LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Phoenix, OR

Photo of Lydia Ruthann Woody, QMHP
Lydia Ruthann Woody
Professional Counselor Associate, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, OR 97535  (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 Autumn Mulcahy, NCC, QMHP, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Autumn Mulcahy
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC, QMHP, MS
Verified Verified
Phoenix, OR 97535  (Online Only)
I offer therapy services for individuals ages 1-25. I love to walk with a client and grow together. I like to set obtainable goals that we can meet as a team. I work well with people who do not know what they want out of therapy as well. Therapy is really scary if you've never been, so i'm here to help work through that. I like to add humor and sarcasm to sessions when it fits, so fair warning. I work with all types of clients and will continue to do so. The session is led by you so if you want to learn skills, be completely serious, have fun while still working, that is all doable - though I will ask what you want to work on. :)
I offer therapy services for individuals ages 1-25. I love to walk with a client and grow together. I like to set obtainable goals that we can meet as a team. I work well with people who do not know what they want out of therapy as well. Therapy is really scary if you've never been, so i'm here to help work through that. I like to add humor and sarcasm to sessions when it fits, so fair warning. I work with all types of clients and will continue to do so. The session is led by you so if you want to learn skills, be completely serious, have fun while still working, that is all doable - though I will ask what you want to work on. :)
(458) 235-4422 x9429 View (458) 235-4422 x9429
Photo of Chrysta Rose, MA, LMHC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chrysta Rose
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, OR 97535
As a psychotherapist, people enter my office looking to improve their lives and relationships. Some are in crisis while others may simply need a trusted ear. Whatever the case, my goal is to provide a nonjudgmental sanctuary where clients are able to share their story and achieve their personal goals. Every client is a gift that motivates me to continue to learn and grow in the career that I love. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and welcome you to the Ashland Center for Couples.
As a psychotherapist, people enter my office looking to improve their lives and relationships. Some are in crisis while others may simply need a trusted ear. Whatever the case, my goal is to provide a nonjudgmental sanctuary where clients are able to share their story and achieve their personal goals. Every client is a gift that motivates me to continue to learn and grow in the career that I love. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and welcome you to the Ashland Center for Couples.
(541) 402-4294 View (541) 402-4294
Photo of Lisa B Izadpanah, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa B Izadpanah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, OR 97535
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the past 25 years and have worked in the mental health field for over 35 years. In my private practice, I specialize in Trauma Play Therapy with children 2 yrs-10 yrs, EMDR, Ego State Therapy/Structural Dissociation, high conflict custody cases, and foster/adoption cases. I am a Certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) Therapist, Register Play Therapist, Certified Experiential Play Therapist, Advanced Alcohol and Drug Abuse Therapist, and Ego State Therapy . I also have extensive training in Art and Sand Tray Therapy, Yoga Therapy, and Pet Assisted Therapy.
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for the past 25 years and have worked in the mental health field for over 35 years. In my private practice, I specialize in Trauma Play Therapy with children 2 yrs-10 yrs, EMDR, Ego State Therapy/Structural Dissociation, high conflict custody cases, and foster/adoption cases. I am a Certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) Therapist, Register Play Therapist, Certified Experiential Play Therapist, Advanced Alcohol and Drug Abuse Therapist, and Ego State Therapy . I also have extensive training in Art and Sand Tray Therapy, Yoga Therapy, and Pet Assisted Therapy.
(541) 275-6062 View (541) 275-6062
Photo of Denise M Hutter, PhD, Psychologist
Denise M Hutter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, OR 97535
Some people seek therapy for basic life issues and personal growth, while others come with serious trauma and psychiatric issues. I am a seasoned Psychologist and have extensive experience and training in both traditional and alternative modalities of therapy. I address the "whole person" not just presenting symptoms, having the belief that the human organism has the capacity to grow and heal. I work collaboratively with each person to create meaningful treatment experiences. visit my website at www.aps-wellness.com. Free 15 min informational phone contact
Some people seek therapy for basic life issues and personal growth, while others come with serious trauma and psychiatric issues. I am a seasoned Psychologist and have extensive experience and training in both traditional and alternative modalities of therapy. I address the "whole person" not just presenting symptoms, having the belief that the human organism has the capacity to grow and heal. I work collaboratively with each person to create meaningful treatment experiences. visit my website at www.aps-wellness.com. Free 15 min informational phone contact
(541) 526-5441 View (541) 526-5441
Photo of Victoria M Bones, LCSW, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria M Bones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, OR 97535
Accepting New Clients. Victoria M Bones, LCSW, ACHP-SW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience and training. She received her Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Nebraska at Omaha in 1978. Victoria has extensive knowledge and understanding of those who have survived life altering events such as emotional, physical and sexual abuse as well as other traumatic situations. She has been a long time advocate for children, adolescents and adults. She is in private practice in Medford & Ashland Oregon.
Accepting New Clients. Victoria M Bones, LCSW, ACHP-SW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience and training. She received her Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Nebraska at Omaha in 1978. Victoria has extensive knowledge and understanding of those who have survived life altering events such as emotional, physical and sexual abuse as well as other traumatic situations. She has been a long time advocate for children, adolescents and adults. She is in private practice in Medford & Ashland Oregon.
(541) 204-2855 View (541) 204-2855
Photo of Sky Asher, MA, QMHP, LPC-A
Sky Asher
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, QMHP, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, OR 97535
I see the imagination as a powerful tool for transformation.
Life doesn't come with a road map for success. Therapy is like a compass to help navigate the twists and turns along the way. If you are seeking change, are ready to take responsibility for the road ahead, and are prepared to meet the heights and depths of transformation, I can offer insight and new ways to consciously take the reins. You may find hidden treasures within that were buried and forgotten and learn how they influence your thinking and ways of being. I offer experience and training in a spectrum of modalities to teach new practices that open to fresh perspectives that may lead to growth for lasting change.
I see the imagination as a powerful tool for transformation.
Life doesn't come with a road map for success. Therapy is like a compass to help navigate the twists and turns along the way. If you are seeking change, are ready to take responsibility for the road ahead, and are prepared to meet the heights and depths of transformation, I can offer insight and new ways to consciously take the reins. You may find hidden treasures within that were buried and forgotten and learn how they influence your thinking and ways of being. I offer experience and training in a spectrum of modalities to teach new practices that open to fresh perspectives that may lead to growth for lasting change.
(541) 230-7255 View (541) 230-7255
Photo of Shirley Lawyer-Hellman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shirley Lawyer-Hellman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, OR 97535
I have witnessed amazing transformations as clients change their relationship and response to memories of difficult experiences.
Congratulations! You have made a choice to make a change. Sometimes we need extra help during a difficult time in life. Friends and family do their best to help, but they are not always the right choice when a person needs safe, confidential, non-judgmental, and compassionate assistance with working through stressors. I am here to support you on your healing journey. We will develop a plan together so that you can achieve your goals. I have over 10 years of experience counseling children, adolescents, adults, and couples in our community.
I have witnessed amazing transformations as clients change their relationship and response to memories of difficult experiences.
Congratulations! You have made a choice to make a change. Sometimes we need extra help during a difficult time in life. Friends and family do their best to help, but they are not always the right choice when a person needs safe, confidential, non-judgmental, and compassionate assistance with working through stressors. I am here to support you on your healing journey. We will develop a plan together so that you can achieve your goals. I have over 10 years of experience counseling children, adolescents, adults, and couples in our community.
(541) 291-5785 View (541) 291-5785

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Morgan Tepper, MPS, LPCA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Morgan Tepper
Pre-Licensed Professional, MPS, LPCA
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
I am a Creative Arts Therapist experienced in working with Transgender individuals and LGBTQ+ clientele.
Art therapy is an effective way to process life experiences that feel unspeakable. Creative Arts Therapy may also assist individuals experiencing creative blocks. Note: One does not need to be a fine artist to engage in Art Therapy; all creative levels are welcome!
I am a Creative Arts Therapist experienced in working with Transgender individuals and LGBTQ+ clientele.
Art therapy is an effective way to process life experiences that feel unspeakable. Creative Arts Therapy may also assist individuals experiencing creative blocks. Note: One does not need to be a fine artist to engage in Art Therapy; all creative levels are welcome!
(971) 272-8657 View (971) 272-8657
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 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 8/6/24: Accepting new 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 8/6/24: Accepting new 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 Katrina Lee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katrina Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520  (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 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 Peyton Moore, LPC, NCC, MA, OT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peyton Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA, OT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520
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 Ami I. Student, PsyD, Psychologist
Ami I. Student
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
As a member of the queer community I also provide welcoming care for those living romantic, sexual, and gender-diverse lives.
Although I consider myself a lifelong learner, my name can often throw people. While my last name is "Student," I am actually a licensed, seasoned clinician with extensive training and experience in the field of psychology. I help adults confront a wide range of challenges, such as depression, anxiety, and traumatic stress. I also have expertise in assisting individuals struggling with their physical health, including chronic pain, medical illness, and sleep/insomnia.
As a member of the queer community I also provide welcoming care for those living romantic, sexual, and gender-diverse lives.
Although I consider myself a lifelong learner, my name can often throw people. While my last name is "Student," I am actually a licensed, seasoned clinician with extensive training and experience in the field of psychology. I help adults confront a wide range of challenges, such as depression, anxiety, and traumatic stress. I also have expertise in assisting individuals struggling with their physical health, including chronic pain, medical illness, and sleep/insomnia.
(503) 506-6302 View (503) 506-6302
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 Rhyver Rudick, PhD, Psychologist
Rhyver Rudick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
I am a trans-masc therapist with experience across outpatient and inpatient settings.
As a queer therapist, I greatly honor and celebrate the uniqueness of our own life stories and personalities. The interventions I offer are carefully tailored to your concerns, needs, and personal style. I integrate empirically validated approaches with traditional therapy and metaphysical healing components. I provide a therapeutic presence that is grounding, nurturing, and sincere. Together, we will combine your own self-knowledge and life expertise with my clinical expertise. I will co-journey with you to explore the depths and peaks of your experiences, and to provide support and reminders of your greatness along the way.
I am a trans-masc therapist with experience across outpatient and inpatient settings.
As a queer therapist, I greatly honor and celebrate the uniqueness of our own life stories and personalities. The interventions I offer are carefully tailored to your concerns, needs, and personal style. I integrate empirically validated approaches with traditional therapy and metaphysical healing components. I provide a therapeutic presence that is grounding, nurturing, and sincere. Together, we will combine your own self-knowledge and life expertise with my clinical expertise. I will co-journey with you to explore the depths and peaks of your experiences, and to provide support and reminders of your greatness along the way.
(701) 809-9033 View (701) 809-9033
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 Lorie Tensen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorie Tensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Talent, OR 97540  (Online Only)
I hold space especially for Adult (18+) Women, Black people, Indigenous people, other people of color, LGBTQIA+, and gender-expansive people.
Accepting Care Oregon/OHP clients only at this time! The recent loss of a close friend was a blunt reminder that tomorrow is not promised. A blunt reminder that being present and in the moment is all that we truly have. Many of us wrestle with events of the past or fear about tomorrow but, in the meantime, we often forget that we have the ability - choice - to grab hold of the moment we are in with everything we have and make it truly and wonderfully ours. We get a say in what that moment will be: happy, sad, angry, tormented, funny, quiet, loud. I specialize in midlife support for women: life transitions, mental health & menopause.
I hold space especially for Adult (18+) Women, Black people, Indigenous people, other people of color, LGBTQIA+, and gender-expansive people.
Accepting Care Oregon/OHP clients only at this time! The recent loss of a close friend was a blunt reminder that tomorrow is not promised. A blunt reminder that being present and in the moment is all that we truly have. Many of us wrestle with events of the past or fear about tomorrow but, in the meantime, we often forget that we have the ability - choice - to grab hold of the moment we are in with everything we have and make it truly and wonderfully ours. We get a say in what that moment will be: happy, sad, angry, tormented, funny, quiet, loud. I specialize in midlife support for women: life transitions, mental health & menopause.
(541) 204-2989 View (541) 204-2989
Photo of Elisa Joy Friedlander, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elisa Joy Friedlander
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
As a lesbian, I am especially committed to providing safe and supportive therapy to LGBTQ+ persons.
Chronic Pain & Illness - and other Therapeutic Writing & Journaling group openings. Please link to website for details. No availability for individual clients at this time. You might notice a discrepancy between the life you are living, and the life/aspects of life you desire. I'm here to help you bridge that gap by creatively guiding you to give voice to various parts of yourself (including parts that are hidden or less acknowledged) as you gain valuable insights and new narratives that enable you to engage in your life and relationships with more skill, authenticity, and ease.
As a lesbian, I am especially committed to providing safe and supportive therapy to LGBTQ+ persons.
Chronic Pain & Illness - and other Therapeutic Writing & Journaling group openings. Please link to website for details. No availability for individual clients at this time. You might notice a discrepancy between the life you are living, and the life/aspects of life you desire. I'm here to help you bridge that gap by creatively guiding you to give voice to various parts of yourself (including parts that are hidden or less acknowledged) as you gain valuable insights and new narratives that enable you to engage in your life and relationships with more skill, authenticity, and ease.
(541) 255-1355 View (541) 255-1355

See more therapy options for Phoenix

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.