Therapists in Liberty Lake, WA
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![Photo of Camila Tonn - Traverse Therapy Services, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1b1e640-f95e-49aa-959a-9b13dc8f12fe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Traverse Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99216 (Online Only)
We are accepting new clients! Hi, I'm Camila Tonn (she/ella), As an immigrant and queer therapist fluent in both Spanish and English, I'm committed to providing ongoing support and walking beside you throughout your therapeutic journey. My practice focuses on adults and adolescents, specializing in LGBTQIA+ individuals, survivors of trauma (including sexual and/or domestic violence), those diagnosed with HIV, individuals navigating significant life changes, and those seeking support for anxiety or depression. My goal is to provide a safe space and personalized support to help navigate challenges and achieve emotional well-being
We are accepting new clients! Hi, I'm Camila Tonn (she/ella), As an immigrant and queer therapist fluent in both Spanish and English, I'm committed to providing ongoing support and walking beside you throughout your therapeutic journey. My practice focuses on adults and adolescents, specializing in LGBTQIA+ individuals, survivors of trauma (including sexual and/or domestic violence), those diagnosed with HIV, individuals navigating significant life changes, and those seeking support for anxiety or depression. My goal is to provide a safe space and personalized support to help navigate challenges and achieve emotional well-being
![Photo of Bobbi Kizer, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46ed3256-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am experienced working with individuals from all areas of the LGBTQIA+ umbrella and also routinely write recommendation/referral letters for transgender and gender diverse hormones and surgeries.
I believe that healing can happen through the process of empathic and supportive counseling. I work with mood issues, personality disorders, grief, substance use and more. I utilize a culturally sensitive and holistic psychodynamic style of therapy. This approach encourages development in all areas of life, and pays special attention to unconscious factors, childhood upbringing, trauma, and cultural identity (race, religion, sexuality, gender, disability, etc). I am currently accepting clients for group therapy, that will combine the sport/art of crew rowing with group talk therapy. This is a powerful way of feeling connection.
I am experienced working with individuals from all areas of the LGBTQIA+ umbrella and also routinely write recommendation/referral letters for transgender and gender diverse hormones and surgeries.
I believe that healing can happen through the process of empathic and supportive counseling. I work with mood issues, personality disorders, grief, substance use and more. I utilize a culturally sensitive and holistic psychodynamic style of therapy. This approach encourages development in all areas of life, and pays special attention to unconscious factors, childhood upbringing, trauma, and cultural identity (race, religion, sexuality, gender, disability, etc). I am currently accepting clients for group therapy, that will combine the sport/art of crew rowing with group talk therapy. This is a powerful way of feeling connection.
![Photo of Sarah Clode, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa094845-8eb7-439d-9d49-829abab1a552/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life is tricky... It's hard and messy and has no one right answer, especially now. Therapy is all about you figuring yourself out without judgment or expectations. Therapy with me, is a bit chaotic and messy too, like life. But trust me, the work is worth it. There is no one right way to "do" therapy or to be a client, but it is about you and what you're willing to bring to the table.
Life is tricky... It's hard and messy and has no one right answer, especially now. Therapy is all about you figuring yourself out without judgment or expectations. Therapy with me, is a bit chaotic and messy too, like life. But trust me, the work is worth it. There is no one right way to "do" therapy or to be a client, but it is about you and what you're willing to bring to the table.
![Photo of Nicholas B Lauderdale, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43e3f5f0-f7f5-42e1-b8be-ed8bffc0b14c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients! Reframing the way you think can be a life long process. My goal is help you change the way you look at yourself, life, goals, and even counseling. I take a more down to earth approach, and do my best to help relate therapeutic subject matter to a topic you can understand. I work to build a therapeutic alliance with you in order to meet your mental health needs and give you the tools necessary to improve your life. My areas of clinical focus are depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions (new job, or school transitions) and interpersonal communication between family, coworkers, and/or friends.
Accepting New Clients! Reframing the way you think can be a life long process. My goal is help you change the way you look at yourself, life, goals, and even counseling. I take a more down to earth approach, and do my best to help relate therapeutic subject matter to a topic you can understand. I work to build a therapeutic alliance with you in order to meet your mental health needs and give you the tools necessary to improve your life. My areas of clinical focus are depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions (new job, or school transitions) and interpersonal communication between family, coworkers, and/or friends.
![Photo of Angelica Minkavage Yturralde, Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2854149-932c-4419-8382-621e10a1a7c9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angelica Minkavage Yturralde
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99206 (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach focuses on fostering healing and growth and emphasizing the value of relationships and connection. I strive to create a collaborative and empathetic safe space in which clients feel valued and empowered to explore their experiences. Approaching sessions with genuine curiosity, I aim to provide a therapeutic relationship that inspires clients to engage in opportunities for mutual growth, authenticity, and connection. Therapy can be the space for us to cultivate belonging and resilience. You are not alone; we can do this together. My goal is to understand the client holistically,
My therapeutic approach focuses on fostering healing and growth and emphasizing the value of relationships and connection. I strive to create a collaborative and empathetic safe space in which clients feel valued and empowered to explore their experiences. Approaching sessions with genuine curiosity, I aim to provide a therapeutic relationship that inspires clients to engage in opportunities for mutual growth, authenticity, and connection. Therapy can be the space for us to cultivate belonging and resilience. You are not alone; we can do this together. My goal is to understand the client holistically,
![Photo of Doug Blessington, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5036bea3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you heartbroken? Anxious? Angry? All of the above and more? You are welcome here. You may have a relationship that is falling apart or make the same bad decisions again and again. You may be overwhelmed by an overly critical mind that says you are undeserving, less than, or too much. Perhaps you take care of others and forget to take care of yourself. You long for companionship and have a deep desire to matter, to belong, and to be respected.
Are you heartbroken? Anxious? Angry? All of the above and more? You are welcome here. You may have a relationship that is falling apart or make the same bad decisions again and again. You may be overwhelmed by an overly critical mind that says you are undeserving, less than, or too much. Perhaps you take care of others and forget to take care of yourself. You long for companionship and have a deep desire to matter, to belong, and to be respected.
![Photo of Jason McAllister, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b28c7ad-f3ee-411a-819d-96c7a697afa6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked with a variety of different clients with unique and diverse walks of life. I became a counselor because I believe in people's ability to grow, learn and heal. I am here to help guide and facilitate that growth, to meet you where you are to help you heal, learn and grow. I provide a space of non-judgment, that is safe to walk on your path of discovery and recovery. Life can be a difficult journey at times and for different reasons, but it helps to have someone walk along side you as you persevere through these trials. I believe in hope, that even in our darkest of days, hope is on the horizon.
I have worked with a variety of different clients with unique and diverse walks of life. I became a counselor because I believe in people's ability to grow, learn and heal. I am here to help guide and facilitate that growth, to meet you where you are to help you heal, learn and grow. I provide a space of non-judgment, that is safe to walk on your path of discovery and recovery. Life can be a difficult journey at times and for different reasons, but it helps to have someone walk along side you as you persevere through these trials. I believe in hope, that even in our darkest of days, hope is on the horizon.
![Photo of Jennifer Kizima, MA, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06d00d68-a9cc-43f5-8910-2f2f926a1d39/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Kizima
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99027 (Online Only)
Welcome. Navigating the challenges of today's world can be hard to do alone. This journey can feel even more difficult when we are dealing with negative feelings and stressful events. I believe therapy is more than a place to talk about our feelings and experiences. Therapy should provide a warm and welcoming safe environment. It should be free of judgments and offer you the space to form a trusting and respectful therapeutic relationship on your own terms. As a therapist, I strive to provide transparency and compassion in a setting that is never rushed and always client lead, via Telehealth.
Welcome. Navigating the challenges of today's world can be hard to do alone. This journey can feel even more difficult when we are dealing with negative feelings and stressful events. I believe therapy is more than a place to talk about our feelings and experiences. Therapy should provide a warm and welcoming safe environment. It should be free of judgments and offer you the space to form a trusting and respectful therapeutic relationship on your own terms. As a therapist, I strive to provide transparency and compassion in a setting that is never rushed and always client lead, via Telehealth.
![Photo of Brittney Richards, MA, CLC, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/739e9693-1dac-44f1-b439-12b0b2a4caf2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brittney Richards
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, CLC, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99212
You are the common denominator in every relationship you have. I strive to transform lives through relationships that are deep and meaningful. I work with couples and individuals looking to strengthen or repair connections with themselves and/or others.
You are the common denominator in every relationship you have. I strive to transform lives through relationships that are deep and meaningful. I work with couples and individuals looking to strengthen or repair connections with themselves and/or others.
![Photo of Mariann “Annie” Kinkle, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04de5e09-9009-4d5f-91df-aa700d34f6aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mariann “Annie” Kinkle
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Welcome to my profile. I currently work with individuals struggling with depression, self-harm, anxiety, PTSD, emotional regulation, trauma, grief, low self-worth and life transition issues. I am skilled in working with individuals, couples, or families where there is a history of childhood trauma or attachment injuries that are negatively impacting functioning. I work with couples to manage communication and conflict and help improve relationship bonds. I help families develop healthy boundaries, reduce stress and conflict, increase empathy, and improve interactions between family members.
Welcome to my profile. I currently work with individuals struggling with depression, self-harm, anxiety, PTSD, emotional regulation, trauma, grief, low self-worth and life transition issues. I am skilled in working with individuals, couples, or families where there is a history of childhood trauma or attachment injuries that are negatively impacting functioning. I work with couples to manage communication and conflict and help improve relationship bonds. I help families develop healthy boundaries, reduce stress and conflict, increase empathy, and improve interactions between family members.
![Photo of Ahmad Bennett - CrossRoads Family Therapy Services PLLC, LMFTA, MHP, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d195aaab-afa0-4134-83c0-58480a595e98/2/320x400.jpeg)
CrossRoads Family Therapy Services PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MHP
Verified Verified
Spokane Valley, WA 99216 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As your therapist, I aim to collaborate with you by developing treatment goals, building trust, and understanding what is happening in your life. I want to acknowledge that you are the expert on yourself and your story. Clinically, I will utilize mental health modalities and theories of practice appropriate for the individual, couple, or family. I have a curious nature and a relaxed demeanor.
As your therapist, I aim to collaborate with you by developing treatment goals, building trust, and understanding what is happening in your life. I want to acknowledge that you are the expert on yourself and your story. Clinically, I will utilize mental health modalities and theories of practice appropriate for the individual, couple, or family. I have a curious nature and a relaxed demeanor.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Kelly O'Connor, LMHCA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bdaf40a-9551-47ad-bc2c-d72f6e74c766/2/320x400.png)
Kelly O'Connor
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201 (Online Only)
I am particularly passionate about serving youth of color, queer and trans youth, and youth with disabilities.
Youth voices are often silenced, shut down, or misunderstood. Whether you are struggling with your identity, processing trauma or simply feeling lost—I am here to listen. As a counselor, my goal is to make the healing process as accessible and enjoyable as possible. Together we will build a safe, creative space to process and grow. My approach is primarily humanist and strengths-based, which means that I focus on the client, their story, and their strengths. I tend to blend a variety of modalities, including CBT, mindfulness, narrative therapy and roleplay.
I am particularly passionate about serving youth of color, queer and trans youth, and youth with disabilities.
Youth voices are often silenced, shut down, or misunderstood. Whether you are struggling with your identity, processing trauma or simply feeling lost—I am here to listen. As a counselor, my goal is to make the healing process as accessible and enjoyable as possible. Together we will build a safe, creative space to process and grow. My approach is primarily humanist and strengths-based, which means that I focus on the client, their story, and their strengths. I tend to blend a variety of modalities, including CBT, mindfulness, narrative therapy and roleplay.
![Photo of Judy C. Jagiello, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddd8f0f1-8dfd-445c-ad0c-78a488a17733/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Veteran and a member of the LGBTQIA community.
Strength and fortitude can be found inside every one of us. While you might feel like you can manage your ups and downs alone because you are strong or don’t feel you deserve assistance, sometimes it is beneficial to reach out for help. By clarifying what is most important in your life, I could help you navigate your troubles, whether it is adjusting to a new medical diagnosis, dealing with anxious thoughts, a big life change, or dealing with discrimination. While it is easy to feel broken when asking for help, I believe people are not broken but sometimes become stuck. Let's work together to move you forward.
I am a Veteran and a member of the LGBTQIA community.
Strength and fortitude can be found inside every one of us. While you might feel like you can manage your ups and downs alone because you are strong or don’t feel you deserve assistance, sometimes it is beneficial to reach out for help. By clarifying what is most important in your life, I could help you navigate your troubles, whether it is adjusting to a new medical diagnosis, dealing with anxious thoughts, a big life change, or dealing with discrimination. While it is easy to feel broken when asking for help, I believe people are not broken but sometimes become stuck. Let's work together to move you forward.
![Photo of Joselynn Duranona, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66a89cc6-473b-4d5b-8918-809e523d33b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also like working with those from marginalized communities specifically the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ populations.
Some days everything can feel out of control, you may look calm & seem to have all the answers on the outside but inside you feel like a hot mess. This is where therapy can help. You have the answers you just need the right questions asked in the right environment. Maybe you need someone to push you & challenge you to do the hard work you know you can do. Counseling is not about telling you what is right but helping & guiding you to find the right path for yourself. Its about allowing you to feel & experience your thoughts & emotions so you can use that knowledge to move forward & become the person you are supposed to be.
I also like working with those from marginalized communities specifically the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ populations.
Some days everything can feel out of control, you may look calm & seem to have all the answers on the outside but inside you feel like a hot mess. This is where therapy can help. You have the answers you just need the right questions asked in the right environment. Maybe you need someone to push you & challenge you to do the hard work you know you can do. Counseling is not about telling you what is right but helping & guiding you to find the right path for yourself. Its about allowing you to feel & experience your thoughts & emotions so you can use that knowledge to move forward & become the person you are supposed to be.
![Photo of Erika Wiggins-Tate, LMHC, LPC, QSUDP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bba6151b-4086-4340-aa85-17aa64afd425/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erika Wiggins-Tate
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, QSUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201 (Online Only)
My hope is that when life presents you with the unexpected, that with me- you will find the understanding, validation and support needed for healing to truly take place. Hello, my name is Erika and my pronouns are she/her/hers. A PNW native, I identify as a queer, person of color and mental health therapist who has been practicing in the area for over 16 years. My experience has primarily encompassed LGBTQIA2S+, BIPOC and neurodivergent populations, those seeking identity-affirming and kink/sex-positive care, substance abuse treatment, and folks struggling with ADHD, grief, mood disorders, life transitions and relationship dynamics.
My hope is that when life presents you with the unexpected, that with me- you will find the understanding, validation and support needed for healing to truly take place. Hello, my name is Erika and my pronouns are she/her/hers. A PNW native, I identify as a queer, person of color and mental health therapist who has been practicing in the area for over 16 years. My experience has primarily encompassed LGBTQIA2S+, BIPOC and neurodivergent populations, those seeking identity-affirming and kink/sex-positive care, substance abuse treatment, and folks struggling with ADHD, grief, mood disorders, life transitions and relationship dynamics.
![Photo of Nicholas R Lee, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9e4d0ba-2bb7-4d4e-9da7-06be549ccef1/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety and anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, family trauma, and identity issues.
My ideal client would be searching for a counselor who is genuine, empathetic, unconditionally holds them in positive regard, and can connect to their experiences. They would have a goal of learning new skills, working on behavioral and cognitive change, and are willing to look at multiple solutions to achieve their goals. They would want to strive for success as they see it and want support in removing any barriers for a better and healthier future.
I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety and anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, family trauma, and identity issues.
My ideal client would be searching for a counselor who is genuine, empathetic, unconditionally holds them in positive regard, and can connect to their experiences. They would have a goal of learning new skills, working on behavioral and cognitive change, and are willing to look at multiple solutions to achieve their goals. They would want to strive for success as they see it and want support in removing any barriers for a better and healthier future.
![Photo of Marina Connor, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bcb23ab-1296-4dc8-b00d-bbef29af79e9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Marina. With me, no topic, feeling, or situation is off-limits in the counseling space – I will treat you with respect to help you overcome what's hurting you. I work with individuals, couples/poly relationships, and families between the ages of preteen and elder. As a sex therapist, I have extensive experience working with kink and BDSM, polyamory, LGBTQ issues, gender therapy, sexual pleasure and dysfunction, pain with sex, negative body image, high or low libido, sex work, sex abuse, sexual trauma, and/or sexual shame, among other topics.
Hi, I'm Marina. With me, no topic, feeling, or situation is off-limits in the counseling space – I will treat you with respect to help you overcome what's hurting you. I work with individuals, couples/poly relationships, and families between the ages of preteen and elder. As a sex therapist, I have extensive experience working with kink and BDSM, polyamory, LGBTQ issues, gender therapy, sexual pleasure and dysfunction, pain with sex, negative body image, high or low libido, sex work, sex abuse, sexual trauma, and/or sexual shame, among other topics.
![Photo of Zita L Nickeson, PhD, LMHC, LCPC, CST, CSE, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52d7a1bb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zita L Nickeson
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LCPC, CST, CSE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99205 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a Certified Sex Therapist, I have extensive training in LGBTQ+ issues, Sexual Disorders & Dysfunction, Problematic Sexual Behavior (alternatively "Sex/Porn Addiction"), & Infidelity Recovery.
I provide caring, compassionate & open-minded counseling to individuals, couples & families; specializing in Sex Therapy, relational/marital counseling, LGBTQ+ issues & adolescent/family communication & Multiracial/Multicultural counseling. Counseling can be a difficult process & my goal is to help you through that process in the most comfortable & successful way, as it is a lasting investment in an improved sense of self & life. I pride myself on creating & maintaining an open, honest & non-judgemental environment, allowing & supporting personal growth in all areas of your life. As a LMHC, Certified Sex Therapist & KINK Knowledgeable Professional, I enjoy providing therapy & advocacy for those I counsel.
As a Certified Sex Therapist, I have extensive training in LGBTQ+ issues, Sexual Disorders & Dysfunction, Problematic Sexual Behavior (alternatively "Sex/Porn Addiction"), & Infidelity Recovery.
I provide caring, compassionate & open-minded counseling to individuals, couples & families; specializing in Sex Therapy, relational/marital counseling, LGBTQ+ issues & adolescent/family communication & Multiracial/Multicultural counseling. Counseling can be a difficult process & my goal is to help you through that process in the most comfortable & successful way, as it is a lasting investment in an improved sense of self & life. I pride myself on creating & maintaining an open, honest & non-judgemental environment, allowing & supporting personal growth in all areas of your life. As a LMHC, Certified Sex Therapist & KINK Knowledgeable Professional, I enjoy providing therapy & advocacy for those I counsel.
![Photo of Lee Gilman, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed716722-6baf-4603-9501-a1672cda33bd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lee Gilman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201 (Online Only)
I am gender, LGBTQ+, poly, kink, and consensual non-monogamy affirming in my work.
In order for us to grow, we must challenge our preconceived notions of self and experiences, as those are what shape our truths. We are not alone, even when it feels as if we are. We are connected to the thousands of lives that have touched ours and have had a hand in creating who we are. I approach my work through a systemic lens, in other words, I see the world as a huge ball of yarn. Those strings are our connectedness, the relationships we hold that connect us to our culture, our family, our history, and our future.
I am gender, LGBTQ+, poly, kink, and consensual non-monogamy affirming in my work.
In order for us to grow, we must challenge our preconceived notions of self and experiences, as those are what shape our truths. We are not alone, even when it feels as if we are. We are connected to the thousands of lives that have touched ours and have had a hand in creating who we are. I approach my work through a systemic lens, in other words, I see the world as a huge ball of yarn. Those strings are our connectedness, the relationships we hold that connect us to our culture, our family, our history, and our future.
![Photo of Basia Cady, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/026c08a1-f531-460c-98c3-aa617caba588/1/320x400.jpeg)
Basia Cady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarkston, WA 99403 (Online Only)
Hi everyone! I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker at Dragonfly Counseling. I graduated from Western Washington University with my BA in Sociology before obtaining my Master of Social Work from the University of New England in 2018. In my role as a social worker, I’ve had the opportunity to work with people from all socioeconomic, racial, ethnic, religious, and sexual orientations. I've worked in a multitude of roles with one focus: advocating for my client’s safety and well-being, whatever that looks like for them.
Hi everyone! I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker at Dragonfly Counseling. I graduated from Western Washington University with my BA in Sociology before obtaining my Master of Social Work from the University of New England in 2018. In my role as a social worker, I’ve had the opportunity to work with people from all socioeconomic, racial, ethnic, religious, and sexual orientations. I've worked in a multitude of roles with one focus: advocating for my client’s safety and well-being, whatever that looks like for them.
See more therapy options for Liberty Lake
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.