LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Medford, OR

Photo of Katrina Lee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katrina Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Medford, OR 97504  (Online Only)
I have significant experience in areas of queer identity, gender, sexuality, kink, poly and alternative relationship platforms.
Greetings, We all live with moments of transition, exploration and increasing amounts of questions. This often leads to exploration of identity, gender, sexuality, and more. As a queer and affirming therapist, I am honored to have the opportunity to walk beside you and help support you with therapeutic tools, learning new practices, exploring fear and identifying opportunities for growth. We will work together in a collaborative and respectful manner, with you leading the way to your own recovery and goals.
I have significant experience in areas of queer identity, gender, sexuality, kink, poly and alternative relationship platforms.
Greetings, We all live with moments of transition, exploration and increasing amounts of questions. This often leads to exploration of identity, gender, sexuality, and more. As a queer and affirming therapist, I am honored to have the opportunity to walk beside you and help support you with therapeutic tools, learning new practices, exploring fear and identifying opportunities for growth. We will work together in a collaborative and respectful manner, with you leading the way to your own recovery and goals.
(458) 217-5146 View (458) 217-5146
Photo of Nick Vaske, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nick Vaske
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Medford, OR 97504
Waitlist for new clients
I use an anti-oppressive, person-centered and trauma-informed framework and I strive to be culturally sensitive and queer/LGBTQ+ affirming.
There are multiple approaches we can take to therapy together, whether that is dealing with stressors in the present or processing difficult or traumatic events from the past. We can work to develop better insight and self-compassion, set boundaries and develop healthier relationships, or unpack privilege and learn to be a better ally. I am comfortable and knowledgeable about topics relating to sex and sexuality, sex positivity, poly/non-monogamy, and intersections of identity. I have working knowledge in domestic violence, sexual abuse, sexual offending, and addiction issues.
I use an anti-oppressive, person-centered and trauma-informed framework and I strive to be culturally sensitive and queer/LGBTQ+ affirming.
There are multiple approaches we can take to therapy together, whether that is dealing with stressors in the present or processing difficult or traumatic events from the past. We can work to develop better insight and self-compassion, set boundaries and develop healthier relationships, or unpack privilege and learn to be a better ally. I am comfortable and knowledgeable about topics relating to sex and sexuality, sex positivity, poly/non-monogamy, and intersections of identity. I have working knowledge in domestic violence, sexual abuse, sexual offending, and addiction issues.
(503) 389-5665 View (503) 389-5665
Photo of Peyton Moore, LPC, NCC, MA, OT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peyton Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA, OT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Medford, OR 97501
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 Dora Vanderpool, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dora Vanderpool
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Medford, OR 97504  (Online Only)
I identify as queer.
Updated 9/12/23: Accepting new virtual clients. - By deciding to engage in therapy you have already made a commitment to bettering yourself and initiating change. Let’s celebrate that! Taking a meaningful look at our day-to-day lives and pasts can be daunting-let’s create a tender and safe atmosphere to wade through this process together. Too often, our mental health challenges are reduced to diagnosis, labels, and text-book definitions that don’t quite fit—my approach departs from these systems and is more rooted in holistic and relational healing.
I identify as queer.
Updated 9/12/23: Accepting new virtual clients. - By deciding to engage in therapy you have already made a commitment to bettering yourself and initiating change. Let’s celebrate that! Taking a meaningful look at our day-to-day lives and pasts can be daunting-let’s create a tender and safe atmosphere to wade through this process together. Too often, our mental health challenges are reduced to diagnosis, labels, and text-book definitions that don’t quite fit—my approach departs from these systems and is more rooted in holistic and relational healing.
(503) 843-8630 View (503) 843-8630
Photo of Constance Chappell, MS, LPC, CADC II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Constance Chappell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CADC II
Verified Verified
Medford, OR 97504
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 Rick Cummings, LPC, CHT, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rick Cummings
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CHT, MS
Verified Verified
Medford, OR 97504
Are you seeking true transformation? I love meeting individuals who are ready for deeper work & revolutionary growth. Whether you are new to counseling or a long-time therapist, if you are wanting to push beyond the familiar shadow parts and let go of the old stories, then we may be an ideal fit. I work with a wide variety of adult clients and enjoy working with various issues including; Self Realization & Potential, Relationships, Romance, Spirituality, The Self, Self-image, Grief, Anxiety, Trauma, Abuse, Communication, Sexual Issues, Sexual Orientation, LGBTQ issues, Trans-Gender issues, Faith/Religion, Spirituality, etc.
Are you seeking true transformation? I love meeting individuals who are ready for deeper work & revolutionary growth. Whether you are new to counseling or a long-time therapist, if you are wanting to push beyond the familiar shadow parts and let go of the old stories, then we may be an ideal fit. I work with a wide variety of adult clients and enjoy working with various issues including; Self Realization & Potential, Relationships, Romance, Spirituality, The Self, Self-image, Grief, Anxiety, Trauma, Abuse, Communication, Sexual Issues, Sexual Orientation, LGBTQ issues, Trans-Gender issues, Faith/Religion, Spirituality, etc.
(541) 588-6198 View (541) 588-6198
Photo of Alyson K. Brown - Hawthorne Healing Center, LLC , LPC-A
Hawthorne Healing Center, LLC
Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Medford, OR 97504
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 Dori Best, MS, LPC, CADC, II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dori Best
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CADC, II
Verified Verified
Medford, OR 97504
Waitlist for new clients
Some areas I specialize in are depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, crisis, relationship issues, couples, families, substance abuse issues, gay/lesbian, transgender, bisexual, and spirituality.
Yo creo que no hay problema que el amor no pueda resolver; déjame ayudarte and encontrar la fuente de amor que reside en ti. Tengo citas disponibles para gente que habla castellano y accepto OHP y Jackson Care Connect. I believe that there is no condition that love cannot heal. Let me help you to rediscover the source of love that resides within you. I accept Jackson Care Connect. Currently, I have a waiting list for people who speak English.
Some areas I specialize in are depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, crisis, relationship issues, couples, families, substance abuse issues, gay/lesbian, transgender, bisexual, and spirituality.
Yo creo que no hay problema que el amor no pueda resolver; déjame ayudarte and encontrar la fuente de amor que reside en ti. Tengo citas disponibles para gente que habla castellano y accepto OHP y Jackson Care Connect. I believe that there is no condition that love cannot heal. Let me help you to rediscover the source of love that resides within you. I accept Jackson Care Connect. Currently, I have a waiting list for people who speak English.
(541) 692-3951 View (541) 692-3951
Photo of Boyd Sherbourne, PsyD, Psychologist
Boyd Sherbourne
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Medford, OR 97504
Some areas I specialize in are depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, crisis, relationship issues, couples, families, work/career, anger management, life changes, stress management, substance issues, wealth counseling, sports psychology, gay/lesbian, transgender, bisexual, and consultation.
Let me help you live your life with purpose and fulfillment. I provide a compassionate and nonjudgmental approach to the therapeutic process. I have over twenty years of experience in the field of psychology. I have experience treating a number of emotional and behavioral issues. My ideal client is one who is motivated in regard to the psychotherapy process. An individual who is open and willing to commit an agreed amount of time to participate in some intense psychotherapy to reduce symptoms or gain insight.
Some areas I specialize in are depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, crisis, relationship issues, couples, families, work/career, anger management, life changes, stress management, substance issues, wealth counseling, sports psychology, gay/lesbian, transgender, bisexual, and consultation.
Let me help you live your life with purpose and fulfillment. I provide a compassionate and nonjudgmental approach to the therapeutic process. I have over twenty years of experience in the field of psychology. I have experience treating a number of emotional and behavioral issues. My ideal client is one who is motivated in regard to the psychotherapy process. An individual who is open and willing to commit an agreed amount of time to participate in some intense psychotherapy to reduce symptoms or gain insight.
(541) 516-1643 View (541) 516-1643
Photo of Arianna Badizadegan, MS, QMHP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Arianna Badizadegan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, QMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Medford, OR 97501
I have a strong passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ population as well as children, teens and transition age youth.
I have worked in crisis services and community mental health with children and adults. I practice primarily from Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Person Centered (Rogerian) approaches, and have training in Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I love working with clients who are ready to challenge themselves to grow through their experiences - clients who challenge themselves to step outside of their comfort zones to grow into better versions of who they are. I also appreciate when clients have clear goals and use therapy in the manner that best fits their style.
I have a strong passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ population as well as children, teens and transition age youth.
I have worked in crisis services and community mental health with children and adults. I practice primarily from Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Person Centered (Rogerian) approaches, and have training in Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I love working with clients who are ready to challenge themselves to grow through their experiences - clients who challenge themselves to step outside of their comfort zones to grow into better versions of who they are. I also appreciate when clients have clear goals and use therapy in the manner that best fits their style.
(458) 203-8552 View (458) 203-8552
Photo of Hannah Boley, MSW
Hannah Boley
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW
Verified Verified
Medford, OR 97501
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 Akiva DeJack, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Akiva DeJack
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Medford, OR 97501
I have been a psychotherapist for over 30 years, so my practice has both depth and breadth. I have much experience working with depression and anxiety, addictions and recovery, all types of trauma, and relationship issues of all kinds. I welcome LGBTQ+ individuals, folx from non-dominant cultural backgrounds, and I enjoy working with individuals, couples, "pods," and families. My goal is the empowerment of everyone I serve.
I have been a psychotherapist for over 30 years, so my practice has both depth and breadth. I have much experience working with depression and anxiety, addictions and recovery, all types of trauma, and relationship issues of all kinds. I welcome LGBTQ+ individuals, folx from non-dominant cultural backgrounds, and I enjoy working with individuals, couples, "pods," and families. My goal is the empowerment of everyone I serve.
(541) 204-2992 View (541) 204-2992
Photo of Eric Houghton, QMHP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Eric Houghton
Pre-Licensed Professional, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Medford, OR 97501
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 Fatema Rashid, MA
Fatema Rashid
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Medford, OR 97501
I work with people of all races, spiritual faiths, and LGBTQ community.
Accepting new clients! I believe that darkness is an opportunity to find our true light. Book today to discover your own truth. I see clients who are experiencing attachment wounds, past traumatic experiences, grief, and who want a new way to approach their healing. The journey towards self-discovery if often accompanied by pain and loneliness. We may feel overwhelmed by emotions and get stuck in unhealthy patterns that we struggle to recognize. We need someone who will sit with us in our pain and darkness without judgment. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, and inclusive space for all individuals to explore their emotions.
I work with people of all races, spiritual faiths, and LGBTQ community.
Accepting new clients! I believe that darkness is an opportunity to find our true light. Book today to discover your own truth. I see clients who are experiencing attachment wounds, past traumatic experiences, grief, and who want a new way to approach their healing. The journey towards self-discovery if often accompanied by pain and loneliness. We may feel overwhelmed by emotions and get stuck in unhealthy patterns that we struggle to recognize. We need someone who will sit with us in our pain and darkness without judgment. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, and inclusive space for all individuals to explore their emotions.
(503) 300-6413 View (503) 300-6413
Photo of Desiree Elizabeth Coutinho, MSW
Desiree Elizabeth Coutinho
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Medford, OR 97501
I’m Desiree, a queer, woman of color therapist located in Southern Oregon. I specialize in working with individuals navigating trauma, helping them integrate past wounding, navigate fear, and cultivate acceptance. I am passionate about guiding clients through embodied grief processes, as a powerful tool for individual and collective healing and a way to reclaim our wellbeing. I work with all ages, but am especially interested in working with young adults, navigating anxiety, depression, stress, and other mental health challenges related to living in uncertain times.
I’m Desiree, a queer, woman of color therapist located in Southern Oregon. I specialize in working with individuals navigating trauma, helping them integrate past wounding, navigate fear, and cultivate acceptance. I am passionate about guiding clients through embodied grief processes, as a powerful tool for individual and collective healing and a way to reclaim our wellbeing. I work with all ages, but am especially interested in working with young adults, navigating anxiety, depression, stress, and other mental health challenges related to living in uncertain times.
(541) 834-9165 View (541) 834-9165
Photo of Lydia Ruthann Woody, QMHP
Lydia Ruthann Woody
Professional Counselor Associate, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Medford, OR 97504  (Online Only)
Neurodivergent, queer, and fat ally and identified.
I'm currently seeing new clients with-in one week, I have flexible scheduling including evenings. Clients who work with me want a better understanding of themselves in order to improve their well-being and feel more at home in their lives. I am passionate about supporting people in their journeys of self exploration and healing because we all deserve to thrive, not just survive. The first step to thriving is curiosity, and by looking for a therapist, you are already showing how powerful curiosity can be when seeking to make changes in our lives, no matter what those changes are.
Neurodivergent, queer, and fat ally and identified.
I'm currently seeing new clients with-in one week, I have flexible scheduling including evenings. Clients who work with me want a better understanding of themselves in order to improve their well-being and feel more at home in their lives. I am passionate about supporting people in their journeys of self exploration and healing because we all deserve to thrive, not just survive. The first step to thriving is curiosity, and by looking for a therapist, you are already showing how powerful curiosity can be when seeking to make changes in our lives, no matter what those changes are.
(458) 230-5545 View (458) 230-5545
Photo of Kel Lash, MS, LPC, CLC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kel Lash
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CLC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Medford, OR 97501  (Online Only)
Areas I'm passionate about: manifesting miracles, self-love, self-forgiveness, self-identity, answering your "call", finding your life's purpose and desires, relationship issues, anxiety, chronic illness, spiritual coaching, ACIM, and LGBTQ/transgender affirming therapy and coaching.
I'm Kel! I offer virtual (phone) therapy, spiritual coaching and self-hypnosis for clients located anywhere. I've dedicated my life helping incredible people enrich their lives and relationships. I help clients love and forgive themselves using the miraculous power to heal from within. I use intuition, somatic therapy, mindfulness, radical acceptance and humor. I specialize in spiritual issues and coaching, self-love, self-forgiveness, self-acceptance & inner child healing. Clients report how easy it is to love themselves after working with me. Clients describe me as gentle, calm, compassionate, out of the box and inspiring.
Areas I'm passionate about: manifesting miracles, self-love, self-forgiveness, self-identity, answering your "call", finding your life's purpose and desires, relationship issues, anxiety, chronic illness, spiritual coaching, ACIM, and LGBTQ/transgender affirming therapy and coaching.
I'm Kel! I offer virtual (phone) therapy, spiritual coaching and self-hypnosis for clients located anywhere. I've dedicated my life helping incredible people enrich their lives and relationships. I help clients love and forgive themselves using the miraculous power to heal from within. I use intuition, somatic therapy, mindfulness, radical acceptance and humor. I specialize in spiritual issues and coaching, self-love, self-forgiveness, self-acceptance & inner child healing. Clients report how easy it is to love themselves after working with me. Clients describe me as gentle, calm, compassionate, out of the box and inspiring.
(971) 351-3184 View (971) 351-3184
Photo of Craig Blackard, MM, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Craig Blackard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MM, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Medford, OR 97502
I work with clients skillfully to safely facilitate access to their own natural wisdom. I work specifically to craft the interpersonal space that supports growth in my clients. You may feel somehow broken, incomplete, or even bewildered. I remember these feelings from my own experience of healing and I use these experiences and vulnerabilities to guide my work as a therapist. Though the relationship is based on unconditional acceptance, my clients undergo remarkable transformation. I provide the skills of expert listening, empathy, clear boundaries, and genuineness to my clients.
I work with clients skillfully to safely facilitate access to their own natural wisdom. I work specifically to craft the interpersonal space that supports growth in my clients. You may feel somehow broken, incomplete, or even bewildered. I remember these feelings from my own experience of healing and I use these experiences and vulnerabilities to guide my work as a therapist. Though the relationship is based on unconditional acceptance, my clients undergo remarkable transformation. I provide the skills of expert listening, empathy, clear boundaries, and genuineness to my clients.
(541) 516-1707 View (541) 516-1707
Photo of Katryn Haley-Little, LCSW, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katryn Haley-Little
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Medford, OR 97504
The desire for connection with others is hardwired into our brains. We want to be loved, to love, and to feel seen and heard by those we're connected to. Sometimes that doesn't happen and we're hurt, or we're scared to talk about how we feel because we fear being judged. Understanding who we are and how to best build healthy relationships is hard. It's even harder when roadblocks like infertility, unexpected pregnancies, or other issues related to family relationships are present.
The desire for connection with others is hardwired into our brains. We want to be loved, to love, and to feel seen and heard by those we're connected to. Sometimes that doesn't happen and we're hurt, or we're scared to talk about how we feel because we fear being judged. Understanding who we are and how to best build healthy relationships is hard. It's even harder when roadblocks like infertility, unexpected pregnancies, or other issues related to family relationships are present.
(541) 209-0678 View (541) 209-0678
Photo of Almyra Perry, MS, NCC, CMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Almyra Perry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, CMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Medford, OR 97504
Waitlist for new clients
Are you suffering from low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, trauma? Feeling overwhelmed by the stressors of the world? Feeling disconnected from life and don't know what to do to change and get the quality life you deserve? Tired of feeling angry and misunderstood? We all want and need to be understood; to build our own version of what our quality life looks like: independence, a sense of self that includes compassion and love, and to be free from both mental and physical suffering. All these things are possible if you want to move forward and find well-being.
Are you suffering from low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, trauma? Feeling overwhelmed by the stressors of the world? Feeling disconnected from life and don't know what to do to change and get the quality life you deserve? Tired of feeling angry and misunderstood? We all want and need to be understood; to build our own version of what our quality life looks like: independence, a sense of self that includes compassion and love, and to be free from both mental and physical suffering. All these things are possible if you want to move forward and find well-being.
(541) 299-9126 View (541) 299-9126
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.