LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Carnation, WA

Photo of Stephanie Pickering, PhD, Psychologist
Stephanie Pickering
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Carnation, WA 98014
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 15 years in practice. I work with children, teens, adults, and families on their journey toward hope, healing, and health. I specialize in working with clients who have anxiety, depression, OCD, tics/Tourettes, adjustment issues, autism, ADHD, and chronic stress
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 15 years in practice. I work with children, teens, adults, and families on their journey toward hope, healing, and health. I specialize in working with clients who have anxiety, depression, OCD, tics/Tourettes, adjustment issues, autism, ADHD, and chronic stress
(425) 428-6316 View (425) 428-6316
Photo of Ishani Grover, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Ishani Grover
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carnation, WA 98014
Scientifically, change occurs when we develop new neural pathways. Humanly, change occurs when we experience. Nature helps to facilitate change within our brain as we embrace our innate biophilia. When we connect and identify with land, we re-own its vital and powerful energies, and the dynamism of the Earth is reflected within us.Through facilitated integration with nature, it is my objective to help reconnect you with the natural world. Along with nature-based activities, talk therapy is offered. However, sometimes the silence we experience in nature can be a great teacher. It is up to you determine what works best for you!
Scientifically, change occurs when we develop new neural pathways. Humanly, change occurs when we experience. Nature helps to facilitate change within our brain as we embrace our innate biophilia. When we connect and identify with land, we re-own its vital and powerful energies, and the dynamism of the Earth is reflected within us.Through facilitated integration with nature, it is my objective to help reconnect you with the natural world. Along with nature-based activities, talk therapy is offered. However, sometimes the silence we experience in nature can be a great teacher. It is up to you determine what works best for you!
(206) 488-1984 View (206) 488-1984
Photo of Julia Perry - Julia Perry Psychotherapy and Counseling Services, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Julia Perry Psychotherapy and Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Carnation, WA 98014
You may be hurting or feel stuck for all sorts of reasons. I believe all individuals are striving to grow, and everyone has a unique path to change. We will get to the heart of the matter, find some relief from immediate suffering. We will work together help you find your way to the meaningful and fulfilling life that you want. I have a direct, supportive style. I work with adults and teens of diverse backgrounds and orientations. I have 24 years of experience. In addition to , I help people with: reducing anxiety or depression; life transitions; dealing with losses; climate or eco-distress; improving communication and relationships
You may be hurting or feel stuck for all sorts of reasons. I believe all individuals are striving to grow, and everyone has a unique path to change. We will get to the heart of the matter, find some relief from immediate suffering. We will work together help you find your way to the meaningful and fulfilling life that you want. I have a direct, supportive style. I work with adults and teens of diverse backgrounds and orientations. I have 24 years of experience. In addition to , I help people with: reducing anxiety or depression; life transitions; dealing with losses; climate or eco-distress; improving communication and relationships
(206) 535-1569 View (206) 535-1569
Photo of Paula Johnson - Centered Mind Counseling - Sammamish Location, PsyD, LMHC, ARNP, LICSW, LMFT, Counselor
Centered Mind Counseling - Sammamish Location
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, ARNP, LICSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Carnation, WA 98014
Centered Mind Counseling Services, offers counseling, nutrition, and medication management services for individuals, couples & families. In-Person or Telehealth Video Sessions are available. We have a wide range of clinical expertise, more specialty treatment areas to help you, and an expanded availability of services. We are committed to working with you or your child to create the long-lasting changes you desire. Call or text us at (425) 269-3277. Together, we can determine how we can help you!
Centered Mind Counseling Services, offers counseling, nutrition, and medication management services for individuals, couples & families. In-Person or Telehealth Video Sessions are available. We have a wide range of clinical expertise, more specialty treatment areas to help you, and an expanded availability of services. We are committed to working with you or your child to create the long-lasting changes you desire. Call or text us at (425) 269-3277. Together, we can determine how we can help you!
(425) 269-3277 View (425) 269-3277
Photo of Courtney Bell - Insight Mental Health Group, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Insight Mental Health Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carnation, WA 98014
Insight Mental Health Group is a network of skilled mental health professionals dedicated to providing individuals, couples, and families with a safe space to explore, understand, and evolve problematic perspectives, beliefs, and patterns of interaction. With values rooted in compassion, collaboration, integrity, and individuality; we are committed to providing each client with the individualized care needed to reach their mental health and relationship goals. To ensure our clients' needs and preferences are met, our providers offer both in-office and virtual visits. Whether it is to assist in addressing anxiety or depression, to help to resolve marital or family conflict, to facilitate healing from the effects of trauma and loss, to aid in dealing with grief or coping with stress, or to provide support and direction for any number of other issues arising from interpersonal relationships, the workplace, school, or self-exploration and personal growth, we are here for you.
Insight Mental Health Group is a network of skilled mental health professionals dedicated to providing individuals, couples, and families with a safe space to explore, understand, and evolve problematic perspectives, beliefs, and patterns of interaction. With values rooted in compassion, collaboration, integrity, and individuality; we are committed to providing each client with the individualized care needed to reach their mental health and relationship goals. To ensure our clients' needs and preferences are met, our providers offer both in-office and virtual visits. Whether it is to assist in addressing anxiety or depression, to help to resolve marital or family conflict, to facilitate healing from the effects of trauma and loss, to aid in dealing with grief or coping with stress, or to provide support and direction for any number of other issues arising from interpersonal relationships, the workplace, school, or self-exploration and personal growth, we are here for you.
(425) 981-5455 View (425) 981-5455

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Casey Jordan, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Casey Jordan
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
Prior to starting my own practice, I spent three years working with Seattle Counseling Service, an agency centered around LGBTQ+ mental health care.
I work with adults and teens in the state of Washington and focus on issues of depression, anxiety, complex trauma and abuse, religious trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, relationship concerns, and more. In therapy, we will tend to the parts of your story that feel troublesome and work toward a deepening experience of freedom, connection, and joy. We will explore the nature of your individual concerns within the context of your narrative, which may include important relationships, your past experiences, and the societal systems that have impacted you.
Prior to starting my own practice, I spent three years working with Seattle Counseling Service, an agency centered around LGBTQ+ mental health care.
I work with adults and teens in the state of Washington and focus on issues of depression, anxiety, complex trauma and abuse, religious trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, relationship concerns, and more. In therapy, we will tend to the parts of your story that feel troublesome and work toward a deepening experience of freedom, connection, and joy. We will explore the nature of your individual concerns within the context of your narrative, which may include important relationships, your past experiences, and the societal systems that have impacted you.
(206) 222-1852 View (206) 222-1852
Photo of Dr. Luke R. Allen, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Luke R. Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98053  (Online Only)
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.
(360) 654-7022 View (360) 654-7022
Photo of Chris Curia, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Chris Curia
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
A bit about me: I'm a queer therapist focusing primarily on providing care through the relationship we'll form in our work.
First things first: Admitting when life is in shambles, you feel like you're floundering, and reaching out for extra support can all be humbling, to say the least. Yet, these are such courageous first steps in learning to care for yourself and those around you. Whether you're an individual or a couple, a first-timer, or a therapy regular, I'm proud of you for just getting here! I look forward to meeting you wherever here is, even (and especially) if it's different from where you want to be. And I would be honored to support you on this journey to becoming more you than you are now in whatever ways I can.
A bit about me: I'm a queer therapist focusing primarily on providing care through the relationship we'll form in our work.
First things first: Admitting when life is in shambles, you feel like you're floundering, and reaching out for extra support can all be humbling, to say the least. Yet, these are such courageous first steps in learning to care for yourself and those around you. Whether you're an individual or a couple, a first-timer, or a therapy regular, I'm proud of you for just getting here! I look forward to meeting you wherever here is, even (and especially) if it's different from where you want to be. And I would be honored to support you on this journey to becoming more you than you are now in whatever ways I can.
(425) 215-0389 View (425) 215-0389
Photo of Randy Marinez, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Randy Marinez
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
Working with sexual abuse survivors and the LGBTQ community means that I am adept at helping clients work-through attachment issues.
I have been counseling since 1981 and opened my private practice in 1988. I have expertise in working with individuals around their history of sexual victimization, people healing from trauma and LGBTQ life issues. I also specialize in working with couples whether poly, open, heterosexual and/or gay. Included within my expertise is the breadth of issues surrounding sexuality and attachment. I also specialize in helping people become aware of and channel their emotions in a healthy way. Moreover, people who are grappling with existential issues, developmental transitions or life changes find meaning in working with me as well.
Working with sexual abuse survivors and the LGBTQ community means that I am adept at helping clients work-through attachment issues.
I have been counseling since 1981 and opened my private practice in 1988. I have expertise in working with individuals around their history of sexual victimization, people healing from trauma and LGBTQ life issues. I also specialize in working with couples whether poly, open, heterosexual and/or gay. Included within my expertise is the breadth of issues surrounding sexuality and attachment. I also specialize in helping people become aware of and channel their emotions in a healthy way. Moreover, people who are grappling with existential issues, developmental transitions or life changes find meaning in working with me as well.
(206) 745-5831 View (206) 745-5831
Photo of Derick Reinhardt, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Derick Reinhardt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
I’m Black, non-binary, and a queer-identifying therapist, committed to honoring lived experiences and creating a warm-hearted environment for healing and growth. I want to establish moving away from the belief ‘what’s wrong with me’ and transitioning into a space where we make sense of what happened to you. I’m not here to fix you, because you are not broken or damaged goods. I’m here to support you on this yellow brick road we call life.
I’m Black, non-binary, and a queer-identifying therapist, committed to honoring lived experiences and creating a warm-hearted environment for healing and growth. I want to establish moving away from the belief ‘what’s wrong with me’ and transitioning into a space where we make sense of what happened to you. I’m not here to fix you, because you are not broken or damaged goods. I’m here to support you on this yellow brick road we call life.
(425) 276-7030 View (425) 276-7030
Photo of Autumn Gray, BS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Autumn Gray
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, or going through difficult changes in life? Does it feel like you are working to feel safe in your own skin? I provide trauma-informed counseling for general mental health concerns and relationship concerns, within a fat liberatory and anti-racist framework. My specialties focus on holding a space that centers inclusivity and safety. Whatever your background, I am here to provide that space for you to explore your needs and goals in counseling as you find your way forward in life. Queer and trans folx, fat people, and anyone working to survive past or current trauma are welcome.
Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, or going through difficult changes in life? Does it feel like you are working to feel safe in your own skin? I provide trauma-informed counseling for general mental health concerns and relationship concerns, within a fat liberatory and anti-racist framework. My specialties focus on holding a space that centers inclusivity and safety. Whatever your background, I am here to provide that space for you to explore your needs and goals in counseling as you find your way forward in life. Queer and trans folx, fat people, and anyone working to survive past or current trauma are welcome.
(425) 600-7162 View (425) 600-7162
Photo of Emilia Stoneham, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Emilia Stoneham
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
I work with individuals deconstructing oppressive ideology, processing trauma or abuse, facing experiences of grief, whether acute or ambiguous, living with neurodivergence, and folks in the LGBTQIA+ community.
If you are here that means you are likely seeking support for something in your life that feels difficult, overwhelming, confusing, or painful. My work is to offer you a safe, kind, and accepting space to further explore your internal and external realities. Together we will be curious about your unique life experience, the impact of your experience, the struggles and conflicts you may be facing, and what you need to thrive. I believe therapy is the process of uncovering who you were meant to be before the world told you who you should be or wounded you with its expectations and cruelty.
I work with individuals deconstructing oppressive ideology, processing trauma or abuse, facing experiences of grief, whether acute or ambiguous, living with neurodivergence, and folks in the LGBTQIA+ community.
If you are here that means you are likely seeking support for something in your life that feels difficult, overwhelming, confusing, or painful. My work is to offer you a safe, kind, and accepting space to further explore your internal and external realities. Together we will be curious about your unique life experience, the impact of your experience, the struggles and conflicts you may be facing, and what you need to thrive. I believe therapy is the process of uncovering who you were meant to be before the world told you who you should be or wounded you with its expectations and cruelty.
(425) 600-3251 View (425) 600-3251
Photo of Evoë Thorne, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Evoë Thorne
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
I especially enjoy working with people who are questioning their gender and/or sexuality, practicing consensual non-monogamy, neurodivergent, sexual outsiders (kink/BDSM), LGBTQIA+, or experiencing changes in desire or sexual function.
Are you experiencing emotional pain, discomfort, or uncertainty around your sexuality? If you are questioning gender or sexual orientation, trying to figure out dating, wishing you could have more or better sex, struggling to relate to a partner, reclaiming your body after childbirth, healing from sexual trauma, exploring kinks, opening your relationship, or adapting to the changes of aging, I can help you navigate these challenges and build skills for improved health, pleasure, and connection. Visit my website to schedule a free 15 minute consultation.
I especially enjoy working with people who are questioning their gender and/or sexuality, practicing consensual non-monogamy, neurodivergent, sexual outsiders (kink/BDSM), LGBTQIA+, or experiencing changes in desire or sexual function.
Are you experiencing emotional pain, discomfort, or uncertainty around your sexuality? If you are questioning gender or sexual orientation, trying to figure out dating, wishing you could have more or better sex, struggling to relate to a partner, reclaiming your body after childbirth, healing from sexual trauma, exploring kinks, opening your relationship, or adapting to the changes of aging, I can help you navigate these challenges and build skills for improved health, pleasure, and connection. Visit my website to schedule a free 15 minute consultation.
(425) 470-6365 View (425) 470-6365
Photo of Serena D Rodriguez, MA, MHP, LMHC
Serena D Rodriguez
Mental Health Counselor, MA, MHP, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98053  (Online Only)
You're LGBTQIA+, large-bodied, or managing chronic illness and enduring depression, anxiety, or PTSD. You're a therapist dealing with burnout or mental/physical illness. Intersecting identities, oppression, and health issues are complex. You can't waste precious energy on an ignorant therapist or risk prejudice. Therapists are likely feeling stretched or burned out under converging life and work stressors. Others assume we have it handled and we feel we should too. This resonates? As your new therapist, I GOT you! These specialties align with my identity OR life experiences; I am a cis female. Let's hit the ground running!
You're LGBTQIA+, large-bodied, or managing chronic illness and enduring depression, anxiety, or PTSD. You're a therapist dealing with burnout or mental/physical illness. Intersecting identities, oppression, and health issues are complex. You can't waste precious energy on an ignorant therapist or risk prejudice. Therapists are likely feeling stretched or burned out under converging life and work stressors. Others assume we have it handled and we feel we should too. This resonates? As your new therapist, I GOT you! These specialties align with my identity OR life experiences; I am a cis female. Let's hit the ground running!
(253) 342-1900 View (253) 342-1900
Photo of Maximilian Willson, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Maximilian Willson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sammamish, WA 98074  (Online Only)
My personal and professional experiences has given me a particular affinity for the polyamorous, kink, and LGBTQ+ communities.
I work with people to help them through hard times. I do all I can to make my clients feel understood, and then we work together to develop and implement techniques to improve their lives. This may mean making it though a change in life, or working to build back to health that has been lost. I try to address every part of my client's life and work to bring them into a fuller expression of themself.
My personal and professional experiences has given me a particular affinity for the polyamorous, kink, and LGBTQ+ communities.
I work with people to help them through hard times. I do all I can to make my clients feel understood, and then we work together to develop and implement techniques to improve their lives. This may mean making it though a change in life, or working to build back to health that has been lost. I try to address every part of my client's life and work to bring them into a fuller expression of themself.
(253) 316-8182 View (253) 316-8182
Photo of Christie Driskell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christie Driskell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Duvall, WA 98019  (Online Only)
I have 30 years of experience helping clients to identify and heal the sources of discomfort that bring them to counseling. Whether their concerning issues are situational, biochemical, or a long standing pattern of behavior, my approach is to always start with where the client is and what they are wanting out of counseling. I have extensive experience working with late teens and adults, both men and women. My practice includes individuals and couples work which also includes the LGBTQ community.
I have 30 years of experience helping clients to identify and heal the sources of discomfort that bring them to counseling. Whether their concerning issues are situational, biochemical, or a long standing pattern of behavior, my approach is to always start with where the client is and what they are wanting out of counseling. I have extensive experience working with late teens and adults, both men and women. My practice includes individuals and couples work which also includes the LGBTQ community.
(425) 274-2963 View (425) 274-2963
Photo of Christine Davis, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christine Davis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
My multicultural feminist training includes anti-racism work, LGBTQ+ allyship, and workplace burnout prevention.
Now Accepting New Clients! I am a psychotherapist for And Still We Rise under the supervision of Dr. Natasha Holmes. I hold a Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology from Texas Woman's University. in Denton, Texas, I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy, and that we all deserve to have a space to learn about ourselves and our relationships. I believe my clients are experts on themselves, and feel honored each time a client chooses to work with me as they grow and heal. I have a strong passion for sexual violence prevention and survivor support.
My multicultural feminist training includes anti-racism work, LGBTQ+ allyship, and workplace burnout prevention.
Now Accepting New Clients! I am a psychotherapist for And Still We Rise under the supervision of Dr. Natasha Holmes. I hold a Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology from Texas Woman's University. in Denton, Texas, I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy, and that we all deserve to have a space to learn about ourselves and our relationships. I believe my clients are experts on themselves, and feel honored each time a client chooses to work with me as they grow and heal. I have a strong passion for sexual violence prevention and survivor support.
(425) 728-6966 View (425) 728-6966
Photo of Mary Pico, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Pico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
My specialties include working with LGBTQIA+ clients and clients needing support with imposter syndrome, anxiety, depression, trauma, work/life balance, foster/adoption, PTSD, life transitions, and grief.
I am an experienced Clinical Social Worker that has extensive training treating anxiety, depression, and trauma. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is very important and through relationship comes healing. My approach to therapy is holistic, compassionate, and collaborative. I offer EMDR Therapy and cross-discipline holistic support to help you grow and heal. I am also an IASIS Micro Current Nuerofeedback (MCN) provider. MSN is a safe, revolutionary, technology that uses the brain wave feedback to help the brain reboot itself. This treatment can be combined with therapy to achieve stability quicker.
My specialties include working with LGBTQIA+ clients and clients needing support with imposter syndrome, anxiety, depression, trauma, work/life balance, foster/adoption, PTSD, life transitions, and grief.
I am an experienced Clinical Social Worker that has extensive training treating anxiety, depression, and trauma. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is very important and through relationship comes healing. My approach to therapy is holistic, compassionate, and collaborative. I offer EMDR Therapy and cross-discipline holistic support to help you grow and heal. I am also an IASIS Micro Current Nuerofeedback (MCN) provider. MSN is a safe, revolutionary, technology that uses the brain wave feedback to help the brain reboot itself. This treatment can be combined with therapy to achieve stability quicker.
(253) 303-6820 View (253) 303-6820
Photo of Brenna Curbow, LMSW, LSWAIC
Brenna Curbow
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
I specialize in women’s, gender, & LGBTQ+ issues using authenticity, humor, & evidenced-based, holistic approaches like CBT, DBT, strength-based & solution-focused therapies.
My clients are often struggling with complex trauma, religious trauma, &/or lack a variety of coping skills or social supports necessary to deal with all the expectations put on modern day Homo sapiens. From toxic relationships, to toxic work environments, many of my clients are learning to recognize & voice their needs to themselves & others. Developing self-awareness is always a focus in therapy- including but not limited to, what needs you have & how many are you meeting on your own? I often find myself teaching/coaching self-care & self-compassion with my clients, as many of us have experienced not being taught either.
I specialize in women’s, gender, & LGBTQ+ issues using authenticity, humor, & evidenced-based, holistic approaches like CBT, DBT, strength-based & solution-focused therapies.
My clients are often struggling with complex trauma, religious trauma, &/or lack a variety of coping skills or social supports necessary to deal with all the expectations put on modern day Homo sapiens. From toxic relationships, to toxic work environments, many of my clients are learning to recognize & voice their needs to themselves & others. Developing self-awareness is always a focus in therapy- including but not limited to, what needs you have & how many are you meeting on your own? I often find myself teaching/coaching self-care & self-compassion with my clients, as many of us have experienced not being taught either.
(509) 402-2781 View (509) 402-2781
Photo of Craig McElroy, LMHCA, SUDP, BACC, Counselor
Craig McElroy
Counselor, LMHCA, SUDP, BACC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
I work with people to help them recognize their ideal life and find the path to reach it. I love working with people who want change in their lives and are ready to pursue a life filled with joy and peace. I work with clients of all backgrounds, and have worked many in the LGBTQ and alternative lifestyles communities.
I work with people to help them recognize their ideal life and find the path to reach it. I love working with people who want change in their lives and are ready to pursue a life filled with joy and peace. I work with clients of all backgrounds, and have worked many in the LGBTQ and alternative lifestyles communities.
(509) 645-3925 View (509) 645-3925

See more therapy options for Carnation

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.