LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in West Mifflin, PA

Photo of Diane Bauer - Diane Bauer, LCSW & Associates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Bauer, LCSW & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Mifflin, PA 15122
Specialties: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Dissociative Disorders, Divorce/Dissolution LGBT issues, Grief/Loss, Mood Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parenting issues, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Self-esteem We provide counseling for children, teens, adults, families, and couples.
Are you "worrying" often? Do you feel uncomfortable in social settings? Feeling sad, frustrated/angry and having difficulty managing it? Are you a parent concerned about your child's behavior? Or in a relationship/marriage that is unfulfilling or not what it use to be? Is your family not accepting of your life choices? Counseling is a great opportunity to work through long standing concerns or just talk about what is going on in your life right now.
Specialties: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Dissociative Disorders, Divorce/Dissolution LGBT issues, Grief/Loss, Mood Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parenting issues, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Self-esteem We provide counseling for children, teens, adults, families, and couples.
Are you "worrying" often? Do you feel uncomfortable in social settings? Feeling sad, frustrated/angry and having difficulty managing it? Are you a parent concerned about your child's behavior? Or in a relationship/marriage that is unfulfilling or not what it use to be? Is your family not accepting of your life choices? Counseling is a great opportunity to work through long standing concerns or just talk about what is going on in your life right now.
(412) 532-1773 View (412) 532-1773
Photo of Zara Khan - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
West Mifflin, PA 15122  (Online Only)
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(412) 604-7643 View (412) 604-7643
Photo of Kathleen D Hays, BA, MS, CCTP, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen D Hays
Licensed Professional Counselor, BA, MS, CCTP, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Mifflin, PA 15122
Waitlist for new clients
When stress, trauma, mental health disorders and life crises become too much to handle, we owe it to ourselves and to those we care about to get help. I provide hope and healing to individuals, couples and families through professional counseling and informative educational programs. Clients are empowered to achieve spiritual, emotional and physical well-being. I can help you to gain the skills to process through painful challenges and live a healthy, fulfilling life. I am committed to helping you become your best self!
When stress, trauma, mental health disorders and life crises become too much to handle, we owe it to ourselves and to those we care about to get help. I provide hope and healing to individuals, couples and families through professional counseling and informative educational programs. Clients are empowered to achieve spiritual, emotional and physical well-being. I can help you to gain the skills to process through painful challenges and live a healthy, fulfilling life. I am committed to helping you become your best self!
(412) 743-9894 View (412) 743-9894
Photo of Katie Whitney - Steel Valley Wellness Group, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steel Valley Wellness Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
West Mifflin, PA 15122
The licensed professional counselors of Steel Valley Wellness Group are experienced with adults, adolescents, children and couples. We address causes of anger, irritability, anxiety, fear, sadness, depression and hopelessness, and help to identify the factors that perpetuate these problems.
The licensed professional counselors of Steel Valley Wellness Group are experienced with adults, adolescents, children and couples. We address causes of anger, irritability, anxiety, fear, sadness, depression and hopelessness, and help to identify the factors that perpetuate these problems.
(412) 866-2912 View (412) 866-2912
Photo of Katelyn Dougherty, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katelyn Dougherty
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
West Mifflin, PA 15122
I have immediate openings! I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults experiencing a wide range of life stressors: transition to adulthood, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self esteem issues, peer relationships, stress, grief, and individuals diagnosed with ASD. I approach my sessions from a cognitive behavioral perspective (CBT) and guide my clients in challenging and restructuring thoughts, in order to approach any situation and take control of how to react to it.
I have immediate openings! I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults experiencing a wide range of life stressors: transition to adulthood, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self esteem issues, peer relationships, stress, grief, and individuals diagnosed with ASD. I approach my sessions from a cognitive behavioral perspective (CBT) and guide my clients in challenging and restructuring thoughts, in order to approach any situation and take control of how to react to it.
(412) 844-4791 View (412) 844-4791
Photo of Diana Lynne Shaban, M Ed, Psychologist
Diana Lynne Shaban
Psychologist, M Ed
Verified Verified
West Mifflin, PA 15122
Not accepting new clients
Are you in need of support? Do you have disturbing thoughts? Do you 'what if" constantly? Are you too angry? Are you confused? Are you struggling with getting out of bed? Are you not yourself? Are loved ones concerned about you? Do you have 'brain fog? Forgetfulness? problems sleeping? Do you have body image issues? Are you self medicating? Do you need someone to talk to without judgement? Life is challenging and sometimes unfair. There is a path out of suffering. Despite a sense of helplessness, anxiety, depression, trauma and fears; there is a way out and I can help you, help your SELF through your challenges.
Are you in need of support? Do you have disturbing thoughts? Do you 'what if" constantly? Are you too angry? Are you confused? Are you struggling with getting out of bed? Are you not yourself? Are loved ones concerned about you? Do you have 'brain fog? Forgetfulness? problems sleeping? Do you have body image issues? Are you self medicating? Do you need someone to talk to without judgement? Life is challenging and sometimes unfair. There is a path out of suffering. Despite a sense of helplessness, anxiety, depression, trauma and fears; there is a way out and I can help you, help your SELF through your challenges.
(878) 900-4134 View (878) 900-4134
Photo of Sharissa Shatten (Peace Love Wholeness Llc), MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sharissa Shatten (Peace Love Wholeness Llc)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Mifflin, PA 15122
Waitlist for new clients
I would love to support you and help guide you while piecing things together in this season of life. I work with individuals to manage their symptoms and help them achieve personal growth. We will focus on goals and create ways to stay accountable in between sessions with various resources or thought prompts to consider, for example. Many people I see have a history of childhood trauma, high stress, low self esteem, feeling "stuck", ready for change, or hormonal experiences- as some broad examples.
I would love to support you and help guide you while piecing things together in this season of life. I work with individuals to manage their symptoms and help them achieve personal growth. We will focus on goals and create ways to stay accountable in between sessions with various resources or thought prompts to consider, for example. Many people I see have a history of childhood trauma, high stress, low self esteem, feeling "stuck", ready for change, or hormonal experiences- as some broad examples.
(878) 216-7434 View (878) 216-7434

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kate Manser, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate Manser
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (Online Only)
As a queer woman who practices polyamory, I can understand how we are often unprepared for the difficulties that arise when living in a mononormative society. It makes sense that emotions like fear or depression are brought up when we go outside of those norms, even for the seasoned consensually nonmonogamous folks. Together we can navigate your polyamorous relationship structure if you or you and your partner(s) find yourselves with insecure attachment styles impacting your relationship(s), are having difficulty managing boundaries, or need help dismantling couple's privlege.
As a queer woman who practices polyamory, I can understand how we are often unprepared for the difficulties that arise when living in a mononormative society. It makes sense that emotions like fear or depression are brought up when we go outside of those norms, even for the seasoned consensually nonmonogamous folks. Together we can navigate your polyamorous relationship structure if you or you and your partner(s) find yourselves with insecure attachment styles impacting your relationship(s), are having difficulty managing boundaries, or need help dismantling couple's privlege.
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Photo of Chelsea Faris, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chelsea Faris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236  (Online Only)
I have experience in working on issues involving anxiety, depression, relationship troubles, LGBTQIA struggles, family issues and more.
Hi there! Struggling with feelings in general? Don’t quite know where to turn? I am glad you found my page. I have worked with a diverse group of clients with many different struggles but I specialize in adults, young adults and teens. I like to take a conversational approach to therapy. I don’t want our sessions to feel like an uncomfortable doctor's appointment but rather a comfortable place to explore ideas and ask questions. I want to partner with you in the way you work best whether that be crystals and meditation, memes and social media, or just starting with the basics.
I have experience in working on issues involving anxiety, depression, relationship troubles, LGBTQIA struggles, family issues and more.
Hi there! Struggling with feelings in general? Don’t quite know where to turn? I am glad you found my page. I have worked with a diverse group of clients with many different struggles but I specialize in adults, young adults and teens. I like to take a conversational approach to therapy. I don’t want our sessions to feel like an uncomfortable doctor's appointment but rather a comfortable place to explore ideas and ask questions. I want to partner with you in the way you work best whether that be crystals and meditation, memes and social media, or just starting with the basics.
(412) 754-7427 View (412) 754-7427
Photo of Christina Pust, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Pust
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (Online Only)
I am a queer AASECT pre-certified sex therapist, who has both professional and lived experience in treating those who identify as LGBTQIA2S+ and/or those living within alternative relationship structures (ENM, Polyamory, BDSM/kink power dynamics).
I am licensed professional counselor who has 10 years experience working with individuals navigating emotional distress, trauma, anxiety, depression, difficult life changes, and those desiring self improvement. As a therapist, I strive to create a safe non-judgemental space for clients to increase self awareness/self acceptance, identify and manage healthy boundaries, manage difficult emotions, improve connections with self and others, and to embrace vulnerability and the courage that comes with it.
I am a queer AASECT pre-certified sex therapist, who has both professional and lived experience in treating those who identify as LGBTQIA2S+ and/or those living within alternative relationship structures (ENM, Polyamory, BDSM/kink power dynamics).
I am licensed professional counselor who has 10 years experience working with individuals navigating emotional distress, trauma, anxiety, depression, difficult life changes, and those desiring self improvement. As a therapist, I strive to create a safe non-judgemental space for clients to increase self awareness/self acceptance, identify and manage healthy boundaries, manage difficult emotions, improve connections with self and others, and to embrace vulnerability and the courage that comes with it.
(724) 573-3657 View (724) 573-3657
Photo of Timothy Reider, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Timothy Reider
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m Tim Reider! I'm a therapist who specializes in LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy, depression/anxiety, and neurodiversity. I work well with people who want the geek therapy approach to support their identity journey and relationships. If your fandoms are an important anchor in your mental health storm, I’m here to respect the whole picture. If you are trans, I can also provide WPATH V8 format referral letters for transition care. If you are looking for a queer affirming therapist who can speak to your emotional health needs and the nuance of the community, get in touch!
Hi! I’m Tim Reider! I'm a therapist who specializes in LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy, depression/anxiety, and neurodiversity. I work well with people who want the geek therapy approach to support their identity journey and relationships. If your fandoms are an important anchor in your mental health storm, I’m here to respect the whole picture. If you are trans, I can also provide WPATH V8 format referral letters for transition care. If you are looking for a queer affirming therapist who can speak to your emotional health needs and the nuance of the community, get in touch!
(484) 939-6188 View (484) 939-6188
Photo of Sarah Heitzenrater, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Heitzenrater
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
As a National Certified and Licensed Professional Counselor I aim to create a safe, inclusive and affirming space for every one of my clients. I prioritize the therapeutic relationships that I build with each client and acknowledge the importance of having a trusting and supportive environment. I have a special interest in diverse LGBTQ+ issues, as well as, experience working with anxiety, various mood disorders, trauma, grief and loss, and addiction.
As a National Certified and Licensed Professional Counselor I aim to create a safe, inclusive and affirming space for every one of my clients. I prioritize the therapeutic relationships that I build with each client and acknowledge the importance of having a trusting and supportive environment. I have a special interest in diverse LGBTQ+ issues, as well as, experience working with anxiety, various mood disorders, trauma, grief and loss, and addiction.
(412) 275-5556 View (412) 275-5556
Photo of Leann E. Romitti, PhD, LPC, NCC, CMHNCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leann E. Romitti
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CMHNCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pleasant Hills, PA 15236  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with women, the LGBTQ+ community, survivors of trauma, anxiety, depression, and individuals who want to create a healthy lifestyle.
“I don’t know who I am anymore”. “I used to be so happy”. “Why is being healthy so hard right now”. “When did it become so hard to get out of bed”. Some days you find yourself asking these questions. You don’t know when it happened, but you barely recognize the person in the mirror. You don’t feel like yourself. You feel lost, stuck and overwhelmed by the little things. You feel guilty because you struggle to be present at your job, with your partner, or your children and family. You want to stop "just getting through another day". You are ready to take your life back. You are ready to thrive.
I am passionate about working with women, the LGBTQ+ community, survivors of trauma, anxiety, depression, and individuals who want to create a healthy lifestyle.
“I don’t know who I am anymore”. “I used to be so happy”. “Why is being healthy so hard right now”. “When did it become so hard to get out of bed”. Some days you find yourself asking these questions. You don’t know when it happened, but you barely recognize the person in the mirror. You don’t feel like yourself. You feel lost, stuck and overwhelmed by the little things. You feel guilty because you struggle to be present at your job, with your partner, or your children and family. You want to stop "just getting through another day". You are ready to take your life back. You are ready to thrive.
(412) 324-3175 View (412) 324-3175
Photo of Shira Collings, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shira Collings
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15122
Hi! My name is Shira Collings (she/they). I am a feminist, neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQ+ affirming, fat affirming, and disability justice aligned therapist. I am passionate about supporting people in living a life that is aligned with their true values, and healing from both external and internalized oppression that may be impacting their well-being. I strive to create a space in which clients can express their full, authentic selves and share their stories without shame or judgment. I regularly incorporate mindfulness, self-compassion, expressive arts, philosophy and pop culture, and self-advocacy skills into my approach.
Hi! My name is Shira Collings (she/they). I am a feminist, neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQ+ affirming, fat affirming, and disability justice aligned therapist. I am passionate about supporting people in living a life that is aligned with their true values, and healing from both external and internalized oppression that may be impacting their well-being. I strive to create a space in which clients can express their full, authentic selves and share their stories without shame or judgment. I regularly incorporate mindfulness, self-compassion, expressive arts, philosophy and pop culture, and self-advocacy skills into my approach.
(267) 435-3543 View (267) 435-3543
Photo of Iris Bowen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Iris Bowen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy can be such an overwhelming process to get started with, especially when you may also be struggling with ADHD, trauma symptoms, or anxiety that make everyday tasks feel monumental. For marginalized people in particular, feeling safe and truly seen by their therapist may be particularly challenging. As a Black, queer, neurodivergent therapist with 10 years experience, my approach is relational, strengths-based, person-centered, affirming, and anti-oppressive. Together we'll implement accessible, functional strategies to help you close the gap between the life you're living and the life you envision for yourself.
Therapy can be such an overwhelming process to get started with, especially when you may also be struggling with ADHD, trauma symptoms, or anxiety that make everyday tasks feel monumental. For marginalized people in particular, feeling safe and truly seen by their therapist may be particularly challenging. As a Black, queer, neurodivergent therapist with 10 years experience, my approach is relational, strengths-based, person-centered, affirming, and anti-oppressive. Together we'll implement accessible, functional strategies to help you close the gap between the life you're living and the life you envision for yourself.
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Photo of Dr. Amana Carvalho, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Amana Carvalho
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
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.
(724) 252-4637 View (724) 252-4637
Photo of Finn Siepser, MEd, MFA, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Finn Siepser
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, MFA, MA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15122
Let’s get you to where you want to be. I believe my clients are the experts in their own lives and I bring to the work: lived experience, training, and a sincere commitment to you living your best life. I follow your lead while also speaking up when something sounds like it might be harmful internalized messaging. I am invested in working with people of a wide range of relationship models and social identities including polyamorous/non-monogamous, trans and nonbinary, Black, Indigenous, and people of color, fat, disabled, neurodivergent, and sex workers. I come to therapy as a second career from the art and education worlds.
Let’s get you to where you want to be. I believe my clients are the experts in their own lives and I bring to the work: lived experience, training, and a sincere commitment to you living your best life. I follow your lead while also speaking up when something sounds like it might be harmful internalized messaging. I am invested in working with people of a wide range of relationship models and social identities including polyamorous/non-monogamous, trans and nonbinary, Black, Indigenous, and people of color, fat, disabled, neurodivergent, and sex workers. I come to therapy as a second career from the art and education worlds.
(215) 709-0379 View (215) 709-0379
Photo of Letecia M Garcia, MA, LPC, CISTT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Letecia M Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CISTT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (Online Only)
The best days are yet to come. I am a liberation and embodiment-oriented healing companion, passionately empowering clients that are seeking a trauma-certified practitioner, are Queer/LGBTQ+ identified, as well as people exploring the spectrum of gender, sexuality, sexual expression as well as expansive relationship structures (poly, ethical non-monogamy, swinging, etc). I specialize in CPTSD, Sexual/Relational/Intergenerational Trauma, Gender Dysphoria, Grief, Anxiety, as well as treating and destigmatizing compulsive sexual and non-sexual behaviors of all types. Let's break cycles, challenge the status-quo and break free together.
The best days are yet to come. I am a liberation and embodiment-oriented healing companion, passionately empowering clients that are seeking a trauma-certified practitioner, are Queer/LGBTQ+ identified, as well as people exploring the spectrum of gender, sexuality, sexual expression as well as expansive relationship structures (poly, ethical non-monogamy, swinging, etc). I specialize in CPTSD, Sexual/Relational/Intergenerational Trauma, Gender Dysphoria, Grief, Anxiety, as well as treating and destigmatizing compulsive sexual and non-sexual behaviors of all types. Let's break cycles, challenge the status-quo and break free together.
(610) 569-0726 View (610) 569-0726
Photo of Amy Schafer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Schafer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
I look forward to meeting you! My office is a safe space and I am LGBTQ allied.
I strongly believe that all people have the ability to live their best life when given the opportunity and the right tools for them. Each journey is just as unique as the individual who embarks on it. The work I do with clients is person centered, motivationally driven, and tailored to meet the needs of each person no matter where they are on their therapeutic journey. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy, or have decided to try again, I would be honored to meet you where you are and guide you toward reaching your personal goals.
I look forward to meeting you! My office is a safe space and I am LGBTQ allied.
I strongly believe that all people have the ability to live their best life when given the opportunity and the right tools for them. Each journey is just as unique as the individual who embarks on it. The work I do with clients is person centered, motivationally driven, and tailored to meet the needs of each person no matter where they are on their therapeutic journey. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy, or have decided to try again, I would be honored to meet you where you are and guide you toward reaching your personal goals.
(412) 419-0927 View (412) 419-0927
Photo of Danielle Stoner, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Stoner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am only accepting clients for Therapy Intensives at this time. Check my website to learn more about this accelerated service! Licensed in NY and PA. Have you experienced trauma in childhood or adulthood? Are you having issues in your relationship, and you're not sure how to fix them? I am here to help. I provide inclusive, identity-affirming care to individuals and couples seeking help for trauma (individuals) or relationship stress (couples). I am experienced working with the LGBTQ+ population, and I am certified in Perinatal Mental Health.
I am only accepting clients for Therapy Intensives at this time. Check my website to learn more about this accelerated service! Licensed in NY and PA. Have you experienced trauma in childhood or adulthood? Are you having issues in your relationship, and you're not sure how to fix them? I am here to help. I provide inclusive, identity-affirming care to individuals and couples seeking help for trauma (individuals) or relationship stress (couples). I am experienced working with the LGBTQ+ population, and I am certified in Perinatal Mental Health.
(814) 383-3140 View (814) 383-3140

See more therapy options for West Mifflin

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.