Photo of Jonah Finch, CMHC, NCC, CCMHC, Counselor
Jonah Finch
Counselor, CMHC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sandy, UT 84070
I specialize in trauma, gender dysphoria, anxiety, depression, OCD, and low self-esteem.
Life can be challenging and can sometimes get in the way of our happiness. This can lead to problems that can be difficult to work through on our own. I work with clients to resolve these problems by utilizing their strengths and resources. I also provide different perspectives and therapeutic modalities to achieve each client’s individualized goals. I am a trans-man and I have a lot of experience with people who are part of the transgender/gender non-conforming community. I am very familiar with the steps to get surgery as well as what recovery for surgery looks like. I am also well versed in letters for gender affirming surgeries.
I specialize in trauma, gender dysphoria, anxiety, depression, OCD, and low self-esteem.
Life can be challenging and can sometimes get in the way of our happiness. This can lead to problems that can be difficult to work through on our own. I work with clients to resolve these problems by utilizing their strengths and resources. I also provide different perspectives and therapeutic modalities to achieve each client’s individualized goals. I am a trans-man and I have a lot of experience with people who are part of the transgender/gender non-conforming community. I am very familiar with the steps to get surgery as well as what recovery for surgery looks like. I am also well versed in letters for gender affirming surgeries.
(801) 981-5490 View (801) 981-5490
Photo of Dr. Lauren Smithee, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Lauren Smithee
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84119  (Online Only)
I've had years of training in the WPATH Standards of Care and experience with relationship challenges, identity exploration, coping with gender dysphoria, and microaggressions.
Do you need a relationship expert who can help you and your partner feel closer, work through conflict, and communicate better? Are you looking for a queer therapist who's LGBTQ+ affirming and knows the ins and outs of working with queer clients? Are you stuck in old patterns and need help working towards attachment security, self-compassion, coping skills, and empowerment? As a licensed, PhD-level therapist, I have years of experience working with couples, individuals, and families across diverse backgrounds to overcome challenges. Providing compassionate, affirming therapy is important to me personally and professionally.
I've had years of training in the WPATH Standards of Care and experience with relationship challenges, identity exploration, coping with gender dysphoria, and microaggressions.
Do you need a relationship expert who can help you and your partner feel closer, work through conflict, and communicate better? Are you looking for a queer therapist who's LGBTQ+ affirming and knows the ins and outs of working with queer clients? Are you stuck in old patterns and need help working towards attachment security, self-compassion, coping skills, and empowerment? As a licensed, PhD-level therapist, I have years of experience working with couples, individuals, and families across diverse backgrounds to overcome challenges. Providing compassionate, affirming therapy is important to me personally and professionally.
(801) 754-4652 View (801) 754-4652
Photo of Marie Harris, MS, CMHC, LPC, Counselor
Marie Harris
Counselor, MS, CMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84105  (Online Only)
I offer virtual therapy for people suffering with symptoms of trauma, major depression, severe anxiety, ADHD, autism, grief, intellectual disabilities, behavioral disorders, women’s issues, men’s issues, relationship, marital, parenting issues, divorce, as well as phase of life transitions. I have also worked with victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and individuals and families dealing with substance abuse/addiction issues. I am very comfortable with people of all gender identities, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, queer, intersex, asexual, pansexual, and Allies (LGBTQIA+).
I offer virtual therapy for people suffering with symptoms of trauma, major depression, severe anxiety, ADHD, autism, grief, intellectual disabilities, behavioral disorders, women’s issues, men’s issues, relationship, marital, parenting issues, divorce, as well as phase of life transitions. I have also worked with victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and individuals and families dealing with substance abuse/addiction issues. I am very comfortable with people of all gender identities, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, queer, intersex, asexual, pansexual, and Allies (LGBTQIA+).
(928) 212-2439 View (928) 212-2439
Photo of Jennie Christianson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennie Christianson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spanish Fork, UT 84660
I specialize in depression, anxiety, self-harming behaviors, suicidal ideation and gestures, personality disorders (concentrated experience with BPD), attachment issues, low self-esteem, PTSD, trauma, transgender and LGBT community and their families.
For the past 11 years, I have worked with adolescents and their families in residential treatment and outpatient therapy. This time has only deepened my empathy and understanding for individuals that endure very difficult life circumstances. I admire those seek help and healing. A strong relationship is the foundation of therapy. I am especially skilled at building the trust necessary to address complex behavioral and emotional issues. I especially enjoy helping children, adolescents, and their parents create safety in their homes, improve communication, change negative patterns, and believe that they can heal.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, self-harming behaviors, suicidal ideation and gestures, personality disorders (concentrated experience with BPD), attachment issues, low self-esteem, PTSD, trauma, transgender and LGBT community and their families.
For the past 11 years, I have worked with adolescents and their families in residential treatment and outpatient therapy. This time has only deepened my empathy and understanding for individuals that endure very difficult life circumstances. I admire those seek help and healing. A strong relationship is the foundation of therapy. I am especially skilled at building the trust necessary to address complex behavioral and emotional issues. I especially enjoy helping children, adolescents, and their parents create safety in their homes, improve communication, change negative patterns, and believe that they can heal.
(385) 213-1904 View (385) 213-1904
Photo of Paige Kasper, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paige Kasper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84104  (Online Only)
Along with panic, phobias, self-esteem, sexuality, stress, trauma/PTSD, and body, family, identity, intimacy, transgender, and women issues.
Telehealth Therapist: Throughout our lifetime we encounter various transitions and challenges, I believe these experiences hold opportunities for transformation and growth. I believe that you are the expert in your own life and that each person’s journey is unique; therefore, this is not a “one size fits all” therapeutic experience. I strive to assist people in achieving their highest potential for fulfillment and well-being. I aim to assist clients in discovering their authentic selves by providing a trusting and compassionate therapeutic environment where you feel safe engaging in problem-solving and self-discovery.
Along with panic, phobias, self-esteem, sexuality, stress, trauma/PTSD, and body, family, identity, intimacy, transgender, and women issues.
Telehealth Therapist: Throughout our lifetime we encounter various transitions and challenges, I believe these experiences hold opportunities for transformation and growth. I believe that you are the expert in your own life and that each person’s journey is unique; therefore, this is not a “one size fits all” therapeutic experience. I strive to assist people in achieving their highest potential for fulfillment and well-being. I aim to assist clients in discovering their authentic selves by providing a trusting and compassionate therapeutic environment where you feel safe engaging in problem-solving and self-discovery.
(509) 517-7256 View (509) 517-7256
Photo of Vaughn (Legal Name Rachel) Flichtbeil, LICSW, LCSW, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vaughn (Legal Name Rachel) Flichtbeil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84103  (Online Only)
Not Accepting New Clients. As a therapist, I specialize in working with complex trauma. I enjoy helping individuals develop new coping strategies, expand their capacity, and make meaning of what has occurred in their lives. I excel at supporting people who experience intense emotions or worry that they are “too much.” Additionally, I specialize in treating individuals exploring their gender identity and/or sexuality. I enjoy offering informed and non-judgmental therapy for LGBTQAI people. My focuses include the asexual spectrum, the kink community, people practicing ethical non-monogamy, and individuals with fetishes.
Not Accepting New Clients. As a therapist, I specialize in working with complex trauma. I enjoy helping individuals develop new coping strategies, expand their capacity, and make meaning of what has occurred in their lives. I excel at supporting people who experience intense emotions or worry that they are “too much.” Additionally, I specialize in treating individuals exploring their gender identity and/or sexuality. I enjoy offering informed and non-judgmental therapy for LGBTQAI people. My focuses include the asexual spectrum, the kink community, people practicing ethical non-monogamy, and individuals with fetishes.
(385) 338-4912 View (385) 338-4912
Photo of Wiconi Counseling Center - Wiconi Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wiconi Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Layton, UT 84041
We are a clinic with amazing and diverse clinicians and staff. See our site at wiconicc.com (link near bottom of page)
We are a clinic with amazing and diverse clinicians and staff. See our site at wiconicc.com (link near bottom of page)
(801) 751-3250 View (801) 751-3250
Photo of Sarah MacCombie, OTL, ACMHC
Sarah MacCombie
Mental Health Counselor Associate, OTL, ACMHC
Verified Verified
Millcreek, UT 84106
As your therapist, my intention is to create a safe environment for you to be and explore yourself.  Together we'll bring awareness to your thoughts, feelings, emotions, body sensations, values, desires, memories and more, to deeply understand what its like for you to be you. Awareness opens the door for understanding, self-love, and change. To support your therapeutic journey, I use Transpersonal therapy, Gestalt therapy, Somatic-based trauma therapy, Process Work, CBT, dream work, inner child work, and shadow work. I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirming therapy and affirming letter writing.
As your therapist, my intention is to create a safe environment for you to be and explore yourself.  Together we'll bring awareness to your thoughts, feelings, emotions, body sensations, values, desires, memories and more, to deeply understand what its like for you to be you. Awareness opens the door for understanding, self-love, and change. To support your therapeutic journey, I use Transpersonal therapy, Gestalt therapy, Somatic-based trauma therapy, Process Work, CBT, dream work, inner child work, and shadow work. I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirming therapy and affirming letter writing.
(385) 220-8890 View (385) 220-8890
Photo of Elizabeth Louise Gray, CMHC, Counselor
Elizabeth Louise Gray
Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy, UT 84070
When life feels overwhelming, you don't have to navigate it alone. I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC), a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC), and a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, bringing a unique, compassionate perspective to therapy. I specialize in supporting clients from all walks of life, particularly those within the LGBTQIA+ population, polyamorous/ethical nonmonogamy (ENM), kink, and gamer communities. Whether you’re dealing with everyday challenges, complex relationship dynamics, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, ADHD, or seeking personal growth, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore
When life feels overwhelming, you don't have to navigate it alone. I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC), a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC), and a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, bringing a unique, compassionate perspective to therapy. I specialize in supporting clients from all walks of life, particularly those within the LGBTQIA+ population, polyamorous/ethical nonmonogamy (ENM), kink, and gamer communities. Whether you’re dealing with everyday challenges, complex relationship dynamics, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, ADHD, or seeking personal growth, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore
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Photo of Sarah Stroup - Monarch Family Counseling, LMFT, LCSW, CMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monarch Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lehi, UT 84043
Have you ever looked at your life and thought, “How did I get here?” Sometimes life feels hard, overwhelming, and chaotic. Maybe you just don’t know where to start or you feel lost. Maybe you’re embarrassed that you can’t handle things on your own or like you don’t know who to ask for help. Perhaps you're going through a rough patch or you're looking to improve your relationships with friends, family, or partner. Or, maybe your child is struggling with anger, sadness, or anxiety.
Have you ever looked at your life and thought, “How did I get here?” Sometimes life feels hard, overwhelming, and chaotic. Maybe you just don’t know where to start or you feel lost. Maybe you’re embarrassed that you can’t handle things on your own or like you don’t know who to ask for help. Perhaps you're going through a rough patch or you're looking to improve your relationships with friends, family, or partner. Or, maybe your child is struggling with anger, sadness, or anxiety.
(801) 614-2868 View (801) 614-2868
Photo of David Carrillo, MSW-I, Pre-Licensed Professional
David Carrillo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW-I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Layton, UT 84041
I believe that the ability to overcome challenges is intrinsic to everyone. Through self-discovery and guidance, individuals can tap into their resilience and empower themselves. My approach centers on forming a strong alliance between clinician and client, working together to meet the client’s goals and needs. I’m committed to meeting clients where they are, honoring their right to self-determination. By combining my expertise with the client’s deep understanding of themselves, I believe that meaningful change and success are within reach.
I believe that the ability to overcome challenges is intrinsic to everyone. Through self-discovery and guidance, individuals can tap into their resilience and empower themselves. My approach centers on forming a strong alliance between clinician and client, working together to meet the client’s goals and needs. I’m committed to meeting clients where they are, honoring their right to self-determination. By combining my expertise with the client’s deep understanding of themselves, I believe that meaningful change and success are within reach.
(385) 526-4654 View (385) 526-4654
Photo of Sarah Stroup - Monarch Family Counseling, LMFT, LCSW, CMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monarch Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, CMHC
Verified Verified
South Jordan, UT 84009
Have you ever looked at your life and thought, “How did I get here?” Sometimes life feels hard, overwhelming, and chaotic. Maybe you just don’t know where to start or you feel lost. Maybe you’re embarrassed that you can’t handle things on your own or like you don’t know who to ask for help. Perhaps you're going through a rough patch or you're looking to improve your relationships with friends, family, or partner. Or, maybe your child is struggling with anger, sadness, or anxiety.
Have you ever looked at your life and thought, “How did I get here?” Sometimes life feels hard, overwhelming, and chaotic. Maybe you just don’t know where to start or you feel lost. Maybe you’re embarrassed that you can’t handle things on your own or like you don’t know who to ask for help. Perhaps you're going through a rough patch or you're looking to improve your relationships with friends, family, or partner. Or, maybe your child is struggling with anger, sadness, or anxiety.
(385) 206-6827 View (385) 206-6827
Photo of Sarah Stroup - Monarch Family Counseling, LMFT, RPT, LCSW, CMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monarch Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT, LCSW, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Herriman, UT 84096
Have you ever looked at your life and thought, “How did I get here?” Sometimes life feels hard, overwhelming, and chaotic. Maybe you just don’t know where to start or you feel lost. Maybe you’re embarrassed that you can’t handle things on your own or like you don’t know who to ask for help. Perhaps you're going through a rough patch or you're looking to improve your relationships with friends, family, or partner. Or, maybe your child is struggling with anger, sadness, or anxiety.
Have you ever looked at your life and thought, “How did I get here?” Sometimes life feels hard, overwhelming, and chaotic. Maybe you just don’t know where to start or you feel lost. Maybe you’re embarrassed that you can’t handle things on your own or like you don’t know who to ask for help. Perhaps you're going through a rough patch or you're looking to improve your relationships with friends, family, or partner. Or, maybe your child is struggling with anger, sadness, or anxiety.
(801) 896-9471 View (801) 896-9471
Photo of Teresa Salais, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teresa Salais
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Layton, UT 84041
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with addictions, anger, anxiety, bipolar, depression, emotional abuse, identity issues, physical abuse, postpartum depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, self-harm, sexual abuse, sexual orientation, substance abuse, suicide prevention and trauma. I have experience working with clients who have mild to severe mental health issues. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults.
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with addictions, anger, anxiety, bipolar, depression, emotional abuse, identity issues, physical abuse, postpartum depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, self-harm, sexual abuse, sexual orientation, substance abuse, suicide prevention and trauma. I have experience working with clients who have mild to severe mental health issues. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults.
(385) 206-6626 View (385) 206-6626
Photo of Bret 'bea' Phillips, NLC, Registered Psychotherapist
Bret 'bea' Phillips
Registered Psychotherapist, NLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moab, UT 84532
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, and a Certified Missional Coach. I have extensive coaching and counseling experience with couples and individuals of all ages, sexes, gender identities, and sexual preferences. Before I started working in mental health full time in 2017, I was board ordained as a Pastor in 2012, and gained certification as a Missional Coach from Multiply Vineyard and Logan Leadership 2014. Though I have worked in churches and professional environments, my true passions are mental heath, advocacy, and being and therapist and ally within our community.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, and a Certified Missional Coach. I have extensive coaching and counseling experience with couples and individuals of all ages, sexes, gender identities, and sexual preferences. Before I started working in mental health full time in 2017, I was board ordained as a Pastor in 2012, and gained certification as a Missional Coach from Multiply Vineyard and Logan Leadership 2014. Though I have worked in churches and professional environments, my true passions are mental heath, advocacy, and being and therapist and ally within our community.
(970) 670-7826 View (970) 670-7826
Photo of Amber Lynny Anderson - LIT Lynny's Inner Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LIT Lynny's Inner Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Welcome! With over 17 years of clinical experience in social work my practice is rooted in mindfulness and evidence-based techniques. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, the aftermath of divorce or abuse, self-esteem issues, or life's challenging transitions, I'm here to support and guide you. I offer individual therapy incorporating DBT, CBT, and mindfulness-based interventions.I incorporate holistic methods like Breathwork, Yoga, and Inner Healing body work in my practice. These techniques, combined with traditional therapy, create a nurturing space for transformation and growth.
Welcome! With over 17 years of clinical experience in social work my practice is rooted in mindfulness and evidence-based techniques. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, the aftermath of divorce or abuse, self-esteem issues, or life's challenging transitions, I'm here to support and guide you. I offer individual therapy incorporating DBT, CBT, and mindfulness-based interventions.I incorporate holistic methods like Breathwork, Yoga, and Inner Healing body work in my practice. These techniques, combined with traditional therapy, create a nurturing space for transformation and growth.
(385) 200-9413 View (385) 200-9413
Photo of Robert Reed - Grace & Peace Christian Counseling, CMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Grace & Peace Christian Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84401
As Christian counselors, we believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God, that He came to reveal the Father’s heart & through His life, death & resurrection He decisively accomplished Gods saving work. He engages us in the Divine Relationship that we were created by, for, through and in. We seek, along with you, the client, loving purpose, healing, & direction of the Trinity in the counseling sessions. As licensed therapist, we consider our efforts inadequate apart from the grace & presence of our Lord Jesus Christ. We are blessed & humbled to go to work each day & see Christ working in people's lives in an intimate way.
As Christian counselors, we believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God, that He came to reveal the Father’s heart & through His life, death & resurrection He decisively accomplished Gods saving work. He engages us in the Divine Relationship that we were created by, for, through and in. We seek, along with you, the client, loving purpose, healing, & direction of the Trinity in the counseling sessions. As licensed therapist, we consider our efforts inadequate apart from the grace & presence of our Lord Jesus Christ. We are blessed & humbled to go to work each day & see Christ working in people's lives in an intimate way.
(888) 801-1556 x1 View (888) 801-1556 x1
Photo of Kylie Hoggan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kylie Hoggan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
American Fork, UT 84003
Kylie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and is Zest for Life Counseling’s Executive Director. Kylie completed a Masters in Social Work with Utah Valley University and is currently completing a doctor of social work degree with an emphasis in advanced clinical practice with the University of Kentucky. Kylie has spent majority of her professional career working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with emotional regulation, anxiety, depression, self-harm, sexuality, postnatal mood disorders and insecure attachment within the family unit.
Kylie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and is Zest for Life Counseling’s Executive Director. Kylie completed a Masters in Social Work with Utah Valley University and is currently completing a doctor of social work degree with an emphasis in advanced clinical practice with the University of Kentucky. Kylie has spent majority of her professional career working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with emotional regulation, anxiety, depression, self-harm, sexuality, postnatal mood disorders and insecure attachment within the family unit.
(385) 832-6840 View (385) 832-6840
Photo of Jessica Hale, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Hale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murray, UT 84107
Phoenix Rebellion Therapy treats those looking for solutions and new directions in life. Working together, our clients and therapists can find the root of the problem and a way to move forward. We support each other as a team. If you suffer from a minor issue or something more extreme, you could use an experienced ear walking you towards a better solution. Our therapists have expertise treating everything from trauma, torture, and rape, to anxiety, addiction, and depression. We team up with you and find what successfully works in reducing your symptoms and helping you progress in life.
Phoenix Rebellion Therapy treats those looking for solutions and new directions in life. Working together, our clients and therapists can find the root of the problem and a way to move forward. We support each other as a team. If you suffer from a minor issue or something more extreme, you could use an experienced ear walking you towards a better solution. Our therapists have expertise treating everything from trauma, torture, and rape, to anxiety, addiction, and depression. We team up with you and find what successfully works in reducing your symptoms and helping you progress in life.
(385) 355-7907 x3 View (385) 355-7907 x3
Photo of Marty Erickson - Progressive Paths Therapy, PhD, LMFT, MA/MS, LCSW, CMHC
Progressive Paths Therapy
PhD, LMFT, MA/MS, LCSW, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84097
We've hired 3 new therapists recently, and we have multiple immediate openings in SLC and Orem. We are a group of therapists with many backgrounds and specialties. No matter what your struggles, it is important to know you are not alone in this journey and we want to help. Your therapist will collaborate with you to understand the challenges and struggles you are facing and compassionately work with you toward long-lasting insight, strategies, change, liberation, and real progress toward an authentic and meaningful life and warm trusting relationships. If you're ready to work toward the life you've always wanted contact us today!
We've hired 3 new therapists recently, and we have multiple immediate openings in SLC and Orem. We are a group of therapists with many backgrounds and specialties. No matter what your struggles, it is important to know you are not alone in this journey and we want to help. Your therapist will collaborate with you to understand the challenges and struggles you are facing and compassionately work with you toward long-lasting insight, strategies, change, liberation, and real progress toward an authentic and meaningful life and warm trusting relationships. If you're ready to work toward the life you've always wanted contact us today!
(385) 324-7294 View (385) 324-7294
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Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.