LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Driftwood, TX

Photo of Angela Tierney, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Tierney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Driftwood, TX 78619
I have been working with Young Adults (age 18 and older), predominantly female or gender queer, for about 19 years now and I love it. My goal in therapy is to help you get through the difficulties life brings your way. By providing a nurturing, comfortable environment, it allows you to relax and trust me and the counseling process. My positive, strength-building style of counseling means that I listen to you, understand what you are going through, see the strengths and positive parts, and set goals for what is not working. We will work together to figure it out.
I have been working with Young Adults (age 18 and older), predominantly female or gender queer, for about 19 years now and I love it. My goal in therapy is to help you get through the difficulties life brings your way. By providing a nurturing, comfortable environment, it allows you to relax and trust me and the counseling process. My positive, strength-building style of counseling means that I listen to you, understand what you are going through, see the strengths and positive parts, and set goals for what is not working. We will work together to figure it out.
(512) 553-8902 View (512) 553-8902
Photo of Michael Hannah, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Hannah
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Driftwood, TX 78619
I am a psychotherapist who has been in private practice and treatment centers for over thirty years. In my early years I worked with teens/young adults and their families in residential treatment settings. In my private practice I work mostly with adults, individually and couples. However I will work with teens who have a desire to make a positive shift in their life. My focus is to help the client make changes in patterns they believe are self defeating. My mission is to provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies and foster personal growth.
I am a psychotherapist who has been in private practice and treatment centers for over thirty years. In my early years I worked with teens/young adults and their families in residential treatment settings. In my private practice I work mostly with adults, individually and couples. However I will work with teens who have a desire to make a positive shift in their life. My focus is to help the client make changes in patterns they believe are self defeating. My mission is to provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies and foster personal growth.
(214) 666-5403 View (214) 666-5403
Photo of Mary Lee, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Driftwood, TX 78619  (Online Only)
I work with people who feel stuck in patterns and cycles of avoidance, pain, distress, and conflict. My clients are often those who need to figure out a new way forward and are open to feedback in ways they can approach their problems. Perhaps you need helping deciding your next step, exploring continued unhelpful behaviors, or need help establishing new ways to communicate and connect. I focus on helping you cultivate self-compassion, assertiveness, and confidence; developing ways to reduce suffering, anxiety, social withdrawal, and self-neglect.
I work with people who feel stuck in patterns and cycles of avoidance, pain, distress, and conflict. My clients are often those who need to figure out a new way forward and are open to feedback in ways they can approach their problems. Perhaps you need helping deciding your next step, exploring continued unhelpful behaviors, or need help establishing new ways to communicate and connect. I focus on helping you cultivate self-compassion, assertiveness, and confidence; developing ways to reduce suffering, anxiety, social withdrawal, and self-neglect.
(737) 367-1882 View (737) 367-1882
Photo of Micaela Hernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Micaela Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Driftwood, TX 78619
You catch yourself repeating “it’ll get better, it’ll pass,” but it hasn’t. You’re hoping the tension in your chest, your sweaty palms, and your clenched jaw will finally stop but nothing has changed. You think, “I can just handle it on my own”. Googling “stress”, “overwhelmed”, and “anxiety”, brings more questions than answers. What would actually work to help me find relief? After a few tries, you realize deep breathing isn’t enough. You realize it’s more challenging than you thought. You don’t have to figure it out on your own. You don’t have to feel this way forever.
You catch yourself repeating “it’ll get better, it’ll pass,” but it hasn’t. You’re hoping the tension in your chest, your sweaty palms, and your clenched jaw will finally stop but nothing has changed. You think, “I can just handle it on my own”. Googling “stress”, “overwhelmed”, and “anxiety”, brings more questions than answers. What would actually work to help me find relief? After a few tries, you realize deep breathing isn’t enough. You realize it’s more challenging than you thought. You don’t have to figure it out on your own. You don’t have to feel this way forever.
(512) 798-4804 View (512) 798-4804
Photo of Heather Jackson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Driftwood, TX 78619
If you are looking for a listener because you need to talk to about: conflict in your marriage, unbearable family relationships, step parenting challenges, frustration with ADHD - yours or someone else's, scary new life transitions, healing from a traumatic event or relationship, or a constant nagging sadness or anxiousness that just won't go away, then we should talk!
If you are looking for a listener because you need to talk to about: conflict in your marriage, unbearable family relationships, step parenting challenges, frustration with ADHD - yours or someone else's, scary new life transitions, healing from a traumatic event or relationship, or a constant nagging sadness or anxiousness that just won't go away, then we should talk!
(512) 559-1229 View (512) 559-1229

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sara Luckenbill, MA, LPC-A
Sara Luckenbill
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing issues related to LGBTQIA+ (including but not limited to stress, acceptance or identity), self-esteem, attachment, parenting, anxiety, trauma and depression.
Often our lives are taken over with such significant feelings of anxiety, depression, and hopelessness. Therapy is such a great tool to gain self worth, clarity, and healing! You are allowed to take up space. You have worth and value. You are strong and resilient. You can live a life that is fulfilling, and you can get out of the pit of despair! You deserve to know that you have so much value and deserve to be the main character of your life. You deserve to have hope for the future and to feel empowered about who you are. You are not alone.
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing issues related to LGBTQIA+ (including but not limited to stress, acceptance or identity), self-esteem, attachment, parenting, anxiety, trauma and depression.
Often our lives are taken over with such significant feelings of anxiety, depression, and hopelessness. Therapy is such a great tool to gain self worth, clarity, and healing! You are allowed to take up space. You have worth and value. You are strong and resilient. You can live a life that is fulfilling, and you can get out of the pit of despair! You deserve to know that you have so much value and deserve to be the main character of your life. You deserve to have hope for the future and to feel empowered about who you are. You are not alone.
(737) 727-2018 View (737) 727-2018
Photo of Vanessa F Gallagher, MAHS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vanessa F Gallagher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAHS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78737
I work with many in the LGBTQ+ and ND communities.
Hi, if you're like many of my clients, you're hoping to find a therapist who has worked with your kind of worries before, will listen without passing judgement and can offer a safe place to process as well as get some concrete tools to help you feel better. My clients often describe struggling with communication or compromise in relationships, hurting from a big loss, frustration with their kid's problems, feeling anxious, or having a hard time at work. Most of my clients want a therapist who is warm, authentic, can explain the "why" behind their "what" and is willing to engage, not just observe.
I work with many in the LGBTQ+ and ND communities.
Hi, if you're like many of my clients, you're hoping to find a therapist who has worked with your kind of worries before, will listen without passing judgement and can offer a safe place to process as well as get some concrete tools to help you feel better. My clients often describe struggling with communication or compromise in relationships, hurting from a big loss, frustration with their kid's problems, feeling anxious, or having a hard time at work. Most of my clients want a therapist who is warm, authentic, can explain the "why" behind their "what" and is willing to engage, not just observe.
(512) 575-2123 View (512) 575-2123
Photo of Haylie LaFleur, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Haylie LaFleur
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737
I have experience working with individuals on a range of presenting issues including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, grief, trauma, identity, and relationship conflicts.
Welcome! If you are reading this, it means that you have taken the leap to invest in your mental health. I am happy that you are here. Counseling is not a one-size-fits all approach. It is my goal to acknowledge and honor all of the qualities that make you unique in order to tailor my approach to meet you exactly where you are in your life. You are the expert on you, and I am here to assist you in finding the tools and avenues to reach the goals that you define for yourself. Ultimately, it is important to me that you feel heard and seen. I am eager and motivated to foster an environment of safety, healing, growth, and empowerment.
I have experience working with individuals on a range of presenting issues including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, grief, trauma, identity, and relationship conflicts.
Welcome! If you are reading this, it means that you have taken the leap to invest in your mental health. I am happy that you are here. Counseling is not a one-size-fits all approach. It is my goal to acknowledge and honor all of the qualities that make you unique in order to tailor my approach to meet you exactly where you are in your life. You are the expert on you, and I am here to assist you in finding the tools and avenues to reach the goals that you define for yourself. Ultimately, it is important to me that you feel heard and seen. I am eager and motivated to foster an environment of safety, healing, growth, and empowerment.
(682) 382-1836 View (682) 382-1836
Photo of Jennifer Gamewell, MEd, LPC-S, CCST, CPDPE, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Gamewell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, CCST, CPDPE
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78736
I offer gender affirming therapy for transgender, non-binary individuals or people anywhere along the gender spectrum.
I am highly experienced assisting children, teenagers, young adults, and families with a variety of behavioral, developmental, and social - emotional challenges. As a former school counselor, I can provide beneficial information regarding accommodations/modifications that are needed in the school setting. In a private counseling setting, I can help with behavioral and emotional challenges, including: anger, bullying, impulse control, depression, anxiety, peer relationships, and self-regulation techniques. I assists teens steer through difficult challenges and offer support for the young adult while they face many challenges as they navigate life and their many changing roles after high school.
I offer gender affirming therapy for transgender, non-binary individuals or people anywhere along the gender spectrum.
I am highly experienced assisting children, teenagers, young adults, and families with a variety of behavioral, developmental, and social - emotional challenges. As a former school counselor, I can provide beneficial information regarding accommodations/modifications that are needed in the school setting. In a private counseling setting, I can help with behavioral and emotional challenges, including: anger, bullying, impulse control, depression, anxiety, peer relationships, and self-regulation techniques. I assists teens steer through difficult challenges and offer support for the young adult while they face many challenges as they navigate life and their many changing roles after high school.
(512) 675-1817 View (512) 675-1817
Photo of Courtney Lougheed, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Lougheed
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78739  (Online Only)
I enjoy supporting neurodivergent (ADHD/Autism), LGBTQIA+, and Polyamory/Consensual Non-Monogamy individuals.
Do you find yourself struggling with big emotions? Wondering how you can move forward when you feel you are carrying loads of pain from the past? My passion is to help you feel more capable when faced with stress. I walk alongside you in your therapeutic journey by holding compassion, warmth, and above all—a safe space to explore your emotions without judgment. I work collaboratively with you to set the pace for therapy work, trusting your nervous system to know when, and at what speed, to share and process personal vulnerable experiences.
I enjoy supporting neurodivergent (ADHD/Autism), LGBTQIA+, and Polyamory/Consensual Non-Monogamy individuals.
Do you find yourself struggling with big emotions? Wondering how you can move forward when you feel you are carrying loads of pain from the past? My passion is to help you feel more capable when faced with stress. I walk alongside you in your therapeutic journey by holding compassion, warmth, and above all—a safe space to explore your emotions without judgment. I work collaboratively with you to set the pace for therapy work, trusting your nervous system to know when, and at what speed, to share and process personal vulnerable experiences.
(737) 637-3569 View (737) 637-3569
Photo of Ally Hoffman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ally Hoffman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Hey there! However you got here, I am glad we crossed paths and that you decided to take a look into counseling. It is no secret that sometimes we are handed some difficult circumstances, and it is my firm belief that we all need someone – someone to listen, care, and offer a safe space. Counseling is an opportunity to grow, heal, and flourish! Each and every client brings their own unique strengths to the table and I believe that these attributes can be leveraged in order to create a better quality of life. www.safespacehealingcollective.com
Hey there! However you got here, I am glad we crossed paths and that you decided to take a look into counseling. It is no secret that sometimes we are handed some difficult circumstances, and it is my firm belief that we all need someone – someone to listen, care, and offer a safe space. Counseling is an opportunity to grow, heal, and flourish! Each and every client brings their own unique strengths to the table and I believe that these attributes can be leveraged in order to create a better quality of life. www.safespacehealingcollective.com
(346) 570-0468 View (346) 570-0468
Photo of Ian Woodwick, PsyD, Psychologist
Ian Woodwick
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wimberley, TX 78676
Ian Woodwick is a Psychologist in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. Ian humbly approaches each person where they are as a unique human being in the context of their family, culture, and world. Each of us is on our own beautiful journey through this life and therapy is a place in which to see ourselves from a different, judgment-free perspective. Ian's intent is to work together on whatever concerns you have. He primarily uses techniques from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Humanistic/Existential therapy. Ian also incorporates somewhat relevant pop-culture references at will.
Ian Woodwick is a Psychologist in Texas who has been practicing since 2023. Ian humbly approaches each person where they are as a unique human being in the context of their family, culture, and world. Each of us is on our own beautiful journey through this life and therapy is a place in which to see ourselves from a different, judgment-free perspective. Ian's intent is to work together on whatever concerns you have. He primarily uses techniques from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Humanistic/Existential therapy. Ian also incorporates somewhat relevant pop-culture references at will.
(737) 520-7597 View (737) 520-7597
Photo of Mary Ruth Roberts, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Ruth Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wimberley, TX 78676
Mary Ruth Roberts is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2000. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, she began training in Nutrition. Mary became a Registered Dietitian for many years while continuing to work in Mental Health. Mary offers a variety of evidence-based practices such as training in CBT, CPT, Certified in The Neuro Change Method, and other evidence-based practices such as DBT, ACT, and Brief Solution Focused Therapy. Mary has worked with adolescents and adults for more than 20 years and provided a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to therapy.
Mary Ruth Roberts is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2000. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, she began training in Nutrition. Mary became a Registered Dietitian for many years while continuing to work in Mental Health. Mary offers a variety of evidence-based practices such as training in CBT, CPT, Certified in The Neuro Change Method, and other evidence-based practices such as DBT, ACT, and Brief Solution Focused Therapy. Mary has worked with adolescents and adults for more than 20 years and provided a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to therapy.
(737) 345-2780 View (737) 345-2780
Photo of Juli Acuna, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Juli Acuna
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wimberley, TX 78676
Juli Acuña is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. With experience in Play Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy, Juli aims to help children, youth, and adults gain the skills needed to overcome life's challenges, set and attain their personal goals, and form healthier relationships with those around them. With a relationship-centered approach, she hopes to provide an affirming and nonjudgmental environment for clients to explore thinking and behavioral habits which can help them form healthier relationships with themselves and others.
Juli Acuña is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. With experience in Play Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy, Juli aims to help children, youth, and adults gain the skills needed to overcome life's challenges, set and attain their personal goals, and form healthier relationships with those around them. With a relationship-centered approach, she hopes to provide an affirming and nonjudgmental environment for clients to explore thinking and behavioral habits which can help them form healthier relationships with themselves and others.
(737) 345-4969 View (737) 345-4969
Photo of Bill L Deggs - Bill Deggs, LPC, RPT (Fyt Clinic PLLC), MA, MEd, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bill Deggs, LPC, RPT (Fyt Clinic PLLC)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
My focus includes anxiety, depression, adoption, childhood disorders, trauma, substance abuse, and adjustment to life transitions.
I myself struggled with Anxiety and Depression as a young person. I often like to joke that I took my first psychology class as a DIY project. As I discovered what worked for me, I realized that I wanted to share that knowledge with other people. I view therapy as a place to feel safe, express feelings, explore relationships, describe experiences, and (if necessary) revisit old wounds to heal from them. In my practice I am passionate about utilizing Positive Psychology, strength-based approaches and CBT to achieve better mental health.
My focus includes anxiety, depression, adoption, childhood disorders, trauma, substance abuse, and adjustment to life transitions.
I myself struggled with Anxiety and Depression as a young person. I often like to joke that I took my first psychology class as a DIY project. As I discovered what worked for me, I realized that I wanted to share that knowledge with other people. I view therapy as a place to feel safe, express feelings, explore relationships, describe experiences, and (if necessary) revisit old wounds to heal from them. In my practice I am passionate about utilizing Positive Psychology, strength-based approaches and CBT to achieve better mental health.
(512) 265-8884 View (512) 265-8884
Photo of David Head, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Head
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Change is inevitable. Pain is probable. Suffering is optional. Many of us already have the strength to manage change but need a little help finding the courage and confidence. That is why I take a collaborative, flexible, transformational, dynamic, and strength-based approach to empower clients to face life’s circumstances. I could help equip you with just tools to tackle your personal and professional obstacles or I can work alongside you and through dialogue help you to develop your own tools for long term sustainable strategies and an independent and purposeful life.
Change is inevitable. Pain is probable. Suffering is optional. Many of us already have the strength to manage change but need a little help finding the courage and confidence. That is why I take a collaborative, flexible, transformational, dynamic, and strength-based approach to empower clients to face life’s circumstances. I could help equip you with just tools to tackle your personal and professional obstacles or I can work alongside you and through dialogue help you to develop your own tools for long term sustainable strategies and an independent and purposeful life.
(512) 855-7113 View (512) 855-7113
Photo of Lara Wulsin, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lara Wulsin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Are you struggling to feel happy, fulfilled, authentic and/or connected? Do you feel caught in repeating cycles and patterns you would like to move on from? I hear you and I get it. As a therapist, my passion is for supporting you as you engage your own strengths in the process of change and transformation. I work with a variety of issues, including life purpose, transitions, depression, anxiety, relationships, parenting, midlife unravelings, trauma, stress management, grief and loss, high sensitivity and spirituality, among others. I work with individuals and couples, offering a mindfulness-based approach to therapy.
Are you struggling to feel happy, fulfilled, authentic and/or connected? Do you feel caught in repeating cycles and patterns you would like to move on from? I hear you and I get it. As a therapist, my passion is for supporting you as you engage your own strengths in the process of change and transformation. I work with a variety of issues, including life purpose, transitions, depression, anxiety, relationships, parenting, midlife unravelings, trauma, stress management, grief and loss, high sensitivity and spirituality, among others. I work with individuals and couples, offering a mindfulness-based approach to therapy.
(512) 430-5056 View (512) 430-5056
Photo of Pat Sumption, LCSW, MAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pat Sumption
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737
I work with people, not labels. It’s about you, not a diagnosis. And it’s about me, not a degree. It becomes about us working together for your goals, whatever those are-I can help. We’re so surprised when we feel something but it “doesn’t make sense”. We “should” ourselves & judge. We waste a helluva lot of time doing this. How often have you tried to think yourself out of a feeling? I know!! Me too. Doesn't work. Together we can figure out how & why you think & feel the way you do. You can't think your way out of depression, anxiety, trauma or anything else. You can talk & feel yourself out, though. Here is what I believe.
I work with people, not labels. It’s about you, not a diagnosis. And it’s about me, not a degree. It becomes about us working together for your goals, whatever those are-I can help. We’re so surprised when we feel something but it “doesn’t make sense”. We “should” ourselves & judge. We waste a helluva lot of time doing this. How often have you tried to think yourself out of a feeling? I know!! Me too. Doesn't work. Together we can figure out how & why you think & feel the way you do. You can't think your way out of depression, anxiety, trauma or anything else. You can talk & feel yourself out, though. Here is what I believe.
(512) 699-1561 View (512) 699-1561
Photo of Abigail Makepeace, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Abigail Makepeace
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dripping Springs, TX 78620
As a licensed therapist and the founder of Makepeace Therapy, I have been working with individuals and couples for over 10 years. Throughout my life and in my practice, I have continuously experienced that people can heal from the suffering past trauma has created in their lives. I am so passionate about therapy because it allows for an incredible unfolding process to discover the root of our pain, change unwanted patterns and behaviors, and allow for the creation of the necessary changes that lead to living fulfilled, healthy, and joyful lives!
As a licensed therapist and the founder of Makepeace Therapy, I have been working with individuals and couples for over 10 years. Throughout my life and in my practice, I have continuously experienced that people can heal from the suffering past trauma has created in their lives. I am so passionate about therapy because it allows for an incredible unfolding process to discover the root of our pain, change unwanted patterns and behaviors, and allow for the creation of the necessary changes that lead to living fulfilled, healthy, and joyful lives!
(737) 345-4875 View (737) 345-4875
Photo of Patricia Therapy Sumption - Austin Therapy Solutions, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Austin Therapy Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737
We work with people, not labels. It’s about you, a person. And us, people. It becomes about us working together for your goals, whatever those are-we can help. Are you surprised when you feel something but it “doesn’t make sense”? Do you then “should” & judge yourself? We all waste a helluva lot of time doing this. How often have you tried to think yourself out of a feeling? Right? Doesn't work! Together we can figure out how & why you think, feel & behave the way you do. You can't think your way out of feeling unhappy & dissatisfied. We can help you work through your barriers to a better place.
We work with people, not labels. It’s about you, a person. And us, people. It becomes about us working together for your goals, whatever those are-we can help. Are you surprised when you feel something but it “doesn’t make sense”? Do you then “should” & judge yourself? We all waste a helluva lot of time doing this. How often have you tried to think yourself out of a feeling? Right? Doesn't work! Together we can figure out how & why you think, feel & behave the way you do. You can't think your way out of feeling unhappy & dissatisfied. We can help you work through your barriers to a better place.
(512) 699-1561 View (512) 699-1561

See more therapy options for Driftwood

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.