LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Waller, TX
![Photo of Jennifer Uherek, LCSW, DCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4815e495-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist with 25+ years of experience helping individuals, couples and families experience positive life change. I treat a wide variety of issues, and hold a special place in my heart for those with deeply rooted pain and injuries from childhood trauma and or sexual abuse and am honored to share in the healing journey as we learn not just to survive, but to thrive! Some of the other issues I treat include Dissociative disorders, codependency, Attachment issues, Behavioral issues, Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Impulsivity, Divorce, Grief, Sexuality/gender related issues, self-esteem.
I am a Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist with 25+ years of experience helping individuals, couples and families experience positive life change. I treat a wide variety of issues, and hold a special place in my heart for those with deeply rooted pain and injuries from childhood trauma and or sexual abuse and am honored to share in the healing journey as we learn not just to survive, but to thrive! Some of the other issues I treat include Dissociative disorders, codependency, Attachment issues, Behavioral issues, Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Impulsivity, Divorce, Grief, Sexuality/gender related issues, self-esteem.
![Photo of Amber D. Morton, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/829601d5-1e6e-4d25-85db-342fd82e1e52/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you are feeling stuck, unsure of why you are feeling what you are feeling, or don't know what to do next, counseling is a wonderful place to start. We all deserve to find and experience joy in our lives, and this looks different for everyone. Whether you are overwhelmed and burned out by work, school, or life in general, or finding it difficult to cope with life's many challenges, you do not have to go through it alone.
If you are feeling stuck, unsure of why you are feeling what you are feeling, or don't know what to do next, counseling is a wonderful place to start. We all deserve to find and experience joy in our lives, and this looks different for everyone. Whether you are overwhelmed and burned out by work, school, or life in general, or finding it difficult to cope with life's many challenges, you do not have to go through it alone.
![Photo of Amelia Johnson, MS, LPC, NCC, ADHD-, CCSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/852ec158-280e-47e9-8cb5-c78107c3f74b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amelia Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, ADHD-, CCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waller, TX 77484
Do you feel like you've been trying on your own to improve or you simply do not even know where to start? Maybe you feel that it would help to talk with someone that is not part of your friends/family circles? It can feel overwhelming when your problems seem too big to figure out on your own. In counseling, you have a space to freely and openly discuss difficult topics and sort out and process all of life's difficult issues and come out feeling empowered and at peace.
Do you feel like you've been trying on your own to improve or you simply do not even know where to start? Maybe you feel that it would help to talk with someone that is not part of your friends/family circles? It can feel overwhelming when your problems seem too big to figure out on your own. In counseling, you have a space to freely and openly discuss difficult topics and sort out and process all of life's difficult issues and come out feeling empowered and at peace.
![Photo of Valerie Ortega, MS, LPC, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93c4b651-729d-426f-83e9-21dc2f568ebf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Valerie Ortega
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waller, TX 77484
Life can be hard and sometimes have some twists and turns that weren't planned. Maybe you just found out that having a child the way you envision is not going to happen. Or maybe you feel alone and sad with this new baby in your home, almost like you don't know who you are anymore. I understand that taking the first step to come to a therapy session can be nerve wracking and uncomfortable since you don't know me yet, but I hope that in time you can feel that this is a safe space for you to open up and share.
Life can be hard and sometimes have some twists and turns that weren't planned. Maybe you just found out that having a child the way you envision is not going to happen. Or maybe you feel alone and sad with this new baby in your home, almost like you don't know who you are anymore. I understand that taking the first step to come to a therapy session can be nerve wracking and uncomfortable since you don't know me yet, but I hope that in time you can feel that this is a safe space for you to open up and share.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Nicole Bankhead - Serenity Wellness and Counseling Center, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04b68a72-cc5f-42ec-b6bf-904598ed83b6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you or your loved ones struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD or trauma? Have you ever said, "I can't find relief," "My child can't focus," "My teen feels lost," or "Our family is falling apart"? These are common experiences among our clients. Whether it's you, your child, or your teen facing these challenges, there's still hope. Our mission is to provide quality care that truly changes lives, helping people rediscover joy and vitality. We take a holistic approach, using comprehensive assessments and advanced interventions to deeply understand and address the root causes of your concerns. Call us today!
Do you or your loved ones struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD or trauma? Have you ever said, "I can't find relief," "My child can't focus," "My teen feels lost," or "Our family is falling apart"? These are common experiences among our clients. Whether it's you, your child, or your teen facing these challenges, there's still hope. Our mission is to provide quality care that truly changes lives, helping people rediscover joy and vitality. We take a holistic approach, using comprehensive assessments and advanced interventions to deeply understand and address the root causes of your concerns. Call us today!
![Photo of Halimah Adarra Hargett, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe57402d-0def-4c67-a48e-1158860217ae/4/320x400.jpeg)
Halimah Adarra Hargett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Prairie View, TX 77446 (Online Only)
We're supposed to drink enough water, get enough sleep, exercise, save money, make money, work hard while having work/life balance, be a great spouse/parent/sibling/child, travel more...the list is endless. We are taught to engage life at a grueling and intense pace that is becoming increasingly difficult in the backdrop of a tumultuous world in crisis. I don't view mental health in a vacuum; sometimes depression and anxiety are appropriate and healthy responses to stressful and unprecedented life events. I teach solution-oriented skills to address feelings, improve communication and live in a healthy way that honors your humanity.
We're supposed to drink enough water, get enough sleep, exercise, save money, make money, work hard while having work/life balance, be a great spouse/parent/sibling/child, travel more...the list is endless. We are taught to engage life at a grueling and intense pace that is becoming increasingly difficult in the backdrop of a tumultuous world in crisis. I don't view mental health in a vacuum; sometimes depression and anxiety are appropriate and healthy responses to stressful and unprecedented life events. I teach solution-oriented skills to address feelings, improve communication and live in a healthy way that honors your humanity.
![Photo of Nicole Bankhead, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5936615c-87d1-49cd-a257-5dcba1fc32a4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Bankhead
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hockley, TX 77447
Are you feeling overwhelmed by persistent anxiety or grappling with treatment-resistant depression? Do past traumas still haunt your daily life or affect your teenager's well-being? If phrases like "I can't get past this," "Nothing seems to help," or "Why can't I just feel normal?" resonate with you, you're not alone. My practice focuses on children, teens, and adults who face these deep-seated challenges. With a compassionate and tailored approach, I aim to unearth underlying issues and foster lasting healing. Reach out today for a free consultation and start your journey towards recovery.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by persistent anxiety or grappling with treatment-resistant depression? Do past traumas still haunt your daily life or affect your teenager's well-being? If phrases like "I can't get past this," "Nothing seems to help," or "Why can't I just feel normal?" resonate with you, you're not alone. My practice focuses on children, teens, and adults who face these deep-seated challenges. With a compassionate and tailored approach, I aim to unearth underlying issues and foster lasting healing. Reach out today for a free consultation and start your journey towards recovery.
![Photo of Ingrid Deras, MS, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d854cbe2-d7a4-4757-883f-bdcd72a4bb62/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ingrid Deras
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hockley, TX 77447 (Online Only)
Welcome! Life's journey can be full of unexpected challenges that leave us feeling anxious or overwhelmed. If you're seeking support and a safe space to explore these emotions and experiences, you're in the right place. My approach is built on empathy, understanding, and collaboration. With experience across diverse backgrounds, I tailor our process to meet your unique needs and outcomes. Together, we'll cultivate resilience, find clarity, and foster meaningful connections.
Welcome! Life's journey can be full of unexpected challenges that leave us feeling anxious or overwhelmed. If you're seeking support and a safe space to explore these emotions and experiences, you're in the right place. My approach is built on empathy, understanding, and collaboration. With experience across diverse backgrounds, I tailor our process to meet your unique needs and outcomes. Together, we'll cultivate resilience, find clarity, and foster meaningful connections.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Anna De Filippi, MS, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3186dc27-2162-4e01-9f99-f6c9d50d04b1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anna De Filippi
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77063
Hello! My name is Anna. I clinically specialize in anxiety, particularly in young professionals, creatives and college students. Before becoming a psychotherapist, I worked in the arts – so I particularly understand the demands of this industry. My experience also includes LGBTQ+, activist, academic, and expat communities. Although I do not take insurance, I am sliding-scale. I will work with you to agree on a manageable session fee and frequency. I am a member of the Lacanian Compass and Climate Psychology Alliance.
Hello! My name is Anna. I clinically specialize in anxiety, particularly in young professionals, creatives and college students. Before becoming a psychotherapist, I worked in the arts – so I particularly understand the demands of this industry. My experience also includes LGBTQ+, activist, academic, and expat communities. Although I do not take insurance, I am sliding-scale. I will work with you to agree on a manageable session fee and frequency. I am a member of the Lacanian Compass and Climate Psychology Alliance.
![Photo of Kiana Shelton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72afee3c-f278-4233-89a0-49eeea8f2cc7/2/320x400.jpeg)
In addition, she also provides gender-affirming mental health care to those who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Kiana has over 12 years of experience working with adults. Using person-centered and trauma-informed modalities, Kiana helps patients navigate major life transitions, including birth, adoption, grief, and loss.
In addition, she also provides gender-affirming mental health care to those who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Kiana has over 12 years of experience working with adults. Using person-centered and trauma-informed modalities, Kiana helps patients navigate major life transitions, including birth, adoption, grief, and loss.
![Photo of Antoinette D Winters, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/560e8839-7e69-4c61-bc75-b12076a38ff6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Antoinette D Winters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77027 (Online Only)
I am very gifted in making authentic connections with any population I work with. I have worked with a diverse group of clientele such as work with foster children suffering from mental health issues. Including bipolar, reactive attachment, anxiety and depression. I also have an extensive history working with adults who suffer from PTSD, complex childhood trauma, and severe anxiety and depression. Furthermore, I love working with the LGBTQ community in addressing issues sensitive to their needs such as increasing gender identity issues, body dysmorphia, and eating disorders.
I am very gifted in making authentic connections with any population I work with. I have worked with a diverse group of clientele such as work with foster children suffering from mental health issues. Including bipolar, reactive attachment, anxiety and depression. I also have an extensive history working with adults who suffer from PTSD, complex childhood trauma, and severe anxiety and depression. Furthermore, I love working with the LGBTQ community in addressing issues sensitive to their needs such as increasing gender identity issues, body dysmorphia, and eating disorders.
![Photo of Lindsey Obert, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24dc8b2c-d0a1-480a-8459-b1440ea37b96/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with individuals dealing with life changes, emotional stressors, hindrances due to mental health, and LGBTQ related issues.
If you’ve found yourself struggling with emotional health setbacks, please allow me to congratulate you on making it this far. Your journey towards participating in therapy says you are committing yourself to making a real life change. My session goals are to make you feel safe in a judgement free environment. Here, you are free to explore and express what is preventing you from living your life to its utmost potential and uncover what is hindering you from contentment.
I specialize in working with individuals dealing with life changes, emotional stressors, hindrances due to mental health, and LGBTQ related issues.
If you’ve found yourself struggling with emotional health setbacks, please allow me to congratulate you on making it this far. Your journey towards participating in therapy says you are committing yourself to making a real life change. My session goals are to make you feel safe in a judgement free environment. Here, you are free to explore and express what is preventing you from living your life to its utmost potential and uncover what is hindering you from contentment.
![Photo of Devaney R. Knight, MA, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4250f34-2468-473d-b70a-ad75b3632da3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Devaney R. Knight
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77006
I specialize with LGBTQ+ adults of color from dysfunctional families.
I see you. You're here because something isn't working. You know it is time to do the work of addressing current challenges so you can move through this chapter of life in a healthier way that honors you. Working up the nerve to go to therapy can feel like a overwhelming process, but it doesn't have to be. While there may be some anxiety-provoking aspects of working with me for the first time (or any therapist for that matter), you don't have to do it alone. You can bring ALL of who you are to our work together, and you've come to the right place!
I specialize with LGBTQ+ adults of color from dysfunctional families.
I see you. You're here because something isn't working. You know it is time to do the work of addressing current challenges so you can move through this chapter of life in a healthier way that honors you. Working up the nerve to go to therapy can feel like a overwhelming process, but it doesn't have to be. While there may be some anxiety-provoking aspects of working with me for the first time (or any therapist for that matter), you don't have to do it alone. You can bring ALL of who you are to our work together, and you've come to the right place!
![Photo of Jasmyne King, MSW, QMHP, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a93d6753-a051-42d2-b8dc-99f2cf2a0f30/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach is especially sensitive to the unique challenges faced by people of color and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Congratulations on Trusting the Process & taking the leap into the journey towards your best self. Life can often be overwhelming, particularly for those grappling with anxiety, trauma, and racially based challenges. These struggles can manifest in various ways, such as persistent worry, flashbacks, a constant sense of being on edge, and feelings of isolation. It's essential to understand that the healing process is a journey, not a destination. Together, we will work through these pain points, fostering resilience and personal growth every step of the way.
My approach is especially sensitive to the unique challenges faced by people of color and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Congratulations on Trusting the Process & taking the leap into the journey towards your best self. Life can often be overwhelming, particularly for those grappling with anxiety, trauma, and racially based challenges. These struggles can manifest in various ways, such as persistent worry, flashbacks, a constant sense of being on edge, and feelings of isolation. It's essential to understand that the healing process is a journey, not a destination. Together, we will work through these pain points, fostering resilience and personal growth every step of the way.
![Photo of Tonya M Boyd, MSc, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b139ed2-5b1c-4276-9b16-9dbea0ddca61/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tonya M Boyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77007 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community, anxiety, attachment, and stress.
We all deserve to feel at home and safe in our bodies and minds, and it’s my passion to help others find this place. Are you in need of affordable and flexible counseling? Do you feel stressed, overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated with life? Are you seeking support, guidance, and understanding? Do you feel you have little support, and no one to talk to or listen? Are you seeking self-empowerment? Are you seeking to overcome life’s challenges and reach your personal goals? You came to the right profile. Here at Ellie Mental Heath, we accept self-pay and insurance. Hit me up to schedule your appointment.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community, anxiety, attachment, and stress.
We all deserve to feel at home and safe in our bodies and minds, and it’s my passion to help others find this place. Are you in need of affordable and flexible counseling? Do you feel stressed, overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated with life? Are you seeking support, guidance, and understanding? Do you feel you have little support, and no one to talk to or listen? Are you seeking self-empowerment? Are you seeking to overcome life’s challenges and reach your personal goals? You came to the right profile. Here at Ellie Mental Heath, we accept self-pay and insurance. Hit me up to schedule your appointment.
![Photo of Laura Lynch, MA, LPC, RPT™, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1f282f3-2f50-486c-9294-a6af308349a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Lynch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT™
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77038
Laura Works With: Children, teens and young adults (ages 5 and up) Parents/caregivers and families LGBTQ+ identities Neurodivergence Affirming Laura Specializes In: Play Therapy Motivational Interviewing CBT/CBT trauma reprocessing Mindfulness and Sensory integration Anxiety disorders.
Life is full of so many different kinds of stress and unknowns, emotions can be confusing, and thoughts can be scary. The world can often feel unsafe which can lead to us feeling burnt out, disconnected, insecure, anxious, angry, or even at times, hopeless. Learning how to regulate your body, thoughts and emotions will help you navigate stress more effectively and feel more safe and connected. My aim is to guide you to a better understanding of yourself and of the world so you can feel more connected, understood and confident in supporting yourself through life’s struggles.
Laura Works With: Children, teens and young adults (ages 5 and up) Parents/caregivers and families LGBTQ+ identities Neurodivergence Affirming Laura Specializes In: Play Therapy Motivational Interviewing CBT/CBT trauma reprocessing Mindfulness and Sensory integration Anxiety disorders.
Life is full of so many different kinds of stress and unknowns, emotions can be confusing, and thoughts can be scary. The world can often feel unsafe which can lead to us feeling burnt out, disconnected, insecure, anxious, angry, or even at times, hopeless. Learning how to regulate your body, thoughts and emotions will help you navigate stress more effectively and feel more safe and connected. My aim is to guide you to a better understanding of yourself and of the world so you can feel more connected, understood and confident in supporting yourself through life’s struggles.
![Photo of Stephanie B Brandt, LPC-AT, LMFT, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb317d70-5584-4055-879c-9a45869f31dc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie B Brandt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-AT, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77079
I see adults over 23 and specialize in trauma, addictions, grief work, group, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and LGBTQ+. I deal with the whole person and believe a healthy person takes care of their mind and body. I love working with and helping clients become the best they can be psychologically, creatively, physically, and spiritually. I regularly participate in CEUs so I can continue to learn and grow and pass on my learning. I have been a therapist for over 40 years. I am a Board-Certified Art Therapist, Certified Group Psychotherapist and a Certified Brainspotting therapist.
I see adults over 23 and specialize in trauma, addictions, grief work, group, life transitions, depression, anxiety, and LGBTQ+. I deal with the whole person and believe a healthy person takes care of their mind and body. I love working with and helping clients become the best they can be psychologically, creatively, physically, and spiritually. I regularly participate in CEUs so I can continue to learn and grow and pass on my learning. I have been a therapist for over 40 years. I am a Board-Certified Art Therapist, Certified Group Psychotherapist and a Certified Brainspotting therapist.
![Photo of Dr. Luke R Allen, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10cf3675-6e67-4dd8-ad35-546dcc56f131/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
![Photo of Aimee Olivarez Warren, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2dbca3f-df99-45bb-903e-546f72dff5cb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aimee Olivarez Warren
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77098 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor who has enjoyed working with people of all ages for the past 10 + years. I have years of experience working with Law Enforcement agencies. I am truly passionate about working with couples (including polyamorous and ENM), women's issues, parenting, and life transitions. I enjoy and have experience using different therapies to individualize the needs and goals of my clients. I am passionate about mental health and believe in working with our mind, body, and spirit to help clients reach their goals. I am a body and sex-positive and LGBTQ ally.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor who has enjoyed working with people of all ages for the past 10 + years. I have years of experience working with Law Enforcement agencies. I am truly passionate about working with couples (including polyamorous and ENM), women's issues, parenting, and life transitions. I enjoy and have experience using different therapies to individualize the needs and goals of my clients. I am passionate about mental health and believe in working with our mind, body, and spirit to help clients reach their goals. I am a body and sex-positive and LGBTQ ally.
![Photo of Karen L Everson, MA, LPC, RPT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/465de475-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a play therapist, and an LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapist as well. I have a Master of Arts degree in Professional Counseling, from Amberton University, and also attended Abilene Christian University and New York University. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I'm a Person-Centered Counselor who sees clients of all ages, starting as early as 3 years old.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a play therapist, and an LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapist as well. I have a Master of Arts degree in Professional Counseling, from Amberton University, and also attended Abilene Christian University and New York University. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I'm a Person-Centered Counselor who sees clients of all ages, starting as early as 3 years old.
See more therapy options for Waller
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Waller
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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.