Transgender Therapists in Philadelphia, PA
Current Research: How transgender issues are reorienting psychoanalytic practice while making us redefine notions of sexuality.
In my practice I offer a welcoming setting and provide a safe space for your suffering or difficulties. When you speak about yourself to someone who is trained to listen and examine the circumstances that motivated your consultation, a change occurs. A psychoanalyst is a person trained to hear what is happening under the surface, and provides a place where you may speak and hear yourself differently. I have been working as a psychoanalyst and psychotherapist for 25 years and I have found that words can hurt, words can make people sick, but words can also save. Talking cures.
Current Research: How transgender issues are reorienting psychoanalytic practice while making us redefine notions of sexuality.
In my practice I offer a welcoming setting and provide a safe space for your suffering or difficulties. When you speak about yourself to someone who is trained to listen and examine the circumstances that motivated your consultation, a change occurs. A psychoanalyst is a person trained to hear what is happening under the surface, and provides a place where you may speak and hear yourself differently. I have been working as a psychoanalyst and psychotherapist for 25 years and I have found that words can hurt, words can make people sick, but words can also save. Talking cures.
Dr. Jacob Glickman
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104 (Online Only)
Jacob specializes in providing mental healthcare for people who identify as transgender/non-binary/gender expansive, as well as the larger LGBTQIA+ communities and their families; additionally, he maintains an anti-racist, sex positive, kink positive, and poly-aware practice. In collaboration with individuals, families, and people in relationships, Jacob's identities inform his past decade of work as a feminist therapist with a focus in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Jacob specializes in providing mental healthcare for people who identify as transgender/non-binary/gender expansive, as well as the larger LGBTQIA+ communities and their families; additionally, he maintains an anti-racist, sex positive, kink positive, and poly-aware practice. In collaboration with individuals, families, and people in relationships, Jacob's identities inform his past decade of work as a feminist therapist with a focus in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Melissa Sziga Dessereau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
They completed their Master of Science in Family Therapy/Sex Therapy at Thomas Jefferson University, Master of Arts in Child Development from Tufts University, and Affirming Approaches for Transgender Communities at Widener U.
Sziga is a perceptive and nuanced therapist with a refreshingly frank style. For over 25 years, they have been working with individuals, couples, and families to foster personal growth and satisfying relationships. They have a way of making clients feel comfortable, understood, and at ease — like no matter what you say they get it and don’t judge you. And they're funny.
They completed their Master of Science in Family Therapy/Sex Therapy at Thomas Jefferson University, Master of Arts in Child Development from Tufts University, and Affirming Approaches for Transgender Communities at Widener U.
Sziga is a perceptive and nuanced therapist with a refreshingly frank style. For over 25 years, they have been working with individuals, couples, and families to foster personal growth and satisfying relationships. They have a way of making clients feel comfortable, understood, and at ease — like no matter what you say they get it and don’t judge you. And they're funny.
I have provided care for those in the transgender community for several years, which my focus being in an integrated health setting.
My goal is to help those in the LGBTQ+ community navigate the social and personal challenges of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as co-occurring mental health symptoms that they may be experiencing. I provide a safe therapeutic environment to meet the unique needs of this community. I have experience working with those of varying gender identities, sexual orientations, as well as varying non-monogamous relationship orientations. I also have experience working with individuals preparing for or receiving gender affirming medical care.
I have provided care for those in the transgender community for several years, which my focus being in an integrated health setting.
My goal is to help those in the LGBTQ+ community navigate the social and personal challenges of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as co-occurring mental health symptoms that they may be experiencing. I provide a safe therapeutic environment to meet the unique needs of this community. I have experience working with those of varying gender identities, sexual orientations, as well as varying non-monogamous relationship orientations. I also have experience working with individuals preparing for or receiving gender affirming medical care.
At any stage of development, we are bound to encounter obstacles to our ability to thrive. I help clients to become proactive agents in their own process. I have worked with all ages to reduce symptoms, promote growth, and instill lasting change. I support children, teens, adults, and families in healing from anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression and OCD. I have a speciality in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially GNC and transgender folks. I am licensed in AL, AZ, AR, CT, CO, DE, GA, FL, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY.
At any stage of development, we are bound to encounter obstacles to our ability to thrive. I help clients to become proactive agents in their own process. I have worked with all ages to reduce symptoms, promote growth, and instill lasting change. I support children, teens, adults, and families in healing from anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression and OCD. I have a speciality in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially GNC and transgender folks. I am licensed in AL, AZ, AR, CT, CO, DE, GA, FL, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY.
Tanya Koifman - Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, NY, NJ, ID, PA, DE, VT, RI, SC, FL
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104 (Online Only)
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, and provide gender-affirming support for transgender & non-binary individuals.
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, and provide gender-affirming support for transgender & non-binary individuals.
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
Hayley Roverana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146 (Online Only)
You just want to know that you can walk into a room and don't have to play the "pronoun game", pretend you only have one partner, or have to listen to someone minimize your relationship, sexuality, or gender dysphoria. I am here, above all, to be your biggest advocate. I aim to create a radically accepting space to confront, question, and explore what makes you who you are. I’m not afraid to talk about the hard things. Sex, intimacy, relationships, trauma… This is your space to let it all out. Everyone is welcome here. Judgement isn't tolerated. Arriving with your real, raw, and heavy baggage is celebrated.
You just want to know that you can walk into a room and don't have to play the "pronoun game", pretend you only have one partner, or have to listen to someone minimize your relationship, sexuality, or gender dysphoria. I am here, above all, to be your biggest advocate. I aim to create a radically accepting space to confront, question, and explore what makes you who you are. I’m not afraid to talk about the hard things. Sex, intimacy, relationships, trauma… This is your space to let it all out. Everyone is welcome here. Judgement isn't tolerated. Arriving with your real, raw, and heavy baggage is celebrated.
I have helped clients address struggles with anxiety, depression, self-injury, low self-esteem, lesbian/gay/bisexual & transgender identity issues, family relationship difficulties, religious traumas, & eating disorders / negative body image.
It takes strength & courage to acknowledge personal shortcomings, painful experiences, & life stressors. I commend you for seeking professional help & I would be honored to be part of your journey of healing & self-improvement. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist, lesbian, & woman of color. I believe that, in addition to my professional training, these multiple identities & life experiences have enabled me to understand & help a variety of therapy clients. My therapeutic style is collaborative, egalitarian, & non-judgmental. The most significant aspect of treatment is our relationship.
I have helped clients address struggles with anxiety, depression, self-injury, low self-esteem, lesbian/gay/bisexual & transgender identity issues, family relationship difficulties, religious traumas, & eating disorders / negative body image.
It takes strength & courage to acknowledge personal shortcomings, painful experiences, & life stressors. I commend you for seeking professional help & I would be honored to be part of your journey of healing & self-improvement. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist, lesbian, & woman of color. I believe that, in addition to my professional training, these multiple identities & life experiences have enabled me to understand & help a variety of therapy clients. My therapeutic style is collaborative, egalitarian, & non-judgmental. The most significant aspect of treatment is our relationship.
Sara Edwards
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19120
Hello! I'm looking forward to meeting you. I am a therapist specializing in working with sexuality topics. Maybe you are looking for a therapist for a sexuality concern, sex therapy, sexual pain, trauma, or for transgender-affirming care. Maybe you just want to see someone who "gets it" and will be affirming of everything that makes you uniquely you. Whatever the reason, I am excited to accompany you on this wellness journey you're taking! I bring great enthusiasm to my therapy and I am looking forward to helping you achieve your life's passions. I have immediate openings, so we can get started soon without the wait.
Hello! I'm looking forward to meeting you. I am a therapist specializing in working with sexuality topics. Maybe you are looking for a therapist for a sexuality concern, sex therapy, sexual pain, trauma, or for transgender-affirming care. Maybe you just want to see someone who "gets it" and will be affirming of everything that makes you uniquely you. Whatever the reason, I am excited to accompany you on this wellness journey you're taking! I bring great enthusiasm to my therapy and I am looking forward to helping you achieve your life's passions. I have immediate openings, so we can get started soon without the wait.
Emma Shakarshy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19144 (Online Only)
I have primarily worked with adults and adolescents, and I have in-depth experience working with queer and transgender folks.
I believe in the power of therapy as a space to connect and to name one's truths and desires aloud. I provide clients with an empathic, nonjudgmental space where they can explore the stories they have learned about themselves over time. Much of my work is focused around the intersections of identity, trauma, and mental health, and I am committed to exploring the ways that race, gender, and other social identities show up in the world and in the therapy room.
I have primarily worked with adults and adolescents, and I have in-depth experience working with queer and transgender folks.
I believe in the power of therapy as a space to connect and to name one's truths and desires aloud. I provide clients with an empathic, nonjudgmental space where they can explore the stories they have learned about themselves over time. Much of my work is focused around the intersections of identity, trauma, and mental health, and I am committed to exploring the ways that race, gender, and other social identities show up in the world and in the therapy room.
Rebecca B Bassman
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Rebecca affirms diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, relationship configurations, and sexual practices, including but not limited to: – Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Pan, Queer – Asexual – Polyamory – Transgender, Genderqueer, .
Rebecca is a graduate of Thomas Jefferson’s Marriage and Family Therapy program with a specialty in Sex Therapy. Clients would say that they value Rebecca’s open communication style and her ability to look through a systemic lens. Rebecca is culturally competent and well versed on a wide range of human sexuality issues and topics.
Rebecca affirms diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, relationship configurations, and sexual practices, including but not limited to: – Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Pan, Queer – Asexual – Polyamory – Transgender, Genderqueer, .
Rebecca is a graduate of Thomas Jefferson’s Marriage and Family Therapy program with a specialty in Sex Therapy. Clients would say that they value Rebecca’s open communication style and her ability to look through a systemic lens. Rebecca is culturally competent and well versed on a wide range of human sexuality issues and topics.
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Christian Jordal
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CST-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I work with clients who are cis-gendered, gender-fluid, and transgender, including supporting clients seeking gender affirming healthcare services.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, in practice since 2004, working with individuals, couples, and families. I see clients for brief and extended periods of time, assisting them with issues including: depression; anxiety; sexual issues, communication and relationship difficulties; conflict resolution; trauma and attachment injuries; infidelity; adjustment issues related to separation, divorce, grief, and loss. I view issues contextually and address race, culture, gender, among others, in my work.
I work with clients who are cis-gendered, gender-fluid, and transgender, including supporting clients seeking gender affirming healthcare services.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, in practice since 2004, working with individuals, couples, and families. I see clients for brief and extended periods of time, assisting them with issues including: depression; anxiety; sexual issues, communication and relationship difficulties; conflict resolution; trauma and attachment injuries; infidelity; adjustment issues related to separation, divorce, grief, and loss. I view issues contextually and address race, culture, gender, among others, in my work.
Ariana Zeno Individual And Couples Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MCP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146 (Online Only)
You may find yourself feeling stuck, struggling with unsatisfying relationships, or wanting to feel more connected to yourself and others. Together we will work on co-creating an environment most conducive to what you need to feel safe and heard to heal and grow. My approach is compassionate, humorous and committed to helping you to live your life more fully. I enjoy working with adults and couples. I specialize in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and queer folks exploring questions of gender identity and sexuality. Expertise working with parents/families of transgender folks.
You may find yourself feeling stuck, struggling with unsatisfying relationships, or wanting to feel more connected to yourself and others. Together we will work on co-creating an environment most conducive to what you need to feel safe and heard to heal and grow. My approach is compassionate, humorous and committed to helping you to live your life more fully. I enjoy working with adults and couples. I specialize in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and queer folks exploring questions of gender identity and sexuality. Expertise working with parents/families of transgender folks.
L. Elaine Dutton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107 (Online Only)
I have considerable experience working with people who identify as transgender, non-binary, gender nonconforming, LGBQ, asexual, etc.
I view psychotherapy as a collaborative experience between therapist and patient. I see my role as that of a space holder and guide. I will shed light on and explore what may be causing difficulty in your life, provide affirmation, and offer tools that will help sustain your therapeutic goals. I believe that transformation and change can evolve through collaboration and the development of a renewed narrative that is validating and hopeful.
I have considerable experience working with people who identify as transgender, non-binary, gender nonconforming, LGBQ, asexual, etc.
I view psychotherapy as a collaborative experience between therapist and patient. I see my role as that of a space holder and guide. I will shed light on and explore what may be causing difficulty in your life, provide affirmation, and offer tools that will help sustain your therapeutic goals. I believe that transformation and change can evolve through collaboration and the development of a renewed narrative that is validating and hopeful.
Michael Zwizanski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104 (Online Only)
I have experience working with queer, gay, lesbian, non-binary and transgender clients of various cultural backgrounds and have supported clients along their journey to finding their authentic self and identity.
In my work, I seek to make a connection that will cultivate a safe, judgement-free space to work through challenging issues & promote self-discovery. My stance in life and in my practice is anti-racist, sex positive, LGBTQ+ competent and gender affirming. I recognize my privilege as a cis-gender, white, male professional and strive to position myself as an equal collaborator in the processes of growth and change within my clients. Coming from an entertainment industry background, I have worked extensively with artists, musicians, actors and entrepreneurs and understand the creative process,
I have experience working with queer, gay, lesbian, non-binary and transgender clients of various cultural backgrounds and have supported clients along their journey to finding their authentic self and identity.
In my work, I seek to make a connection that will cultivate a safe, judgement-free space to work through challenging issues & promote self-discovery. My stance in life and in my practice is anti-racist, sex positive, LGBTQ+ competent and gender affirming. I recognize my privilege as a cis-gender, white, male professional and strive to position myself as an equal collaborator in the processes of growth and change within my clients. Coming from an entertainment industry background, I have worked extensively with artists, musicians, actors and entrepreneurs and understand the creative process,
I believe that therapy should be an engaging and enriching experience. Therapy is collaborative, it is a conversation, and it can even be enjoyable. I strive to do what I can to make you as comfortable as possible in session. You are the expert on you, and it’s my job to help you figure out what that means. I specialize in the following: Queer and Transgender issues, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Adolescent and Young Adult Issues, Stress Management, Aging, Grief Counseling. and Relationship Stress
I believe that therapy should be an engaging and enriching experience. Therapy is collaborative, it is a conversation, and it can even be enjoyable. I strive to do what I can to make you as comfortable as possible in session. You are the expert on you, and it’s my job to help you figure out what that means. I specialize in the following: Queer and Transgender issues, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Adolescent and Young Adult Issues, Stress Management, Aging, Grief Counseling. and Relationship Stress
Robin Frederick Witts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CS, CPRP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19140 (Online Only)
I have worked extensively with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community, focusing on the coming-out-process and negotiating a relationship.
I have been working in mental health for over 15 years providing psychotherapy, supportive counseling and grief counseling. I believe in the strength of the human spirit and I view the client as the expert in their journey to wellness. I hold strength in the statement "I can walk with you but I cannot walk for you".
I have worked extensively with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community, focusing on the coming-out-process and negotiating a relationship.
I have been working in mental health for over 15 years providing psychotherapy, supportive counseling and grief counseling. I believe in the strength of the human spirit and I view the client as the expert in their journey to wellness. I hold strength in the statement "I can walk with you but I cannot walk for you".
I have crafted a career working with Transgender and Gender Diverse individuals, recognizing their unique challenges, providing specialized care that validates their identities, and receiving specialty training and support through WPATH. Additionally, my expertise extends to working with Autistic and Neurodivergent individuals, building an accommodating environment to optimize therapeutic outcomes and enhance a sense of identity. I have a particular focus on addressing Racial Stress and Trauma, ensuring culturally competent care. We all have unique perspectives and strengths that can be cultivated to overcome any challenge.
I have crafted a career working with Transgender and Gender Diverse individuals, recognizing their unique challenges, providing specialized care that validates their identities, and receiving specialty training and support through WPATH. Additionally, my expertise extends to working with Autistic and Neurodivergent individuals, building an accommodating environment to optimize therapeutic outcomes and enhance a sense of identity. I have a particular focus on addressing Racial Stress and Trauma, ensuring culturally competent care. We all have unique perspectives and strengths that can be cultivated to overcome any challenge.
Marla R Cobin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Hello! Thanks for looking at my profile. Feel free to send a message if you'd like to schedule a free 30 minute consult. Finding a good fit is so important in choosing a therapist. The relationship is critical. I work with adolescents and adults, specializing in women, girls, and queer, gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender and nonbinary folks. I practice decolonizing and liberation focused therapy. My areas of focus include sexuality and trauma. I consider myself a client centered, relational, and culturally sensitive psychotherapist. I am board certified in teletherapy. I am licensed in Pennsylvania and Delaware.
Hello! Thanks for looking at my profile. Feel free to send a message if you'd like to schedule a free 30 minute consult. Finding a good fit is so important in choosing a therapist. The relationship is critical. I work with adolescents and adults, specializing in women, girls, and queer, gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender and nonbinary folks. I practice decolonizing and liberation focused therapy. My areas of focus include sexuality and trauma. I consider myself a client centered, relational, and culturally sensitive psychotherapist. I am board certified in teletherapy. I am licensed in Pennsylvania and Delaware.
Angelique Frazier
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I affirm diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, relationship configurations, and sexual practices, including but not limited to: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Queer, Asexual, Aromantic, Transgender, Genderqueer, Non-Binary, Polyamory, Kink and Sex Work.
While starting therapy can seem intimidating or daunting, I want you to know that you always deserve to take up space in therapy. I aim to help clients uncover the strengths they already possess. My work with clients involves the following: celebrating culture, acknowledging marginalization & privilege, multiracial identities, interracial couples, navigating cishet-white spaces, balancing conflicting expectations, processing current events, challenging anxious thoughts, separating me (the person) from anxiety (the fear and uncertainty), unpacking past events, reducing miscommunication, and feeling seen/heard.
I affirm diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, relationship configurations, and sexual practices, including but not limited to: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Queer, Asexual, Aromantic, Transgender, Genderqueer, Non-Binary, Polyamory, Kink and Sex Work.
While starting therapy can seem intimidating or daunting, I want you to know that you always deserve to take up space in therapy. I aim to help clients uncover the strengths they already possess. My work with clients involves the following: celebrating culture, acknowledging marginalization & privilege, multiracial identities, interracial couples, navigating cishet-white spaces, balancing conflicting expectations, processing current events, challenging anxious thoughts, separating me (the person) from anxiety (the fear and uncertainty), unpacking past events, reducing miscommunication, and feeling seen/heard.
See more therapy options for Philadelphia
Nearby Transgender Therapists Searches for Philadelphia
- Ardmore
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Transgender Therapists
As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?
A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.
What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?
Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.
How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?
An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?
Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.