LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Quarryville, PA

Photo of Alexis Zink, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexis Zink
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Quarryville, PA 17566
I specialize in trauma, self-acceptance, interpersonal relationships, and LGBTQ+ supportive care.
I’m so glad you are here. My name is Alexis, and I am a licensed therapist serving Pennsylvania residents. I strive to provide a safe, welcoming space for individuals to show up as their true, authentic selves by maintaining a person-centered approach to healing built on empathy, empowerment, and acceptance. I believe that therapeutic relationships can be a powerful tool in overcoming the obstacles of life. Together, we will unlock your resiliency to overcome challenges while establishing peace and personal growth.
I specialize in trauma, self-acceptance, interpersonal relationships, and LGBTQ+ supportive care.
I’m so glad you are here. My name is Alexis, and I am a licensed therapist serving Pennsylvania residents. I strive to provide a safe, welcoming space for individuals to show up as their true, authentic selves by maintaining a person-centered approach to healing built on empathy, empowerment, and acceptance. I believe that therapeutic relationships can be a powerful tool in overcoming the obstacles of life. Together, we will unlock your resiliency to overcome challenges while establishing peace and personal growth.
(717) 973-8016 View (717) 973-8016
Photo of Dr. Samantha Weiner, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Samantha Weiner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Quarryville, PA 17566  (Online Only)
I have a doctorate in clinical psychology, a master's degree in clinical psychology, and an undergraduate degree in clinical/counseling psychology. I have ten years of experience working in the mental health field at a variety of settings including community mental health, partial hospital, residential treatment, and private schools. I work with children, teenagers, adults, and older adults.
I have a doctorate in clinical psychology, a master's degree in clinical psychology, and an undergraduate degree in clinical/counseling psychology. I have ten years of experience working in the mental health field at a variety of settings including community mental health, partial hospital, residential treatment, and private schools. I work with children, teenagers, adults, and older adults.
(717) 674-2792 View (717) 674-2792
Photo of Sean Cox, MA, CCTP-I, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sean Cox
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CCTP-I
Verified Verified
Quarryville, PA 17566
Many of us go through life carrying limiting beliefs and behaviors that seem to sabotage our efforts to grow and connect with others. I believe these patterns are not disorders to be cured, but ways our mind and body have adapted to survive. For many, these patterns involve anxiety, depression, anger, and addiction. Our task in therapy involves identifying these ineffective patterns and collaborating to rewrite them, one small action at a time. This leads to growth, healing, and ultimately, self-acceptance.
Many of us go through life carrying limiting beliefs and behaviors that seem to sabotage our efforts to grow and connect with others. I believe these patterns are not disorders to be cured, but ways our mind and body have adapted to survive. For many, these patterns involve anxiety, depression, anger, and addiction. Our task in therapy involves identifying these ineffective patterns and collaborating to rewrite them, one small action at a time. This leads to growth, healing, and ultimately, self-acceptance.
(717) 788-5964 View (717) 788-5964
Photo of John Weigel - Weigel Counseling Associates, Psychologist
Weigel Counseling Associates
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Quarryville, PA 17566
Weigel Counseling Associates was established in 1993 by John Weigel, Licensed Psychologist. As his practice grew, he invited local clinicians to join his practice, as well as new office locations to assist and serve the growing needs of Lancaster County. Today, Weigel Counseling has 25 clinicians and is located in Lititz and Willow Street. Weigel Counseling is committed to providing Confidential, Professional, and "Down to Earth" Mental Health Services. Check us out at www.weigelcounseling.com
Weigel Counseling Associates was established in 1993 by John Weigel, Licensed Psychologist. As his practice grew, he invited local clinicians to join his practice, as well as new office locations to assist and serve the growing needs of Lancaster County. Today, Weigel Counseling has 25 clinicians and is located in Lititz and Willow Street. Weigel Counseling is committed to providing Confidential, Professional, and "Down to Earth" Mental Health Services. Check us out at www.weigelcounseling.com
(717) 447-5066 View (717) 447-5066
Photo of Rebecca F Caplan, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca F Caplan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Quarryville, PA 17566
Not accepting new clients
Your concerns and challenges are important to me, but so are your personal stories and strengths. My priorities include active listening and building a strong therapeutic relationship while working in collaboration with clients in developing goals and finding solutions. Together, we will explore what barriers are in your way and which strengths will help you foster a satisfying life. I graduated Summa Cum Laude from Messiah University with my M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Cum Laude from Villanova University with a B.A. in Business Administration and leverage this unique combination for the benefit of my clients.
Your concerns and challenges are important to me, but so are your personal stories and strengths. My priorities include active listening and building a strong therapeutic relationship while working in collaboration with clients in developing goals and finding solutions. Together, we will explore what barriers are in your way and which strengths will help you foster a satisfying life. I graduated Summa Cum Laude from Messiah University with my M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Cum Laude from Villanova University with a B.A. in Business Administration and leverage this unique combination for the benefit of my clients.
(717) 259-2878 View (717) 259-2878

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tamra Miller-Spence - Redemption Wellness Services, LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Redemption Wellness Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Willow Street, PA 17584
Hello, my name is Tamra Miller-Spence. I've worked in the mental health field for about 7 years. I've worked with a variety of client needs, including maternal mental health, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, parenting concerns, relationship discord, trauma, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and anger management. The clients I work with are seeking guidance in making lifestyle changes to improve their quality of life. They are goal oriented, with an open-mind, and a willingness to be present in sessions.
Hello, my name is Tamra Miller-Spence. I've worked in the mental health field for about 7 years. I've worked with a variety of client needs, including maternal mental health, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, parenting concerns, relationship discord, trauma, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and anger management. The clients I work with are seeking guidance in making lifestyle changes to improve their quality of life. They are goal oriented, with an open-mind, and a willingness to be present in sessions.
(223) 332-4023 View (223) 332-4023
Photo of Dr. Claudia E. Smith, PhD, Counselor
Dr. Claudia E. Smith
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17602  (Online Only)
Do you have questions/concerns related to sexuality- sexual pleasure, satisfaction, desire, or are you experiencing a sexual dysfunction. These are all sensitive and intimate topics and definitely not easy to talk about without possibly feeling some shame or embarrassment. Have these concerns been impacting the quality of your relationship ? Are you feeling stuck with no clue how to move forward? Embark on a journey of discovery and transformation with me. I will guide you towards sexual empowerment and well-being. Together we will break down the barriers, embrace the power of your sexuality, and celebrate your growth!
Do you have questions/concerns related to sexuality- sexual pleasure, satisfaction, desire, or are you experiencing a sexual dysfunction. These are all sensitive and intimate topics and definitely not easy to talk about without possibly feeling some shame or embarrassment. Have these concerns been impacting the quality of your relationship ? Are you feeling stuck with no clue how to move forward? Embark on a journey of discovery and transformation with me. I will guide you towards sexual empowerment and well-being. Together we will break down the barriers, embrace the power of your sexuality, and celebrate your growth!
(570) 263-5667 View (570) 263-5667
Photo of John Gordon Smith, DMin, PhD, CSC, Pastoral Counselor
John Gordon Smith
Pastoral Counselor, DMin, PhD, CSC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17602  (Online Only)
Are you seeking help to navigate your grief journey, recover from shame, practice forgiveness, address aging concerns, overcome loneliness, strengthen your relationship, or resolve sexual desire, arousal, or orgasmic issues? By sourcing help for any of these concerns, you have taken a bold step on your path to achieving the change you seek. By choosing me to help you achieve this change, you have found a caring, compassionate, competent, and committed counselor who will work with you to achieve the change you desire.
Are you seeking help to navigate your grief journey, recover from shame, practice forgiveness, address aging concerns, overcome loneliness, strengthen your relationship, or resolve sexual desire, arousal, or orgasmic issues? By sourcing help for any of these concerns, you have taken a bold step on your path to achieving the change you seek. By choosing me to help you achieve this change, you have found a caring, compassionate, competent, and committed counselor who will work with you to achieve the change you desire.
(717) 937-1866 View (717) 937-1866

Online Therapists

Photo of Sara Kranzler, PsyD, Psychologist
Sara Kranzler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I am LGBT-Q friendly and experienced in neurodiversity.
It is hard to know when to seek help and where to find it. I offer one free consult session to help you figure it out. I work with young adults, early career professionals, and college age students struggling with family, social, relationship, and identity stressors, as well as trauma, anxiety, and depression. I also enjoy partnering with children and teens to address depression and anxiety. I frequently work with these symptoms when a person also has a co-morbid ADHD or Autism. When appropriate, I can offer short term targeted treatments for anxiety and executive functioning goals. Resilience is at the core of my work.
I am LGBT-Q friendly and experienced in neurodiversity.
It is hard to know when to seek help and where to find it. I offer one free consult session to help you figure it out. I work with young adults, early career professionals, and college age students struggling with family, social, relationship, and identity stressors, as well as trauma, anxiety, and depression. I also enjoy partnering with children and teens to address depression and anxiety. I frequently work with these symptoms when a person also has a co-morbid ADHD or Autism. When appropriate, I can offer short term targeted treatments for anxiety and executive functioning goals. Resilience is at the core of my work.
(315) 888-4870 View (315) 888-4870
Photo of Jon Lauriello, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jon Lauriello
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, PA 19382  (Online Only)
I am only able to accept telehealth cases going forward. I practice with adults and teens. I specialize in ADHD, Autism, executive functioning, OCD, and anxiety. Additionally, I have extensive experience with LGBTQA individuals. I have an approach that includes a heavy emphasis on behavioral approaches that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Behavioral Psychology. I also integrate existential approaches that focus on creating meaning in your personal and professional life.
I am only able to accept telehealth cases going forward. I practice with adults and teens. I specialize in ADHD, Autism, executive functioning, OCD, and anxiety. Additionally, I have extensive experience with LGBTQA individuals. I have an approach that includes a heavy emphasis on behavioral approaches that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Behavioral Psychology. I also integrate existential approaches that focus on creating meaning in your personal and professional life.
(844) 394-9560 View (844) 394-9560
Photo of Susan Sklaroff-Van Hook, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Sklaroff-Van Hook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottsville, PA 18942
As a therapist and a social justice advocate, I have experience with a diverse client-base, including those who have experienced marginalization due to chronic illness, disability, ageism, minority religious/spiritual orientations and LGBTQ+ identity.
I am a licensed professional counselor and trauma-informed therapist trained in mindfulness self-compassion who works collaboratively with clients to help them make the lasting changes they seek. I create a safe, trusting, and supportive environment so you can feel less isolated and more connected and understood. This becomes the foundation on which we work to help you build your self-awareness and develop the tools to improve the quality of your life. My goal is to help you take what you learn in the therapy setting out into the life you inhabit.
As a therapist and a social justice advocate, I have experience with a diverse client-base, including those who have experienced marginalization due to chronic illness, disability, ageism, minority religious/spiritual orientations and LGBTQ+ identity.
I am a licensed professional counselor and trauma-informed therapist trained in mindfulness self-compassion who works collaboratively with clients to help them make the lasting changes they seek. I create a safe, trusting, and supportive environment so you can feel less isolated and more connected and understood. This becomes the foundation on which we work to help you build your self-awareness and develop the tools to improve the quality of your life. My goal is to help you take what you learn in the therapy setting out into the life you inhabit.
(610) 510-8972 View (610) 510-8972
Photo of Gina M Bowers, MEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gina M Bowers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17110  (Online Only)
Topics I have worked with include depression, anxiety, loss of employment, adult & child ADHD, career exploration, relationship issues, LGBTQIA, parenting issues, educational concerns, academic issues, reactive attachment disorder, foster/adoption, grief and loss, health issues, and self-esteem.
Let's explore ways we can get you back on the road to your success. Life gives us ups & downs & bumps along the way. How you choose to react may determine your future. These are opportunities to learn about ourselves & grow from these experiences. We may need help clarifying & identifying what the lesson might be. My approach is to help you learn how to cope & adjust to them in a supportive space. Our time together may involve a variety of approaches, depending on your needs & preferences. Humanistic/Client-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral, Mindfulness-based, & Reality Therapy, would be the approaches I'm likely to explore with you.
Topics I have worked with include depression, anxiety, loss of employment, adult & child ADHD, career exploration, relationship issues, LGBTQIA, parenting issues, educational concerns, academic issues, reactive attachment disorder, foster/adoption, grief and loss, health issues, and self-esteem.
Let's explore ways we can get you back on the road to your success. Life gives us ups & downs & bumps along the way. How you choose to react may determine your future. These are opportunities to learn about ourselves & grow from these experiences. We may need help clarifying & identifying what the lesson might be. My approach is to help you learn how to cope & adjust to them in a supportive space. Our time together may involve a variety of approaches, depending on your needs & preferences. Humanistic/Client-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral, Mindfulness-based, & Reality Therapy, would be the approaches I'm likely to explore with you.
(717) 915-5368 View (717) 915-5368
Photo of Ashley Sheff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Sheff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kennett Square, PA 19348
Working with complex trauma and PTSD is my passion! I provide LGBTQ+ and gender-affirming care.
Life can be so hard sometimes. We have all experienced the challenges that come with just trying to get through the tough times life throws at us. And what happens when it all builds up and the trauma becomes overwhelming? We might find ourselves shutting down, avoiding dealing with things, or just distracting ourselves. When this happens, we often isolate and it can become even more challenging to get out of that hole. Trauma impacts everyone differently, but there is a way through, and that is where our work together begins. I would love the opportunity to get to know you and see if we are a good fit.
Working with complex trauma and PTSD is my passion! I provide LGBTQ+ and gender-affirming care.
Life can be so hard sometimes. We have all experienced the challenges that come with just trying to get through the tough times life throws at us. And what happens when it all builds up and the trauma becomes overwhelming? We might find ourselves shutting down, avoiding dealing with things, or just distracting ourselves. When this happens, we often isolate and it can become even more challenging to get out of that hole. Trauma impacts everyone differently, but there is a way through, and that is where our work together begins. I would love the opportunity to get to know you and see if we are a good fit.
(610) 510-8233 View (610) 510-8233
Photo of Ari Kirkman, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ari Kirkman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
Healing happens relationally–within our communities, our families, and within ourselves. Therapy works best if we can build a safe and trusting relationship, so you should know a little bit about who I am! I am a white, queer and trans femme musician turned therapist. I am areligious, but I find many experiences to be deeply spiritual, including cooking, being in community with others, singing together, and walking in nature. Folks who do well with me don't fit the status quo, are navigating transitions, are noticing patterns in their relationships they want to examine and change, and are in search of healing and transformation.
Healing happens relationally–within our communities, our families, and within ourselves. Therapy works best if we can build a safe and trusting relationship, so you should know a little bit about who I am! I am a white, queer and trans femme musician turned therapist. I am areligious, but I find many experiences to be deeply spiritual, including cooking, being in community with others, singing together, and walking in nature. Folks who do well with me don't fit the status quo, are navigating transitions, are noticing patterns in their relationships they want to examine and change, and are in search of healing and transformation.
(267) 214-1739 View (267) 214-1739
Photo of Marianna Kopp, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marianna Kopp
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I support and affirm clients of all cultures, genders, sexual orientations, and relationship styles including LGBTQIA+, consensually non-monogamous, and kinky folk.
Hey there! My name is Marianna and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who helps individuals and couples overcome challenging obstacles, cultivate intra/interpersonal understanding, and achieve overall fulfillment. Together, we can gain awareness of how past experiences show up in the present day and break free from the limiting beliefs and patterns that no longer serve you and/or your relationship. I also specialize in sex therapy and am passionate about helping clients heal from sexual trauma, dismantle sexual shame, rekindle intimacy, navigate desire discrepancy, and explore non-traditional relationship structures.
I support and affirm clients of all cultures, genders, sexual orientations, and relationship styles including LGBTQIA+, consensually non-monogamous, and kinky folk.
Hey there! My name is Marianna and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who helps individuals and couples overcome challenging obstacles, cultivate intra/interpersonal understanding, and achieve overall fulfillment. Together, we can gain awareness of how past experiences show up in the present day and break free from the limiting beliefs and patterns that no longer serve you and/or your relationship. I also specialize in sex therapy and am passionate about helping clients heal from sexual trauma, dismantle sexual shame, rekindle intimacy, navigate desire discrepancy, and explore non-traditional relationship structures.
(484) 989-6975 View (484) 989-6975
Photo of Carrie Rightmire, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carrie Rightmire
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I am LGBTQ friendly and very open-minded .
Hi! I’m a LPC practicing in Philadelphia, PA. I have a masters degree from the University of Delaware, and 20 years combined experience working in a counseling setting with kids, teens, adults, and families.
I am LGBTQ friendly and very open-minded .
Hi! I’m a LPC practicing in Philadelphia, PA. I have a masters degree from the University of Delaware, and 20 years combined experience working in a counseling setting with kids, teens, adults, and families.
(484) 507-1395 View (484) 507-1395
Photo of Daniel S Raphael, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel S Raphael
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18104  (Online Only)
Hello! I am here to help you heal and grow. I utilize psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral therapy and work with you to create a clear treatment plan to help you determine your goals. I provide telehealth counseling services to children, teens, adults and families. I specialize working with Neurodiverse individuals as well as a variety of other challenges including anxiety, depression and trauma throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania. I have experience and passion working with the LGBTQ communities.
Hello! I am here to help you heal and grow. I utilize psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral therapy and work with you to create a clear treatment plan to help you determine your goals. I provide telehealth counseling services to children, teens, adults and families. I specialize working with Neurodiverse individuals as well as a variety of other challenges including anxiety, depression and trauma throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania. I have experience and passion working with the LGBTQ communities.
(732) 587-5657 View (732) 587-5657
Photo of Miller Potoma, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Miller Potoma
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you in search of a therapist who understands the unique experiences of trans and queer individuals? Are you navigating how to address trauma, cope with late-stage capitalism, handle ADHD and autistic burnout, or explore gender and sexuality? I am committed to serving individuals within my community, particularly those who identify as trans and queer. I approach my practice as kink-aware, anti-capitalist, pro-sex worker, and knowledgeable about non-monogamous relationships.
Are you in search of a therapist who understands the unique experiences of trans and queer individuals? Are you navigating how to address trauma, cope with late-stage capitalism, handle ADHD and autistic burnout, or explore gender and sexuality? I am committed to serving individuals within my community, particularly those who identify as trans and queer. I approach my practice as kink-aware, anti-capitalist, pro-sex worker, and knowledgeable about non-monogamous relationships.
(215) 398-1589 View (215) 398-1589
Photo of Curtis Wilson, MS, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Curtis Wilson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
I also have a passion for the LGBTQ community and a desire to walk with any individuals or couples who are processing their own sexuality or sexual or gender identity.
Finding a Therapist can be Hard! Let's make it easier. Are you ready to reclaim your confidence and embrace a new way of viewing life? Are you feeling the impact of past trauma and the desire to unpack the baggage and move forward in freedom in your relationships? Let's collaborate together and find healthy ways to live and embrace life and freedom. Taking the first step to seek help is sometimes hard, but the lasting impact of that decision is worth that risk. Taking the time to focus on yourself, your relationships, and your future is never a wasted investment. I'm here to support you. www.curtiswilsoncounseling.com
I also have a passion for the LGBTQ community and a desire to walk with any individuals or couples who are processing their own sexuality or sexual or gender identity.
Finding a Therapist can be Hard! Let's make it easier. Are you ready to reclaim your confidence and embrace a new way of viewing life? Are you feeling the impact of past trauma and the desire to unpack the baggage and move forward in freedom in your relationships? Let's collaborate together and find healthy ways to live and embrace life and freedom. Taking the first step to seek help is sometimes hard, but the lasting impact of that decision is worth that risk. Taking the time to focus on yourself, your relationships, and your future is never a wasted investment. I'm here to support you. www.curtiswilsoncounseling.com
(223) 204-9468 View (223) 204-9468
Photo of Allan L Goldberg, PhD, Psychologist
Allan L Goldberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147  (Online Only)
In addition to anxiety and depression, I specialize in diverse areas such as individuals seeking recovery from childhood trauma, gay men self-actualizing in an ever-changing world, artists and creativity, and graduate students/dissertation preparation.
I believe that the work of therapy needs to be done in an atmosphere of safety, intelligence, warmth and humor. Therapy is often hard work because it takes so much commitment for us to look at ourselves objectively and work through challenging issues in our lives. Sometimes we come to therapy because there is a specific situation that we need immediate and/or brief assistance with or for an objective voice of reason. Sometimes we come to therapy because there have been challenges over time that have gotten in our way of getting what we want out of our lives.
In addition to anxiety and depression, I specialize in diverse areas such as individuals seeking recovery from childhood trauma, gay men self-actualizing in an ever-changing world, artists and creativity, and graduate students/dissertation preparation.
I believe that the work of therapy needs to be done in an atmosphere of safety, intelligence, warmth and humor. Therapy is often hard work because it takes so much commitment for us to look at ourselves objectively and work through challenging issues in our lives. Sometimes we come to therapy because there is a specific situation that we need immediate and/or brief assistance with or for an objective voice of reason. Sometimes we come to therapy because there have been challenges over time that have gotten in our way of getting what we want out of our lives.
(215) 592-4060 View (215) 592-4060

See more therapy options for Quarryville

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.