Transgender Therapists in Columbus, OH

Photo of Kel Hall, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kel Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43219  (Online Only)
I am a proud queer and transgender therapist who has dedicated my practice to providing inclusive and culturally humble services to all. My passion is in providing care to LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples & families. Additionally, I run therapy & support groups for LGBTQIA+ youth and plan to create more group spaces for people to connect to their community and peers. I have also had the privilege of providing training and education to professionals, clients and families on providing a safe and affirming space for LGBTQIA+ youth.
I am a proud queer and transgender therapist who has dedicated my practice to providing inclusive and culturally humble services to all. My passion is in providing care to LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples & families. Additionally, I run therapy & support groups for LGBTQIA+ youth and plan to create more group spaces for people to connect to their community and peers. I have also had the privilege of providing training and education to professionals, clients and families on providing a safe and affirming space for LGBTQIA+ youth.
(740) 693-2998 View (740) 693-2998
Photo of Kegan D Beraduce, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kegan D Beraduce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214
I am familiar with WPATH guidelines and will work with transgender individuals looking for assistance in obtaining letters for hormonal or surgical procedures.
Hello, I am a licensed social worker who has been practicing for 7 years. I have worked with many different client backgrounds from addiction to children and family issues. I take an eclectic approach in therapy with my clients. I'm specifically trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused, motivational interviewing and interpersonal therapy.
I am familiar with WPATH guidelines and will work with transgender individuals looking for assistance in obtaining letters for hormonal or surgical procedures.
Hello, I am a licensed social worker who has been practicing for 7 years. I have worked with many different client backgrounds from addiction to children and family issues. I take an eclectic approach in therapy with my clients. I'm specifically trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused, motivational interviewing and interpersonal therapy.
(614) 432-8404 View (614) 432-8404
Photo of Riley Murphy, LPC, MS, Counselor
Riley Murphy
Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43085
I am a queer, nonbinary, neurodivergent and leftist therapist. My specialties include navigating neurodivergent, transgender, and queer identities, as well as tackling issues related to autism and ADHD. Existing in a neurotypical, cishetero world, you likely feel pressure to be a certain way or meet certain expectations. As a result, you may be carrying feelings of shame, depression, anxiety, or self-hatred. Celebrating who you are or feeling pride or confidence might feel out of reach. I work with people to explore these sorts of problems and to create room for joy, celebration, and pride.
I am a queer, nonbinary, neurodivergent and leftist therapist. My specialties include navigating neurodivergent, transgender, and queer identities, as well as tackling issues related to autism and ADHD. Existing in a neurotypical, cishetero world, you likely feel pressure to be a certain way or meet certain expectations. As a result, you may be carrying feelings of shame, depression, anxiety, or self-hatred. Celebrating who you are or feeling pride or confidence might feel out of reach. I work with people to explore these sorts of problems and to create room for joy, celebration, and pride.
(513) 951-7307 View (513) 951-7307
Photo of Emerson Douglas, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emerson Douglas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43201
Now accepting NEW clients for ongoing therapy and gender-affirming surgery letters! As a transmasculine-identified therapist, I'm proud to specialize in LGBQ+ and Transgender-affirming therapy. My passion as a therapist is to empower queer, trans, and nonbinary folks to embrace their authentic selves. Rooted in an anti-oppression framework, my mission is to co-create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to explore healing through the development of a therapeutic relationship founded in authenticity, openness, and connection. My pronouns are he/they. I invite you to share your pronouns and name with me.
Now accepting NEW clients for ongoing therapy and gender-affirming surgery letters! As a transmasculine-identified therapist, I'm proud to specialize in LGBQ+ and Transgender-affirming therapy. My passion as a therapist is to empower queer, trans, and nonbinary folks to embrace their authentic selves. Rooted in an anti-oppression framework, my mission is to co-create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to explore healing through the development of a therapeutic relationship founded in authenticity, openness, and connection. My pronouns are he/they. I invite you to share your pronouns and name with me.
(614) 412-4895 View (614) 412-4895
Jamie Bourn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
I follow the WPATH Standards of Care in my work with transgender individuals, which seeks to empower the community and reduce barriers to resources.
I believe that as people we are motivated by connection and relationships. Therapy can be a great way to explore what a healthy and collaborative relationship can be like, which can then be translated to behaviors in your daily life. I also invite discussions of identity, culture, and oppression, and how each may impact your lived experience. My aspiration is to walk alongside you in your counseling journey, tailoring sessions and interventions to help you meet your goals.
I follow the WPATH Standards of Care in my work with transgender individuals, which seeks to empower the community and reduce barriers to resources.
I believe that as people we are motivated by connection and relationships. Therapy can be a great way to explore what a healthy and collaborative relationship can be like, which can then be translated to behaviors in your daily life. I also invite discussions of identity, culture, and oppression, and how each may impact your lived experience. My aspiration is to walk alongside you in your counseling journey, tailoring sessions and interventions to help you meet your goals.
(614) 626-5287 View (614) 626-5287
Photo of David D Steinberger, LPCC, M Ed, Licensed Professional Counselor
David D Steinberger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, M Ed
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is David and I am a therapist (LPCC) at CTG. I can provide services to all of Ohio! (Telehealth- -Now offering body-doubling sessions! Email to inquire) I am a queer and punk therapist, with experience ideal to work with clients that are effected by: any variety of trauma, personality issues, LGB identity, transgender identity, ADHD, monogamous and non-monogamous relational issues, struggling families, delusions/hallucinations, racial discrimination, workplace stress, and identity incongruence. Currently taking on individuals and couples.
Hello! My name is David and I am a therapist (LPCC) at CTG. I can provide services to all of Ohio! (Telehealth- -Now offering body-doubling sessions! Email to inquire) I am a queer and punk therapist, with experience ideal to work with clients that are effected by: any variety of trauma, personality issues, LGB identity, transgender identity, ADHD, monogamous and non-monogamous relational issues, struggling families, delusions/hallucinations, racial discrimination, workplace stress, and identity incongruence. Currently taking on individuals and couples.
(216) 626-7831 View (216) 626-7831
Photo of Katie Long, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Long
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43201  (Online Only)
As an inclusive gender affirming therapist in Ohio, I help clients who are experiencing gender dysphoria, anxiety, self-criticism and shame, who are wanting to challenge their inner critic, deconstruct shame, and show compassion toward every part of themselves. I've witnessed the pain that shame causes, as well as the healing power of strengthening self-compassion and developing shame resilience. There are many different reasons we experience shame, but it leads to feelings of worthlessness, low self-esteem, fear of vulnerability, anxiety, and countless other difficult emotions. If any of these resonated with you, you are not alone.
As an inclusive gender affirming therapist in Ohio, I help clients who are experiencing gender dysphoria, anxiety, self-criticism and shame, who are wanting to challenge their inner critic, deconstruct shame, and show compassion toward every part of themselves. I've witnessed the pain that shame causes, as well as the healing power of strengthening self-compassion and developing shame resilience. There are many different reasons we experience shame, but it leads to feelings of worthlessness, low self-esteem, fear of vulnerability, anxiety, and countless other difficult emotions. If any of these resonated with you, you are not alone.
(513) 647-9324 View (513) 647-9324
Photo of Victoria Borsukevich, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Borsukevich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43201  (Online Only)
I am trained in addressing Gender Dysphoria and have supported many in their journey of embracing their gender and sexuality.
I believe in an active and client-led approach to therapy, where I can help you build the tools and strengths within yourself to reach your goals. I feel that effective treatment begins with a genuine connection between us and I will strive to make you feel heard and understood. In my practice, I utilize a personalized approach to each client's mental health needs and goals.
I am trained in addressing Gender Dysphoria and have supported many in their journey of embracing their gender and sexuality.
I believe in an active and client-led approach to therapy, where I can help you build the tools and strengths within yourself to reach your goals. I feel that effective treatment begins with a genuine connection between us and I will strive to make you feel heard and understood. In my practice, I utilize a personalized approach to each client's mental health needs and goals.
(614) 683-2210 View (614) 683-2210
Photo of Logan Fang, LPCC
Logan Fang
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My passions are working with clients living with depression, anxiety, complex trauma, religious trauma, and gender dysphoria.
I'm Logan (they/them) and I'm an East Asian non-binary person who has lived insight into what it’s like to not be white, cis, or straight in a state like Ohio. I’ve lived in the Midwest my whole life, and I also come from a background of being raised in Christian/immigrant communities. I have experience working with the following: QTBIPOC communities, neurodivergent people, and people living with HIV. I’ve also got experience working specifically with trans clients who are exploring their transition process. I think it's crucial to provide empowering and identity-specific therapy spaces, especially for QTBIPOC right now.
My passions are working with clients living with depression, anxiety, complex trauma, religious trauma, and gender dysphoria.
I'm Logan (they/them) and I'm an East Asian non-binary person who has lived insight into what it’s like to not be white, cis, or straight in a state like Ohio. I’ve lived in the Midwest my whole life, and I also come from a background of being raised in Christian/immigrant communities. I have experience working with the following: QTBIPOC communities, neurodivergent people, and people living with HIV. I’ve also got experience working specifically with trans clients who are exploring their transition process. I think it's crucial to provide empowering and identity-specific therapy spaces, especially for QTBIPOC right now.
(614) 714-5650 View (614) 714-5650
Photo of Alex Mock, MEd, LPCC, Counselor
Alex Mock
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085  (Online Only)
As a queer & nonbinary therapist (they/them pronouns), I'm committed to providing an affirming and sex-positive space for LGBTQ+ and transgender clients, and folks in ethically non-monogamous relationships and kink communities.
It is most important to me to create a space where you can feel welcome to share your stressors, goals, and lived experience, and feel heard and affirmed. We will focus on your whole self - your environment, relationships, and history - and how these impact your perspective and sense of self. I enjoy working with adults managing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, identity development, and relationship concerns. My goal is to invite others who have marginalized identities to feel both safe and challenged in my (virtual) office, and to build the skills and confidence they need to grow into the version of themselves they hope to be.
As a queer & nonbinary therapist (they/them pronouns), I'm committed to providing an affirming and sex-positive space for LGBTQ+ and transgender clients, and folks in ethically non-monogamous relationships and kink communities.
It is most important to me to create a space where you can feel welcome to share your stressors, goals, and lived experience, and feel heard and affirmed. We will focus on your whole self - your environment, relationships, and history - and how these impact your perspective and sense of self. I enjoy working with adults managing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, identity development, and relationship concerns. My goal is to invite others who have marginalized identities to feel both safe and challenged in my (virtual) office, and to build the skills and confidence they need to grow into the version of themselves they hope to be.
(216) 279-6563 View (216) 279-6563
Photo of Jaden List, MSSA, LSW, OCPS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaden List
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LSW, OCPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085  (Online Only)
Therapy sessions with me are trauma-, CBT- and DBT-informed. Sessions can be solution-oriented and/or psychotherapeutic. We can work on specific emotional regulation and/or social skills, process identities, set and plan goals, connect you to resources, and more. We can focus on identity development, transgender journeys, disability as an identity, anxiety and depression, chronic illness, queer/polyamorous relationships, and/or being religious and LGBTQ+. (Please Note: Unfortunately, I cannot accept insurance. Affirming Pathways is out of pocket pay only.)
Therapy sessions with me are trauma-, CBT- and DBT-informed. Sessions can be solution-oriented and/or psychotherapeutic. We can work on specific emotional regulation and/or social skills, process identities, set and plan goals, connect you to resources, and more. We can focus on identity development, transgender journeys, disability as an identity, anxiety and depression, chronic illness, queer/polyamorous relationships, and/or being religious and LGBTQ+. (Please Note: Unfortunately, I cannot accept insurance. Affirming Pathways is out of pocket pay only.)
(330) 427-3693 View (330) 427-3693
Photo of Dr. Bowen Marshall, MA, LPCC-S, PhD
Dr. Bowen Marshall
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , MA, LPCC-S, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235  (Online Only)
I have experience treating ADHD, anxiety, autism, bipolar disorder, depression, gender dysphoria, trauma, grief, and chronic illness.
I believe the most important question we can ask ourselves is, "What do I want?" I believe that everyone has an ability to move towards growth, healing, and fulfillment. I approach therapy from a perspective learning and believe that the more we learn about ourselves, the better able we are to make choices about how we want to move forward in life. I use an integrative framework to address each client’s individual needs. I work from a trauma informed lens and use interventions from existential, Attachment Theory, Gottman, ACT, IPT, and EFT.
I have experience treating ADHD, anxiety, autism, bipolar disorder, depression, gender dysphoria, trauma, grief, and chronic illness.
I believe the most important question we can ask ourselves is, "What do I want?" I believe that everyone has an ability to move towards growth, healing, and fulfillment. I approach therapy from a perspective learning and believe that the more we learn about ourselves, the better able we are to make choices about how we want to move forward in life. I use an integrative framework to address each client’s individual needs. I work from a trauma informed lens and use interventions from existential, Attachment Theory, Gottman, ACT, IPT, and EFT.
(380) 221-7373 View (380) 221-7373
Photo of Emily Pohorence, MEd, LPCC, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Pohorence
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCC, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients in Tennessee and Ohio! Will be credentialed with BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee in August 2024! I’m Emily and I work with teens and adults, navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, gender exploration, neurodivergence, relationships, self-worth, sexuality, and trauma. As a queer identifying person, I am passionate about helping individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community, with specialized experience in transgender and nonbinary care. I have specific experience writing letters of support for transgender and nonbinary clients seeking Hormone Replacement Therapy and/or gender affirming surgery.
Accepting new clients in Tennessee and Ohio! Will be credentialed with BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee in August 2024! I’m Emily and I work with teens and adults, navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, gender exploration, neurodivergence, relationships, self-worth, sexuality, and trauma. As a queer identifying person, I am passionate about helping individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community, with specialized experience in transgender and nonbinary care. I have specific experience writing letters of support for transgender and nonbinary clients seeking Hormone Replacement Therapy and/or gender affirming surgery.
(423) 556-8675 View (423) 556-8675
Photo of Christopher DeFranco, LPCC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher DeFranco
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43201  (Online Only)
Christopher specializes in working with adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of life's stressors that include, but are not limited to: LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, grief, anger management, impulsivity, chemical dependency, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. He has over 10 years of clinical experience from a wide variety of settings that includes schools, research clinics, inpatient and residential treatment, and outpatient private practice. He also has extensive experience working with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and individuals on the autism spectrum.
Christopher specializes in working with adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of life's stressors that include, but are not limited to: LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, grief, anger management, impulsivity, chemical dependency, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. He has over 10 years of clinical experience from a wide variety of settings that includes schools, research clinics, inpatient and residential treatment, and outpatient private practice. He also has extensive experience working with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and individuals on the autism spectrum.
(512) 722-7342 View (512) 722-7342
Photo of Marissa Patsey, MEd, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marissa Patsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43202  (Online Only)
Supporting growth in self-awareness helps us lean into who we are, accept ourselves, and look at growth edges that may be painful or scary. As a therapist, I encourage my clients to achieve better ways of engaging with problems of living and improve personal well-being by expanding self-awareness and developing interpersonal communication skills. I practice from a clinical, Gestalt-oriented, developmental lens with evidence-based approaches, to support clients where they are and as they engage in the therapeutic process.
Supporting growth in self-awareness helps us lean into who we are, accept ourselves, and look at growth edges that may be painful or scary. As a therapist, I encourage my clients to achieve better ways of engaging with problems of living and improve personal well-being by expanding self-awareness and developing interpersonal communication skills. I practice from a clinical, Gestalt-oriented, developmental lens with evidence-based approaches, to support clients where they are and as they engage in the therapeutic process.
(440) 683-6216 View (440) 683-6216
Photo of Ellen Seigel, LISW-S, LCSW, ACHT, Coach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Seigel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LCSW, ACHT, Coach
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43229
Worried? Working hard for others' happiness; taking care of others - you come last or not at all? Swallowing the bad behavior of others, not to rock the boat? Sick of living up to the expectations of others? Anxious, sad, irritated, even angry? The negative effects of these experiences can be DISSOLVED. You can adopt a new perspective that includes profound self appreciation and become free inside and confident in new ways to handle situations. Showing you how and helping you do this, is my specialty. The approach is with softness, gentleness and respect for your unique emotional growth needs.
Worried? Working hard for others' happiness; taking care of others - you come last or not at all? Swallowing the bad behavior of others, not to rock the boat? Sick of living up to the expectations of others? Anxious, sad, irritated, even angry? The negative effects of these experiences can be DISSOLVED. You can adopt a new perspective that includes profound self appreciation and become free inside and confident in new ways to handle situations. Showing you how and helping you do this, is my specialty. The approach is with softness, gentleness and respect for your unique emotional growth needs.
(614) 914-4908 View (614) 914-4908
Photo of Lauren Borrell, LPCC-S
Lauren Borrell
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43212
Are you feeling overwhelmed with anxiety, life changes, or transitions? Having the self-awareness and courage to take the first step of reaching out for help is challenging. I am here to offer a collaborative and non-judgmental space for you to start your journey of wellness and self-discovery. My approach to therapy is differentiated based on individual needs and personal goals; I often find that it evolves as the therapy process unfolds. My perspective is both person-centered and solution-focused. We will together examine your patterns to gain insight and inform your active role in the changes you would like to see in your life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with anxiety, life changes, or transitions? Having the self-awareness and courage to take the first step of reaching out for help is challenging. I am here to offer a collaborative and non-judgmental space for you to start your journey of wellness and self-discovery. My approach to therapy is differentiated based on individual needs and personal goals; I often find that it evolves as the therapy process unfolds. My perspective is both person-centered and solution-focused. We will together examine your patterns to gain insight and inform your active role in the changes you would like to see in your life.
(614) 310-4989 View (614) 310-4989
Photo of Laura Keating, LPCC
Laura Keating
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43228
Hi there, it is nice to meet you! I’m Laura, and I’d love to share a bit about myself as a therapist and what you can expect from working with me. As your therapist, I will focus on using a person-centered approach and hold positivity and unconditional support for you as my client as my north star. The goal is for you to feel safe and comfortable in sharing areas of vulnerability so we can work together in making progress towards where you want to be in life. This means you will have me in your corner as someone who will be compassionate and direct in our conversations, and holding space for you.
Hi there, it is nice to meet you! I’m Laura, and I’d love to share a bit about myself as a therapist and what you can expect from working with me. As your therapist, I will focus on using a person-centered approach and hold positivity and unconditional support for you as my client as my north star. The goal is for you to feel safe and comfortable in sharing areas of vulnerability so we can work together in making progress towards where you want to be in life. This means you will have me in your corner as someone who will be compassionate and direct in our conversations, and holding space for you.
(380) 333-4823 View (380) 333-4823
Photo of Chad D Corbley, PhD, Psychologist
Chad D Corbley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43206
I work with individuals, groups, and couples, specializing in trauma and LGBTQ concerns. As the owner of City Counseling, my goal is to foster a space that feels safe enough for people to take risks and grow. To me, this is what it means to have “brave space,” and it’s why “A Home for Growth” is in our name. This includes me and the other therapists; all of us must also do our work to grow if we hope to continue being of service to clients of all backgrounds.
I work with individuals, groups, and couples, specializing in trauma and LGBTQ concerns. As the owner of City Counseling, my goal is to foster a space that feels safe enough for people to take risks and grow. To me, this is what it means to have “brave space,” and it’s why “A Home for Growth” is in our name. This includes me and the other therapists; all of us must also do our work to grow if we hope to continue being of service to clients of all backgrounds.
(614) 858-8426 View (614) 858-8426
Photo of Lauren E Strawn, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren E Strawn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43224  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with neurodivergent adults (ASD, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, etc) to help them learn to manage symptoms with self-compassion and acceptance. There is a strong overlap of the autistic and ADHD community and LGBTQIA+ community, which I am extremely affirming of. I am also happy to conduct assessments for WPATH letters of endorsement for gender affirming procedures for trans and gender nonconforming adults, in addition to writing these letters pre-procedure. Please note that I do NOT conduct autism assessments at this time.
I work with neurodivergent adults (ASD, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, etc) to help them learn to manage symptoms with self-compassion and acceptance. There is a strong overlap of the autistic and ADHD community and LGBTQIA+ community, which I am extremely affirming of. I am also happy to conduct assessments for WPATH letters of endorsement for gender affirming procedures for trans and gender nonconforming adults, in addition to writing these letters pre-procedure. Please note that I do NOT conduct autism assessments at this time.
(614) 681-8902 View (614) 681-8902
Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.