LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Dayton, TX

Photo of Shannon R Campbell, MS, LPC, TCMHC, Counselor
Shannon R Campbell
Counselor, MS, LPC, TCMHC
Verified Verified
Dayton, TX 77535
I have a M.S. in Marriage, Family, and Couple’s Counseling, with a concentration in Trauma and Crisis. I am a LPC that is passionate in working with adolescents, individuals, LGBTQ and couples in a variety of issues; anxiety, depression, relationship issues, infidelity, stress, PTSD, grief, domestic and sexual abuse. I believe in providing a safe and nonjudgmental space for my clients. My clients and I will work together on steps towards achieving the goals they set.
I have a M.S. in Marriage, Family, and Couple’s Counseling, with a concentration in Trauma and Crisis. I am a LPC that is passionate in working with adolescents, individuals, LGBTQ and couples in a variety of issues; anxiety, depression, relationship issues, infidelity, stress, PTSD, grief, domestic and sexual abuse. I believe in providing a safe and nonjudgmental space for my clients. My clients and I will work together on steps towards achieving the goals they set.
(936) 209-7477 View (936) 209-7477
Photo of Ann Ehrhart, MS
Ann Ehrhart
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, TX 77535  (Online Only)
I want to extend a warm welcome to you, acknowledging the courage it takes to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth. As your therapist, my commitment is to provide you with a safe and non-judgmental space where we can explore the complexities of your thoughts and emotions. In our sessions, my focus is entirely on you—your experiences, struggles, and aspirations. I understand that seeking therapy is a personal and sometimes challenging decision, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
I want to extend a warm welcome to you, acknowledging the courage it takes to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth. As your therapist, my commitment is to provide you with a safe and non-judgmental space where we can explore the complexities of your thoughts and emotions. In our sessions, my focus is entirely on you—your experiences, struggles, and aspirations. I understand that seeking therapy is a personal and sometimes challenging decision, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
(281) 800-5858 View (281) 800-5858
Photo of Jennifer Chavez - Jennifer Chavez , MA, IMH-E, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Chavez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, IMH-E
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, TX 77535
In a space infused with grace and universal love, I guide individuals on their journeys of growth, healing, and self-discovery through mindful exploration and "talk story." Together, we can plan to create strategies to manage anxiety, depression, and relationship issues using a blend of Person-centered therapy, mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, so you can navigate challenges, build resilience, and find fulfillment in your life's journey.
In a space infused with grace and universal love, I guide individuals on their journeys of growth, healing, and self-discovery through mindful exploration and "talk story." Together, we can plan to create strategies to manage anxiety, depression, and relationship issues using a blend of Person-centered therapy, mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, so you can navigate challenges, build resilience, and find fulfillment in your life's journey.
(936) 246-0301 View (936) 246-0301
Photo of Marcia Jackson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marcia Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, TX 77535
If you are looking at this website maybe it is because it feels like something is missing, or the knot in your stomach is telling you something isn’t quite right. Maybe your chest is tense or your throat is tight and you really are struggling to figure out the reason. If this sounds like you, therapy might be exactly the starting place to understand the messages your body and mind are sending you. Therapy is a partnership that requires commitment from both therapist and client and I want my clients to know that I am fully invested in the process. I will continually strive to learn and grow alongside you.
If you are looking at this website maybe it is because it feels like something is missing, or the knot in your stomach is telling you something isn’t quite right. Maybe your chest is tense or your throat is tight and you really are struggling to figure out the reason. If this sounds like you, therapy might be exactly the starting place to understand the messages your body and mind are sending you. Therapy is a partnership that requires commitment from both therapist and client and I want my clients to know that I am fully invested in the process. I will continually strive to learn and grow alongside you.
(281) 248-8938 View (281) 248-8938
Photo of Tammy Marek, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammy Marek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Dayton, TX 77535
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are you struggling with self doubt, anxiety, sadness, loss or experiencing a life change? At times we all need help sorting out life's complexities. Many times, life changes can feel confusing or unbearable. You may feel alone and isolated, not good enough or afraid to make decisions as you navigate life. My role as a therapist is to serve as a guide to help you achieve personal growth, recognize your strengths and abilities and regain control of your life. Seeking to deal with passed trauma or abuse? I am an EMDR trained therapist. After 5:00pm availabile. Not seeing couples
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are you struggling with self doubt, anxiety, sadness, loss or experiencing a life change? At times we all need help sorting out life's complexities. Many times, life changes can feel confusing or unbearable. You may feel alone and isolated, not good enough or afraid to make decisions as you navigate life. My role as a therapist is to serve as a guide to help you achieve personal growth, recognize your strengths and abilities and regain control of your life. Seeking to deal with passed trauma or abuse? I am an EMDR trained therapist. After 5:00pm availabile. Not seeing couples
(936) 261-8408 View (936) 261-8408

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kenitres Wiley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kenitres Wiley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Liberty, TX 77575  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about helping clients reach their goals for growth, healing, and fostering change that serves them well in life. I strive to help individuals who are struggling with major life transitions or changes, stressors, anxiety management and reduction, and developing healthy self-relationships. I want to assist you to reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress, build skills to manage emotions, build self-acceptance, self-esteem, and self-confidence.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about helping clients reach their goals for growth, healing, and fostering change that serves them well in life. I strive to help individuals who are struggling with major life transitions or changes, stressors, anxiety management and reduction, and developing healthy self-relationships. I want to assist you to reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress, build skills to manage emotions, build self-acceptance, self-esteem, and self-confidence.
(844) 928-0827 View (844) 928-0827
Photo of Teraka Colbert, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teraka Colbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Liberty, TX 77575
Life, huh? It's like trying to untangle a box of Christmas lights without losing your sanity. Life can be a roller coaster ride, filled with twists, turns, and loop-de-loops. Anxiety can be overwhelming, depression can feel like a heavy weight on your shoulders, and trauma can have long-lasting effects. Or maybe you struggle with health relationships, substance use, anger management, impulse control, or feel like a mischievous gremlin lives inside you controlling your life. Here's the good news - you don't have to face these challenges alone. I firmly believe in the power of a collaborative, non-judgmental approach.
Life, huh? It's like trying to untangle a box of Christmas lights without losing your sanity. Life can be a roller coaster ride, filled with twists, turns, and loop-de-loops. Anxiety can be overwhelming, depression can feel like a heavy weight on your shoulders, and trauma can have long-lasting effects. Or maybe you struggle with health relationships, substance use, anger management, impulse control, or feel like a mischievous gremlin lives inside you controlling your life. Here's the good news - you don't have to face these challenges alone. I firmly believe in the power of a collaborative, non-judgmental approach.
(346) 297-0405 View (346) 297-0405

Online Therapists

Photo of Hannah Jackson Robb, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Jackson Robb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77024
I’m also passionate about working with families, the queer/trans community, sex workers, and ethically non-monogamous/alternative relationships.
My clinical interests include psychodynamic and attachment theory, somatic based trauma therapy, and eating disorders. I hold a graduate degree in Clinical Social Work Practice from Columbia University, and a Graduate Certificate in Gender & Women’s Studies from the University of Arizona. I aim to work within an anti-oppressive and anti-carceral psychotherapy framework, holding in mind the dynamics of power, race, oppression, and privilege in the therapeutic dyad, in communities, and in larger sociocultural and political systems.
I’m also passionate about working with families, the queer/trans community, sex workers, and ethically non-monogamous/alternative relationships.
My clinical interests include psychodynamic and attachment theory, somatic based trauma therapy, and eating disorders. I hold a graduate degree in Clinical Social Work Practice from Columbia University, and a Graduate Certificate in Gender & Women’s Studies from the University of Arizona. I aim to work within an anti-oppressive and anti-carceral psychotherapy framework, holding in mind the dynamics of power, race, oppression, and privilege in the therapeutic dyad, in communities, and in larger sociocultural and political systems.
(520) 445-3929 View (520) 445-3929
Photo of Michelle King, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle King
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Orange, TX 77632
I am Michelle King, JD, a Licensed Professional Counselor and legal consultant with 13 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and individuals. My experience has allowed me to serve clients in inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and many more. I use a mix of ADHD, Anxiety, LGBTQIA+, Life Transitions, Relationship Issues, Life Coaching, Depression, Career Counseling, Divorce, and Legal Stress. I use a mix of Attachment-based, CBT, MBCT, Holistic, Motivational Interviewing, Somatic, SFBT, Clinical Supervision, and Licensed. I believe therapy is one of the few empirically validated therapies on the market today.
I am Michelle King, JD, a Licensed Professional Counselor and legal consultant with 13 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and individuals. My experience has allowed me to serve clients in inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and many more. I use a mix of ADHD, Anxiety, LGBTQIA+, Life Transitions, Relationship Issues, Life Coaching, Depression, Career Counseling, Divorce, and Legal Stress. I use a mix of Attachment-based, CBT, MBCT, Holistic, Motivational Interviewing, Somatic, SFBT, Clinical Supervision, and Licensed. I believe therapy is one of the few empirically validated therapies on the market today.
(210) 972-4914 View (210) 972-4914
Photo of Connor McInerney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Connor McInerney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77006
As a queer therapist, I have a unique perspective on what it is like to be different from what society dictates.
Do you struggle with your inner critic? Have you felt lonely or rejected? Maybe you've tried to avoid anxiety, depression, or traumatic memories, seeking a way out of a rollercoaster of emotions. Have you experienced difficulty with life transitions; career/school stress; relationship issues including polyamory and non-monogamy; bigotry; grief; sexual assault/abuse; self-harm, or suicidal thoughts? Are you somewhere on the LGBTQ+ spectrum and feel like no one in your life understands you? If you answered yes to any of these issues, when was the last time you had a space to talk that was just for you?
As a queer therapist, I have a unique perspective on what it is like to be different from what society dictates.
Do you struggle with your inner critic? Have you felt lonely or rejected? Maybe you've tried to avoid anxiety, depression, or traumatic memories, seeking a way out of a rollercoaster of emotions. Have you experienced difficulty with life transitions; career/school stress; relationship issues including polyamory and non-monogamy; bigotry; grief; sexual assault/abuse; self-harm, or suicidal thoughts? Are you somewhere on the LGBTQ+ spectrum and feel like no one in your life understands you? If you answered yes to any of these issues, when was the last time you had a space to talk that was just for you?
(281) 688-4954 View (281) 688-4954
Photo of Lisa Vanderpool, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Vanderpool
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, TX 77316  (Online Only)
Lisa Vanderpool is a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Texas, working with clients statewide via telehealth. She works with adults and teenagers, specializing in anxiety, stress, depression, substance issues, life transitions, trauma, and LGBTQ+ issues. Lisa's style and approach are well-suited for adults and teens dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, substance issues, life transitions, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, trauma, AD/HD, anger, relationship issues, parenting issues, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Lisa Vanderpool is a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Texas, working with clients statewide via telehealth. She works with adults and teenagers, specializing in anxiety, stress, depression, substance issues, life transitions, trauma, and LGBTQ+ issues. Lisa's style and approach are well-suited for adults and teens dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, substance issues, life transitions, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, trauma, AD/HD, anger, relationship issues, parenting issues, and LGBTQ+ issues.
(936) 274-8781 View (936) 274-8781
Photo of Katherine Traxler-LaFrance, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine Traxler-LaFrance
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Katy, TX 77449  (Online Only)
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, you experience challenges that others may not understand. You may be tired of not expressing yourself, feeling like you must hide parts of yourself to keep the peace, or feeling ashamed. You might not even remember a time things didn't feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to start living authentically. You're ready to be proud of who you are. But, most of all, you're prepared not to hide anymore!
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, you experience challenges that others may not understand. You may be tired of not expressing yourself, feeling like you must hide parts of yourself to keep the peace, or feeling ashamed. You might not even remember a time things didn't feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to start living authentically. You're ready to be proud of who you are. But, most of all, you're prepared not to hide anymore!
(281) 346-3309 View (281) 346-3309
Photo of Dr. Megan Renée Garzaglass, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S , Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Megan Renée Garzaglass
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77584  (Online Only)
Additional specialties' in client work include: growth Mind-set improving Self esteem, Family conflict, Parenting supports, LGBTQ+, special education, child & adult Autism ADHD, grief and anxiety.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S), Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S) certified early childhood–12th grade special education teacher and certified school counselor. I have my MS in counseling and my PhD in counselor education and supervision. I have provided counseling services for nearly 11 years. I'm the creator and founder of Aquatic Relational Experiential Therapy, a mental health and play therapy technique used in water. Additionally, I have 12 years experience with solution focused, CBT, experiential, person-centered and play therapies, dx & support for Autism adults & child clients.
Additional specialties' in client work include: growth Mind-set improving Self esteem, Family conflict, Parenting supports, LGBTQ+, special education, child & adult Autism ADHD, grief and anxiety.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S), Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S) certified early childhood–12th grade special education teacher and certified school counselor. I have my MS in counseling and my PhD in counselor education and supervision. I have provided counseling services for nearly 11 years. I'm the creator and founder of Aquatic Relational Experiential Therapy, a mental health and play therapy technique used in water. Additionally, I have 12 years experience with solution focused, CBT, experiential, person-centered and play therapies, dx & support for Autism adults & child clients.
(281) 729-0355 View (281) 729-0355
Photo of Joe Hartsoe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joe Hartsoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77002
You don't have to be alone. Not anymore. From anxiety and grief to trauma and self-esteem issues, I find deep fulfillment in working with a wide range of human experiences. It's honest to say that people are my professional life's work. I have particular focus in supporting adults and couples, particularly seniors, men, LGBTQIA individuals, and those who are neurodivergent.
You don't have to be alone. Not anymore. From anxiety and grief to trauma and self-esteem issues, I find deep fulfillment in working with a wide range of human experiences. It's honest to say that people are my professional life's work. I have particular focus in supporting adults and couples, particularly seniors, men, LGBTQIA individuals, and those who are neurodivergent.
(832) 639-6933 View (832) 639-6933
Photo of Amy R. Shore, MA, MEd, LPC, LMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy R. Shore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Missouri City, TX 77459
My specialties include TEENS & TWEENS ( anxiety, identity, ADHD, depression, cutting), LIFE TRANSITIONS (birth, death, grief/loss, infertility, marriage, divorce, adulting), all aspects of ADOPTION (adoptees, adoptive parents, birth parents), and LGBTQ clients (coming out, family issues, gender fluidity, body dysmorphia, transgender & transitioning).
ONLINE SESSIONS available around your schedule. Anxiety, social anxiety, depression, stress, grief, loss, and self-esteem issues that manifest themselves in a variety of ways -- I am experienced and passionate about helping clients of all ages and stages in life deal with what is interrupting the rhythm of their lives. Life is not easy, and there are bumps in the road. Trauma needs to be processed - whether it happened yesterday or years ago - in order for you to move forward. Together we can tackle the tough stuff. Peace of mind is just around the corner!
My specialties include TEENS & TWEENS ( anxiety, identity, ADHD, depression, cutting), LIFE TRANSITIONS (birth, death, grief/loss, infertility, marriage, divorce, adulting), all aspects of ADOPTION (adoptees, adoptive parents, birth parents), and LGBTQ clients (coming out, family issues, gender fluidity, body dysmorphia, transgender & transitioning).
ONLINE SESSIONS available around your schedule. Anxiety, social anxiety, depression, stress, grief, loss, and self-esteem issues that manifest themselves in a variety of ways -- I am experienced and passionate about helping clients of all ages and stages in life deal with what is interrupting the rhythm of their lives. Life is not easy, and there are bumps in the road. Trauma needs to be processed - whether it happened yesterday or years ago - in order for you to move forward. Together we can tackle the tough stuff. Peace of mind is just around the corner!
(713) 936-5511 View (713) 936-5511
Photo of Scott Altamirano, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Scott Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77063  (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience, I provide compassionate therapy with a touch of dark humor. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism. My goal is to support you in confronting and resolving deep-rooted challenges once and for all.
With over a decade of experience, I provide compassionate therapy with a touch of dark humor. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism. My goal is to support you in confronting and resolving deep-rooted challenges once and for all.
(415) 663-2843 View (415) 663-2843
Photo of Chris Merchant, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris Merchant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77493  (Online Only)
Above everything else, let me first congratulate you on taking the first step towards improving your mental health, relationships, and your life! As someone who has managed his own mental health most of his life, I know how incredibly challenging taking this step can be! However, let me assure you, getting the ball rolling is usually the most intimidating part of this process. Therapy should be the place where you can be your most authentic self, and as a BIPOC, an LGBTQIA+ ally, an immigrant, and therapy client myself, I strive for you to embrace every unique part of you!
Above everything else, let me first congratulate you on taking the first step towards improving your mental health, relationships, and your life! As someone who has managed his own mental health most of his life, I know how incredibly challenging taking this step can be! However, let me assure you, getting the ball rolling is usually the most intimidating part of this process. Therapy should be the place where you can be your most authentic self, and as a BIPOC, an LGBTQIA+ ally, an immigrant, and therapy client myself, I strive for you to embrace every unique part of you!
(832) 937-9952 View (832) 937-9952
Photo of Enrique Gracian, PhD, Psychologist
Enrique Gracian
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005  (Online Only)
He especially loves delivering the Affirmative CBT plan with LGBTQ+ individuals, the Racial Stress plan, and the Unified Protocol for anxiety, depression, or bipolar mood disorder.
Dr. Enrique I. Gracian joined Therapy Lab in early 2020 while completing his Post-Doctoral Fellowship at the UCLA Semel Institute. Therapy Lab clients and the team appreciate the compassion, intellect, and sense of humor that Dr. Gracian brings to his sessions. With his additional expertise in neuroscience—the human brain, Dr. Gracian brings that special insight into his work with clients. He specializes in all Therapy Lab plans and treatments, including the Unified Protocol, CBT for Insomnia, CBT for IBS, DBT-based interpersonal and emotion regulation, positive psychology, VR-enhanced exposure therapy, and crisis response.
He especially loves delivering the Affirmative CBT plan with LGBTQ+ individuals, the Racial Stress plan, and the Unified Protocol for anxiety, depression, or bipolar mood disorder.
Dr. Enrique I. Gracian joined Therapy Lab in early 2020 while completing his Post-Doctoral Fellowship at the UCLA Semel Institute. Therapy Lab clients and the team appreciate the compassion, intellect, and sense of humor that Dr. Gracian brings to his sessions. With his additional expertise in neuroscience—the human brain, Dr. Gracian brings that special insight into his work with clients. He specializes in all Therapy Lab plans and treatments, including the Unified Protocol, CBT for Insomnia, CBT for IBS, DBT-based interpersonal and emotion regulation, positive psychology, VR-enhanced exposure therapy, and crisis response.
(346) 485-3714 View (346) 485-3714
Photo of Chris Eaton, MA, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris Eaton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77030  (Online Only)
I proudly support the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities and value religious diversity (including nonbelief).
My typical clients are adults who have so much compassion and empathy for others but find it hard to extend that kindness to themselves. They often don't even realize how much they beat themselves up. They may be recovering from a toxic relationship with a spouse or a parent. They are trying to stop the endless stream of worries and panicked feelings. They want to set down the enormous weight of all those expectations. Mostly, my clients want to feel safe in their homes, communities, relationships, minds and their own bodies. Appointments available now. Schedule online at ChrisEatonLPC.com.
I proudly support the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities and value religious diversity (including nonbelief).
My typical clients are adults who have so much compassion and empathy for others but find it hard to extend that kindness to themselves. They often don't even realize how much they beat themselves up. They may be recovering from a toxic relationship with a spouse or a parent. They are trying to stop the endless stream of worries and panicked feelings. They want to set down the enormous weight of all those expectations. Mostly, my clients want to feel safe in their homes, communities, relationships, minds and their own bodies. Appointments available now. Schedule online at ChrisEatonLPC.com.
(430) 204-2279 View (430) 204-2279
Photo of Josue Arcibar, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Josue Arcibar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77006  (Online Only)
I welcome diversity and enjoy working with clients from multiple backgrounds, minorities, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
In my experience, I believe that we are all capable of extraordinary things. I understand that seeking therapy might feel intimidating and that is why my goal as your therapist is to provide a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental environment where you feel heard and valued. I would describe my therapy style as encouraging and genuine. Therapy can be a challenging process, so I work to help my clients acknowledge and utilize their strengths and positive qualities to create changes in their lives.
I welcome diversity and enjoy working with clients from multiple backgrounds, minorities, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
In my experience, I believe that we are all capable of extraordinary things. I understand that seeking therapy might feel intimidating and that is why my goal as your therapist is to provide a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental environment where you feel heard and valued. I would describe my therapy style as encouraging and genuine. Therapy can be a challenging process, so I work to help my clients acknowledge and utilize their strengths and positive qualities to create changes in their lives.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403

See more therapy options for Dayton

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.