LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Grants Pass, OR

Photo of Constance Chappell, MS, LPC, CADC II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Constance Chappell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CADC II
Verified Verified
Grants Pass, OR 97526
I received a Master's of Science in Professional Counseling at Grand Canyon University, and have had the honor of working with adults in marginalized populations, multicultural settings, and the LGBTQ+ community.
I have a passion for giving the youth we serve a voice and hearing their struggles during this very difficult time in our history. From a very early age, I knew that I wanted to help people find joy and hope during their time on the planet. I strive to see the potential and strengths in every person I have the privilege of serving. I have found my niche serving children as young as 8, adolescents, and young adults up to age 24.
I received a Master's of Science in Professional Counseling at Grand Canyon University, and have had the honor of working with adults in marginalized populations, multicultural settings, and the LGBTQ+ community.
I have a passion for giving the youth we serve a voice and hearing their struggles during this very difficult time in our history. From a very early age, I knew that I wanted to help people find joy and hope during their time on the planet. I strive to see the potential and strengths in every person I have the privilege of serving. I have found my niche serving children as young as 8, adolescents, and young adults up to age 24.
(458) 234-6401 View (458) 234-6401
Photo of Kelly Richardson, CSWA, CADCII
Kelly Richardson
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA, CADCII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grants Pass, OR 97527  (Online Only)
Your path of healing and growth is very personal. I'm here to listen. My clinical approach is warm, genuine and compassionate. Are you struggling with trauma, relationship issues, parenting, substance abuse, anxiety or depression? Are you LGBTQIA+? Polyamorous? I honor your inherent wisdom and ability to heal. I use mindfulness, Somatic EMDR, Brainspotting, and Somatic therapies, among others. We consider the different influences in your life, from trauma, anxiety and depression, to family systems and social and institutional oppression. Together, we work toward your liberation and healing.
Your path of healing and growth is very personal. I'm here to listen. My clinical approach is warm, genuine and compassionate. Are you struggling with trauma, relationship issues, parenting, substance abuse, anxiety or depression? Are you LGBTQIA+? Polyamorous? I honor your inherent wisdom and ability to heal. I use mindfulness, Somatic EMDR, Brainspotting, and Somatic therapies, among others. We consider the different influences in your life, from trauma, anxiety and depression, to family systems and social and institutional oppression. Together, we work toward your liberation and healing.
(503) 487-8939 View (503) 487-8939
Photo of Peyton Moore, LPC, NCC, MA, OT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peyton Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA, OT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grants Pass, OR 97526
My personal journey as a queer woman, adoptive and foster mom, and eating disorder survivor has informed my eclectic and person centered approach.
Are you a parent trying hard to meet both your own and your family’s needs, or a teen struggling with body image, identity, and school? Are you balancing raising your children while also caring for aging parents? Maybe you find yourself always fighting “the system” and are exhausted from defending your own or your family’s right to exist.
My personal journey as a queer woman, adoptive and foster mom, and eating disorder survivor has informed my eclectic and person centered approach.
Are you a parent trying hard to meet both your own and your family’s needs, or a teen struggling with body image, identity, and school? Are you balancing raising your children while also caring for aging parents? Maybe you find yourself always fighting “the system” and are exhausted from defending your own or your family’s right to exist.
(541) 625-1416 View (541) 625-1416
Photo of Eric Houghton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eric Houghton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grants Pass, OR 97526
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, gender identity, and LGBTQ+ issues.
I believe that everyone has the potential within themselves for change, growth, and empowerment. With particular interests in stress management, habit improvement, mindfulness, and symptom reduction, our work together will help you confront and address aspects of life that may be barriers to you.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, gender identity, and LGBTQ+ issues.
I believe that everyone has the potential within themselves for change, growth, and empowerment. With particular interests in stress management, habit improvement, mindfulness, and symptom reduction, our work together will help you confront and address aspects of life that may be barriers to you.
(541) 449-9784 View (541) 449-9784
Photo of Laura Guerrero, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Guerrero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Grants Pass, OR 97526
I didn't grow up with therapy in my life. My parents divorced and remarried other partners when I was quite young, and that led to a very large, very blended family full of financial disparity and cultural differences. I didn’t venture into therapy until experiencing depression after the birth of one of my children. I then learned about intergenerational trauma and what damage it can do. I have immediate family who identify as Neurodiverse, Queer and Trans, and have chronic illness and autoimmune disorders and am fully aware of the challenges they face.
I didn't grow up with therapy in my life. My parents divorced and remarried other partners when I was quite young, and that led to a very large, very blended family full of financial disparity and cultural differences. I didn’t venture into therapy until experiencing depression after the birth of one of my children. I then learned about intergenerational trauma and what damage it can do. I have immediate family who identify as Neurodiverse, Queer and Trans, and have chronic illness and autoimmune disorders and am fully aware of the challenges they face.
(541) 577-5705 View (541) 577-5705
Photo of Hannah Boley, MSW
Hannah Boley
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW
Verified Verified
Grants Pass, OR 97526
I have experience working with anxiety/panic, depression, coping skills, self-esteem, stress, life transitions, and PTSD, with LGBTQIA+ and diverse cultural backgrounds.
Life can be difficult! But you don’t have to do it alone. Gen Z- you are in the driver's seat here and I am here to sit beside you, to help you navigate the twists and turns along your journey. With empathy and understanding, we can explore life struggles, anxiety, depression, past hurt, future goals, and more. I hold a safe space for you to process anything that life throws your way. My experience working with youth in various settings of teaching, counseling, and telehealth, has given me an understanding that Gen Z has their own set of challenges to navigate, different from other generations.
I have experience working with anxiety/panic, depression, coping skills, self-esteem, stress, life transitions, and PTSD, with LGBTQIA+ and diverse cultural backgrounds.
Life can be difficult! But you don’t have to do it alone. Gen Z- you are in the driver's seat here and I am here to sit beside you, to help you navigate the twists and turns along your journey. With empathy and understanding, we can explore life struggles, anxiety, depression, past hurt, future goals, and more. I hold a safe space for you to process anything that life throws your way. My experience working with youth in various settings of teaching, counseling, and telehealth, has given me an understanding that Gen Z has their own set of challenges to navigate, different from other generations.
(458) 213-4331 View (458) 213-4331
Photo of Lorie DeCarvalho, PhD, MA, MS, Psychologist
Lorie DeCarvalho
Psychologist, PhD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Grants Pass, OR 97526
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, past trauma(s), or other stressful situations that affect your ability to live your life to the fullest? Do you feel overwhelmed, wondering if your life can be better? You deserve to be happy and to live your life to the fullest! We help individuals with anxiety, depression, acute or chronic medical illnesses, adjustment to life stressors, LGBTQIA+ issues, grief/ loss, women’s issues, and those who want to reach the next level in their career or life goals. If you want to begin moving towards healing and growth, we want to help you get there!
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, past trauma(s), or other stressful situations that affect your ability to live your life to the fullest? Do you feel overwhelmed, wondering if your life can be better? You deserve to be happy and to live your life to the fullest! We help individuals with anxiety, depression, acute or chronic medical illnesses, adjustment to life stressors, LGBTQIA+ issues, grief/ loss, women’s issues, and those who want to reach the next level in their career or life goals. If you want to begin moving towards healing and growth, we want to help you get there!
(541) 315-3441 View (541) 315-3441
Photo of Alyson K. Brown - Hawthorne Healing Center, LLC , LPC-A
Hawthorne Healing Center, LLC
Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grants Pass, OR 97526
My name is Alyson Brown, LPC-Associate. It takes courage to take this step and look for a counselor, so thanks for being brave! You may be ready to begin your journey of transformation or take your healing in a new direction. I work with couples and adults to treat anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma and more. I work with LGBTQ+, BIPOC and other underserved populations in our area. I can bill OHP in the Southern Oregon & Rogue Valley area. I use Talk-Therapy, Art therapy, Mindfulness based methods and more. I also may accommodate clients for virtual sessions within Oregon.
My name is Alyson Brown, LPC-Associate. It takes courage to take this step and look for a counselor, so thanks for being brave! You may be ready to begin your journey of transformation or take your healing in a new direction. I work with couples and adults to treat anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma and more. I work with LGBTQ+, BIPOC and other underserved populations in our area. I can bill OHP in the Southern Oregon & Rogue Valley area. I use Talk-Therapy, Art therapy, Mindfulness based methods and more. I also may accommodate clients for virtual sessions within Oregon.
(541) 697-4733 View (541) 697-4733
Photo of Percival Fisher - Neupathway (Percival Fisher), LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neupathway (Percival Fisher)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Grants Pass, OR 97527
Percival Fisher Jr. is a skilled Mental Health Therapist and Graduate Nurse with 14 years of experience integrating holistic care in mental health and nursing. He utilizes evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and strength-based therapy, to empower individuals in achieving mental wellness. Percival is adept at clinical frameworks for assessment, diagnosis, and intervention across various settings like hospitals, agencies, and online platforms. He excels in creating safe, welcoming environments for diverse clients, focusing on case management, care coordination, and psychotherapy.
Percival Fisher Jr. is a skilled Mental Health Therapist and Graduate Nurse with 14 years of experience integrating holistic care in mental health and nursing. He utilizes evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and strength-based therapy, to empower individuals in achieving mental wellness. Percival is adept at clinical frameworks for assessment, diagnosis, and intervention across various settings like hospitals, agencies, and online platforms. He excels in creating safe, welcoming environments for diverse clients, focusing on case management, care coordination, and psychotherapy.
(541) 351-7443 View (541) 351-7443
Photo of Maribel Aheran - Neupathway (Maribel Aheran), EdD, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Neupathway (Maribel Aheran)
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Grants Pass, OR 97527
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
(541) 348-6750 View (541) 348-6750
Photo of Jennifer Steele, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Steele
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grants Pass, OR 97526
I am currently a therapist at Transform Youth and Family Counseling and would enjoy connecting soon!.
Life as a youth or young adult is challenging enough as it is, sometimes going through the motions of certain life stages or being faced with difficult circumstances can feel like a lot. I specialize in working with individuals ages 10-24 to help navigate various experiences in life that come your way and to help bring a deeper level of understanding to thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Whether dealing with anxiety, trauma, or the everyday stresses of adolescence and young adulthood, my goal is to provide the support and tools needed to foster overall well-being.
I am currently a therapist at Transform Youth and Family Counseling and would enjoy connecting soon!.
Life as a youth or young adult is challenging enough as it is, sometimes going through the motions of certain life stages or being faced with difficult circumstances can feel like a lot. I specialize in working with individuals ages 10-24 to help navigate various experiences in life that come your way and to help bring a deeper level of understanding to thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Whether dealing with anxiety, trauma, or the everyday stresses of adolescence and young adulthood, my goal is to provide the support and tools needed to foster overall well-being.
(458) 227-7471 x113 View (458) 227-7471 x113
Photo of Melissa Howard, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Melissa Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Grants Pass, OR 97526
I am currently a therapist at Transform for young children, teens, and young adults who is stoked and honored to support your needs in therapy.
Being told your voice is not valued because you’re young is the worst. Your voice matters. Often as a young adult/teen/child, we’re told, “just do it,” and “that’s just the way it is.” Or maybe you’re the parent wanting to connect with your child and asking yourself, “what happened?” I am here to support Gen Z and/or their families with each family member finding their voice, being seen for their individuality, and fostering reconnection with one another and your family’s roots/values. Every voice in the family matters and is valuable and strong and I would be honored to support your quest in nurturing this personal/family growth.
I am currently a therapist at Transform for young children, teens, and young adults who is stoked and honored to support your needs in therapy.
Being told your voice is not valued because you’re young is the worst. Your voice matters. Often as a young adult/teen/child, we’re told, “just do it,” and “that’s just the way it is.” Or maybe you’re the parent wanting to connect with your child and asking yourself, “what happened?” I am here to support Gen Z and/or their families with each family member finding their voice, being seen for their individuality, and fostering reconnection with one another and your family’s roots/values. Every voice in the family matters and is valuable and strong and I would be honored to support your quest in nurturing this personal/family growth.
(458) 236-3084 View (458) 236-3084
Photo of Bartie McLaren - Beyond Psychology, PhD, Psychologist
Beyond Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Grants Pass, OR 97526
Using CBT and insight oriented psychology I specialize in Individual relationship problems, LGBTQI, art therapy, Women's issues and postpartum depression and anxiety, life transitions, self esteem, partner abuse, ADHD assessment, diagnosis, and supportive therapy, career counseling and school problems, as well as healthy lifestyle changes, and supervision.
“I feel that I am merely an agent, giving you some keys that have been given to me to pass on to you. These keys are to unlock doors out of your present prison. Doors opening onto new vistas. Doors beyond where you are now.” ― John C. Lilly Facing difficulties in life, experiencing emotional pain and suffering, or want to grow and learn to be more self compassionate? It can make a world of difference to work with a Psychologist who can be your guide, collaborator, coach and cheer leader. In therapy, you can overcome fears and self limiting beliefs, gain insight, skills, and strategies to lead a life of meaning and fulfillment.
Using CBT and insight oriented psychology I specialize in Individual relationship problems, LGBTQI, art therapy, Women's issues and postpartum depression and anxiety, life transitions, self esteem, partner abuse, ADHD assessment, diagnosis, and supportive therapy, career counseling and school problems, as well as healthy lifestyle changes, and supervision.
“I feel that I am merely an agent, giving you some keys that have been given to me to pass on to you. These keys are to unlock doors out of your present prison. Doors opening onto new vistas. Doors beyond where you are now.” ― John C. Lilly Facing difficulties in life, experiencing emotional pain and suffering, or want to grow and learn to be more self compassionate? It can make a world of difference to work with a Psychologist who can be your guide, collaborator, coach and cheer leader. In therapy, you can overcome fears and self limiting beliefs, gain insight, skills, and strategies to lead a life of meaning and fulfillment.
(541) 470-8708 View (541) 470-8708
Photo of Celeste Eckman Himanek, MA, LPC, NCCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Celeste Eckman Himanek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCCMHC
Verified Verified
Grants Pass, OR 97526
I use EMDR to help people change their lives. It is a safe, powerful, and effective way to work together NOW.
I use EMDR to help people change their lives. It is a safe, powerful, and effective way to work together NOW.
(458) 219-8009 View (458) 219-8009
Photo of Lauren Hornbeck, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Hornbeck
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Grants Pass, OR 97526
I am currently a therapist at Transform Youth and Family Counseling, looking forward to meeting you!.
Shout out to the 10-24 year-olds in Southern Oregon! Your voice and your truth deserve to be heard and respected. If you are in need of someone to wholeheartedly listen and work alongside you to navigate the distress that life brings, I am here for you and your family. It would be an honor to be invited into your life story and to help you embody your most authentic and healthy self.
I am currently a therapist at Transform Youth and Family Counseling, looking forward to meeting you!.
Shout out to the 10-24 year-olds in Southern Oregon! Your voice and your truth deserve to be heard and respected. If you are in need of someone to wholeheartedly listen and work alongside you to navigate the distress that life brings, I am here for you and your family. It would be an honor to be invited into your life story and to help you embody your most authentic and healthy self.
(541) 329-1236 View (541) 329-1236
Photo of Sara Connell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Connell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grants Pass, OR 97526
I work for Transform Youth and Family Counseling and I’m looking forward to working with you!.
If you are feeling lost, powerless, or simply overwhelmed, I want to help you carve out a safe space where you can come and reflect on what is important to you and the person you want to be. Together, we can work on the tools, mindsets, and daily acts of care for yourself that foster a stronger sense of trust in yourself and ultimately a stronger sense of resilience. I am deeply inspired by our younger generations and their commitment to equity, authenticity, and self-determination. I work with youth ages 6-24 and - I love my job! Also please note that I conduct ADHD evaluations for youth ages 6-24 if you need that support as well!
I work for Transform Youth and Family Counseling and I’m looking forward to working with you!.
If you are feeling lost, powerless, or simply overwhelmed, I want to help you carve out a safe space where you can come and reflect on what is important to you and the person you want to be. Together, we can work on the tools, mindsets, and daily acts of care for yourself that foster a stronger sense of trust in yourself and ultimately a stronger sense of resilience. I am deeply inspired by our younger generations and their commitment to equity, authenticity, and self-determination. I work with youth ages 6-24 and - I love my job! Also please note that I conduct ADHD evaluations for youth ages 6-24 if you need that support as well!
(458) 236-3341 View (458) 236-3341
Photo of Chris Gorski - Neupathway (Chris Gorski), PCA, BS, MA, LPC
Neupathway (Chris Gorski)
Professional Counselor Associate, PCA, BS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grants Pass, OR 97527
Chris’s dedication to a supportive therapeutic relationship helps clients achieve their goals and transform their lives.
Chris Gorski, B.S., M.A., PCA, YT, MT is a seasoned therapist with nearly 30 years of experience in the Counseling and Wellness field. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Counseling and Human Services from California State University, Fullerton, and a CACREP-accredited Master of Arts from the University of the Cumberlands. Registered with the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists, Chris specializes in couples' therapy, helping partners navigate their relationships with compassion and understanding.
Chris’s dedication to a supportive therapeutic relationship helps clients achieve their goals and transform their lives.
Chris Gorski, B.S., M.A., PCA, YT, MT is a seasoned therapist with nearly 30 years of experience in the Counseling and Wellness field. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Counseling and Human Services from California State University, Fullerton, and a CACREP-accredited Master of Arts from the University of the Cumberlands. Registered with the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists, Chris specializes in couples' therapy, helping partners navigate their relationships with compassion and understanding.
(541) 351-7204 View (541) 351-7204
Photo of David Cuevas, MSW, QMHP-R
David Cuevas
MSW, QMHP-R
Verified Verified
Grants Pass, OR 97527
There are no ideal clients, only degrees of willingness to grow, develop, and actualize. This can mean becoming the best version of yourself (even if you don't know what that is yet!), overcoming a current hurdle, or learning to navigate difficult emotional terrain. Having a vested interest in learning new ways of thinking and being will take you further down the road to a better You! Clients often feel ill prepared to make difficult choices, lack trust in themselves, or are completely overtaken by the burdens life has thrown at them. Deciding and manifesting the next chapter of your life is both a scary and wondrous adventure!
There are no ideal clients, only degrees of willingness to grow, develop, and actualize. This can mean becoming the best version of yourself (even if you don't know what that is yet!), overcoming a current hurdle, or learning to navigate difficult emotional terrain. Having a vested interest in learning new ways of thinking and being will take you further down the road to a better You! Clients often feel ill prepared to make difficult choices, lack trust in themselves, or are completely overtaken by the burdens life has thrown at them. Deciding and manifesting the next chapter of your life is both a scary and wondrous adventure!
(541) 291-5945 View (541) 291-5945
Photo of Amanda Almog, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Almog
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Grants Pass, OR 97526  (Online Only)
Most therapy issues stem from issues with control (ie. phobias, controlling others, being "a control freak," feeling controlled by others, uncontrolled thinking, uncontrolled behaviors, etc.). Being out-of-control is extremely uncomfortable, unpredictable, and unavoidable. In therapy we discuss different ways to relate to the concept of control by increasing psychological flexibility. Psychological flexibility is the ability to adapt to the inevitable uncertainties of life. With Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), I assist you in identifying your "stuck" points and making the necessary pivots towards living a life you love.
Most therapy issues stem from issues with control (ie. phobias, controlling others, being "a control freak," feeling controlled by others, uncontrolled thinking, uncontrolled behaviors, etc.). Being out-of-control is extremely uncomfortable, unpredictable, and unavoidable. In therapy we discuss different ways to relate to the concept of control by increasing psychological flexibility. Psychological flexibility is the ability to adapt to the inevitable uncertainties of life. With Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), I assist you in identifying your "stuck" points and making the necessary pivots towards living a life you love.
(541) 859-8711 View (541) 859-8711
Photo of Lauren Bellenbaum, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Bellenbaum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grants Pass, OR 97526
Do you need someone other than your parents or friends to talk to that will not only understand and truly listen to you, but help you learn new coping skills and ways to better navigate life? Do you want to live a more full and happy life and not feel so dragged down by the pressure and stressors that young people especially are faced with? I specialize in working with youth ages 10-24. That’s right, Gen Z, I am reaching out specifically to you! I understand the challenges you’re facing in today’s world, and want to come alongside you and support you in becoming your most authentic and healthy self.
Do you need someone other than your parents or friends to talk to that will not only understand and truly listen to you, but help you learn new coping skills and ways to better navigate life? Do you want to live a more full and happy life and not feel so dragged down by the pressure and stressors that young people especially are faced with? I specialize in working with youth ages 10-24. That’s right, Gen Z, I am reaching out specifically to you! I understand the challenges you’re facing in today’s world, and want to come alongside you and support you in becoming your most authentic and healthy self.
(541) 636-9410 View (541) 636-9410
1

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.