Transgender Therapists in Jacksonville, FL

Photo of Jen Ducharme, LMHC, Counselor
Jen Ducharme
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32257
I also specialize in treating gender dysphoria, and writing HRT Readiness Assessments, adherent to WPATH guidelines.
We cannot change past chapters of our lives. Where we can take power is now, and the future chapters we have yet to write. If we don't address something unhealthy, every aspect of life can become impacted negatively. Whether you are wanting to learn to manage mental health symptoms, begin the transitioning process, seeking help for everyday concerns like relationship issues, job stress or self-doubt, or experiencing difficult times such as divorce and loss, things can improve. I assure you the strength and ability you will use is already residing in you.
I also specialize in treating gender dysphoria, and writing HRT Readiness Assessments, adherent to WPATH guidelines.
We cannot change past chapters of our lives. Where we can take power is now, and the future chapters we have yet to write. If we don't address something unhealthy, every aspect of life can become impacted negatively. Whether you are wanting to learn to manage mental health symptoms, begin the transitioning process, seeking help for everyday concerns like relationship issues, job stress or self-doubt, or experiencing difficult times such as divorce and loss, things can improve. I assure you the strength and ability you will use is already residing in you.
(904) 423-8052 View (904) 423-8052
Photo of Noelle Pomeroy, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Noelle Pomeroy
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32223
I work with people ages 16 to 103 who are straight, gay, bisexual, a minority, in the majority, male, female, or gender queer, or transgender.
VERY LIMITED AVAILABILITY BUT WE HAVE OTHER THERAPISTS ON STAFF TAKING NEW CLIENTS WHO TAKE MANY INSURANCES. There are many things that can stop you from having the sex life you want. Maybe you're having too little sex, you're not enjoying it, or what you're doing doesn't seem to be working. Imagine finding a way to make it better. As a licensed mental health counselor and clinical sexologist, I have worked with hundreds of people looking for ways to improve intimacy, learn more about who they are, and what they like. There are things you could change today that will help get your where you want to be.
I work with people ages 16 to 103 who are straight, gay, bisexual, a minority, in the majority, male, female, or gender queer, or transgender.
VERY LIMITED AVAILABILITY BUT WE HAVE OTHER THERAPISTS ON STAFF TAKING NEW CLIENTS WHO TAKE MANY INSURANCES. There are many things that can stop you from having the sex life you want. Maybe you're having too little sex, you're not enjoying it, or what you're doing doesn't seem to be working. Imagine finding a way to make it better. As a licensed mental health counselor and clinical sexologist, I have worked with hundreds of people looking for ways to improve intimacy, learn more about who they are, and what they like. There are things you could change today that will help get your where you want to be.
(904) 413-8944 View (904) 413-8944
Photo of Jacob Gandy, MS, LMHC, BCBA, NCC, TCT
Jacob Gandy
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, BCBA, NCC, TCT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32223
I work with people ages 12 to 100 who are gay, straight, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, gender queer, male, female, in the minority or in the majority.
I have experience and a passion for working with people who feel like they are on the outside, looking in. This may lead to depression, anxiety, frustration, or questions about your identity. I offer a safe space to talk about your challenges and I will do my best to help you work toward progress. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ adults and teens and hold a certification as a Transgender Care Therapist from The International Transgender Certification Association.
I work with people ages 12 to 100 who are gay, straight, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, gender queer, male, female, in the minority or in the majority.
I have experience and a passion for working with people who feel like they are on the outside, looking in. This may lead to depression, anxiety, frustration, or questions about your identity. I offer a safe space to talk about your challenges and I will do my best to help you work toward progress. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ adults and teens and hold a certification as a Transgender Care Therapist from The International Transgender Certification Association.
(904) 842-4335 View (904) 842-4335
Photo of Denise Hueso, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Hueso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32099
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 19 years' experience helping families and youth transform their lives for the better. My holistic approach to treatment provides a safe and empathic environment for clients to work towards improved emotional health and well being. I provide counseling to children, adults, families and couples. I am bilingual and specialize in working with gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning (GLBTQ) individuals and their families as well as child behavioral problems, depression, anxiety, stress management and relationship challenges. I offer caring, competent therapy services to meet the goals you have for your life.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 19 years' experience helping families and youth transform their lives for the better. My holistic approach to treatment provides a safe and empathic environment for clients to work towards improved emotional health and well being. I provide counseling to children, adults, families and couples. I am bilingual and specialize in working with gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning (GLBTQ) individuals and their families as well as child behavioral problems, depression, anxiety, stress management and relationship challenges. I offer caring, competent therapy services to meet the goals you have for your life.
(305) 767-7033 View (305) 767-7033
Photo of Patricia Demasky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Demasky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32226
Hi, I'm Trish Demasky, an LCSW licensed to practice in Florida and Maine. My focus is working with adolescents, teens, and families on gender issues, PTSD, trauma, and family issues. I have a holistic, client centered approach and employ numerous therapeutic approaches such as EMDR, poly vagal theory, CBT, Solution Focused, and DBT. My client base consists mostly of those with a trauma history, those suffering with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and family issues. I would be honored to be part of your journey on the road to empowerment and wellbeing.
Hi, I'm Trish Demasky, an LCSW licensed to practice in Florida and Maine. My focus is working with adolescents, teens, and families on gender issues, PTSD, trauma, and family issues. I have a holistic, client centered approach and employ numerous therapeutic approaches such as EMDR, poly vagal theory, CBT, Solution Focused, and DBT. My client base consists mostly of those with a trauma history, those suffering with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and family issues. I would be honored to be part of your journey on the road to empowerment and wellbeing.
(904) 906-4432 View (904) 906-4432
Photo of Rachel Greene, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32099  (Online Only)
My particular areas of interest include surviving the trauma of interpersonal, sexual, and/or political violence; negotiating a lesbian/ gay/ bisexual/ transgender/ queer identity; and the impact of stigma on mental and physical well-being.
Reaching out and asking for help can be one of the most challenging aspects of starting the therapy process. If you have made it this far, you are ready to start. The majority of the clients I work with are aware of the issues they would like to focus on for treatment. With that, my approach tends to be both relational in style and goal oriented in terms of treatment planning and working towards the best way to assist you in your personal growth and success.
My particular areas of interest include surviving the trauma of interpersonal, sexual, and/or political violence; negotiating a lesbian/ gay/ bisexual/ transgender/ queer identity; and the impact of stigma on mental and physical well-being.
Reaching out and asking for help can be one of the most challenging aspects of starting the therapy process. If you have made it this far, you are ready to start. The majority of the clients I work with are aware of the issues they would like to focus on for treatment. With that, my approach tends to be both relational in style and goal oriented in terms of treatment planning and working towards the best way to assist you in your personal growth and success.
(850) 739-2448 View (850) 739-2448
Photo of L Charlie Janski-Ogunfidodo (Hehim) - Charlie JO Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charlie JO Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32099
During my career, I have worked with both individual and group settings, including adults with people living with HIV, veterans, incarcerated people and transgender/gender variant individuals. These populations included people with depression, bi-polar disorder, personality disorders, anxiety, PTSD and depression. I co-facilitated a group for trans youth and co-coordinated it for 6 years. As a proud bisexual, trans man, I love to work with my LGBT communities. I celebrate kinky and poly people. I strive to be an imperfect ally to non-binary trans people and people of color.
During my career, I have worked with both individual and group settings, including adults with people living with HIV, veterans, incarcerated people and transgender/gender variant individuals. These populations included people with depression, bi-polar disorder, personality disorders, anxiety, PTSD and depression. I co-facilitated a group for trans youth and co-coordinated it for 6 years. As a proud bisexual, trans man, I love to work with my LGBT communities. I celebrate kinky and poly people. I strive to be an imperfect ally to non-binary trans people and people of color.
(786) 841-2939 View (786) 841-2939
Photo of Scott Harvey, PsyD, TCT, Psychologist
Scott Harvey
Psychologist, PsyD, TCT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32201  (Online Only)
I am board certified in transgender mental health and have expertise in sexual orientation and gender identity development.
Have you been struggling to engage in your life? Experiencing uncertainty about what direction is the right one to choose? Feeling anxious or depressed? Having questions about relationships, sex, gender, or sexuality? Could you use another perspective, or would you like someone to help you figure things out? I'm Dr. Scott Harvey, and I'm a licensed psychologist who provides culturally and sexuality-sensitive individual therapy, and I’m here to help. I offer a free consultation and can be reached by both phone and email.
I am board certified in transgender mental health and have expertise in sexual orientation and gender identity development.
Have you been struggling to engage in your life? Experiencing uncertainty about what direction is the right one to choose? Feeling anxious or depressed? Having questions about relationships, sex, gender, or sexuality? Could you use another perspective, or would you like someone to help you figure things out? I'm Dr. Scott Harvey, and I'm a licensed psychologist who provides culturally and sexuality-sensitive individual therapy, and I’m here to help. I offer a free consultation and can be reached by both phone and email.
(772) 539-4833 View (772) 539-4833
Photo of Aeron DeGroat, MA, LMHC, MCAP, Counselor
Aeron DeGroat
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MCAP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32246
I specialize in LGBTQIA+ issues & trauma, specifically gender identity and transgender issues.
My ideal client may present with a variety of issues, but ultimately they are motivated to seek change and implement strategies discussed in therapy while in-between sessions. They strive to be open and vulnerable in sessions and are looking to be an active and collaborative part of their therapeutic journey. I believe that we are all experts on our own experience, and a client who is willing to provide feedback on what is working and what isn't can assist in helping them tailor the therapy experience to their individual needs.
I specialize in LGBTQIA+ issues & trauma, specifically gender identity and transgender issues.
My ideal client may present with a variety of issues, but ultimately they are motivated to seek change and implement strategies discussed in therapy while in-between sessions. They strive to be open and vulnerable in sessions and are looking to be an active and collaborative part of their therapeutic journey. I believe that we are all experts on our own experience, and a client who is willing to provide feedback on what is working and what isn't can assist in helping them tailor the therapy experience to their individual needs.
(561) 794-3438 View (561) 794-3438
Photo of Albert Simpson Jr. - Philemon Ministry Of Counseling Academy, PhD, Pastoral Counselor
Philemon Ministry Of Counseling Academy
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32219
I help individuals from a Christ Centered Therapy Model, addressing the body, soul, and spiritual factors from the science of psychology integrated with theology to treat chronic disorders, marriage problems, premarital initiatives, human development, gender dysphoria, sexual addiction, alcohol addiction, drug addiction, sexual abuse, conflict factors.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor and Board Certified as a Temperament Specialist and Clinical Supervisor by the National Christian Counselors Association. In addition, I'm Supreme Court Certified County, Family, and Circuit-Civil Mediator and Court appointed Child Custody Evaluator; Certified Thinking for a Change Facilitator. Also, I facilitate and provides counseling and coping mechanism, and adjustments techniques to the reentry individuals transitioning from jails and prisons as well as helping their family members with the life adjustments and understanding chronic disorders, pharmacological regimens and management.
I help individuals from a Christ Centered Therapy Model, addressing the body, soul, and spiritual factors from the science of psychology integrated with theology to treat chronic disorders, marriage problems, premarital initiatives, human development, gender dysphoria, sexual addiction, alcohol addiction, drug addiction, sexual abuse, conflict factors.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor and Board Certified as a Temperament Specialist and Clinical Supervisor by the National Christian Counselors Association. In addition, I'm Supreme Court Certified County, Family, and Circuit-Civil Mediator and Court appointed Child Custody Evaluator; Certified Thinking for a Change Facilitator. Also, I facilitate and provides counseling and coping mechanism, and adjustments techniques to the reentry individuals transitioning from jails and prisons as well as helping their family members with the life adjustments and understanding chronic disorders, pharmacological regimens and management.
(904) 344-0689 View (904) 344-0689
Photo of Dr. Laura Fernandez, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Laura Fernandez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32204
As a licensed clinical psychologist I employ evidence-based treatments to help clients with improvement of identity issues, assertiveness, emotional regulation, low self-esteem, narcissistic abuse, ethnic or racial discrimination, or have gone through traumatic events. I employ Trauma focused, CBT, and EMDR to treat my clients. I specialize in assisting LGBT and transgender individuals, as well as those with Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Depression and Anxiety. My typical client is a person who has experienced trauma, has self esteem and boundary issues, has problems maintaining relationships, needs help asserting self. Hablo Espanol!
As a licensed clinical psychologist I employ evidence-based treatments to help clients with improvement of identity issues, assertiveness, emotional regulation, low self-esteem, narcissistic abuse, ethnic or racial discrimination, or have gone through traumatic events. I employ Trauma focused, CBT, and EMDR to treat my clients. I specialize in assisting LGBT and transgender individuals, as well as those with Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Depression and Anxiety. My typical client is a person who has experienced trauma, has self esteem and boundary issues, has problems maintaining relationships, needs help asserting self. Hablo Espanol!
(786) 868-7017 View (786) 868-7017
Photo of Rennie Manning, MACP, LMHC, Counselor
Rennie Manning
Counselor, MACP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32210
I welcome LGBTQ, transgender and gender dysphoria clients.
Is past trauma keeping you stuck? Does depression, anxiety and worry keep you from enjoying the life you want and deserve? Do you feel trapped in your marriage or relationship? Are you a teen trying to navigate middle or high school? I can help. I have 30 years of experience helping my clients improve communication, resolve conflicts, increase marital satisfaction, and letting go of things that no longer serve. I combine cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment, and compassion focused therapy. Many of us carry shame and guilt and seem blocked from forgiving ourselves. I teach compassion for self.
I welcome LGBTQ, transgender and gender dysphoria clients.
Is past trauma keeping you stuck? Does depression, anxiety and worry keep you from enjoying the life you want and deserve? Do you feel trapped in your marriage or relationship? Are you a teen trying to navigate middle or high school? I can help. I have 30 years of experience helping my clients improve communication, resolve conflicts, increase marital satisfaction, and letting go of things that no longer serve. I combine cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment, and compassion focused therapy. Many of us carry shame and guilt and seem blocked from forgiving ourselves. I teach compassion for self.
(904) 421-9710 View (904) 421-9710
Photo of Bailey Sheetz, MS, LMHC
Bailey Sheetz
MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32258  (Online Only)
We're bombarded by media and societal pressures that make us critical of ourselves and our appearance. It often feels like we're both the bully and the victim in our own minds. I specialize in supporting people dealing with eating disorders, OCD, body image issues, gender dysphoria, trauma, and co-occurring conditions. Having faced my own battles with body image, I understand the journey of learning to love oneself. This personal experience has equipped me to assist others in their own path to self-worth.
We're bombarded by media and societal pressures that make us critical of ourselves and our appearance. It often feels like we're both the bully and the victim in our own minds. I specialize in supporting people dealing with eating disorders, OCD, body image issues, gender dysphoria, trauma, and co-occurring conditions. Having faced my own battles with body image, I understand the journey of learning to love oneself. This personal experience has equipped me to assist others in their own path to self-worth.
(863) 591-0275 View (863) 591-0275
Photo of Kim Ehly - Kim Ehly, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Ehly, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32224
My practice includes individuals, couples w/ focus on communication, LGBTQA+, polyamory, transgender, adoptee challenges, grief/loss, pet loss, abandonment issues, Complex-PTSD, and relationship abuse recovery.
When life is challenging and hard to navigate, reaching out for guidance is often the most loving thing you can do for yourself, your intimate relationship, or your family. So my guess is, if you have landed here, you're ready to begin the journey toward healing. One of my greatest passions is helping you come through difficult times to discover how resilient and resourceful you really are. I believe therapy is a journey that can help anyone of any background gain comfort and contentment in life. We will be a team journeying toward the life you wish to lead.
My practice includes individuals, couples w/ focus on communication, LGBTQA+, polyamory, transgender, adoptee challenges, grief/loss, pet loss, abandonment issues, Complex-PTSD, and relationship abuse recovery.
When life is challenging and hard to navigate, reaching out for guidance is often the most loving thing you can do for yourself, your intimate relationship, or your family. So my guess is, if you have landed here, you're ready to begin the journey toward healing. One of my greatest passions is helping you come through difficult times to discover how resilient and resourceful you really are. I believe therapy is a journey that can help anyone of any background gain comfort and contentment in life. We will be a team journeying toward the life you wish to lead.
(954) 289-6635 View (954) 289-6635
Photo of Joyce E Heimerle, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joyce E Heimerle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32099  (Online Only)
I specialize in CBT for in anxiety, depression, as well as work with Step or blended families, couples from second marriages, step-mother's and transgender.
Looking to move past your past? Suffering from Trauma? EMDR can change behaviors, reduce feelings and triggers quickly. I have 20 years in the caring field, and I found it is not uncommon as human beings that when we suffer a traumatic event or life stressors our entire world unravels as well. My passion is to help you get your life back on track, heal, and be emotionally whole. I assist my clients in gaining insight into their unhealthy behaviors and learn new ones. I use the Gottman method of communication for couples and individuals. I understand the happy and the painful side of relationships too.
I specialize in CBT for in anxiety, depression, as well as work with Step or blended families, couples from second marriages, step-mother's and transgender.
Looking to move past your past? Suffering from Trauma? EMDR can change behaviors, reduce feelings and triggers quickly. I have 20 years in the caring field, and I found it is not uncommon as human beings that when we suffer a traumatic event or life stressors our entire world unravels as well. My passion is to help you get your life back on track, heal, and be emotionally whole. I assist my clients in gaining insight into their unhealthy behaviors and learn new ones. I use the Gottman method of communication for couples and individuals. I understand the happy and the painful side of relationships too.
(904) 364-1102 View (904) 364-1102
Photo of Annie McGuire (Kindland), MA, LMHC, DMCP, Counselor
Annie McGuire (Kindland)
Counselor, MA, LMHC, DMCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
What we experience throughout our lifetime impacts how we form relationships, process information, or show up in the world. Expectations, environment, or your inner voice not aligning with what you know or have been told, can influence how you view yourself or others. Do your experiences not align with how you feel? If you struggle with understanding who you are, how you identify, improving your relationships, or even your relationship with your own feelings/behaviors, I can help. I work to assist clients in finding their true, authentic self. My job is to help clients find their own needs and how to obtain them for themselves.
What we experience throughout our lifetime impacts how we form relationships, process information, or show up in the world. Expectations, environment, or your inner voice not aligning with what you know or have been told, can influence how you view yourself or others. Do your experiences not align with how you feel? If you struggle with understanding who you are, how you identify, improving your relationships, or even your relationship with your own feelings/behaviors, I can help. I work to assist clients in finding their true, authentic self. My job is to help clients find their own needs and how to obtain them for themselves.
(904) 474-3230 View (904) 474-3230
Photo of Jessica Wilson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256  (Online Only)
My clients understand that that change takes work and commitment to personal growth. Together, we create a personalized roadmap to achieve goals, so that clients can move forward feeling empowered by the positive changes made in their lives. Sometimes that means examining what's happened in the past that led to current events, and using a strengths-based approach to navigating a path forward. My approach is trauma-informed and inclusive of all genders, sexualities, ages, spiritualities, and ethnicities. I consider myself as a guide on your personal journey and will strive to meet you where you are on your path to whole wellness.
My clients understand that that change takes work and commitment to personal growth. Together, we create a personalized roadmap to achieve goals, so that clients can move forward feeling empowered by the positive changes made in their lives. Sometimes that means examining what's happened in the past that led to current events, and using a strengths-based approach to navigating a path forward. My approach is trauma-informed and inclusive of all genders, sexualities, ages, spiritualities, and ethnicities. I consider myself as a guide on your personal journey and will strive to meet you where you are on your path to whole wellness.
(904) 712-2842 View (904) 712-2842
Photo of Melanie Mickey - Anchor Life Clinic, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Anchor Life Clinic
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32241  (Online Only)
My mission is to provide affordable and accessible mental health services to all of those who are in need. Regardless of your ability to pay, I will be happy to work with anyone and everyone on a case-by-case basis so they can get the mental health services they desire. My goal is to empower you with reality based approaches and stress reduction techniques to successfully deal with stressful circumstances and traumatic events.
My mission is to provide affordable and accessible mental health services to all of those who are in need. Regardless of your ability to pay, I will be happy to work with anyone and everyone on a case-by-case basis so they can get the mental health services they desire. My goal is to empower you with reality based approaches and stress reduction techniques to successfully deal with stressful circumstances and traumatic events.
(904) 977-2428 View (904) 977-2428
Photo of Curt D'Achille, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Curt D'Achille
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32218
I have provided leadership in program operations for several children's residential facilities and shelters and have supervised clinical therapies in acute residential treatment to those suffering from emergency psychiatric, emotional and behavioral problems, substance and sexual abuse and addictions.
I have provided leadership in program operations for several children's residential facilities and shelters and have supervised clinical therapies in acute residential treatment to those suffering from emergency psychiatric, emotional and behavioral problems, substance and sexual abuse and addictions.
(904) 513-0619 View (904) 513-0619
Photo of Sophia Venditti, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia Venditti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Waitlist for new clients
Happy to announce I am now seeing couples in person and virtually! We all go through times in our lives when therapy can help us to cope with the difficulties that arise. You are not alone. Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed or just stuck. You feel like you have tried everything and you are looking for a new way to improve your situation. Perhaps you or your teen have experienced an upsetting event and you don't want this to define them. It hurts to see the people we love upset or struggling. I can offer the tools, skills, and support for your journey.
Happy to announce I am now seeing couples in person and virtually! We all go through times in our lives when therapy can help us to cope with the difficulties that arise. You are not alone. Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed or just stuck. You feel like you have tried everything and you are looking for a new way to improve your situation. Perhaps you or your teen have experienced an upsetting event and you don't want this to define them. It hurts to see the people we love upset or struggling. I can offer the tools, skills, and support for your journey.
(904) 593-4207 View (904) 593-4207
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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.