Photo of Aimee Dupuy, MS, LPC, LMHC, Counselor
Aimee Dupuy
Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98683
Life can become overwhelming at times, and seeking help can be the first courageous act in achieving a higher quality of living. I enjoy working with a wide variety of populations dealing with multiple issues. I am especially passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ population and individuals struggling with relationship issues and/or anxiety. It is my belief that the therapeutic relationship is central to client growth. Creating a space of safety, trust and comfort for the client guides all my interactions and interventions.
Life can become overwhelming at times, and seeking help can be the first courageous act in achieving a higher quality of living. I enjoy working with a wide variety of populations dealing with multiple issues. I am especially passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ population and individuals struggling with relationship issues and/or anxiety. It is my belief that the therapeutic relationship is central to client growth. Creating a space of safety, trust and comfort for the client guides all my interactions and interventions.
(360) 215-5914 View (360) 215-5914
Photo of Sarah Griffin, MA, LMHCA, QMHP, Counselor
Sarah Griffin
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, QMHP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98684  (Online Only)
I am experienced with non-traditional relationships, LGBTQIA+ & SOGI issues, mood disorders, Autism & ADHD, in children, teens, and adults.
What would it take to reach your full potential, emotionally, mentally, interpersonally, and vocationally? Maybe it is a small step, a change in perspective. Maybe there is more to unpack and process so that you can move forward in your life. Wherever your needs may fall, I can help facilitate your journey of change.
I am experienced with non-traditional relationships, LGBTQIA+ & SOGI issues, mood disorders, Autism & ADHD, in children, teens, and adults.
What would it take to reach your full potential, emotionally, mentally, interpersonally, and vocationally? Maybe it is a small step, a change in perspective. Maybe there is more to unpack and process so that you can move forward in your life. Wherever your needs may fall, I can help facilitate your journey of change.
(360) 548-7524 View (360) 548-7524
Photo of Christi Burton, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christi Burton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98661
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! My name is Christi Burton and l look forward to getting to know you! My primary focus is working with children and teens experiencing symptoms of anxiety and OCD. I warmly welcome clients that are part of the Deaf and/or LGBTQIA+ community. I am fluent in ASL and as a queer therapist myself, I strive to create a safe and affirming space where people can exist authentically, without judgment.
Hi! My name is Christi Burton and l look forward to getting to know you! My primary focus is working with children and teens experiencing symptoms of anxiety and OCD. I warmly welcome clients that are part of the Deaf and/or LGBTQIA+ community. I am fluent in ASL and as a queer therapist myself, I strive to create a safe and affirming space where people can exist authentically, without judgment.
(360) 361-8898 View (360) 361-8898
Photo of Timothy Rasmussen, MS, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Timothy Rasmussen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660  (Online Only)
I HAVE: lived experience in the LGBTQ+, kink, polyamory, evangelical, and non-theist communities.
I HELP: Individuals, couples, and families communicate better so they can have more connection, especially for those in the kink, polyamorous, and LGBTQ+ communities. I AM: Non-judgmental, collaborative, funny, human, efficient, curious, authentic. I OFFER: Afternoon, evening, and late evening appointments during the week, including 7:00pm, 8:30pm, and 9:30pm session times. I SERVE: All of Washington State via telehealth, making therapy sessions accessible and convenient. If you live in the Portland area, I am a short drive over the river for in-person sessions.
I HAVE: lived experience in the LGBTQ+, kink, polyamory, evangelical, and non-theist communities.
I HELP: Individuals, couples, and families communicate better so they can have more connection, especially for those in the kink, polyamorous, and LGBTQ+ communities. I AM: Non-judgmental, collaborative, funny, human, efficient, curious, authentic. I OFFER: Afternoon, evening, and late evening appointments during the week, including 7:00pm, 8:30pm, and 9:30pm session times. I SERVE: All of Washington State via telehealth, making therapy sessions accessible and convenient. If you live in the Portland area, I am a short drive over the river for in-person sessions.
(206) 536-1309 View (206) 536-1309
Photo of Autumn Gray, BS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Autumn Gray
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98682  (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 Dr. Luke R. Allen, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Luke R. Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98682  (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 Justin Gladney, LCSWIA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Justin Gladney
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWIA
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660  (Online Only)
As a queer therapist and current PhD student in clinical sexology, I bring a deep understanding and specialized expertise to my practice. My areas of focus include LGBTQ-related issues, men's issues, sex, substance use disorder, trauma, and working with sexual offenders, both juveniles and adults. My approach is compassionate and client-centered, ensuring a safe space for healing and growth.
As a queer therapist and current PhD student in clinical sexology, I bring a deep understanding and specialized expertise to my practice. My areas of focus include LGBTQ-related issues, men's issues, sex, substance use disorder, trauma, and working with sexual offenders, both juveniles and adults. My approach is compassionate and client-centered, ensuring a safe space for healing and growth.
(509) 631-8445 View (509) 631-8445
Photo of Sarah Blanchette, MSW, LICSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Blanchette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSWA
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98665
I specialize in working with Couples, Teens/young adults and LGBTQ+ (individual & couples). My heart and passion is helping people find healing within themselves and their relationships. I have been working in Mental Health and Human Services for over 20 years. I have a strong trauma-informed approach and practice. Many of the teens/young adults who come see me LOVE my background in Expressive Art therapy. I have a heart for working with our rainbow/ LGBTQ+ community, I am Kink aware, open an affirming of diverse intimate connections, there are so many ways to heal, create connection and family.
I specialize in working with Couples, Teens/young adults and LGBTQ+ (individual & couples). My heart and passion is helping people find healing within themselves and their relationships. I have been working in Mental Health and Human Services for over 20 years. I have a strong trauma-informed approach and practice. Many of the teens/young adults who come see me LOVE my background in Expressive Art therapy. I have a heart for working with our rainbow/ LGBTQ+ community, I am Kink aware, open an affirming of diverse intimate connections, there are so many ways to heal, create connection and family.
(360) 392-5320 View (360) 392-5320
Photo of Kristin Larson - The Therapy Bae, LLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Therapy Bae, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98665  (Online Only)
If you are feeling lost, uncertain, scared, or want to speak with someone who is knowledgeable about non-monogamous relationships, kink, BDSM, neurodivergence, or being LGBTQIA+ you may have just found the right person to talk to. You are discovering who you are as an individual, or perhaps a couple, throuple, or polycule. New diagnoses, relationships, and kinks (literal and metaphorical) are making you unsure how to move forward without stumbling or feeling stuck, possibly even moving backward. Navigating the world right now is difficult, especially with new changes and challenges arising.
If you are feeling lost, uncertain, scared, or want to speak with someone who is knowledgeable about non-monogamous relationships, kink, BDSM, neurodivergence, or being LGBTQIA+ you may have just found the right person to talk to. You are discovering who you are as an individual, or perhaps a couple, throuple, or polycule. New diagnoses, relationships, and kinks (literal and metaphorical) are making you unsure how to move forward without stumbling or feeling stuck, possibly even moving backward. Navigating the world right now is difficult, especially with new changes and challenges arising.
(360) 300-8344 View (360) 300-8344
Photo of Marina Vile, MA, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marina Vile
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98661
Hi, I’m Marina! I work with individuals, couples, and queer folks who are navigating trauma, relationship challenges, and identity questions. My approach is warm and deeply relational—I believe healing happens when we feel seen and understood. I help people make sense of their experiences and reconnect with their inner strengths. I use relational, evidence-based modalities to foster more fulfilling lives and relationships.
Hi, I’m Marina! I work with individuals, couples, and queer folks who are navigating trauma, relationship challenges, and identity questions. My approach is warm and deeply relational—I believe healing happens when we feel seen and understood. I help people make sense of their experiences and reconnect with their inner strengths. I use relational, evidence-based modalities to foster more fulfilling lives and relationships.
(360) 519-5305 View (360) 519-5305
Photo of Sabrina Sheehy, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sabrina Sheehy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
Waitlist for new clients
I offer therapeutic services for the following: Anxiety, Attachment & Family-of-Origin issues, Relationship/Intimacy issues, LGBTQIA+ folx, pregnancy and postpartum, and have experience in working with professional musicians and issues related to that line of work. I welcome clients of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and racial and ethnic backgrounds. I enjoy working with client's who are motivated to be self-reflective and are open to understanding themselves and their experiences on a deeper level.
I offer therapeutic services for the following: Anxiety, Attachment & Family-of-Origin issues, Relationship/Intimacy issues, LGBTQIA+ folx, pregnancy and postpartum, and have experience in working with professional musicians and issues related to that line of work. I welcome clients of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and racial and ethnic backgrounds. I enjoy working with client's who are motivated to be self-reflective and are open to understanding themselves and their experiences on a deeper level.
(503) 360-1524 View (503) 360-1524
Photo of Jael Esquibel, MA, LMHC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Jael Esquibel
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98685
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include anxiety, LGBTQIA+ populations (including parents, family and partners), gender therapy (including writing WPATH letters), multicultural counseling (including impacts of oppression and discrimination), and individuals with the Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) temperament.
It is essential to have a counselor that you feel comfortable with and is your "best fit" counselor. I provide a warm, authentic and non-judgmental environment where you can face challenges and work through difficulties while receiving genuine support. My approach to counseling is collaborative, compassionate, identity-affirming, culturally informed, relational and strengths based. I believe in giving you the time and attention you deserve and offer high quality care in a compassionate, supportive and culturally responsive environment to help you gain insight and live a healthier and happier life.
My specialties include anxiety, LGBTQIA+ populations (including parents, family and partners), gender therapy (including writing WPATH letters), multicultural counseling (including impacts of oppression and discrimination), and individuals with the Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) temperament.
It is essential to have a counselor that you feel comfortable with and is your "best fit" counselor. I provide a warm, authentic and non-judgmental environment where you can face challenges and work through difficulties while receiving genuine support. My approach to counseling is collaborative, compassionate, identity-affirming, culturally informed, relational and strengths based. I believe in giving you the time and attention you deserve and offer high quality care in a compassionate, supportive and culturally responsive environment to help you gain insight and live a healthier and happier life.
(360) 615-3304 View (360) 615-3304
Photo of Genevieve Harris-Eckel, MA, LMFT, MBA(25), Marriage & Family Therapist
Genevieve Harris-Eckel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MBA(25)
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662  (Online Only)
Women, people of color, trans, and queer people are often told by society that they don’t fit it, and in our work together we can help you to feel as though you do fit.
I'm very experienced working with minority communities including working with women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ clients. Minority groups and couples, particularly those at the intersections of gender, race, and sexual orientation, who are often underrepresented in fields of work such as business, tech, and entrepreneurship. I believe therapy should be a safe and non-judgmental space that empowers individuals to be able to push their own limits and views of themselves, in all aspects of their personal and professional lives. Being able to embrace, love, and be proud of oneself, is one of the strongest things a person can learn to do.
Women, people of color, trans, and queer people are often told by society that they don’t fit it, and in our work together we can help you to feel as though you do fit.
I'm very experienced working with minority communities including working with women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ clients. Minority groups and couples, particularly those at the intersections of gender, race, and sexual orientation, who are often underrepresented in fields of work such as business, tech, and entrepreneurship. I believe therapy should be a safe and non-judgmental space that empowers individuals to be able to push their own limits and views of themselves, in all aspects of their personal and professional lives. Being able to embrace, love, and be proud of oneself, is one of the strongest things a person can learn to do.
(360) 346-9619 View (360) 346-9619
Photo of Denise Burningham - Denise Burningham Counseling, PLLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Denise Burningham Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98662  (Online Only)
Specialties/Community Focus: LGBTQIA Community, Diversity and Anti-Oppression Work, Adolescence, Children and Families, Intersectional Identities, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Grief and Loss, and Hoarding Disorder.
I offer Individual, Couples & Relationship, and Children & Family Therapy in my practice. My work with you will be centered on supporting you in understanding your experiences and setting meaningful goals that feel right for your life. I am honored to be invited into a healing space with individuals, couples, and families. I know that the act of living is beautiful, difficult, amazing, and complicated. We will sit together in the difficult realities, the illuminating ‘ah-ha’ moments, and through the seasons of what it is to be alive. Come as you are and know I will show up as your advocate and collaborator in therapy.
Specialties/Community Focus: LGBTQIA Community, Diversity and Anti-Oppression Work, Adolescence, Children and Families, Intersectional Identities, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Grief and Loss, and Hoarding Disorder.
I offer Individual, Couples & Relationship, and Children & Family Therapy in my practice. My work with you will be centered on supporting you in understanding your experiences and setting meaningful goals that feel right for your life. I am honored to be invited into a healing space with individuals, couples, and families. I know that the act of living is beautiful, difficult, amazing, and complicated. We will sit together in the difficult realities, the illuminating ‘ah-ha’ moments, and through the seasons of what it is to be alive. Come as you are and know I will show up as your advocate and collaborator in therapy.
(360) 230-5906 View (360) 230-5906
Photo of Terra Anderson, MA, BC-DMT
Terra Anderson
MA, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98660
So... you want more ease, confidence and connection in your intimate relationships? You want to feel more awake to pleasure, present in your body, and clear about what you want and how to ask for it. Are you ready find more freedom in your sex life without feeling weighed down by shame, fear, or the past? If you're looking for a queer, trans, poly-experienced, kink-affirming, and somatically-oriented counselor to help you navigate the hard stuff on your path towards your most empowered sexual expression - I'm here for you.
So... you want more ease, confidence and connection in your intimate relationships? You want to feel more awake to pleasure, present in your body, and clear about what you want and how to ask for it. Are you ready find more freedom in your sex life without feeling weighed down by shame, fear, or the past? If you're looking for a queer, trans, poly-experienced, kink-affirming, and somatically-oriented counselor to help you navigate the hard stuff on your path towards your most empowered sexual expression - I'm here for you.
(971) 259-6680 View (971) 259-6680
Photo of Elizabeth Kramer, BA, Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elizabeth Kramer
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98682  (Online Only)
We’ll start by exploring what’s weighing on you, whether it’s life changes, relationships, or going through life as a queer or neurodivergent person, and together, we will work toward a healthier, more balanced life, helping you regain confidence again.
Are you navigating the challenges of grief, life transitions, or struggling with anxiety? Maybe you’re working through relationship issues, managing ADHD or other forms of neurodivergence, or exploring your identity, including sexual orientation or relationship dynamics like polyamory. These experiences can leave you feeling overwhelmed and disconnected. I’m here to provide support as you build self-esteem, manage mood disorders, and foster healthier emotional connections. Together, we can work toward greater balance, self-compassion, and personal growth.
We’ll start by exploring what’s weighing on you, whether it’s life changes, relationships, or going through life as a queer or neurodivergent person, and together, we will work toward a healthier, more balanced life, helping you regain confidence again.
Are you navigating the challenges of grief, life transitions, or struggling with anxiety? Maybe you’re working through relationship issues, managing ADHD or other forms of neurodivergence, or exploring your identity, including sexual orientation or relationship dynamics like polyamory. These experiences can leave you feeling overwhelmed and disconnected. I’m here to provide support as you build self-esteem, manage mood disorders, and foster healthier emotional connections. Together, we can work toward greater balance, self-compassion, and personal growth.
(206) 207-3172 View (206) 207-3172
Photo of Dr. Maria Yearout, PsyD, LMHCA, Counselor
Dr. Maria Yearout
Counselor, PsyD, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
LGBTQ2S+, Trans-positive, Enby and Queer-identified therapist offering a complimentary 15-minute meet and greet to see if I’m a good fit for your needs and goals.
I am passionate about offering specialized services to individuals couples, and families in gender transition, BIPOC, and the LGBTQ2S+ community, including letter writing in support of gender affirming medical and surgical care. I use culturally competent, research-based modalities to help you shape the change and growth you want to see, and I honor your pace as we approach and engage with the work. Family and Couples Therapy private pay only.
LGBTQ2S+, Trans-positive, Enby and Queer-identified therapist offering a complimentary 15-minute meet and greet to see if I’m a good fit for your needs and goals.
I am passionate about offering specialized services to individuals couples, and families in gender transition, BIPOC, and the LGBTQ2S+ community, including letter writing in support of gender affirming medical and surgical care. I use culturally competent, research-based modalities to help you shape the change and growth you want to see, and I honor your pace as we approach and engage with the work. Family and Couples Therapy private pay only.
(425) 217-8846 View (425) 217-8846
Photo of Monica Farrar, LPC, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monica Farrar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
I am passionate about supporting clients of all walks of life (straight, non-binary, LGBTQIA+) through a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship.
Hello, brave one! I understand and admire the courage it takes to seek mental health support. If you find yourself grappling with anxious/intrusive thoughts, depressed mood, gender or sexual identity, challenges related to career or life transitions, or struggles associated with relationships and self esteem, therapy can be a safe, supportive space to process these experiences. Together, we may examine social, cultural, and environmental factors that impact the broader context of your lived experience, meaning-making process, and ability to implement change.
I am passionate about supporting clients of all walks of life (straight, non-binary, LGBTQIA+) through a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship.
Hello, brave one! I understand and admire the courage it takes to seek mental health support. If you find yourself grappling with anxious/intrusive thoughts, depressed mood, gender or sexual identity, challenges related to career or life transitions, or struggles associated with relationships and self esteem, therapy can be a safe, supportive space to process these experiences. Together, we may examine social, cultural, and environmental factors that impact the broader context of your lived experience, meaning-making process, and ability to implement change.
(503) 483-8649 View (503) 483-8649
Photo of Alaina Ewing, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alaina Ewing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98682
In addition to anxiety and trauma, I also support clients with disabilities, Autistics, ADHDers, other Neurodivergents, those in the LGBTQIA community, and those with co-occurring conditions.
Are you going through a difficult time? Struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or needing support while you take steps toward the life you want to live? Then you've come to the right place. I lean toward a collaborative, person-centered, and strengths-based approach. You are the expert in your life and I am here to help you on your journey.
In addition to anxiety and trauma, I also support clients with disabilities, Autistics, ADHDers, other Neurodivergents, those in the LGBTQIA community, and those with co-occurring conditions.
Are you going through a difficult time? Struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or needing support while you take steps toward the life you want to live? Then you've come to the right place. I lean toward a collaborative, person-centered, and strengths-based approach. You are the expert in your life and I am here to help you on your journey.
(253) 367-3658 View (253) 367-3658
Photo of Susan Keene, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Susan Keene
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98682  (Online Only)
I work with the LGBTQ community, the polyamory community, and various spiritual traditions.
I am currently accepting new clients! I work through telehealth only, You are the expert on your own life. But, when life does not follow your best laid plans, you sometimes need help to work through the changes to become stronger than before. In the space we create together, you can examine your life journey and find ways to use your strengths to make a better life. In my practice, I use a strengths-based approach for individual therapy that is appropriate for adults of all genders, orientations, and ages. Together, I can to help you with life changes, sexuality, relationships, and self esteem.
I work with the LGBTQ community, the polyamory community, and various spiritual traditions.
I am currently accepting new clients! I work through telehealth only, You are the expert on your own life. But, when life does not follow your best laid plans, you sometimes need help to work through the changes to become stronger than before. In the space we create together, you can examine your life journey and find ways to use your strengths to make a better life. In my practice, I use a strengths-based approach for individual therapy that is appropriate for adults of all genders, orientations, and ages. Together, I can to help you with life changes, sexuality, relationships, and self esteem.
(206) 207-3024 View (206) 207-3024
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See more therapy options for Clark County

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.