LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Klein, TX

Photo of M Kirstine Benoit, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
M Kirstine Benoit
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Klein, TX 77379
I have a passion for helping people create, and live their best lives. I believe that each person has the ability to determine what is best for themselves but sometimes that ability needs a facilitator, and that is where I come in. My job is not to tell you what to do, but to listen and together we can come up with your own unique solutions. My passion for helping people led me to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado and a Master's degree in Counseling from the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas. I look forward to helping you live life to its fullest.
I have a passion for helping people create, and live their best lives. I believe that each person has the ability to determine what is best for themselves but sometimes that ability needs a facilitator, and that is where I come in. My job is not to tell you what to do, but to listen and together we can come up with your own unique solutions. My passion for helping people led me to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado and a Master's degree in Counseling from the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas. I look forward to helping you live life to its fullest.
(281) 746-6324 View (281) 746-6324
Photo of Shawn M Keith, MS, LPC-S, CCTP, CGCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shawn M Keith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, CCTP, CGCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Klein, TX 77389
Does it seem like emotions are taking over your life – anxiety, hurt, anger, sadness? Are you struggling with grief, trauma, or other life transitions? Are you noticing relationships are becoming more difficult and problems are surfacing at home, work, or school? Are you turning to coping tools that may help in the moment, but are starting to make things worse overall - drug use, unhealthy relationships, isolation, or other behaviors? Are you losing sight of yourself, the person you want to be, and the strengths you have? If you identify with any of these questions, know you are not alone.
Does it seem like emotions are taking over your life – anxiety, hurt, anger, sadness? Are you struggling with grief, trauma, or other life transitions? Are you noticing relationships are becoming more difficult and problems are surfacing at home, work, or school? Are you turning to coping tools that may help in the moment, but are starting to make things worse overall - drug use, unhealthy relationships, isolation, or other behaviors? Are you losing sight of yourself, the person you want to be, and the strengths you have? If you identify with any of these questions, know you are not alone.
(936) 209-7459 View (936) 209-7459
Photo of Michael C Lucas, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Michael C Lucas
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Klein, TX 77379
I am the ideal therapist for someone who doesn’t think they need therapy. Perhaps wonders if it will even work.. Skeptical Men. Exhausted Women. Socially Challenged Teens. Or even that family or couple that looks incredible from the outside… but inside it’s a completely different story. You may not realize, but studies have shown that the connection and shared energy between therapist and client is the best indicator of likelihood of therapeutic success. If you get a sense that we may be a good fit for each other, lets get you on a path of healing. Let's skip ahead to the part where life starts to get better.
I am the ideal therapist for someone who doesn’t think they need therapy. Perhaps wonders if it will even work.. Skeptical Men. Exhausted Women. Socially Challenged Teens. Or even that family or couple that looks incredible from the outside… but inside it’s a completely different story. You may not realize, but studies have shown that the connection and shared energy between therapist and client is the best indicator of likelihood of therapeutic success. If you get a sense that we may be a good fit for each other, lets get you on a path of healing. Let's skip ahead to the part where life starts to get better.
(832) 664-7840 View (832) 664-7840
Photo of Michelle Byrd, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Byrd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Klein, TX 77379
Whether it's children with big feelings or behaviors they can’t control or teens struggling with sadness, anxiety, or stress, I'm here to help with teaching ways to identify and cope with these emotions. Are you a caregiver of a teen or preteen and feel disconnected and need a way to understand each other? Are you divorced or going through a divorce? My goal is to provide a compassionate and understanding space where we can work together to address concerns, build resilience, and foster positive growth.
Whether it's children with big feelings or behaviors they can’t control or teens struggling with sadness, anxiety, or stress, I'm here to help with teaching ways to identify and cope with these emotions. Are you a caregiver of a teen or preteen and feel disconnected and need a way to understand each other? Are you divorced or going through a divorce? My goal is to provide a compassionate and understanding space where we can work together to address concerns, build resilience, and foster positive growth.
(281) 519-3176 View (281) 519-3176
Photo of Erin E Cominotti, MEd, LPC, NCC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin E Cominotti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Klein, TX 77379
Not accepting new clients
You just want to go one whole day without an issue from your child. One day without a meltdown. One day without an angry outburst of throwing toys and hitting people. One day where no one ends up crying. When you dreamed of having kids one day, you had visions of happy days at the park, and fun evenings over the dinner table, movie nights on the couch, laughter and joy. But lately all it has been calls from the school, behavior outbursts, screaming, yelling, exhaustion, and overwhelming despair. As a parent you are at your wits end. You don’t understand what is going on with your child, it feels like you have tried everything.
You just want to go one whole day without an issue from your child. One day without a meltdown. One day without an angry outburst of throwing toys and hitting people. One day where no one ends up crying. When you dreamed of having kids one day, you had visions of happy days at the park, and fun evenings over the dinner table, movie nights on the couch, laughter and joy. But lately all it has been calls from the school, behavior outbursts, screaming, yelling, exhaustion, and overwhelming despair. As a parent you are at your wits end. You don’t understand what is going on with your child, it feels like you have tried everything.
(281) 524-2598 View (281) 524-2598

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Joseph Heggins, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joseph Heggins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77379  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing compassionate support for individuals facing challenges such as complex PTSD, chronic depression, anxiety accompanied by panic attacks, and navigating the mental health landscape for gay and bisexual men. Additionally, I am dedicated to supporting the mental wellness of Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC), those in recovery, and individuals striving to cultivate fulfilling relationships with friends and family. Take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow with personalized care and understanding.
I specialize in providing compassionate support for individuals facing challenges such as complex PTSD, chronic depression, anxiety accompanied by panic attacks, and navigating the mental health landscape for gay and bisexual men. Additionally, I am dedicated to supporting the mental wellness of Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC), those in recovery, and individuals striving to cultivate fulfilling relationships with friends and family. Take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow with personalized care and understanding.
(281) 502-4825 View (281) 502-4825
Photo of Jerome Javellana, MA, LPC-A, NCC
Jerome Javellana
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77379
I specialize in fostering resilience during crucial developmental stages, providing tools for managing overwhelming emotions, unraveling the root causes of aggression, supporting ADHD challenges, guiding trauma recovery, and offering an affirming space for LGBTQ+ exploration.
Are you ready to empower yourself to conquer life's challenges with resilience and confidence? I'm Jerome, a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate specializing in the emotional well-being of parents, children, and young adults. With a focus on understanding the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, my approach empowers clients to break free from negative cycles and develop practical strategies. I understand the profound challenges individuals face when navigating the complexities of their difficult emotions. It can be overwhelming, and I am here to guide you through these moments in a safe environment.
I specialize in fostering resilience during crucial developmental stages, providing tools for managing overwhelming emotions, unraveling the root causes of aggression, supporting ADHD challenges, guiding trauma recovery, and offering an affirming space for LGBTQ+ exploration.
Are you ready to empower yourself to conquer life's challenges with resilience and confidence? I'm Jerome, a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate specializing in the emotional well-being of parents, children, and young adults. With a focus on understanding the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, my approach empowers clients to break free from negative cycles and develop practical strategies. I understand the profound challenges individuals face when navigating the complexities of their difficult emotions. It can be overwhelming, and I am here to guide you through these moments in a safe environment.
(281) 248-8587 View (281) 248-8587
Photo of Katie Biggs, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate
Katie Biggs
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77379
I'm especially passionate about working with LGBT+ clients and offering gender-affirming care!.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Having trouble coping with life stressors or finding your identity? Ready to take the first step of finding support on your journey to better mental health? As a clinician, I am passionate about meeting you where you are and helping you discover your most authentic self. While prioritizing a positive therapeutic relationship, I use an eclectic approach to tailor treatment to your unique needs. I want you to feel understood and valued while we collaborate to develop the tools needed to cope with your challenges, set healthy boundaries, and increase your quality of life.
I'm especially passionate about working with LGBT+ clients and offering gender-affirming care!.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Having trouble coping with life stressors or finding your identity? Ready to take the first step of finding support on your journey to better mental health? As a clinician, I am passionate about meeting you where you are and helping you discover your most authentic self. While prioritizing a positive therapeutic relationship, I use an eclectic approach to tailor treatment to your unique needs. I want you to feel understood and valued while we collaborate to develop the tools needed to cope with your challenges, set healthy boundaries, and increase your quality of life.
(936) 289-3113 View (936) 289-3113
Photo of Natalie Branda, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natalie Branda
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77379  (Online Only)
Natalie Branda is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 5 years of experience in mental health. She specializes in providing personalized support to individuals facing a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, addiction, food and body issues, self-esteem, interpersonal issues, life challenges and transitions, behavioral issues, trauma, life challenges, and transitions. Natalie tailors her approach to suit each individual's needs and experiences. She is passionate about providing safe and inclusive care to all and has extensive experience supporting the LGBTQIA+ community and gender-affirming care.
Natalie Branda is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 5 years of experience in mental health. She specializes in providing personalized support to individuals facing a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, addiction, food and body issues, self-esteem, interpersonal issues, life challenges and transitions, behavioral issues, trauma, life challenges, and transitions. Natalie tailors her approach to suit each individual's needs and experiences. She is passionate about providing safe and inclusive care to all and has extensive experience supporting the LGBTQIA+ community and gender-affirming care.
(936) 251-6070 View (936) 251-6070
Photo of Vy Nguyen, MA, LPCA
Vy Nguyen
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77389
Utilizing your own strengths and resources (some that you are not even aware of!), we will establish a gameplan toward your transformation! I also incorporate other holistic approaches such as mindfulness practices/meditation, Vagus Nerve Stimulation, neuroscience hack and inner child healing work.
As a veteran and an LGBTQ+ member, I know the struggles that come with being underrepresented in society. If you feel like stress, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, or life circumstances are hindering you from living your best life, do not hesitate to reach out. I welcome all clients who are ready for a change. With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master's of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, I utilize evidence-based practice and out-of-the-box thinking to help you with your mental health goals. If you have been having issues with procrastination and taking consistent actions, this is your sign to break free!
Utilizing your own strengths and resources (some that you are not even aware of!), we will establish a gameplan toward your transformation! I also incorporate other holistic approaches such as mindfulness practices/meditation, Vagus Nerve Stimulation, neuroscience hack and inner child healing work.
As a veteran and an LGBTQ+ member, I know the struggles that come with being underrepresented in society. If you feel like stress, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, or life circumstances are hindering you from living your best life, do not hesitate to reach out. I welcome all clients who are ready for a change. With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master's of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, I utilize evidence-based practice and out-of-the-box thinking to help you with your mental health goals. If you have been having issues with procrastination and taking consistent actions, this is your sign to break free!
(346) 633-4179 View (346) 633-4179
Photo of Ashley Sulola Harris, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Sulola Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77379
Welcome to The Ash Tree, a space I curated for the mental well-being of the whole person. I celebrate individuality and honor the spectrum of neurodiversity. My approach is rooted in empathy, professionalism, and personalization, enabling me to understand and respect the unique journeys of those I serve. I warmly welcome everyone, including neurodiverse individuals, the LGBTQ+ community, people of color, those embracing nontraditional spiritual beliefs, and self-identified loners.
Welcome to The Ash Tree, a space I curated for the mental well-being of the whole person. I celebrate individuality and honor the spectrum of neurodiversity. My approach is rooted in empathy, professionalism, and personalization, enabling me to understand and respect the unique journeys of those I serve. I warmly welcome everyone, including neurodiverse individuals, the LGBTQ+ community, people of color, those embracing nontraditional spiritual beliefs, and self-identified loners.
(281) 809-9538 View (281) 809-9538
Photo of Linda Nadler, LPC, MA, MEd, CCTP, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda Nadler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, MEd, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77389  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a client-centered and solution-focused CBT therapist. I help people who live with ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and low self-esteem learn coping strategies and life skills to build their resilience and sense of peace. I use evidence-based interventions grounded in compassion and acceptance to foster self-awareness, empowerment, and confidence. I have a special interest in improving relationships and working with parents of transgender youth.
Welcome! I am a client-centered and solution-focused CBT therapist. I help people who live with ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and low self-esteem learn coping strategies and life skills to build their resilience and sense of peace. I use evidence-based interventions grounded in compassion and acceptance to foster self-awareness, empowerment, and confidence. I have a special interest in improving relationships and working with parents of transgender youth.
(281) 609-7563 View (281) 609-7563
Photo of Tiffany Huddleston, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Huddleston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77379  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 18 years in the field of Behavioral Health. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who are interested in improving their relationships with themselves and others. I have significant experience in the following areas: Grief/Loss/Bereavement; Anxiety/Depression; Trauma/PTSD; Coping with Cancer; Substance Use/Addiction; Relationship Challenges; Health-related Issues ( i.e. chronic pain and illness); Caregiving; Adjusting to Life Transitions (i.e. marriage/divorce, move, career/job); Spirituality/Wellness/Mindfulness/Meditation; LGBTQ; Group Therapy, and Yoga Therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 18 years in the field of Behavioral Health. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who are interested in improving their relationships with themselves and others. I have significant experience in the following areas: Grief/Loss/Bereavement; Anxiety/Depression; Trauma/PTSD; Coping with Cancer; Substance Use/Addiction; Relationship Challenges; Health-related Issues ( i.e. chronic pain and illness); Caregiving; Adjusting to Life Transitions (i.e. marriage/divorce, move, career/job); Spirituality/Wellness/Mindfulness/Meditation; LGBTQ; Group Therapy, and Yoga Therapy.
(469) 529-6396 View (469) 529-6396
Photo of Mikayla Williams - Mindful Movements Counseling Center, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mindful Movements Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77379
I'm Mikayla, and I am the founder of MMCC. We know it's hard to be vulnerable with a new person, not knowing how they’ll react to what you tell them. As your counselor, our role is to meet you where you’re at, take your hand, and walk with you at your own pace. We are passionate for holistic, mindful mental health counseling for kids, teens, couples, and adults in areas including trauma, DV and sexual assault, grief, faith-based counseling, anxiety, depression, codependency, self-esteem, identity, self-harming behaviors, relationships, parenting, and more. With 11 counselors on our team, we aim to have a counselor for everyone.
I'm Mikayla, and I am the founder of MMCC. We know it's hard to be vulnerable with a new person, not knowing how they’ll react to what you tell them. As your counselor, our role is to meet you where you’re at, take your hand, and walk with you at your own pace. We are passionate for holistic, mindful mental health counseling for kids, teens, couples, and adults in areas including trauma, DV and sexual assault, grief, faith-based counseling, anxiety, depression, codependency, self-esteem, identity, self-harming behaviors, relationships, parenting, and more. With 11 counselors on our team, we aim to have a counselor for everyone.
(713) 804-4955 View (713) 804-4955
Photo of Amanda Koenig-Reed, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Koenig-Reed
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77379
Looking for a helping hand? I work with children, adolescents and adults in an individual, family or group setting. My specialties include anxiety, perfectionism, self-harm, couples counseling, divorce, relational problems, women’s issues, teen and young adult concerns, sudden life changes/adjustment issues, low self-esteem, trauma, and family/peer relationship issues. I offer a safe, comfortable and confidential space for our work together. My goal is to help families and individuals to create lasting positive change through an accessible, trusting therapeutic relationship. I hope you'll visit my website at bewelloftexas.com.
Looking for a helping hand? I work with children, adolescents and adults in an individual, family or group setting. My specialties include anxiety, perfectionism, self-harm, couples counseling, divorce, relational problems, women’s issues, teen and young adult concerns, sudden life changes/adjustment issues, low self-esteem, trauma, and family/peer relationship issues. I offer a safe, comfortable and confidential space for our work together. My goal is to help families and individuals to create lasting positive change through an accessible, trusting therapeutic relationship. I hope you'll visit my website at bewelloftexas.com.
(713) 804-8782 View (713) 804-8782
Photo of Irena Milentijevic, PsyD, Psychologist
Irena Milentijevic
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77389
Are you having problems in your relationship? With over 25 years of experience, I am here to help. As a certified Emotion Focused Couples Therapist (EFT), I can guide you through rebuilding trust, clear communication, and restoring intimacy. If you've tried to improve your relationship on your own without success and feel discouraged, know that you’re not alone. Couples therapy can help overcome these frustrations. EFT, a research-proven approach effective with 70-75% of couples, addresses long-term conflicts, restores physical intimacy, and repairs damage from affairs and trauma. I also specialize in helping couples navigate reprod
Are you having problems in your relationship? With over 25 years of experience, I am here to help. As a certified Emotion Focused Couples Therapist (EFT), I can guide you through rebuilding trust, clear communication, and restoring intimacy. If you've tried to improve your relationship on your own without success and feel discouraged, know that you’re not alone. Couples therapy can help overcome these frustrations. EFT, a research-proven approach effective with 70-75% of couples, addresses long-term conflicts, restores physical intimacy, and repairs damage from affairs and trauma. I also specialize in helping couples navigate reprod
(281) 901-1121 View (281) 901-1121
Photo of Mary Frank, MA, LPC, CST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Frank
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77389
Arguments with your partner are becoming more and more frequent. The honeymoon phase is long gone. And let's face it, your sex life has been mediocre at best. Even the thought of intimacy leads to anxiety and frustration. You find yourself questioning, "Is there something wrong with me?" ... "I should enjoy sex more." ... "I won't be able to please my partner". Physical intimacy has become a trigger for you, and avoidance has only added to the disconnect between you and your partner. The enthusiasm and luster for sex has faded.
Arguments with your partner are becoming more and more frequent. The honeymoon phase is long gone. And let's face it, your sex life has been mediocre at best. Even the thought of intimacy leads to anxiety and frustration. You find yourself questioning, "Is there something wrong with me?" ... "I should enjoy sex more." ... "I won't be able to please my partner". Physical intimacy has become a trigger for you, and avoidance has only added to the disconnect between you and your partner. The enthusiasm and luster for sex has faded.
(281) 882-3657 View (281) 882-3657
Photo of Kellie Gallegos, LCSW, CCTP-1, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kellie Gallegos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-1
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77379
I believe that each person is created with uniqueness, talents and strengths to do amazing things in this life. But life is hard and at times there are barriers that prevent us from being our best selves. I bet it took a lot of courage to reach out to ask for help. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, hopelessness, loneliness, or a difficult relationship I can help. I am passionate about guiding women past their stress, shame and insecurities to find their unique self and return to joy. I will give you compassionate support and together we will walk this journey to find hope and celebrate your story.
I believe that each person is created with uniqueness, talents and strengths to do amazing things in this life. But life is hard and at times there are barriers that prevent us from being our best selves. I bet it took a lot of courage to reach out to ask for help. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, hopelessness, loneliness, or a difficult relationship I can help. I am passionate about guiding women past their stress, shame and insecurities to find their unique self and return to joy. I will give you compassionate support and together we will walk this journey to find hope and celebrate your story.
(281) 609-3127 View (281) 609-3127
Photo of Destiny Anderson, MEd, LPC-A
Destiny Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77379
You avoid being around family members because they didn’t protect you the way they were supposed to when you were a child. The emotional and physical abuse weigh so heavy, that you carry the baggage every day. Maybe you were abandoned or neglected by your parents and were responsible for raising yourself and your siblings. Now, you’re an adult…and you are struggling in your intimate, social, and work relationships because of the trauma you’ve experienced. Do you find yourself in a toxic/abusive situation that reminds you of what you witnessed at a younger age? Uncertain how to resolve conflict? Maybe the fear of abandonment?
You avoid being around family members because they didn’t protect you the way they were supposed to when you were a child. The emotional and physical abuse weigh so heavy, that you carry the baggage every day. Maybe you were abandoned or neglected by your parents and were responsible for raising yourself and your siblings. Now, you’re an adult…and you are struggling in your intimate, social, and work relationships because of the trauma you’ve experienced. Do you find yourself in a toxic/abusive situation that reminds you of what you witnessed at a younger age? Uncertain how to resolve conflict? Maybe the fear of abandonment?
(281) 214-6048 View (281) 214-6048
Photo of Meredith Golden, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Golden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77389  (Online Only)
Creating Connections is a culturally sensitive practice and our therapists are passionate about helping to foster the healing process of those in need. Meredith uses a therapeutic approach to work with you as a partner to help you achieve your goals and make your relationships stronger. She is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Texas with a diverse background working with adults suffering from acute and chronic mental health disorders, the geriatric population and others with chronic medical conditions, as well as clients in crisis or having difficulty coping with stressful changes in their lives.
Creating Connections is a culturally sensitive practice and our therapists are passionate about helping to foster the healing process of those in need. Meredith uses a therapeutic approach to work with you as a partner to help you achieve your goals and make your relationships stronger. She is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Texas with a diverse background working with adults suffering from acute and chronic mental health disorders, the geriatric population and others with chronic medical conditions, as well as clients in crisis or having difficulty coping with stressful changes in their lives.
(281) 524-2512 View (281) 524-2512

See more therapy options for Klein

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.