Photo of Jeannie Hankins Milan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeannie Hankins Milan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Dickson, TN 37055
My areas of special clinical interest include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, self-esteem, couples therapy, conflict management, LGBTQ+ issues, and relationship issues.
Is your relationship suffering due to infidelity? Do you feel hopeless that what's been broken can't be restored? Learn how to rebuild trust and intimacy! I seek to work collaboratively with clients to help them learn new and healthier ways of relating to those around them and gain a greater ability to treat themselves and others with compassion. It takes courage to step into the therapy room; I work to provide a disarming space for clients. My curiosity guides me as I get to know people for who they are and help clients learn to think, feel, and act in new productive ways in order for them to become the people they hope to be.
My areas of special clinical interest include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, self-esteem, couples therapy, conflict management, LGBTQ+ issues, and relationship issues.
Is your relationship suffering due to infidelity? Do you feel hopeless that what's been broken can't be restored? Learn how to rebuild trust and intimacy! I seek to work collaboratively with clients to help them learn new and healthier ways of relating to those around them and gain a greater ability to treat themselves and others with compassion. It takes courage to step into the therapy room; I work to provide a disarming space for clients. My curiosity guides me as I get to know people for who they are and help clients learn to think, feel, and act in new productive ways in order for them to become the people they hope to be.
(844) 234-3216 View (844) 234-3216

Online Therapists

Photo of Ryan Wishart, MA, LMFT, LCAS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ryan Wishart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I am a LGBT+-affirming therapist and work with clients from diverse backgrounds.
Are you struggling with either personal or relationship difficulties? If so, I would like to help. When combined with hard work, professional counseling can help you overcome almost any problem. Instead of always feeling 'stuck,' it's time you began experiencing more joy, fulfillment and direction in your life - you know, the good stuff. Clients have found that my style - warm, informal, humorous, and honest - helps reduce anxiety about the process of therapy. I utilize proven, research-based approaches, while incorporating Eastern philosophy, meditation, neuroscience and mindfulness-based practices into my sessions.
I am a LGBT+-affirming therapist and work with clients from diverse backgrounds.
Are you struggling with either personal or relationship difficulties? If so, I would like to help. When combined with hard work, professional counseling can help you overcome almost any problem. Instead of always feeling 'stuck,' it's time you began experiencing more joy, fulfillment and direction in your life - you know, the good stuff. Clients have found that my style - warm, informal, humorous, and honest - helps reduce anxiety about the process of therapy. I utilize proven, research-based approaches, while incorporating Eastern philosophy, meditation, neuroscience and mindfulness-based practices into my sessions.
(704) 702-0304 View (704) 702-0304
Photo of Amy Lynn Green - Nashville Collaborative Counseling Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nashville Collaborative Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37228
LGBTQIA+.
Nashville Collaborative Counseling Center is a group practice of mental healthcare therapists and helping professionals committed to creating spaces of accessibility, healing, and justice for our clients and the communities in which we serve. We also have a speciality practice within NCCC called Mamaya Health (UHC Community Plan (TN Medicaid) geared towards women who are pregnant and/or postpartum. Our interns within this program have expertise in maternal mental health, as well as focused consultation & supervision to provide you with specialized care at a time when you need it most.
LGBTQIA+.
Nashville Collaborative Counseling Center is a group practice of mental healthcare therapists and helping professionals committed to creating spaces of accessibility, healing, and justice for our clients and the communities in which we serve. We also have a speciality practice within NCCC called Mamaya Health (UHC Community Plan (TN Medicaid) geared towards women who are pregnant and/or postpartum. Our interns within this program have expertise in maternal mental health, as well as focused consultation & supervision to provide you with specialized care at a time when you need it most.
(615) 258-6519 View (615) 258-6519
Photo of Marci M Breedlove, PhD, Psychologist
Marci M Breedlove
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
I work to provide an LGBTQIA-affirming and anti-racist space that feels welcoming and safe.
Everyone wants to be themselves, to be “seen,” and to be valued for their uniqueness. We’re wired to need safe and affirming relationships and connection with others. When we’re struggling, it’s usually because something has gotten in the way of these things - not because we’re somehow "defective" or "flawed." I value authenticity, and strive to help clients feel and honor emotions that may seem “wrong" or unacceptable.
I work to provide an LGBTQIA-affirming and anti-racist space that feels welcoming and safe.
Everyone wants to be themselves, to be “seen,” and to be valued for their uniqueness. We’re wired to need safe and affirming relationships and connection with others. When we’re struggling, it’s usually because something has gotten in the way of these things - not because we’re somehow "defective" or "flawed." I value authenticity, and strive to help clients feel and honor emotions that may seem “wrong" or unacceptable.
(865) 217-0296 View (865) 217-0296
Photo of Breanna Bell, MA, SrLPE
Breanna Bell
MA, SrLPE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
I have specialized training from the Gottman Institute in Seattle Washington for couples and marriage therapy to includes gay and lesbian couples.
Are you looking for effective counseling techniques, experience and excellence in counseling? I have been practicing for 20+ years, have trained throughout those years in proven techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, reality therapy, mindfulness and meditative therapies, positive psychology, emotional intelligence and intimacy building, and I have specialized training for marriage, couples and family therapy. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship or any adjustment issue (illness/grief/loss, divorce, or any life transition) we will work together to implement known techniques that address and improve your life experience. All individuals are welcome. I do not discriminate based on any factor.
I have specialized training from the Gottman Institute in Seattle Washington for couples and marriage therapy to includes gay and lesbian couples.
Are you looking for effective counseling techniques, experience and excellence in counseling? I have been practicing for 20+ years, have trained throughout those years in proven techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, reality therapy, mindfulness and meditative therapies, positive psychology, emotional intelligence and intimacy building, and I have specialized training for marriage, couples and family therapy. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship or any adjustment issue (illness/grief/loss, divorce, or any life transition) we will work together to implement known techniques that address and improve your life experience. All individuals are welcome. I do not discriminate based on any factor.
(615) 864-9348 View (615) 864-9348
Photo of Bonnie Dodge, LPC Intern
Bonnie Dodge
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
I'm a part of the LGBTQ+ family and grew up in the South.
Hi! You're right—life doesn't have to be like this, and I am here to give you the tools to build long-term change. Together, we will tackle the messy stuff with humor, tears, and a curious mind through evidence-based practices that promote healing and growth. I see & affirm your experiences, religious trauma, ADHD, anxiety, LGBTQ+ self, and identity work.
I'm a part of the LGBTQ+ family and grew up in the South.
Hi! You're right—life doesn't have to be like this, and I am here to give you the tools to build long-term change. Together, we will tackle the messy stuff with humor, tears, and a curious mind through evidence-based practices that promote healing and growth. I see & affirm your experiences, religious trauma, ADHD, anxiety, LGBTQ+ self, and identity work.
(629) 201-7518 View (629) 201-7518
Photo of Colleen Werner, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Colleen Werner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
My goal as a therapist is to guide you in finding your innate capacity for healing so that you can work through the things getting in the way of being the fullest, most authentic version of yourself. Whether that’s trauma, a complicated relationship with food/body image, sexual challenges, creative blocks, navigating neurodivergence, relational challenges, navigating LGBTQ+ related issues, or navigating the stress of working in the creative/entertainment/music industries, I’m here to support you in building a life you can truly enjoy and thrive in, not just survive.
My goal as a therapist is to guide you in finding your innate capacity for healing so that you can work through the things getting in the way of being the fullest, most authentic version of yourself. Whether that’s trauma, a complicated relationship with food/body image, sexual challenges, creative blocks, navigating neurodivergence, relational challenges, navigating LGBTQ+ related issues, or navigating the stress of working in the creative/entertainment/music industries, I’m here to support you in building a life you can truly enjoy and thrive in, not just survive.
(615) 813-4758 View (615) 813-4758
Photo of Caroline Wasserman, TLMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Caroline Wasserman
Pre-Licensed Professional, TLMFT
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
I am dedicated to helping athletes, couples, and individuals in the LGBTQ+ community navigate life's challenges and achieve their personal and relational goals. As a former athlete, I understand the unique pressures and mental demands of competitive sports. I am here to support you every step of the way. Relationships are complex and can be a space where both joy and conflicts arise. We will explore concerns, improve communication, and help strengthen your connection with each other. I am passionate about providing a safe and affirming space for individuals in the LGBTQ+ community.
I am dedicated to helping athletes, couples, and individuals in the LGBTQ+ community navigate life's challenges and achieve their personal and relational goals. As a former athlete, I understand the unique pressures and mental demands of competitive sports. I am here to support you every step of the way. Relationships are complex and can be a space where both joy and conflicts arise. We will explore concerns, improve communication, and help strengthen your connection with each other. I am passionate about providing a safe and affirming space for individuals in the LGBTQ+ community.
(629) 295-8839 View (629) 295-8839
Photo of Gabriel Starner, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gabriel Starner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
My areas of special clinical interest include working with LGBTQIA+ clients, existential distress, religious trauma and abuse, ethical non-monogamy/non-traditional relationships, couple conflict, sex therapy, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
I am a caring and empathetic person who has a heart for helping people. As a therapist I seek to work collaboratively with clients in establishing treatment goals. My hope is that clients will learn new and healthier ways of living and gain a greater ability to treat both themselves and others with compassion. It takes courage to step into the therapy room, so I work to provide a disarming and open space for clients to share. My curiosity guides me as I get to know people for who they are and I enjoy helping clients learn to think, feel, and act in new, productive ways to become the people they want to be.
My areas of special clinical interest include working with LGBTQIA+ clients, existential distress, religious trauma and abuse, ethical non-monogamy/non-traditional relationships, couple conflict, sex therapy, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
I am a caring and empathetic person who has a heart for helping people. As a therapist I seek to work collaboratively with clients in establishing treatment goals. My hope is that clients will learn new and healthier ways of living and gain a greater ability to treat both themselves and others with compassion. It takes courage to step into the therapy room, so I work to provide a disarming and open space for clients to share. My curiosity guides me as I get to know people for who they are and I enjoy helping clients learn to think, feel, and act in new, productive ways to become the people they want to be.
(615) 471-6433 View (615) 471-6433
Photo of Meredith Kalies, PsyD, HSP, Psychologist
Meredith Kalies
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206  (Online Only)
As a queer identified therapist I am affirming of LGBTQIA+, ethical non-monogamy, polyamory, and the spectrum of relationship identities and styles.
My goal is to help you access your depth of emotional experience to live a more authentic life. My client’s enjoy a therapist who is ethical, warm, direct, has a sense of humor, and above all, is committed to their growth. I view therapy as a collaborative process in which client and therapist work together on goals and presenting concerns. I use an integrative and exploratory approach to therapy, which combines relational, depth, emotion-focused, Gottman principles, somatic, and mindfulness-based approaches.
As a queer identified therapist I am affirming of LGBTQIA+, ethical non-monogamy, polyamory, and the spectrum of relationship identities and styles.
My goal is to help you access your depth of emotional experience to live a more authentic life. My client’s enjoy a therapist who is ethical, warm, direct, has a sense of humor, and above all, is committed to their growth. I view therapy as a collaborative process in which client and therapist work together on goals and presenting concerns. I use an integrative and exploratory approach to therapy, which combines relational, depth, emotion-focused, Gottman principles, somatic, and mindfulness-based approaches.
(615) 610-1722 View (615) 610-1722
Photo of Jill Terhune, EdS, LPC, Counselor
Jill Terhune
Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
LGBTQ+ affirming.
You many be feeling overwhelmed, isolated, anxious, depressed, and reliving past traumatic experiences, but hopeful for understanding, confidence, and peace? Through my work in sexual assault centers, domestic violence shelters, in private practice, and at Onsite Workshops I have learned how trauma is stored in the body, how it creates negative beliefs about the self, how it keeps us from living in the present moment and how it keeps us from connecting to those around us. Working with me feels like gentle confrontation and resource building in order to delve into past wounds with a deeply open, knowledgeable, and compassionate ally.
LGBTQ+ affirming.
You many be feeling overwhelmed, isolated, anxious, depressed, and reliving past traumatic experiences, but hopeful for understanding, confidence, and peace? Through my work in sexual assault centers, domestic violence shelters, in private practice, and at Onsite Workshops I have learned how trauma is stored in the body, how it creates negative beliefs about the self, how it keeps us from living in the present moment and how it keeps us from connecting to those around us. Working with me feels like gentle confrontation and resource building in order to delve into past wounds with a deeply open, knowledgeable, and compassionate ally.
View
Photo of Rod Mills, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rod Mills
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
As a Gay man living in TN, I am passionate about supporting your growth, affirming who you are, and helping you create the life you want! I am committed to making our therapeutic experience safe, caring, and supportive. As an LGBTQ-affirming therapist intern at Healing Umbrella Psychotherapy, I know that our unique gifts, talents, and wisdom often grow from our Queer identities. I am interested in helping Gay men better understand themselves, create and sustain caring relationships, and enjoy being gay! I also love working with couples, polycules, and LGBTQ+ families helping to build affirming and meaningful bonds and connections.
As a Gay man living in TN, I am passionate about supporting your growth, affirming who you are, and helping you create the life you want! I am committed to making our therapeutic experience safe, caring, and supportive. As an LGBTQ-affirming therapist intern at Healing Umbrella Psychotherapy, I know that our unique gifts, talents, and wisdom often grow from our Queer identities. I am interested in helping Gay men better understand themselves, create and sustain caring relationships, and enjoy being gay! I also love working with couples, polycules, and LGBTQ+ families helping to build affirming and meaningful bonds and connections.
(629) 262-9672 View (629) 262-9672
Photo of Andrea Davis, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Andrea Davis
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37228  (Online Only)
I have experience working with those in relationships, LGBTQIA+ individuals, identity formation and acceptance, addiction, navigating life changes, trauma, depression, anxiety, co-occurring disorders, those with disabilities/chronic health conditions, and those who identify as neurodivergent (ex: ADHD, Autism, etc.
How do you learn to accept and love yourself, letting go of shame and self-doubt, so you can become fully and authentically you? How do you overcome trauma and regulate your emotions? How do you love others and set healthy boundaries? These are questions I can help you answer. My approach is warm and affirming; l enter each session with openness, curiosity, and a trauma informed lens. While I provide clinical expertise, I honor that you are the expert on yourself, your values, and your culture. I am an active participant in sessions, viewing collaboration and consistency as key to the building a trusting therapeutic relationship.
I have experience working with those in relationships, LGBTQIA+ individuals, identity formation and acceptance, addiction, navigating life changes, trauma, depression, anxiety, co-occurring disorders, those with disabilities/chronic health conditions, and those who identify as neurodivergent (ex: ADHD, Autism, etc.
How do you learn to accept and love yourself, letting go of shame and self-doubt, so you can become fully and authentically you? How do you overcome trauma and regulate your emotions? How do you love others and set healthy boundaries? These are questions I can help you answer. My approach is warm and affirming; l enter each session with openness, curiosity, and a trauma informed lens. While I provide clinical expertise, I honor that you are the expert on yourself, your values, and your culture. I am an active participant in sessions, viewing collaboration and consistency as key to the building a trusting therapeutic relationship.
(615) 703-5701 View (615) 703-5701
Photo of Christine Faith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Faith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
Additionally, I am an LGBTQ affirming clinician.
If you're thinking of investing in yourself by choosing therapy, I'd love to be your guide and join you on your journey. Therapy is sacred. It's valuable work so that we can connect to our inner selves and our relationships. I especially love when therapy is done by Telehealth so clients can connect to me from the comfort and convenience of their homes (furbabies welcomed!) My favorite work with clients is highly collaborative, and my clients know that, with me, they get a warm approach, accepting nature, and a safe space in which to do this sacred work.
Additionally, I am an LGBTQ affirming clinician.
If you're thinking of investing in yourself by choosing therapy, I'd love to be your guide and join you on your journey. Therapy is sacred. It's valuable work so that we can connect to our inner selves and our relationships. I especially love when therapy is done by Telehealth so clients can connect to me from the comfort and convenience of their homes (furbabies welcomed!) My favorite work with clients is highly collaborative, and my clients know that, with me, they get a warm approach, accepting nature, and a safe space in which to do this sacred work.
(629) 289-0200 View (629) 289-0200
Photo of Grace (Bomar) Finn, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Grace (Bomar) Finn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
I hear folks on my therapy couch often ask these questions: "Why can't I get a hold on these anxious feelings?" "Why am I still repeating these same patterns?" "Why does (experience) bring up so much (emotion) for me?" I help adults and adolescents (16+) translate this curiosity into insight to develop emotion regulation skills, a sense of self rooted in integrity instead of shame, and more mindfulness in their relationships. I work mostly with anxiety, LGBTQIA+ issues, depression, emotion regulation difficulty, relationship issues, spirituality, and grief, including “identity grief” (grieving the life we thought we’d live).
I hear folks on my therapy couch often ask these questions: "Why can't I get a hold on these anxious feelings?" "Why am I still repeating these same patterns?" "Why does (experience) bring up so much (emotion) for me?" I help adults and adolescents (16+) translate this curiosity into insight to develop emotion regulation skills, a sense of self rooted in integrity instead of shame, and more mindfulness in their relationships. I work mostly with anxiety, LGBTQIA+ issues, depression, emotion regulation difficulty, relationship issues, spirituality, and grief, including “identity grief” (grieving the life we thought we’d live).
(615) 987-0542 View (615) 987-0542
Photo of Teresa Young - Generations Psychological & Consultation Services, PhD, Psychologist
Generations Psychological & Consultation Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
Are you struggling to do things you enjoy as you age? Are you overwhelmed caring for someone with a severe disability or dementia? Are you having a hard time adjusting to a chronic illness? For your convenience, I offer telehealth services in Tennessee, Ohio, Iowa, and Florida.
Are you struggling to do things you enjoy as you age? Are you overwhelmed caring for someone with a severe disability or dementia? Are you having a hard time adjusting to a chronic illness? For your convenience, I offer telehealth services in Tennessee, Ohio, Iowa, and Florida.
(380) 207-1267 View (380) 207-1267
Photo of Khelsea Walker, Mhc, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Khelsea Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, Mhc, LPC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37201  (Online Only)
New to therapy or seeking to start again? With over 10 years in counseling services I can help you start your journey today. There is a safe space for you here, whether your narrative is searching for personal growth, or insight into life circumstances, having a safe environment that is reflective and guided by professional support helps you regain control. As a licensed clinician my goal is to help you understand negative feelings, repressed emotions, and resolve internal psychological conflicts...
New to therapy or seeking to start again? With over 10 years in counseling services I can help you start your journey today. There is a safe space for you here, whether your narrative is searching for personal growth, or insight into life circumstances, having a safe environment that is reflective and guided by professional support helps you regain control. As a licensed clinician my goal is to help you understand negative feelings, repressed emotions, and resolve internal psychological conflicts...
(901) 979-9464 View (901) 979-9464
Photo of Brian Hooper Spiritually Integrative Psychotherapy, MDiv, PsyD, LCPT, Pastoral Counselor
Brian Hooper Spiritually Integrative Psychotherapy
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv, PsyD, LCPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
It is not uncommon for people to come to therapy and say, “I just feel lost.” You may wonder where the meaning has gone. Life is confusing. Sometimes you doubt life itself, and you are forever doubting yourself. You're exhausted! Showing up is the first step in finding yourself. I help you identify your deepest values and passions and adjust your life to live by them; I go deep and you need to know that up front. You will be asked to examine the thoughts you think and to identify your emotions which are always clues to what is below the surface.
It is not uncommon for people to come to therapy and say, “I just feel lost.” You may wonder where the meaning has gone. Life is confusing. Sometimes you doubt life itself, and you are forever doubting yourself. You're exhausted! Showing up is the first step in finding yourself. I help you identify your deepest values and passions and adjust your life to live by them; I go deep and you need to know that up front. You will be asked to examine the thoughts you think and to identify your emotions which are always clues to what is below the surface.
(615) 285-3084 View (615) 285-3084
Photo of Rachel Ann Atkinson, MTh, MMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Rachel Ann Atkinson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MTh, MMFT
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
I desire to be an authentic, non-judgmental, calm presence in order to create a safe place for you to share your story. In the field of marriage and family therapy, we focus on relationships. I want to help people find peace in their relationship with self and others.
I desire to be an authentic, non-judgmental, calm presence in order to create a safe place for you to share your story. In the field of marriage and family therapy, we focus on relationships. I want to help people find peace in their relationship with self and others.
(615) 437-5603 View (615) 437-5603
Photo of Cory Bishop, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cory Bishop
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
Through an integrative, person-centered, and holistic counseling approach, Cory equips and empowers his clients to confidently move toward their own goals. His endless curiosity and desire to learn from and connect with others drives him to take clients from all walks of life: children, teenagers, individuals, and couples. From relationship issues, family dysfunction, difficult transitions and symptoms of anxiety or depression; to emotional literacy, relational tune-ups, spirituality, and exploring the problems you can’t quite put your finger on, Cory genuinely desires to walk alongside you in your healing journey.
Through an integrative, person-centered, and holistic counseling approach, Cory equips and empowers his clients to confidently move toward their own goals. His endless curiosity and desire to learn from and connect with others drives him to take clients from all walks of life: children, teenagers, individuals, and couples. From relationship issues, family dysfunction, difficult transitions and symptoms of anxiety or depression; to emotional literacy, relational tune-ups, spirituality, and exploring the problems you can’t quite put your finger on, Cory genuinely desires to walk alongside you in your healing journey.
(615) 637-8658 View (615) 637-8658

See more therapy options for Dickson

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.