn, process, and heal.
Working with LGBTQ/GNC clients, especially clients of color, is what I've always been passionate about. As a queer, trans-masculine, Black clinician, I am dedicated to not only working with the communities that mirror my own marginalized identities, but also those who fall within, between, and among populations facing oppression and discrimination. Clients are often in the throes of identify formation, large life changes, processing trauma, and navigating difficult relational dynamics, leading to the desire to be seen and heard. To be human is to experience pain, but within that pain is a vast space to learn, process, and heal.
![Photo of Jenna Hartom, MPS, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4139e944-6c3e-4e9d-ac63-b2aa7be12b05/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Hartom
Art Therapist, MPS, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NY 11385 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
By creating an empathic, culturally sensitive, LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapeutic space, I will help you feel supported as you find and follow your own path.
Sometimes the best thing you can give yourself is the chance to be heard, tell your story and share your experience. In the current climate it may be especially hard for you to find the support you need. Maybe you have experienced trauma that seems to affect your work or relationships. Daily stressors can compound and impact your wellbeing, leaving you feeling distressed, anxious, irritable, depressed or overwhelmed. I aim to help you gain new awareness about your feelings and how they relate to current challenges or past experiences, leading to a sense of relief, improved self-acceptance and even curiosity and excitement.
By creating an empathic, culturally sensitive, LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapeutic space, I will help you feel supported as you find and follow your own path.
Sometimes the best thing you can give yourself is the chance to be heard, tell your story and share your experience. In the current climate it may be especially hard for you to find the support you need. Maybe you have experienced trauma that seems to affect your work or relationships. Daily stressors can compound and impact your wellbeing, leaving you feeling distressed, anxious, irritable, depressed or overwhelmed. I aim to help you gain new awareness about your feelings and how they relate to current challenges or past experiences, leading to a sense of relief, improved self-acceptance and even curiosity and excitement.
![Photo of Charlotte Mokdessi, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/084f9e7f-bcd1-4099-9416-766d865cef53/3/320x400.jpeg)
As an LGBTQ & poly affirming therapist, I specialize in life transitions, relationship challenges, anxiety, and trauma.
I work with adults and couples to explore the life experiences that have brought them to the present moment. I particularly enjoy working with artists and creatives to help uncover deep-rooted issues that prevent sustained contentment in their life and work. Each person comes with their own unique history which shapes how they perceive and respond to the world around them. As an eclectic practitioner, I use a psychodynamic, humanistic, and mindfulness-based approach to help you look back in order to move forward. The goal of our work together is for you to find grounding and fulfillment in your life and relationships.
As an LGBTQ & poly affirming therapist, I specialize in life transitions, relationship challenges, anxiety, and trauma.
I work with adults and couples to explore the life experiences that have brought them to the present moment. I particularly enjoy working with artists and creatives to help uncover deep-rooted issues that prevent sustained contentment in their life and work. Each person comes with their own unique history which shapes how they perceive and respond to the world around them. As an eclectic practitioner, I use a psychodynamic, humanistic, and mindfulness-based approach to help you look back in order to move forward. The goal of our work together is for you to find grounding and fulfillment in your life and relationships.
![Photo of Mira Vasjari, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6d01d1f-abb1-45bc-a494-41ae4d4d2f8d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mira Vasjari
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NY 11385 (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a very warm and empathetic therapist who loves to support her clients live their best authentic lives. I will challenge you at times so you can achieve your goals while validating, empowering, and supporting you. I work with a diverse clientele who struggle with anxiety, depression, life stressors, anger, grief and bereavement, relationship issues, work and career issues including stress and burnout. I have experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community and immigration/first-generation. I work with individuals, couples, and families in an open-minded and empathetic safe space.
Welcome! I am a very warm and empathetic therapist who loves to support her clients live their best authentic lives. I will challenge you at times so you can achieve your goals while validating, empowering, and supporting you. I work with a diverse clientele who struggle with anxiety, depression, life stressors, anger, grief and bereavement, relationship issues, work and career issues including stress and burnout. I have experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community and immigration/first-generation. I work with individuals, couples, and families in an open-minded and empathetic safe space.
![Photo of Teresa Shen, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7f18cea-b35a-44a3-a37b-75b1fe82cdb2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Teresa Shen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NY 11385 (Online Only)
I am passionate about utilizing LGBTQIA-affirming, anti-oppressive, and empowerment-focused practice.
Feeling depressed, anxious, stressed, or downright angry in a world that often values productivity over care? It's hard to find wellness and healing when the world around you constantly perpetuates systemic harm. I hope to create a supportive space in which you can share your story, reflect on your experiences, and connect with what healing means to you. I draw from a flexible range of modalities to create an approach that suits each client’s experiences and needs. I have most to offer in these areas: stress, depression, anxiety, and identity issues.
I am passionate about utilizing LGBTQIA-affirming, anti-oppressive, and empowerment-focused practice.
Feeling depressed, anxious, stressed, or downright angry in a world that often values productivity over care? It's hard to find wellness and healing when the world around you constantly perpetuates systemic harm. I hope to create a supportive space in which you can share your story, reflect on your experiences, and connect with what healing means to you. I draw from a flexible range of modalities to create an approach that suits each client’s experiences and needs. I have most to offer in these areas: stress, depression, anxiety, and identity issues.
![Photo of Celeste Classon, MPS, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e84219a9-0ce1-48de-82fc-b0e1f73ea4e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience and training working with individuals facing varied issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, substance use, LGBTQIA+ concerns, life transitions, and more.
No matter where you are in your life, therapy is a way to alleviate stress and build clarity about your feelings. My goal is to collaborate with you to gain insight, build effective coping skills, and get in touch with your intuition. Whether you've had therapy before, or if you want to try something new, it can be difficult to start. I know many people find it hard to meet a therapist they connect with, but it is important you feel safe in the therapeutic space. I aim to support my clients in better understanding how to break out of cycles, overcome obstacles, and build greater self-assurance.
I have experience and training working with individuals facing varied issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, substance use, LGBTQIA+ concerns, life transitions, and more.
No matter where you are in your life, therapy is a way to alleviate stress and build clarity about your feelings. My goal is to collaborate with you to gain insight, build effective coping skills, and get in touch with your intuition. Whether you've had therapy before, or if you want to try something new, it can be difficult to start. I know many people find it hard to meet a therapist they connect with, but it is important you feel safe in the therapeutic space. I aim to support my clients in better understanding how to break out of cycles, overcome obstacles, and build greater self-assurance.
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![Photo of Angela Christina Ferri, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e283c49-92ab-4441-8a90-aea0c2fedf1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Christina Ferri
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NY 11385 (Online Only)
I also cultivate positive, long-term relationships with diverse cultures and the LGBT+ community.
As a licensed mental health counselor, I specialize in supporting young adults who are grappling with issues of anger, low self-esteem and the anxiety associated with school performance. My goal is to empower individuals to take proactive steps in caring for themselves, fostering a sense of motivation and helping them become the best versions of themselves.
I also cultivate positive, long-term relationships with diverse cultures and the LGBT+ community.
As a licensed mental health counselor, I specialize in supporting young adults who are grappling with issues of anger, low self-esteem and the anxiety associated with school performance. My goal is to empower individuals to take proactive steps in caring for themselves, fostering a sense of motivation and helping them become the best versions of themselves.
![Photo of Jennifer L Jones, LCSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71342299-b249-4777-820a-bb96b5a81201/4/320x400.png)
Specializes working with trauma survivors, transgender and queer folks, as well as those emerging into adulthood.
Accepting New Clients, Telehealth, evenings only. At this time, I’m only accepting non-Medicaid plans of Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Cigna, Oscar Health, Oxford. I hope to accept more insurances in the future. I offer a 15 min phone consultation which is complementary. Our life experiences shape our thoughts and behaviors even if we don't intend them to. Through building a strong therapeutic rapport with my clients, I work alongside them as they strive towards progress. I help them to learn behavioral trends while increasing their effectiveness to become the best version of themselves.
Specializes working with trauma survivors, transgender and queer folks, as well as those emerging into adulthood.
Accepting New Clients, Telehealth, evenings only. At this time, I’m only accepting non-Medicaid plans of Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Cigna, Oscar Health, Oxford. I hope to accept more insurances in the future. I offer a 15 min phone consultation which is complementary. Our life experiences shape our thoughts and behaviors even if we don't intend them to. Through building a strong therapeutic rapport with my clients, I work alongside them as they strive towards progress. I help them to learn behavioral trends while increasing their effectiveness to become the best version of themselves.
![Photo of Denise Varela - Discover the best in you @ Discovery Mental Health, LMHC, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a95d2d30-6c84-487f-b8f8-b5c5ec99c7ea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Discover the best in you @ Discovery Mental Health
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NY 11385 (Online Only)
¡Nosotros hablamos español! Haga clic arriba en "Español" para leer nuestra información en español. At Discovery Mental Health Counseling, we prioritize our client's progress above all else. Our team of compassionate counselors is dedicated to ensuring you feel supported and at home with us. We are sensitive to the unique needs of various communities, including spiritual, multicultural, and LGBTQ communities.
¡Nosotros hablamos español! Haga clic arriba en "Español" para leer nuestra información en español. At Discovery Mental Health Counseling, we prioritize our client's progress above all else. Our team of compassionate counselors is dedicated to ensuring you feel supported and at home with us. We are sensitive to the unique needs of various communities, including spiritual, multicultural, and LGBTQ communities.
![Photo of Matty Rickard - Matty Rickard - Expansive Therapy, ACSW, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/225e1a1e-8837-40ce-b312-3b91de912298/2/320x400.png)
As a counselor based in humanistic and relational cultural theory, I believe you are the person who knows yourself best. Throughout life, circumstances leading to disruptions in well-being can produce self-doubt, a negative view of self, and low self-worth. Even through these times, each person still has autonomy and the ability to make effective decisions that fit in accordance with their lives. One of my goals is to expand self-awareness so you can live in a more purposeful way that aligns with your values.
As a counselor based in humanistic and relational cultural theory, I believe you are the person who knows yourself best. Throughout life, circumstances leading to disruptions in well-being can produce self-doubt, a negative view of self, and low self-worth. Even through these times, each person still has autonomy and the ability to make effective decisions that fit in accordance with their lives. One of my goals is to expand self-awareness so you can live in a more purposeful way that aligns with your values.
![Photo of Leo Gonzalez - New Generation Mental Health Counseling, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c63c49c-ec64-4b83-95c3-f957677c77b3/1/320x400.png)
New Generation Mental Health Counseling
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NY 11385 (Online Only)
At New Generation Mental Health Counseling, we envision our ideal clients as individuals—adolescents and adults—who are striving to navigate the complexities of their mental and emotional landscapes. They may be facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, or transitional life changes. Their needs are diverse, ranging from seeking understanding and coping mechanisms to exploring deep-seated emotions and behaviors. Their goals are unified in the desire to lead happier, healthier lives, filled with resilience and personal growth.
At New Generation Mental Health Counseling, we envision our ideal clients as individuals—adolescents and adults—who are striving to navigate the complexities of their mental and emotional landscapes. They may be facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, or transitional life changes. Their needs are diverse, ranging from seeking understanding and coping mechanisms to exploring deep-seated emotions and behaviors. Their goals are unified in the desire to lead happier, healthier lives, filled with resilience and personal growth.
![Photo of Yasmin Jordan, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49a395c7-a4ba-4882-a5ca-ce4b21ec68f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yasmin Jordan
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NY 11386 (Online Only)
You are someone who puts one foot in front of the other to get through the day; maybe you are someone stuck in an environment, relationship, or moments that need change. Someone who needs a space for support, a listening ear, and gentleness, where you can locate and expand on your inner strengths, goals, and dreams. You dream of a world where being you is enough, that your well-being, joy, and those you are in community with are nourished and sustainable.
You are someone who puts one foot in front of the other to get through the day; maybe you are someone stuck in an environment, relationship, or moments that need change. Someone who needs a space for support, a listening ear, and gentleness, where you can locate and expand on your inner strengths, goals, and dreams. You dream of a world where being you is enough, that your well-being, joy, and those you are in community with are nourished and sustainable.
![Photo of Jessica Labia, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/328573eb-985a-4dd5-b858-76fc0d7d44a6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth? I'm a Licensed Therapist here to guide you through the ups and downs of life. If you're feeling overwhelmed or just need someone to talk to outside of friends and family, you've come to the right place.
Ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth? I'm a Licensed Therapist here to guide you through the ups and downs of life. If you're feeling overwhelmed or just need someone to talk to outside of friends and family, you've come to the right place.
![Photo of Emily Brenner, LCAT, CASAC, ATR-BC, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b091222a-550e-4da3-9467-6ce4af754527/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Brenner
Art Therapist, LCAT, CASAC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NY 11385 (Online Only)
We are going through unprecedented challenges, and reaching out for help is the first step toward feeling better. My clients value my non judgmental approach to care, whether it is exploring relationships with substances, emotions, other people, or the self. Co-dependence, anxiety, depression, identity, sober curious – more than just search terms and buzzwords, these are the main struggles my clients share. Whether it is exploring how trauma lives on in current relationships, identifying better ways to manage drinking post-pandemic, or setting boundaries with family around changes in identity, I can help.
We are going through unprecedented challenges, and reaching out for help is the first step toward feeling better. My clients value my non judgmental approach to care, whether it is exploring relationships with substances, emotions, other people, or the self. Co-dependence, anxiety, depression, identity, sober curious – more than just search terms and buzzwords, these are the main struggles my clients share. Whether it is exploring how trauma lives on in current relationships, identifying better ways to manage drinking post-pandemic, or setting boundaries with family around changes in identity, I can help.
![Photo of Chanel Viviana Tazza - Awaken Wellness, Inc., LMHC, NCC, CASAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b8dc71e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
***Email/Text preferred*** We believe that in every challenging moment in life lies the opportunity for change. Change can often be scary and/or difficult however necessary to achieve inner peace, counseling can help move forward the process to achieve mental health. Wellness is key and in our conversations I explore your values during counseling therapy sessions. We do explore all aspects of life that are important including physical, mental, emotional, financial, and spiritual health. Typically our initial counseling sessions conversations are casual, it is a platform to ensure that I am the right fit for you.
***Email/Text preferred*** We believe that in every challenging moment in life lies the opportunity for change. Change can often be scary and/or difficult however necessary to achieve inner peace, counseling can help move forward the process to achieve mental health. Wellness is key and in our conversations I explore your values during counseling therapy sessions. We do explore all aspects of life that are important including physical, mental, emotional, financial, and spiritual health. Typically our initial counseling sessions conversations are casual, it is a platform to ensure that I am the right fit for you.
See more therapy options for Ridgewood
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Ridgewood
- Corona
- East Elmhurst
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- Flushing
- Forest Hills
- Glendale
- Jackson Heights
- Kew Gardens
- Maspeth
- Middle Village
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- Woodside
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.