Transgender Therapists in Laguna Beach, CA
![Photo of Macayla Meyers, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71bcf0f9-2f2d-4829-8003-84a6ba60e929/2/320x400.jpeg)
Macayla Meyers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
My area of expertise includes treating various mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, substance use disorders.
Are racing thoughts keeping you up night? Tired of ER visits from panic attacks? Struggling to focus or pay attention? Feeling overwhelmed in crowds? Overall lack of motivation or energy? Do your emotions feel like a rollercoaster? Spending more time on hold or waitlists instead of getting the card you need? Take the first step and Book a consultation today - leave the rest up to us! Every client gets a personal concierge and other exclusive benefits. Schedule to learn more. All inclusive mental health and primary care. Appointments available 7 days per week for returning clients. Every client gets a personal concierge.
My area of expertise includes treating various mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, substance use disorders.
Are racing thoughts keeping you up night? Tired of ER visits from panic attacks? Struggling to focus or pay attention? Feeling overwhelmed in crowds? Overall lack of motivation or energy? Do your emotions feel like a rollercoaster? Spending more time on hold or waitlists instead of getting the card you need? Take the first step and Book a consultation today - leave the rest up to us! Every client gets a personal concierge and other exclusive benefits. Schedule to learn more. All inclusive mental health and primary care. Appointments available 7 days per week for returning clients. Every client gets a personal concierge.
![Photo of Judi Anne Passy, PhD(HS), LMFT, RN, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b7c73af-2738-4ee6-8b8b-641db8fab62c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Judi Anne Passy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD(HS), LMFT, RN
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651 (Online Only)
Clients who hold transgender/nonbinary identities or atypical sexual orientations have the same challenges as cisgender clients plus much more.
My goal is for clients to benefit from my experience as a LMFT (132685), registered nurse (307004), & a doctorate in human sexuality. I have a broad range of counseling experiences from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), relationship management, anxiety, and LGBTQ issues. Generally, psychotherapeutic problems are interrelated in some form. For example, many LGBT+ clients deal with nonacceptance from significant others. Resolving feeling of alienation can enhance one's livability. Many diverse individuals' have experienced various forms of traumas in their lifespan (rejections, sexual violations, biases), PTSD is not uncommon.
Clients who hold transgender/nonbinary identities or atypical sexual orientations have the same challenges as cisgender clients plus much more.
My goal is for clients to benefit from my experience as a LMFT (132685), registered nurse (307004), & a doctorate in human sexuality. I have a broad range of counseling experiences from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), relationship management, anxiety, and LGBTQ issues. Generally, psychotherapeutic problems are interrelated in some form. For example, many LGBT+ clients deal with nonacceptance from significant others. Resolving feeling of alienation can enhance one's livability. Many diverse individuals' have experienced various forms of traumas in their lifespan (rejections, sexual violations, biases), PTSD is not uncommon.
![Photo of Stacey Jackson-Roberts, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f49def31-92fd-4d7b-a353-bb5142486e61/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stacey Jackson-Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
I offer therapy to individuals exploring various aspects of gender (transgender, cisgender, and gender diverse) and sexuality (LGBTQ+, straight, ENM/Poly, Kink). My goal is to create a supportive environment where we can tackle challenges related to sexuality, relationships, personal growth, and overall mental health. Together, we’ll engage in empathetic, nonjudgmental conversations to identify areas for growth and celebrate your achievements. I’ll customize our sessions using diverse therapeutic techniques to meet your unique needs, values, and goals, helping you define your journey in life and relationships.
I offer therapy to individuals exploring various aspects of gender (transgender, cisgender, and gender diverse) and sexuality (LGBTQ+, straight, ENM/Poly, Kink). My goal is to create a supportive environment where we can tackle challenges related to sexuality, relationships, personal growth, and overall mental health. Together, we’ll engage in empathetic, nonjudgmental conversations to identify areas for growth and celebrate your achievements. I’ll customize our sessions using diverse therapeutic techniques to meet your unique needs, values, and goals, helping you define your journey in life and relationships.
![Photo of Aly Giermann, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ad0bbd7-e15a-478b-b2eb-e81ab6386c84/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aly Giermann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92652 (Online Only)
I also work effectively with transgender cIients, including providing letters for SRS and HRT.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: I believe therapy is a powerful tool for change and personal empowerment. It can be difficult to make the decision to seek support, but I believe starting therapy is a courageous act of self-compassion. I aim to provide a warm, genuine, and collaborative approach when working with clients. I strive to create a connection that allows clients to be themselves and feel safe to work through any obstacles in their path. Utilizing a strengths-based approach, I work with clients to build confidence and skills to navigate life stressors and to create a life they can’t wait to wake up to.
I also work effectively with transgender cIients, including providing letters for SRS and HRT.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: I believe therapy is a powerful tool for change and personal empowerment. It can be difficult to make the decision to seek support, but I believe starting therapy is a courageous act of self-compassion. I aim to provide a warm, genuine, and collaborative approach when working with clients. I strive to create a connection that allows clients to be themselves and feel safe to work through any obstacles in their path. Utilizing a strengths-based approach, I work with clients to build confidence and skills to navigate life stressors and to create a life they can’t wait to wake up to.
![Photo of River Ornellas, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce359a86-1bf5-4dea-9a69-6fbeb8397a13/1/320x400.jpeg)
River Ornellas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651 (Online Only)
I am passionate about providing gender & neurodivergent affirming care to individuals who are trans, non-binary, gender-expansive, gender-questioning & queer. My priority is to create a safe and supportive space to help you heal from past wounds and find a path toward embodying your most authentic self. My work aims to dismantle white supremacy, capitalism & ableism & help you unlearn harmful internalized beliefs instilled by these systems of oppression. I guide you in learning to care for your unique wellbeing in order to live with less suffering & more freedom. I believe in and hold space for each person's potential to heal & grow
I am passionate about providing gender & neurodivergent affirming care to individuals who are trans, non-binary, gender-expansive, gender-questioning & queer. My priority is to create a safe and supportive space to help you heal from past wounds and find a path toward embodying your most authentic self. My work aims to dismantle white supremacy, capitalism & ableism & help you unlearn harmful internalized beliefs instilled by these systems of oppression. I guide you in learning to care for your unique wellbeing in order to live with less suffering & more freedom. I believe in and hold space for each person's potential to heal & grow
![Photo of Louis D Nealon - Affirming Therapy of Orange County, MA, MBA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40a6b3eb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Affirming Therapy of Orange County
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
I provide individual, couples, and family therapy at my private practice on the Huntington Beach Hospital campus. Much of my work is with clients struggling with anxiety, dysphoria, or depression, or in their relationships with their romantic partners/spouses or their families-of-origin. I find strengths they've forgotten they have that can be used to defeat their problems. I use Narrative and Cognitive-Behavioral therapies and when working with couples I use Emotion Focused Therapy. Research has shown that 70-75% of couples who undergo EFT become closer and more intimate and 90% of them show significant improvements.
I provide individual, couples, and family therapy at my private practice on the Huntington Beach Hospital campus. Much of my work is with clients struggling with anxiety, dysphoria, or depression, or in their relationships with their romantic partners/spouses or their families-of-origin. I find strengths they've forgotten they have that can be used to defeat their problems. I use Narrative and Cognitive-Behavioral therapies and when working with couples I use Emotion Focused Therapy. Research has shown that 70-75% of couples who undergo EFT become closer and more intimate and 90% of them show significant improvements.
![Photo of Melinda Haynes - Family & Children's Counseling Services, Inc, LMFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7165549-0161-4985-98a1-94891844723c/1/320x400.png)
Life sometimes throws us unexpected problems, losses, and other hurts. It is essential to have a solid support system to help us through the hard times. Family & Children's Counseling Services (FCCS) wants to be that support system for you and your family as you find healing and a restored sense of hope for the future.
Life sometimes throws us unexpected problems, losses, and other hurts. It is essential to have a solid support system to help us through the hard times. Family & Children's Counseling Services (FCCS) wants to be that support system for you and your family as you find healing and a restored sense of hope for the future.
![Photo of Mary Herzog, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f29a214-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed psychologist whose research and practice in dance, education, and psychology support my innovative use of the most effective and empirically based treatment strategies. From your first appointment, my goal is to help you figure out your current obstacles and how to get past them. I will listen carefully to your concerns, ask a few questions and then try to provide an accurate and compassionate summary of my understanding of your situation. I will offer some treatment options and give you a sense of how we might work together so you can move forward in your life.
I am a licensed psychologist whose research and practice in dance, education, and psychology support my innovative use of the most effective and empirically based treatment strategies. From your first appointment, my goal is to help you figure out your current obstacles and how to get past them. I will listen carefully to your concerns, ask a few questions and then try to provide an accurate and compassionate summary of my understanding of your situation. I will offer some treatment options and give you a sense of how we might work together so you can move forward in your life.
![Photo of Dara Cortes, MSW, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/423a8c06-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dara Cortes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Life can be challenging, painful, frustrating, and uncertain at times. Through therapeutic means, we can work together to explore meaningful and creative ways to break down barriers and find the appropriate means for you to feel good in your skin. There are no guarantees in what life throws our way. There are however, beautiful opportunities in every situation we encompass, to respond effectively and empower ourselves to live the best life possible. I welcome the opportunity to journey through this process with you.
Life can be challenging, painful, frustrating, and uncertain at times. Through therapeutic means, we can work together to explore meaningful and creative ways to break down barriers and find the appropriate means for you to feel good in your skin. There are no guarantees in what life throws our way. There are however, beautiful opportunities in every situation we encompass, to respond effectively and empower ourselves to live the best life possible. I welcome the opportunity to journey through this process with you.
![Photo of Jean Wolfe Powers Psychotherapist, MA, LMFT, CMC, ACC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf66389-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jean Wolfe Powers Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMC, ACC
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651 (Online Only)
My extensive work with trauma, grief, and loss has earned worldwide attention spanning across four decades. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and International Certified Life Coach, I work with individuals, families, and groups to transform mental and emotional challenges into experiences of thriving health and well-being. My early career defining work began in the 80’s alongside John Bradshaw and focused on addiction, recovery, and codependency. Together with a team of cutting-edge psychotherapists, I developed groundbreaking techniques for understanding trauma: when it starts, how it affects the brain, and how to heal.
My extensive work with trauma, grief, and loss has earned worldwide attention spanning across four decades. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and International Certified Life Coach, I work with individuals, families, and groups to transform mental and emotional challenges into experiences of thriving health and well-being. My early career defining work began in the 80’s alongside John Bradshaw and focused on addiction, recovery, and codependency. Together with a team of cutting-edge psychotherapists, I developed groundbreaking techniques for understanding trauma: when it starts, how it affects the brain, and how to heal.
![Photo of Inner Fokus, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c52fbe4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
More than just a way to capture attention, the spelling of Inner Fōkus also carries a personal meaning to the founders. The name is a nod to the German heritage shared by both Dr. Lori and Dr. Patrick, since “fōkus” is the correct spelling of “focus” in German. Our heritage, culture, and environment can have great impacts in shaping who we are. Our name, Inner Fōkus, also serves as a prominent reminder of the importance to occasionally break from current patterns and try new things.
More than just a way to capture attention, the spelling of Inner Fōkus also carries a personal meaning to the founders. The name is a nod to the German heritage shared by both Dr. Lori and Dr. Patrick, since “fōkus” is the correct spelling of “focus” in German. Our heritage, culture, and environment can have great impacts in shaping who we are. Our name, Inner Fōkus, also serves as a prominent reminder of the importance to occasionally break from current patterns and try new things.
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![Photo of Malia Sanchez, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1433931a-158d-49fc-8e2b-7091cd696b61/2/320x400.jpeg)
Malia Sanchez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I entered the field of psychology with the belief that people can change. I have worked in a variety of settings and with individuals experiencing many different MH issues. I have seen change and growth in so many different ways. My goal is to help clients find the motivation and skills they need to make the positive changes they want to see in their lives. Change can be difficult but when you are willing to put in the work it can open endless possibilities. I offer all my clients a compassionate and safe therapeutic environment to assist in guiding them through the challenges and opportunities that life can present.
I entered the field of psychology with the belief that people can change. I have worked in a variety of settings and with individuals experiencing many different MH issues. I have seen change and growth in so many different ways. My goal is to help clients find the motivation and skills they need to make the positive changes they want to see in their lives. Change can be difficult but when you are willing to put in the work it can open endless possibilities. I offer all my clients a compassionate and safe therapeutic environment to assist in guiding them through the challenges and opportunities that life can present.
![Photo of Melinda Haynes - Family & Children's Counseling Services, Inc., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34dae430-9773-4183-a1c7-942a7c946a0f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Family & Children's Counseling Services, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651 (Online Only)
When our children's hearts have been broken, our hearts break, too. Parents often struggle with knowing how to care for a hurting child. The child's behaviors can be challenging. A parent's own unhealed wounds get triggered. Then, there's the parenting guilt! It can be overwhelming. We understand and we are here to help.
When our children's hearts have been broken, our hearts break, too. Parents often struggle with knowing how to care for a hurting child. The child's behaviors can be challenging. A parent's own unhealed wounds get triggered. Then, there's the parenting guilt! It can be overwhelming. We understand and we are here to help.
![Photo of Julie Maul, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d3b9452-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you questioning whether you should continue in your current relationship? Is your daily life plagued with arguing? Do you need help with communication? Are there trust issues or an infidelity? In a satisfying relationship and planning on getting married? Do you need help ending a relationship? Is your relationship affecting other family members? Have you been feeling depressed or anxious? Are you having difficulty with disturbing memories of a traumatic event? Are you experiencing chronic pain or have you been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, RSD or migraines? Are you faced with a dilemma and need a sounding board? I can help.
Are you questioning whether you should continue in your current relationship? Is your daily life plagued with arguing? Do you need help with communication? Are there trust issues or an infidelity? In a satisfying relationship and planning on getting married? Do you need help ending a relationship? Is your relationship affecting other family members? Have you been feeling depressed or anxious? Are you having difficulty with disturbing memories of a traumatic event? Are you experiencing chronic pain or have you been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, RSD or migraines? Are you faced with a dilemma and need a sounding board? I can help.
![Photo of Danielle Parks, MA, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0c4aca7-41f0-4565-a06b-139f41c71724/3/320x400.jpeg)
I ask that you are ready to make a commitment, to yourself, first. I consider this the first step of the journey - I am here ready to make the commitment alongside you. Think of it as the beginning of falling in love with yourself...your relationships, and ultimately your life. If you are reading this I hope you answer the call, to yourself...it is the beginning of the type of change you have dreamt of, meeting your best self, meeting your soul.
I ask that you are ready to make a commitment, to yourself, first. I consider this the first step of the journey - I am here ready to make the commitment alongside you. Think of it as the beginning of falling in love with yourself...your relationships, and ultimately your life. If you are reading this I hope you answer the call, to yourself...it is the beginning of the type of change you have dreamt of, meeting your best self, meeting your soul.
![Photo of Madeline Sober, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/614b59f6-4424-4256-9d0c-bc88272c0d47/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maddy Sober provides individual psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and young adults. Maddy also serves as a Clinical Supervisor and the Director of Operations for the Mind Health Institute, Orange County. Maddy is a diplomate of the Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies and a Certified CBT Therapist who is currently a doctoral student working toward a Ph.D. in Counseling. Maddy works with a broad range of mental health issues and is committed to providing the highest level of care. Maddy is recognized for her creativity and commitment in tailoring her approach to the individualized needs of her clients.
Maddy Sober provides individual psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and young adults. Maddy also serves as a Clinical Supervisor and the Director of Operations for the Mind Health Institute, Orange County. Maddy is a diplomate of the Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies and a Certified CBT Therapist who is currently a doctoral student working toward a Ph.D. in Counseling. Maddy works with a broad range of mental health issues and is committed to providing the highest level of care. Maddy is recognized for her creativity and commitment in tailoring her approach to the individualized needs of her clients.
![Photo of Gina Hernandez Tabrizy - Harmony Heals, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/504820d7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you troubled by past trauma and overwhelmed at the thought of getting help? Dealing with trauma is incredibly difficult but fortunately you don't have to do it alone. At Harmony Heals we specialize in bringing about a sense of resolution and giving clients the power to forge their own destiny. Our entire office is focused on getting you the help that you need and guiding you on your personal journey to growth and mental well-being.
Are you troubled by past trauma and overwhelmed at the thought of getting help? Dealing with trauma is incredibly difficult but fortunately you don't have to do it alone. At Harmony Heals we specialize in bringing about a sense of resolution and giving clients the power to forge their own destiny. Our entire office is focused on getting you the help that you need and guiding you on your personal journey to growth and mental well-being.
![Photo of Nancy Travers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ba47c28-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Hi. I'm Nancy Travers and I am a Licensed Orange County Therapist. My 20 years of experience includes work with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, sexuality, addictions, grief, and trauma. In August of 2004, I opened a clinical private practice in Irvine to serve the greater Orange County area. This practice specializes in couples therapy and marriage counseling. NancysCounselingCorner.com. If your answer to any of the following questions is yes, we can help:
Hi. I'm Nancy Travers and I am a Licensed Orange County Therapist. My 20 years of experience includes work with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, sexuality, addictions, grief, and trauma. In August of 2004, I opened a clinical private practice in Irvine to serve the greater Orange County area. This practice specializes in couples therapy and marriage counseling. NancysCounselingCorner.com. If your answer to any of the following questions is yes, we can help:
![Photo of Sheila Diskin, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b740fb9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
SAVE YOUR RELATIONSHIP!!! I am a Marriage and Family therapist since 1997, specializing in couples therapy and marriage counseling, relationship counseling and conflict resolution strategies, individual therapy, depression symptoms, PTSD, anxiety, and moving beyond trauma issues resulting from abuse or an accident. I will help you to find the joy in your relationship and your personal life. I mix traditional therapy with a heart-full approach and teach couples and individuals how to trust their intuition and know themselves. I am supportive of alternative lifestyles/gay/lesbian.
Marriage & Family Therapist, Couples Counseling, Marriage Counselor, Individual Therapy, Conflict Resolution, PTSD Symptoms, Laguna Hills, Orange County,CA.
SAVE YOUR RELATIONSHIP!!! I am a Marriage and Family therapist since 1997, specializing in couples therapy and marriage counseling, relationship counseling and conflict resolution strategies, individual therapy, depression symptoms, PTSD, anxiety, and moving beyond trauma issues resulting from abuse or an accident. I will help you to find the joy in your relationship and your personal life. I mix traditional therapy with a heart-full approach and teach couples and individuals how to trust their intuition and know themselves. I am supportive of alternative lifestyles/gay/lesbian.
Marriage & Family Therapist, Couples Counseling, Marriage Counselor, Individual Therapy, Conflict Resolution, PTSD Symptoms, Laguna Hills, Orange County,CA.
![Photo of Summer Witty, MS, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f34d05-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Summer Witty
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92652 (Online Only)
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we can feel inadequate in dealing with life struggles that come our way. Sometimes we feel like we've tried everything, but for some reason we still feel stuck despite our best efforts. Although there are times in our lives when we feel great, there are also times in our lives when we feel hopeless, anxious, depressed, or even lost. Sometimes, we can pinpoint why we feel this way, and other times, these feelings seem to just come upon us for no apparent reason. Both can make life incredibly difficult.
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we can feel inadequate in dealing with life struggles that come our way. Sometimes we feel like we've tried everything, but for some reason we still feel stuck despite our best efforts. Although there are times in our lives when we feel great, there are also times in our lives when we feel hopeless, anxious, depressed, or even lost. Sometimes, we can pinpoint why we feel this way, and other times, these feelings seem to just come upon us for no apparent reason. Both can make life incredibly difficult.
See more therapy options for Laguna Beach
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Transgender Therapists
As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?
A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.
What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?
Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.
How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?
An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?
Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.