LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Irving, TX
![Photo of Mika Smith-Low, LCSW-S, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b6957ab-43c1-4c88-ad56-b72d048850fd/2/320x400.jpeg)
WE OFFER PHONE AND VIDEO SESSIONS. Able to offer ADHD and personality testing. I am passionate about providing evidence-based therapy services, and I specialize in treating adults with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and related disorders, PTSD and trauma, and LGBTQ+ related issues including transition. As your therapist my goal is to provide you with the education, skills, tools, and understanding you need to achieve sustainable symptom reduction and become better adjusted and able to cope with life changes and stressors more independently.
WE OFFER PHONE AND VIDEO SESSIONS. Able to offer ADHD and personality testing. I am passionate about providing evidence-based therapy services, and I specialize in treating adults with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and related disorders, PTSD and trauma, and LGBTQ+ related issues including transition. As your therapist my goal is to provide you with the education, skills, tools, and understanding you need to achieve sustainable symptom reduction and become better adjusted and able to cope with life changes and stressors more independently.
![Photo of Laurieanne Abernathy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f095c468-75cb-4fc1-989e-98389f68cef2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laurieanne Abernathy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75016 (Online Only)
I am an ally for the LGBTQIA+ community and a strong supporter of equality in all of its aspects. I believe everyone is a person, and every person needs to be cared for, validated, and supported throughout whatever they are facing in their life. My preference is to focus on the LGBTQIA+ population, mainly because I do not think there is enough allies in the counseling field that have this preference in populations. My goal, is to be a support and assist clients to enable them to make positive changes in their lives. I want them to feel heard and respected, regardless of the issue or struggle they are facing.
I am an ally for the LGBTQIA+ community and a strong supporter of equality in all of its aspects. I believe everyone is a person, and every person needs to be cared for, validated, and supported throughout whatever they are facing in their life. My preference is to focus on the LGBTQIA+ population, mainly because I do not think there is enough allies in the counseling field that have this preference in populations. My goal, is to be a support and assist clients to enable them to make positive changes in their lives. I want them to feel heard and respected, regardless of the issue or struggle they are facing.
![Photo of Randy Woodring - Woodcrest Counseling, PLLC, MS, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4e00ff4-14fc-461d-bf8d-5d7b13006aee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Woodcrest Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irving, TX 75039
My counseling practice focuses on adolescent and adults with a specialized focus on LGBTQ+ populations. As a gay man, I am held by deeply spiritual beliefs to help my LGBTQ+ community whenever possible. I also treat addiction, dual-diagnosis, spirituality, anxiety, gender identity, depression, divorce, grief and those who are recovering from religious abuse. I meet clients where they are in life and that is always my starting point while building a relationship to facilitate change.
My counseling practice focuses on adolescent and adults with a specialized focus on LGBTQ+ populations. As a gay man, I am held by deeply spiritual beliefs to help my LGBTQ+ community whenever possible. I also treat addiction, dual-diagnosis, spirituality, anxiety, gender identity, depression, divorce, grief and those who are recovering from religious abuse. I meet clients where they are in life and that is always my starting point while building a relationship to facilitate change.
![Photo of Lorena Mendoza Gibson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/054e7222-41f8-438d-ab9d-87f3d4314ad0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lorena Mendoza Gibson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irving, TX 75063
Hi, I am Lorena Mendoza Gibson, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas with over 17 years of experience. My focus is working with children, adolescents, and adults in areas such as trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, LGBTQIA+, and women's issues. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Eclectic, Client-Centered, and Reality Therapy.
Hi, I am Lorena Mendoza Gibson, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas with over 17 years of experience. My focus is working with children, adolescents, and adults in areas such as trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, LGBTQIA+, and women's issues. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Eclectic, Client-Centered, and Reality Therapy.
![Photo of Laura Klueppel, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be65c3ac-de14-40da-909b-aba9fdc23e7c/1/320x400.png)
Laura Klueppel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75062 (Online Only)
Welcome, all. My name is Laura and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I work with clients of all ages and a broad range of mental health concerns, but focus on anxiety and depression, LGBTQ clients, and relationship concerns. My holistic approach utilizes cognitive-behavioral therapy: I focus on changing thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. I get to know what works for each individual, because there is no one-size-fits all approach to therapy! I'm passionate about helping people solve their problems, and I look forward to working with you.
Welcome, all. My name is Laura and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I work with clients of all ages and a broad range of mental health concerns, but focus on anxiety and depression, LGBTQ clients, and relationship concerns. My holistic approach utilizes cognitive-behavioral therapy: I focus on changing thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. I get to know what works for each individual, because there is no one-size-fits all approach to therapy! I'm passionate about helping people solve their problems, and I look forward to working with you.
![Photo of Gayle Davis - Gayle Davis, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/007a1640-880b-4d88-878c-835e10d1db49/4/320x400.jpeg)
Specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD, LGBT, and relationship issues.
Having over 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist, I have found that everyone has within themselves the internal resources for self-healing. My goal as a therapist is to assist you in accessing and further developing those resources. I will help you work through your immediate problems and concerns as well as assist you in addressing past experiences that may be influencing your current emotional state, behaviors and relationships. I work with adults 20 years and older.
Specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, PTSD, LGBT, and relationship issues.
Having over 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist, I have found that everyone has within themselves the internal resources for self-healing. My goal as a therapist is to assist you in accessing and further developing those resources. I will help you work through your immediate problems and concerns as well as assist you in addressing past experiences that may be influencing your current emotional state, behaviors and relationships. I work with adults 20 years and older.
![Photo of Ryan McNamara, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37255f4f-2716-48d9-b95e-65a79a4c94e6/1/320x400.png)
My areas of specialty include spiritual abuse and religious trauma, PTSD, LGBTQ+ issues, intimate partner violence, anxiety, depression, substance misuse and addictions, grief, and self-esteem.
I work with adults aged 18+ for individual therapy. I primarily use CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques as my therapeutic modalities. I blend a direct yet flexible approach, ensuring clear communication and adaptability to each client's needs. It is trauma-informed, collaborative, and empathic in nature. My style is fairly structured, emphasizing the importance of homework to reinforce therapeutic gains and insights. At its core, my practice is client-centered, prioritizing the unique journey and goals of each individual I work with.
My areas of specialty include spiritual abuse and religious trauma, PTSD, LGBTQ+ issues, intimate partner violence, anxiety, depression, substance misuse and addictions, grief, and self-esteem.
I work with adults aged 18+ for individual therapy. I primarily use CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques as my therapeutic modalities. I blend a direct yet flexible approach, ensuring clear communication and adaptability to each client's needs. It is trauma-informed, collaborative, and empathic in nature. My style is fairly structured, emphasizing the importance of homework to reinforce therapeutic gains and insights. At its core, my practice is client-centered, prioritizing the unique journey and goals of each individual I work with.
![Photo of Chelsea Apree Clicque - Dallas Therapeutic Services, PsyD, LPC, LCDC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/200d0de2-3bfa-4072-8a13-4bdf15eb6baf/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Carina I Rodriguez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6883045b-bc75-40ab-86d2-026cb3869467/2/320x400.png)
Carina I Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irving, TX 75063
I currently provide therapy to adolescents 16 and older, and adults of all ages. I am culturally competent and work with clients of diverse backgrounds including race, ethnicity, LGBTQA+ and socioeconomic status. Areas of specialties include: Intimate Partner Violence, PTSD, Sexual Violence, Survivors of Childhood Abuse, Immigration Trauma, Generational Trauma, Acculturation, Grief and Loss, Depression, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Family Dynamics and Interpersonal Relationships. I am a strong believer in the importance of using evidence-based and trauma-informed interventions. I have advanced training in EMDR, CPT, and TF-CBT.
I currently provide therapy to adolescents 16 and older, and adults of all ages. I am culturally competent and work with clients of diverse backgrounds including race, ethnicity, LGBTQA+ and socioeconomic status. Areas of specialties include: Intimate Partner Violence, PTSD, Sexual Violence, Survivors of Childhood Abuse, Immigration Trauma, Generational Trauma, Acculturation, Grief and Loss, Depression, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Family Dynamics and Interpersonal Relationships. I am a strong believer in the importance of using evidence-based and trauma-informed interventions. I have advanced training in EMDR, CPT, and TF-CBT.
![Photo of Nury Marquez, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/589a3cdc-7eac-47aa-9b2b-8279f8fb14c9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our purpose is to create safe spaces for immigrants & the LGBTQIA+ community.
Immigrant Mental Health Matters! My goal is to support others to find healing and growth using cultural strengths and reconnecting with the self. / ¡La salud mental de los inmigrantes importa! Mi objetivo es apoyar a otros para encontrar sanación y crecimiento utilizando fortalezas culturales y reconectarse con ellos mismos.
Our purpose is to create safe spaces for immigrants & the LGBTQIA+ community.
Immigrant Mental Health Matters! My goal is to support others to find healing and growth using cultural strengths and reconnecting with the self. / ¡La salud mental de los inmigrantes importa! Mi objetivo es apoyar a otros para encontrar sanación y crecimiento utilizando fortalezas culturales y reconectarse con ellos mismos.
![Photo of Jennifer Zimmer, MACC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9553757-fa2f-47d5-8993-f7458e790640/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Zimmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irving, TX 75016 (Online Only)
I am a neurodivergent, queer therapist that works with other diagnosed or suspecting neurodiverse folks with trauma (including religious). The last several years I found myself attracting clients who had been diagnosed with anxiety and or depression, tried many different therapists and styles of therapy but weren't seeing lasting improvements. This has led me to pursue certification in evaluation of ADHD/ ASD and begin treating through a neurodiverse lens. If you suspect you have one or the other or both, lets work together to help you understand yourself. Trauma treatment with a neurodiverse lens is lifechanging!
I am a neurodivergent, queer therapist that works with other diagnosed or suspecting neurodiverse folks with trauma (including religious). The last several years I found myself attracting clients who had been diagnosed with anxiety and or depression, tried many different therapists and styles of therapy but weren't seeing lasting improvements. This has led me to pursue certification in evaluation of ADHD/ ASD and begin treating through a neurodiverse lens. If you suspect you have one or the other or both, lets work together to help you understand yourself. Trauma treatment with a neurodiverse lens is lifechanging!
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![Photo of Taylor Williams - Nourish Wellness | NRSH, LPC, LMFT-A, CMHP, LMSW, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb0b4953-5e09-4f46-9120-b36fa65c8e33/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nourish Wellness | NRSH
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT-A, CMHP, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irving, TX 75014
Our experienced professionals specialize in addressing issues like depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, life transitions, sexuality, family dynamics, and LGBTQ+ concerns.
Is life leaving you feeling emotionally exhausted? Do you find yourself in need of emotional nourishment as you navigate life's challenges? Think of life as a marathon without those crucial water breaks. Well, at Nourish, we're not just here alongside you every step of the way; we're also here to give you the support you need to nurture your inner self.
Our experienced professionals specialize in addressing issues like depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, life transitions, sexuality, family dynamics, and LGBTQ+ concerns.
Is life leaving you feeling emotionally exhausted? Do you find yourself in need of emotional nourishment as you navigate life's challenges? Think of life as a marathon without those crucial water breaks. Well, at Nourish, we're not just here alongside you every step of the way; we're also here to give you the support you need to nurture your inner self.
![Photo of Sam Villarreal, MS, LPC-A, LCDC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8dcc8f7-6e49-4d00-bed2-3abca0c18c62/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I’m Sam! I specialize in working with people who feel lost, have tried many different things, haven't gotten anywhere, and feel like they are the ones that are broken inside. I work with people who've gone through years of relational trauma who feel like their traumas aren't big enough to justify how they feel. Some of the things clients have seen me for are related to trauma/complex trauma, addiction, struggles as a first generation adult, difficulties with their family, and not knowing the why behind their behaviors and responses. I enjoy working with all adults and often see clients with BIPOC and/or LGBTQIA+ identities.
Hi, I’m Sam! I specialize in working with people who feel lost, have tried many different things, haven't gotten anywhere, and feel like they are the ones that are broken inside. I work with people who've gone through years of relational trauma who feel like their traumas aren't big enough to justify how they feel. Some of the things clients have seen me for are related to trauma/complex trauma, addiction, struggles as a first generation adult, difficulties with their family, and not knowing the why behind their behaviors and responses. I enjoy working with all adults and often see clients with BIPOC and/or LGBTQIA+ identities.
![Photo of Chris-James Cognetta, MSIT, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fa88fb8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Chris-James Cognetta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSIT, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75061 (Online Only)
Balancing freedom and constraints in our every day lives leaves many of us with anxiety, depression, health concerns, family issues and work stress. Coping with anxiety, depression, can negatively and significantly affect your ability to live fully and openly. I see clients in all life-stages and their evolution as individuals. I work in both group and in individual settings to ensure that clients have the access to care they need.
Balancing freedom and constraints in our every day lives leaves many of us with anxiety, depression, health concerns, family issues and work stress. Coping with anxiety, depression, can negatively and significantly affect your ability to live fully and openly. I see clients in all life-stages and their evolution as individuals. I work in both group and in individual settings to ensure that clients have the access to care they need.
![Photo of Tyler Turner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23ed6338-9fb5-4c68-a98e-2be17028b89b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tyler Turner is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Human Development and Family Studies and Minor of Addictive Disorders and Recovery Studies at Texas Tech University. Her Master's of Science in Counseling from Southern Methodist University provided her the knowledge and training to become a Licensed Professional Counseling and Nationally Certified Counselor. Tyler is EMDR trained and specializes in working with individuals who are looking to overcome intergenerational trauma as well as high performing individuals.
Tyler Turner is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Human Development and Family Studies and Minor of Addictive Disorders and Recovery Studies at Texas Tech University. Her Master's of Science in Counseling from Southern Methodist University provided her the knowledge and training to become a Licensed Professional Counseling and Nationally Certified Counselor. Tyler is EMDR trained and specializes in working with individuals who are looking to overcome intergenerational trauma as well as high performing individuals.
![Photo of Cortney Ball, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9bf9293-4beb-47dc-b5f9-4e4ac562baca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cortney Ball is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2016. She completed her Undergraduate studies at Ferris State University Major in Psychology with a minor in Communications and her Graduate studies at the University of Detroit Mercy Master of Arts in Counseling. Cortney offers a safe, non-judgmental, and attentive space for processing emotions. She assists in building self-awareness and healthy coping skills. Outside of work, Cortney loves to rollerblade, enjoy time outdoors, attend community events, dance, listen to music, ax throw, read, meet new people, and spend time with her family.
Cortney Ball is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2016. She completed her Undergraduate studies at Ferris State University Major in Psychology with a minor in Communications and her Graduate studies at the University of Detroit Mercy Master of Arts in Counseling. Cortney offers a safe, non-judgmental, and attentive space for processing emotions. She assists in building self-awareness and healthy coping skills. Outside of work, Cortney loves to rollerblade, enjoy time outdoors, attend community events, dance, listen to music, ax throw, read, meet new people, and spend time with her family.
![Photo of Twyla Axelson, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37dad5df-00b1-4d82-bc50-d56dfd9defc5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Twyla works with adults and teens who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety and/or depression as well as those who have experienced abuse, trauma, or unhealthy relationships. She also has experience working with clients in crisis and those with eating disorders. She helps clients who are unhappy with where they are currently to get to a place of healing and wholeness. She works collaboratively with her clients to determine their goals and address root issues. She then customizes her approach to ensure that the client's priorities and goals are central to treatment.
Twyla works with adults and teens who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety and/or depression as well as those who have experienced abuse, trauma, or unhealthy relationships. She also has experience working with clients in crisis and those with eating disorders. She helps clients who are unhappy with where they are currently to get to a place of healing and wholeness. She works collaboratively with her clients to determine their goals and address root issues. She then customizes her approach to ensure that the client's priorities and goals are central to treatment.
![Photo of Antoine Gross Sr, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72618f46-b95a-4790-88d3-d6bd404cef11/1/320x400.jpeg)
Antoine Gross, Sr. is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. As your therapist Antoine will offer a space for you to process your thoughts and feelings in a judgement free zone. He will offer you the ability to navigate the direction and speed of your sessions as you work together to reach to a mutually agreed upon treatment goal. Therapy should be both fun and challenging. Antoine is a firm believer in our ability to overcome any situation with the right help. Antoine believes we have the ability to be great by choice or by chance, and working together will help to be great by choice.
Antoine Gross, Sr. is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2021. As your therapist Antoine will offer a space for you to process your thoughts and feelings in a judgement free zone. He will offer you the ability to navigate the direction and speed of your sessions as you work together to reach to a mutually agreed upon treatment goal. Therapy should be both fun and challenging. Antoine is a firm believer in our ability to overcome any situation with the right help. Antoine believes we have the ability to be great by choice or by chance, and working together will help to be great by choice.
![Photo of Veranda Hillard, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef4183c3-f7c5-4d08-8b4c-e459d347c4c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ready to get un-stuck? You're not alone in dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, low self-esteem as well as mental, career, or relational stress. You could be one of many individuals who consider counseling because they are struggling to find their voice or set boundaries with friends, partners, coworkers, or family members. Or, perhaps you're having difficulty managing one of life's many transitions such as adjusting to college or getting over a breakup. Any of these can act as a halting roadblock, standing in the way of where you are and where you so desperately want to be. Veranda can help.
Ready to get un-stuck? You're not alone in dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, low self-esteem as well as mental, career, or relational stress. You could be one of many individuals who consider counseling because they are struggling to find their voice or set boundaries with friends, partners, coworkers, or family members. Or, perhaps you're having difficulty managing one of life's many transitions such as adjusting to college or getting over a breakup. Any of these can act as a halting roadblock, standing in the way of where you are and where you so desperately want to be. Veranda can help.
![Photo of Janelle Gillis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac7f1be1-13c2-4281-90d7-a4bb9515a1a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Janelle Gillis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master of Social Work from Winthrop University. Mental and emotional fatigue often occurs when a person is "unbalanced" in the different areas of life. Janelle strives to help you find the balance when it feels like life is knocking you off course. Individuals that have worked with Janelle have shared that she gives a non-biased, peace-filled, genuine aura that encourages authenticity.
Janelle Gillis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master of Social Work from Winthrop University. Mental and emotional fatigue often occurs when a person is "unbalanced" in the different areas of life. Janelle strives to help you find the balance when it feels like life is knocking you off course. Individuals that have worked with Janelle have shared that she gives a non-biased, peace-filled, genuine aura that encourages authenticity.
See more therapy options for Irving
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Irving
See More LGBTQ+ TherapistsLGBTQ+ 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.