Photo of Jessica Burrows - NextGen Counseling, PLLC, MA, LPC, CFLE, Licensed Professional Counselor
NextGen Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CFLE
Verified Verified
Highland Village, TX 75077
Adolescence and young adulthood is a time of great transition both mentally and physically. At NextGen Counseling, support is provided for teens and adults to help navigate the seemingly overwhelming emotions they are experiencing from the world around them. In a society where teens and adults are bombarded with contradictory messages on how they should act, think, and feel, therapy provides a "safe zone" for them to voice their concerns and be understood.
Adolescence and young adulthood is a time of great transition both mentally and physically. At NextGen Counseling, support is provided for teens and adults to help navigate the seemingly overwhelming emotions they are experiencing from the world around them. In a society where teens and adults are bombarded with contradictory messages on how they should act, think, and feel, therapy provides a "safe zone" for them to voice their concerns and be understood.
(940) 202-7941 View (940) 202-7941
Photo of Wynne Sherman, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wynne Sherman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Highland Village, TX 75077
Hi! Are you really confused about your emotional reactions? Sometimes numb sometimes really intense and it just doesn’t match the situation? Are you struggling in your relationships and with your self-worth as a result? 9 times out of 10 these are trauma responses- historical stuff showing up in the present moment. My name is Wynne, and I specialize in the treatment of trauma and post traumatic stress disorder. We can work together to bring you to a place of fully-feeling that is also mature and rational! We will also address the ways trauma often manifests- addiction, co-dependency, chronic illness, and relationship intensity.
Hi! Are you really confused about your emotional reactions? Sometimes numb sometimes really intense and it just doesn’t match the situation? Are you struggling in your relationships and with your self-worth as a result? 9 times out of 10 these are trauma responses- historical stuff showing up in the present moment. My name is Wynne, and I specialize in the treatment of trauma and post traumatic stress disorder. We can work together to bring you to a place of fully-feeling that is also mature and rational! We will also address the ways trauma often manifests- addiction, co-dependency, chronic illness, and relationship intensity.
(469) 382-5296 View (469) 382-5296
Photo of Michelle Luttrell, MA, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Luttrell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Highland Village, TX 75077
Your story is unique and everyone brings their own challenges into therapy. Therapy is the place that we can begin to untangle those challenges and develop new skills to better handle them. My goal is to provide a space that feels safe, accepting, and allows you to explore your feelings and day to day struggles. Whether it's depression, anxiety, family situations, trauma, or something else, my hope is that through therapy we can start to provide you hope and healing. My approach is collaborative and allows you to be the expert in your life. Clients can expect me to be genuine, accepting, and straightforward in my approach.
Your story is unique and everyone brings their own challenges into therapy. Therapy is the place that we can begin to untangle those challenges and develop new skills to better handle them. My goal is to provide a space that feels safe, accepting, and allows you to explore your feelings and day to day struggles. Whether it's depression, anxiety, family situations, trauma, or something else, my hope is that through therapy we can start to provide you hope and healing. My approach is collaborative and allows you to be the expert in your life. Clients can expect me to be genuine, accepting, and straightforward in my approach.
(940) 228-1770 View (940) 228-1770
Photo of Denise Butler, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denise Butler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Highland Village, TX 75077  (Online Only)
Through diverse academic and professional experiences, I have developed a unique skillset and approach to therapy. I spent 8 years as a nanny before getting my undergraduate degree in early childhood education. I was a special education teacher for Lewisville ISD for 5 years. While working as a teacher, I completed my masters degree in counseling specializing in Play Therapy. Other professional work history includes the mobile Crisis Team for Denton County MHMR and counseling families in crisis at the Children's Advocacy Center. I am currently providing therapy to children ages 10+, teens, and women using a TeleHealth platform.
Through diverse academic and professional experiences, I have developed a unique skillset and approach to therapy. I spent 8 years as a nanny before getting my undergraduate degree in early childhood education. I was a special education teacher for Lewisville ISD for 5 years. While working as a teacher, I completed my masters degree in counseling specializing in Play Therapy. Other professional work history includes the mobile Crisis Team for Denton County MHMR and counseling families in crisis at the Children's Advocacy Center. I am currently providing therapy to children ages 10+, teens, and women using a TeleHealth platform.
(469) 208-7572 View (469) 208-7572
Photo of Michele Smiley Greer, PhD, LPC-S, LPC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michele Smiley Greer
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, LPC-S, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Village, TX 75077
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a systems trained therapist, Dr. Greer's goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, she will assist you in unearthing long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Dr. Greer's counseling utilizes interactive, experiential , and cognitive behavioral techniques. Dr. Greer believes therapy is collaboration between the client and therapist.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a systems trained therapist, Dr. Greer's goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, she will assist you in unearthing long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Dr. Greer's counseling utilizes interactive, experiential , and cognitive behavioral techniques. Dr. Greer believes therapy is collaboration between the client and therapist.
(972) 460-9342 View (972) 460-9342
Photo of Nicole Holmes, PhD, Psychologist
Nicole Holmes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Highland Village, TX 75077
Your emotional safety and our therapeutic relationship are important to me. I prioritize creating an environment that is safe, confidential, free of judgment, genuine, empathetic, and compassionate. I believe that it is important that we connect and you feel safe. My educational training is as a generalist, which provides me the skills to implement many different evidence based interventions and treat most issues that bring people to therapy. My expertise is in working with adults who have experienced trauma, particularly interpersonal abuse such as sexual abuse/assault, relationship abuse, etc.
Your emotional safety and our therapeutic relationship are important to me. I prioritize creating an environment that is safe, confidential, free of judgment, genuine, empathetic, and compassionate. I believe that it is important that we connect and you feel safe. My educational training is as a generalist, which provides me the skills to implement many different evidence based interventions and treat most issues that bring people to therapy. My expertise is in working with adults who have experienced trauma, particularly interpersonal abuse such as sexual abuse/assault, relationship abuse, etc.
(214) 974-4528 View (214) 974-4528
Photo of Phillip Michael Benavides, MS, NCC, LPC, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Phillip Michael Benavides
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Highland Village, TX 75067
Feeling lost, or maybe you’re struggling with a big life change? No one is too far gone or “broken.” My goal is to help you to finish your past, be present for today, and make progress forward into your tomorrows. I enjoy the process of walking alongside my clients’ unique experiences when they feel that they may be at their lowest point. I strive to provide a positive and encouraging space for my clients to become aware of the issues in their paths, while also helping them to uncover the hidden tools that they have access to. One process I process I love to implement is Name it-Claim it-Tame it-Change it.
Feeling lost, or maybe you’re struggling with a big life change? No one is too far gone or “broken.” My goal is to help you to finish your past, be present for today, and make progress forward into your tomorrows. I enjoy the process of walking alongside my clients’ unique experiences when they feel that they may be at their lowest point. I strive to provide a positive and encouraging space for my clients to become aware of the issues in their paths, while also helping them to uncover the hidden tools that they have access to. One process I process I love to implement is Name it-Claim it-Tame it-Change it.
(940) 580-1931 View (940) 580-1931

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kelsey Madenwald, M Ed, LPC-A, LPC Intern
Kelsey Madenwald
LPC Intern, M Ed, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75007
Do you want a fresh perspective on how your brain works and work with it rather than against it? Are you in a marginalized community that you feel is not heard through traditional therapy? I may be the right therapist for you! I am a LPC-A under the supervision of Melinda Porter and I am passionate about treating the LGBTQIA+ community. I believe in treating the person and their needs rather than pathologizing the client's state and approaching every client individually. Whether you are struggling with a large change in your life or want to improve your overall mental health, we can work on it together!
Do you want a fresh perspective on how your brain works and work with it rather than against it? Are you in a marginalized community that you feel is not heard through traditional therapy? I may be the right therapist for you! I am a LPC-A under the supervision of Melinda Porter and I am passionate about treating the LGBTQIA+ community. I believe in treating the person and their needs rather than pathologizing the client's state and approaching every client individually. Whether you are struggling with a large change in your life or want to improve your overall mental health, we can work on it together!
(972) 914-3462 View (972) 914-3462
Photo of Farrah Bonnot, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Farrah Bonnot
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denton, TX 76210  (Online Only)
Do you worry your experiences, preferences, or orientation make the search for a mental health professional difficult? Are there times or situations where you'd like a helping hand, but feel overwhelmed about explaining your background to someone who may not understand? I know what that feels like. My passion lies in helping survivors of trauma and I am deeply invested in serving LGBTQIA+, polyam, consensual non-monogamy (ENM), kink, and all sexual minority communities. I am also sex work allied and provide non-judgmental support for individuals who are, or have been in the sex industry.
Do you worry your experiences, preferences, or orientation make the search for a mental health professional difficult? Are there times or situations where you'd like a helping hand, but feel overwhelmed about explaining your background to someone who may not understand? I know what that feels like. My passion lies in helping survivors of trauma and I am deeply invested in serving LGBTQIA+, polyam, consensual non-monogamy (ENM), kink, and all sexual minority communities. I am also sex work allied and provide non-judgmental support for individuals who are, or have been in the sex industry.
(940) 304-0034 View (940) 304-0034
Photo of Sarah Michelle Billingsley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Michelle Billingsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Feeling emotionally vulnerable can be a scary thing to deal with, especially when dealing with it alone. I am here to let you know that you no longer have to do this alone. Whether you are dealing with unresolved trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, addictions, mood disorders, grief, or other mental health issues, I am here to help. I specialize in working with teens, young adults, and the LGBTQIA+ community. In therapy, we will work through those unwanted emotions and help you begin to deal with them effectively.
Feeling emotionally vulnerable can be a scary thing to deal with, especially when dealing with it alone. I am here to let you know that you no longer have to do this alone. Whether you are dealing with unresolved trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, addictions, mood disorders, grief, or other mental health issues, I am here to help. I specialize in working with teens, young adults, and the LGBTQIA+ community. In therapy, we will work through those unwanted emotions and help you begin to deal with them effectively.
(469) 812-5098 View (469) 812-5098
Photo of Matthew Evans - Starlight Counseling, PhD, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Starlight Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
Little Elm, TX 75068
Our team members have specialized training in a broad range of topics including addiction, trauma, anxiety and depression, marriage and family concerns, LGBTQ issues, and more.
Starlight Counseling has a team of 10 therapists with a wide range of specialities so that we are able to help individuals or the whole family. Whether you are seeking help with sadness/depression, worry/anxiety, trauma, addiction, or a wide range of other concerns, our staff can guide you through the healing process.
Our team members have specialized training in a broad range of topics including addiction, trauma, anxiety and depression, marriage and family concerns, LGBTQ issues, and more.
Starlight Counseling has a team of 10 therapists with a wide range of specialities so that we are able to help individuals or the whole family. Whether you are seeking help with sadness/depression, worry/anxiety, trauma, addiction, or a wide range of other concerns, our staff can guide you through the healing process.
(214) 937-9120 View (214) 937-9120
Photo of Staci Butler, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Staci Butler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
The Colony, TX 75056
I am very LGBTQ+ friendly and all lifestyles are accepted and welcome.
Hi, I’m so glad you’re here! Perhaps you’ve felt overwhelmed or like you’re never good enough. You aren’t able to be yourself at work or school. Maybe it takes all of your energy just to get through each day. Let’s explore what is keeping you from feeling your best, together. I want our sessions to feel safe, supportive, and non-judgmental so that you can get the most out of therapy. We will work together to find the root of your problems and figure out how to start feeling better.
I am very LGBTQ+ friendly and all lifestyles are accepted and welcome.
Hi, I’m so glad you’re here! Perhaps you’ve felt overwhelmed or like you’re never good enough. You aren’t able to be yourself at work or school. Maybe it takes all of your energy just to get through each day. Let’s explore what is keeping you from feeling your best, together. I want our sessions to feel safe, supportive, and non-judgmental so that you can get the most out of therapy. We will work together to find the root of your problems and figure out how to start feeling better.
(214) 393-6139 View (214) 393-6139
Photo of David Coley, LPC-A
David Coley
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
The Colony, TX 75056  (Online Only)
Some of my passions include working with those that experience anxiety, depression, trauma and the LGBTQ+ community.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or just can't seem to figure it out? Listen, I get it. Life can be fragile and unpredictable. When we experience trauma or life stressors, it is not uncommon for us to feel like everything is unraveling. As your therapist, I want you to know that you are not alone. Trust me, I have been there, too. My passion is bringing healing to people by empowering healthy perceptions of themselves and their relationships. Hey, I may not know you from a can of paint, but I'm still proud of your decision to improve the quality of your mental health. Remember, you matter.
Some of my passions include working with those that experience anxiety, depression, trauma and the LGBTQ+ community.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed or just can't seem to figure it out? Listen, I get it. Life can be fragile and unpredictable. When we experience trauma or life stressors, it is not uncommon for us to feel like everything is unraveling. As your therapist, I want you to know that you are not alone. Trust me, I have been there, too. My passion is bringing healing to people by empowering healthy perceptions of themselves and their relationships. Hey, I may not know you from a can of paint, but I'm still proud of your decision to improve the quality of your mental health. Remember, you matter.
(972) 787-0599 View (972) 787-0599
Photo of Angie Conway, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angie Conway
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grapevine, TX 76051
Valor Counseling Services is dedicated to providing quality mental health counseling to adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of obstacles including depression, anxiety, OCD, suicidal thoughts, personality disorders, trauma, parenting, LGBTQ, adoption and foster care, and dissociative disorders. Trained in EMDR, I will use this therapy approach when necessary to help heal the root cause of symptoms as well as teach practical skills necessary to respond to symptoms when they occur.
Valor Counseling Services is dedicated to providing quality mental health counseling to adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of obstacles including depression, anxiety, OCD, suicidal thoughts, personality disorders, trauma, parenting, LGBTQ, adoption and foster care, and dissociative disorders. Trained in EMDR, I will use this therapy approach when necessary to help heal the root cause of symptoms as well as teach practical skills necessary to respond to symptoms when they occur.
(817) 854-9617 View (817) 854-9617
Photo of Jimmy McGuffin, PhD, Psychologist
Jimmy McGuffin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092  (Online Only)
LGBTQIA+ clients, you are welcome here.
I offer online/virtual therapy to anyone in the state of Texas. You can expect a warm, collaborative approach that is tailored to your specific needs & values your autonomy. My down-to-earth style combines practical evidence-based strategies to address current symptoms along with diving deep into the origin of your struggles to increase insight. Together, we will create an environment of mutual trust, respect, & safety that honors the complexity of your unique experience. I firmly believe that if we can be authentic with ourselves & others, we inspire people to share their authentic selves with us & create genuine connection.
LGBTQIA+ clients, you are welcome here.
I offer online/virtual therapy to anyone in the state of Texas. You can expect a warm, collaborative approach that is tailored to your specific needs & values your autonomy. My down-to-earth style combines practical evidence-based strategies to address current symptoms along with diving deep into the origin of your struggles to increase insight. Together, we will create an environment of mutual trust, respect, & safety that honors the complexity of your unique experience. I firmly believe that if we can be authentic with ourselves & others, we inspire people to share their authentic selves with us & create genuine connection.
(817) 601-1034 View (817) 601-1034
Photo of Scott D Altamirano, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Scott D Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092  (Online Only)
I identify as Mexican-American, gay, and ex-military.
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving, acceptance, and peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples working through sobriety-recovery dynamics, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
I identify as Mexican-American, gay, and ex-military.
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving, acceptance, and peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples working through sobriety-recovery dynamics, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
(281) 915-2147 View (281) 915-2147
Photo of Chelsea Apree Clicque - Dallas Therapeutic Services, PsyD, LPC, LCDC, Psychologist
Dallas Therapeutic Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Grapevine, TX 76051
We have 16 therapists specializing in the following: LGBTQ+, PTSD (including military/first responders), pain, OCD, child/adolescent (including play therapy), EMDR, CBT, DBT, Spanish speaking, cultural issues, eating disorders, substance use, psychosis, grief, couples, family, attachment issues and behavioral.
Dallas Therapeutic Services is a group practice uniquely managed to fit the needs of most clients! When the group formed, care was taken to choose clinicians with a variety of backgrounds and specialities. We want to provide an environment, where we can match clients with their best fit therapist. Additionally, we are able to psychological testing for ADHD, Autism, IQ (processing speed, working memory, comprehension and perceptual reasoning as well IQ score) and personality (diagnosis) - all of which can help with differentiating diagnoses and planning treatment accordingly.
We have 16 therapists specializing in the following: LGBTQ+, PTSD (including military/first responders), pain, OCD, child/adolescent (including play therapy), EMDR, CBT, DBT, Spanish speaking, cultural issues, eating disorders, substance use, psychosis, grief, couples, family, attachment issues and behavioral.
Dallas Therapeutic Services is a group practice uniquely managed to fit the needs of most clients! When the group formed, care was taken to choose clinicians with a variety of backgrounds and specialities. We want to provide an environment, where we can match clients with their best fit therapist. Additionally, we are able to psychological testing for ADHD, Autism, IQ (processing speed, working memory, comprehension and perceptual reasoning as well IQ score) and personality (diagnosis) - all of which can help with differentiating diagnoses and planning treatment accordingly.
(972) 472-4934 View (972) 472-4934
Photo of Danielle Brockelman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Brockelman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
Most of my clients are simply looking for a therapist to walk through a difficult stage of life with them, and I consider it an honor to be given that opportunity. I specialize in the treatment of relationships, depression, anxiety, emotional/physical/sexual trauma, addictions and PTSD. I also have a great deal of experience working with those with Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and grief/loss. I work with adult individuals, teens and families. I am an ally of the LGBT+ community, and work with individuals in any type of relationship.
Most of my clients are simply looking for a therapist to walk through a difficult stage of life with them, and I consider it an honor to be given that opportunity. I specialize in the treatment of relationships, depression, anxiety, emotional/physical/sexual trauma, addictions and PTSD. I also have a great deal of experience working with those with Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and grief/loss. I work with adult individuals, teens and families. I am an ally of the LGBT+ community, and work with individuals in any type of relationship.
(817) 396-7466 View (817) 396-7466
Photo of Kelsey Michelle Sheppard, LMSW, LCDC-I
Kelsey Michelle Sheppard
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
I was once a queer young adult who felt stuck, scared, and hopeless.
Under supervision: Ann Revard, LCSW-S. I assess how motivated they are for treatment. This gives a better understanding of the individual, their needs and goals, and their palpable eagerness to do "the work." Clients that I work with are generally committed to the process. They are openminded, willing, honest, introspective, and determined. These characteristics start to show up, or become stronger each week, as the client begins to trust me, and ultimately themselves, with their healing journey. Each client is unique and every journey is different. I will always follow the lead of my client and let them set the pace of progress.
I was once a queer young adult who felt stuck, scared, and hopeless.
Under supervision: Ann Revard, LCSW-S. I assess how motivated they are for treatment. This gives a better understanding of the individual, their needs and goals, and their palpable eagerness to do "the work." Clients that I work with are generally committed to the process. They are openminded, willing, honest, introspective, and determined. These characteristics start to show up, or become stronger each week, as the client begins to trust me, and ultimately themselves, with their healing journey. Each client is unique and every journey is different. I will always follow the lead of my client and let them set the pace of progress.
(817) 518-6369 View (817) 518-6369
Photo of Scott Altamirano, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Scott Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092  (Online Only)
I identify as Mexican-American, gay, and ex-military.
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving, acceptance, and peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples working through sobriety-recovery dynamics, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
I identify as Mexican-American, gay, and ex-military.
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving, acceptance, and peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples working through sobriety-recovery dynamics, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
(323) 433-6354 View (323) 433-6354

See more therapy options for Highland Village

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.