Transgender Therapists in Olympia, WA
![Photo of Fennec Clyde Oak, MA, LMHCA, MHP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52b9a788-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Fennec Clyde Oak
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501 (Online Only)
No one is broken. What does it mean to be you? What are your heart’s secret longings? What are the heavy parts you carry in your body and the hopes that you have yet to speak aloud? Healing is not linear. Let us explore the winding path that is you: in the memories of your past, in your experience of the present, and in the possibilities of the future. I am a transgender-identified therapist who specializes in work with LGBTQ+ people and their loved ones. In addition, I work with trauma survivors, people who have experienced othering, and people in life transitions.
No one is broken. What does it mean to be you? What are your heart’s secret longings? What are the heavy parts you carry in your body and the hopes that you have yet to speak aloud? Healing is not linear. Let us explore the winding path that is you: in the memories of your past, in your experience of the present, and in the possibilities of the future. I am a transgender-identified therapist who specializes in work with LGBTQ+ people and their loved ones. In addition, I work with trauma survivors, people who have experienced othering, and people in life transitions.
![Photo of Dani Patrick, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6db22afc-5ce0-49aa-993a-a170d24537ce/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients as of 8/26/24. Whether you’re transgender, non-binary, queer, neurodivergent, kinky or non-monogamous, you deserve a therapist who gets you. Maybe stress or trauma has impacted how you show up to relationships. Maybe creativity plays a big role in your life but you've been feeling disconnected to your creative practice. Maybe despite external success, you struggle to feel good about yourself. As a therapist, I work to support you in bringing curiosity and compassion towards yourself. Together we can unpack your experience, develop deeper self-understanding, and shift patterns that no longer work for you.
Accepting new clients as of 8/26/24. Whether you’re transgender, non-binary, queer, neurodivergent, kinky or non-monogamous, you deserve a therapist who gets you. Maybe stress or trauma has impacted how you show up to relationships. Maybe creativity plays a big role in your life but you've been feeling disconnected to your creative practice. Maybe despite external success, you struggle to feel good about yourself. As a therapist, I work to support you in bringing curiosity and compassion towards yourself. Together we can unpack your experience, develop deeper self-understanding, and shift patterns that no longer work for you.
![Photo of Sean Taylor Seyer, MA, LPC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4068316c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sean Taylor Seyer
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98502 (Online Only)
I am a transgender male and have worked with the LGBTQA communities for many years.
It takes courage to start therapy. You've probably tried a number of ways to do this yourself. You want to feel better, more in control and not be so bothered by certain people, things, and past events. That is exactly what I am trained and experienced in helping people do.
I am a transgender male and have worked with the LGBTQA communities for many years.
It takes courage to start therapy. You've probably tried a number of ways to do this yourself. You want to feel better, more in control and not be so bothered by certain people, things, and past events. That is exactly what I am trained and experienced in helping people do.
![Photo of Amy Lennon Riggio, LMHCA, LGBTQIA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb0c8b6f-fa4c-44a4-9adb-04ff151df33d/2/320x400.jpeg)
[Ideally, please click "Website" tab and use our Contact Form.] My practice is focused on individual adults age 21 and older. I work with the queer community, transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, the ethically non-monogamous and the kink community, substance use issues, those struggling to manage depression or anxiety, and clients whose issues stem from PTSD, trauma, or grief. Giving witness and presence to pain helps facilitate a space in which people can heal. I am HAES (Health At Every Size) informed. I believe we all have what we need within us - we just need those qualities recognized, called forth, and polished.
[Ideally, please click "Website" tab and use our Contact Form.] My practice is focused on individual adults age 21 and older. I work with the queer community, transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, the ethically non-monogamous and the kink community, substance use issues, those struggling to manage depression or anxiety, and clients whose issues stem from PTSD, trauma, or grief. Giving witness and presence to pain helps facilitate a space in which people can heal. I am HAES (Health At Every Size) informed. I believe we all have what we need within us - we just need those qualities recognized, called forth, and polished.
![Photo of Jennifer L. Jones, SUDC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0f4e3e7-eac5-4699-a813-b3fc3e5a59c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer L. Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, SUDC, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501 (Online Only)
I am a member of the LGBTQ Affirmative Therapists Guild of Utah and WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works from a humanistic approach through a trauma informed perspective. This means I recognize how your past experiences impact you each day, and that trauma may have shattered your concept of self, other people, or the world. I will work to help you change how you experience emotions, instead of just eliminating or reducing them.
I am a member of the LGBTQ Affirmative Therapists Guild of Utah and WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works from a humanistic approach through a trauma informed perspective. This means I recognize how your past experiences impact you each day, and that trauma may have shattered your concept of self, other people, or the world. I will work to help you change how you experience emotions, instead of just eliminating or reducing them.
![Photo of Erika Laurentz, MPsych, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e36ad4fc-9efb-49ee-a219-eba951b5f5c5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Perhaps one of the reasons for that is that I am transgender.
Sometimes, therapy is quick and transformational. Sometimes, it’s slow and gentle, so as not to overwhelm your nervous system. Together, we will craft an approach that work best for you. I have extensive training in trauma therapy, couples therapy, light-trance hypnotherapy (used to enhance somatic memory/not the deep trance work of traditional hypnotherapy-you remain fully conscious the whole time), and Shamanic Healing. Shamanic healing is an important aspect of Depth Psychology, a newer branch of psychology that works with the right brain. Therapies like Cognitive Behavioral work with the left brain. I am trained in both.
Perhaps one of the reasons for that is that I am transgender.
Sometimes, therapy is quick and transformational. Sometimes, it’s slow and gentle, so as not to overwhelm your nervous system. Together, we will craft an approach that work best for you. I have extensive training in trauma therapy, couples therapy, light-trance hypnotherapy (used to enhance somatic memory/not the deep trance work of traditional hypnotherapy-you remain fully conscious the whole time), and Shamanic Healing. Shamanic healing is an important aspect of Depth Psychology, a newer branch of psychology that works with the right brain. Therapies like Cognitive Behavioral work with the left brain. I am trained in both.
![Photo of Chris Schad - Moonrise Mental Health, PLLC, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cde388be-e393-4cbe-bca7-1d36e60caf76/1/320x400.jpeg)
Moonrise Mental Health, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502 (Online Only)
I specialize in grief and loss, and offer support through life transitions such as: divorce, job loss, and health issues. My background is in gerontology and hospice care. I've worked with older adults and their caregivers in the health field since 2006. I use a strengths based, person-centered approach. My clinical focus includes working with people who identify as LGBTQIA+. I identify as Queer and celebrate the resilience that can be found in overcoming adversity through community and connection. I work with Veterans and their families. I advocate for healthcare equity for Transgender Veterans and gender non-conforming folks.
I specialize in grief and loss, and offer support through life transitions such as: divorce, job loss, and health issues. My background is in gerontology and hospice care. I've worked with older adults and their caregivers in the health field since 2006. I use a strengths based, person-centered approach. My clinical focus includes working with people who identify as LGBTQIA+. I identify as Queer and celebrate the resilience that can be found in overcoming adversity through community and connection. I work with Veterans and their families. I advocate for healthcare equity for Transgender Veterans and gender non-conforming folks.
![Photo of Sazi Wald, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63c649a7-b243-4589-b78f-0802b3bb102f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Message today for a free consult! Also, yes! If you are transgender, neurodivergent, BIPOC, clairvoyant, polyamorous, and/or have other identities oppressed by society you are welcome here!.
I help recovering over-thinkers blossom into their authenticity. Message me for a free consult! Transitioning out from a life run by overthinking can be really challenging. As you assert yourself in various situations, you may find yourself in better jobs, relationships, or newfound self-awareness. Yet, irritability, insecurity, racing thoughts, and the pull of old habits like doom scrolling, social avoidance, or overworking persists. It’s one thing to leave unhealthy places, it’s another to live in the new healthier spaces!
Message today for a free consult! Also, yes! If you are transgender, neurodivergent, BIPOC, clairvoyant, polyamorous, and/or have other identities oppressed by society you are welcome here!.
I help recovering over-thinkers blossom into their authenticity. Message me for a free consult! Transitioning out from a life run by overthinking can be really challenging. As you assert yourself in various situations, you may find yourself in better jobs, relationships, or newfound self-awareness. Yet, irritability, insecurity, racing thoughts, and the pull of old habits like doom scrolling, social avoidance, or overworking persists. It’s one thing to leave unhealthy places, it’s another to live in the new healthier spaces!
![Photo of Erin Daly (She-They), MA, LMFT, ATR-P, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ead5a36-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Daly (She-They)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98501
I specialize in providing affirming and competent therapy to people across a broad spectrum of gender, sexuality, and relationship diversity. I love working with folks who identify across the LGBTQIA2-S++ spectrum, as well as those who have other marginalized and/or non-normative identities and life experiences. My work is trauma-informed and rooted in values of collective liberation, anti-oppression, resilience, and intersectionality. My work is systemically focused, meaning that I work to support you in your growth as a whole self who lives as an interconnected and interdependent being within the unique context of your life.
I specialize in providing affirming and competent therapy to people across a broad spectrum of gender, sexuality, and relationship diversity. I love working with folks who identify across the LGBTQIA2-S++ spectrum, as well as those who have other marginalized and/or non-normative identities and life experiences. My work is trauma-informed and rooted in values of collective liberation, anti-oppression, resilience, and intersectionality. My work is systemically focused, meaning that I work to support you in your growth as a whole self who lives as an interconnected and interdependent being within the unique context of your life.
![Photo of Sarah Moore - Harley Moore, MA, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37fdc7de-2300-4761-a690-e8c1e7185f94/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and thank you for reading! I am accepting new clients of all ages who are seeking virtual therapy anywhere in the state of Washington. I often work with queer and trans clients and those struggling with complex trauma. I am experienced in working with neurodivergent clients, teens and young adults, polyamorous clients, and formerly incarcerated folks.
Hello and thank you for reading! I am accepting new clients of all ages who are seeking virtual therapy anywhere in the state of Washington. I often work with queer and trans clients and those struggling with complex trauma. I am experienced in working with neurodivergent clients, teens and young adults, polyamorous clients, and formerly incarcerated folks.
![Photo of Casey Akerhielm - Cascadia Counseling PLLC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aeb31776-6c79-4aa3-b79d-3c38b09c8823/1/320x400.png)
Cascadia Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98502 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I’m Casey, a licensed mental health counselor in WA state. At the core of my therapeutic practice is the belief that we can all grow, adapt, and thrive if given the right support. I have extensive training in ADHD, OCD, autism, and related neurodivergent-spectrum conditions. I utilize exposure and response therapy (ERP) when appropriate for fears, phobias, and compulsions. I also provide support for processing trauma related to cultic, spiritual, religious, and other coercive-control experiences.
Hello! I’m Casey, a licensed mental health counselor in WA state. At the core of my therapeutic practice is the belief that we can all grow, adapt, and thrive if given the right support. I have extensive training in ADHD, OCD, autism, and related neurodivergent-spectrum conditions. I utilize exposure and response therapy (ERP) when appropriate for fears, phobias, and compulsions. I also provide support for processing trauma related to cultic, spiritual, religious, and other coercive-control experiences.
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![Photo of Aurora Fernwood, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41bb6951-8ec0-4889-8baa-ba7cca190783/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aurora Fernwood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98506 (Online Only)
You know there is more of who you truly are, under the surface, waiting to be unlocked. You sense that you have old beliefs or conditioning or fears, picked up from other people or culture, that hold you back from feeling truly open and free and comfortable with yourself. Yet, maybe you can't quite figure out how to break free from these feelings...from these limitations that you didn't ask for. There is nothing wrong with you. Things have just happened to you in life. If you're reading this, then perhaps you're at a place where you're ready to step more fully into your self...a place where there is more compassion and freedom.
You know there is more of who you truly are, under the surface, waiting to be unlocked. You sense that you have old beliefs or conditioning or fears, picked up from other people or culture, that hold you back from feeling truly open and free and comfortable with yourself. Yet, maybe you can't quite figure out how to break free from these feelings...from these limitations that you didn't ask for. There is nothing wrong with you. Things have just happened to you in life. If you're reading this, then perhaps you're at a place where you're ready to step more fully into your self...a place where there is more compassion and freedom.
![Photo of Misha Speck, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7726de0c-d547-4e48-90ba-dfe5be74b5ab/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with people within the LGBTQ+ community, specifically people in early adulthood. I love working with first generation Americans and learning about the experiences growing up as a third culture kid. My ideal client is someone looking for clarity around who they want to be and where they see themselves in the world, a common theme among younger LGBTQ adults. I love working with clients who feel in conflict or "out of step" with the world, as I strongly believe pressure to conform and "fit in" are often ways in which marginalized experiences are devalued.
I enjoy working with people within the LGBTQ+ community, specifically people in early adulthood. I love working with first generation Americans and learning about the experiences growing up as a third culture kid. My ideal client is someone looking for clarity around who they want to be and where they see themselves in the world, a common theme among younger LGBTQ adults. I love working with clients who feel in conflict or "out of step" with the world, as I strongly believe pressure to conform and "fit in" are often ways in which marginalized experiences are devalued.
![Photo of Jen Marino, LMHC, CCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b18f4b62-8f53-40bf-b03d-ff7db5bbb6f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a therapist, and human in general, I am passionate about creating space for the stories and emotions that are so often pushed away, hidden from view, and disavowed. I believe that to be seen, heard, and accepted in these tender places can be a profoundly healing experience, even (and especially) when there is "nothing to do about it," other than bear witness and grieve. An important piece of this process is moving towards a way of being that centers less around achieving, perfecting and “doing” and much more around “being.” Being present, being messy, being perfectly imperfect and ok with slow processes and uncertainties.
As a therapist, and human in general, I am passionate about creating space for the stories and emotions that are so often pushed away, hidden from view, and disavowed. I believe that to be seen, heard, and accepted in these tender places can be a profoundly healing experience, even (and especially) when there is "nothing to do about it," other than bear witness and grieve. An important piece of this process is moving towards a way of being that centers less around achieving, perfecting and “doing” and much more around “being.” Being present, being messy, being perfectly imperfect and ok with slow processes and uncertainties.
![Photo of Elliott McMurray, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0cf1158f-3d5a-4bf5-813f-fb5e3719721b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elliott McMurray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98501 (Online Only)
I am a trauma-informed practitioner and have experience working with adults and elders on a variety of concerns, including life transitions and stress, traumatic experiences, toxic and abusive relationships, chronic illness and disability, gender, sexuality, anxiety, and depression. As a person-centered practitioner, I believe that recovery is possible and that you know yourself best. I work to create an environment of unconditional acceptance as we work together to explore what's unresolved, unbalanced, and causing pain in your life. I draw from several evidence-based practices to provide individualized treatment to every client.
I am a trauma-informed practitioner and have experience working with adults and elders on a variety of concerns, including life transitions and stress, traumatic experiences, toxic and abusive relationships, chronic illness and disability, gender, sexuality, anxiety, and depression. As a person-centered practitioner, I believe that recovery is possible and that you know yourself best. I work to create an environment of unconditional acceptance as we work together to explore what's unresolved, unbalanced, and causing pain in your life. I draw from several evidence-based practices to provide individualized treatment to every client.
![Photo of Sarah James Pearse, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e773266f-b0c9-43a9-9876-93bb86999b51/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you searching for where you belong in a society that doesn’t reflect how you feel? Maybe you’re questioning whether your gender fits with who you really are, or perhaps you’ve known for awhile and are ready to take steps towards transitioning. You may be struggling with coming out to the people in your life, or simply feeling alone with no one to talk to about how you’re feeling. Perhaps you’re feeling fear of being judged or discriminated against. Or overwhelmed with the medical options and costs of transitioning. One thing is for sure: You're ready to stop doubting your own internal voice, and ready to claim your confidence.
Are you searching for where you belong in a society that doesn’t reflect how you feel? Maybe you’re questioning whether your gender fits with who you really are, or perhaps you’ve known for awhile and are ready to take steps towards transitioning. You may be struggling with coming out to the people in your life, or simply feeling alone with no one to talk to about how you’re feeling. Perhaps you’re feeling fear of being judged or discriminated against. Or overwhelmed with the medical options and costs of transitioning. One thing is for sure: You're ready to stop doubting your own internal voice, and ready to claim your confidence.
![Photo of Quinn Shannon Russell - Quinn Russell, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42a80cad-d4c9-42f9-a8ad-1ecb661ca77c/9/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I hope finding your way here is a step towards getting the support that fits you best. About me: I often work with LGBTQ+ clients. I'm a sex, kink and polyamory/ ethical non-monogamy positive therapist, a body liberation supportive provider and I celebrate neurodiversity. I often utilize connection with nature, creativity, and somatic tools for nervous system regulation. I also enjoy working with meaning making/ spirituality, and life transitions. I'd love to support you in creating more of the life you want. If you want to know more, check out my website!
Hi! I hope finding your way here is a step towards getting the support that fits you best. About me: I often work with LGBTQ+ clients. I'm a sex, kink and polyamory/ ethical non-monogamy positive therapist, a body liberation supportive provider and I celebrate neurodiversity. I often utilize connection with nature, creativity, and somatic tools for nervous system regulation. I also enjoy working with meaning making/ spirituality, and life transitions. I'd love to support you in creating more of the life you want. If you want to know more, check out my website!
![Photo of Brittany Sanchez-Reed, LSWAIC, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1992b7ce-74f3-4f7f-82ba-01affb9eeea9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Sanchez-Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501 (Online Only)
Are you an over-achiever, over-thinker, and people pleaser, finding that life feels too hard? If you often doubt yourself, worry constantly about the future, and fear disappointing others while feeling deeply disappointed in yourself, you're not alone. These patterns can leave you feeling exhausted and disconnected, making it difficult to navigate your way forward. I’m here to support you in building the confidence to trust yourself and find meaningful, authentic ways to move through life with purpose and self-acceptance.
Are you an over-achiever, over-thinker, and people pleaser, finding that life feels too hard? If you often doubt yourself, worry constantly about the future, and fear disappointing others while feeling deeply disappointed in yourself, you're not alone. These patterns can leave you feeling exhausted and disconnected, making it difficult to navigate your way forward. I’m here to support you in building the confidence to trust yourself and find meaningful, authentic ways to move through life with purpose and self-acceptance.
![Photo of Destiny Rendon, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6755afe-d6c7-4da3-9665-d159f209ec29/1/320x400.jpeg)
We are living through challenging times and many of us are becoming aware of the things in our lives that aren’t working for us any longer and are looking for growth, healing, and change. Every person has the capacity to heal and live a life of meaning and positive well-being but often, many of us do not have the right support or skills that we need to make changes in our lives, or perhaps we haven't resonated with the therapists or types of therapy we have experienced in the past. Sometimes we need to explore alternatives to the traditional therapies we've already tried.
We are living through challenging times and many of us are becoming aware of the things in our lives that aren’t working for us any longer and are looking for growth, healing, and change. Every person has the capacity to heal and live a life of meaning and positive well-being but often, many of us do not have the right support or skills that we need to make changes in our lives, or perhaps we haven't resonated with the therapists or types of therapy we have experienced in the past. Sometimes we need to explore alternatives to the traditional therapies we've already tried.
![Photo of Jean Madrone Lynch-Thomason, SEP, RH](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/315c8eac-c76c-45a0-a09b-19e664a97b06/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer somatic therapy to support resilience and nervous system regulation. My focus is on attachment and healing from stress and trauma. The basis of my work is trauma-informed care with an emphasis on anti-oppression theory. Somatic, or body-based therapy, can be particularly helpful for grounding, connection with self and others, integrating past and current experience, and embodiment. If you are looking for ways to shift out of survival patterns and into deeper presence in your life, you're in the right place. I work with adults and kids.
I offer somatic therapy to support resilience and nervous system regulation. My focus is on attachment and healing from stress and trauma. The basis of my work is trauma-informed care with an emphasis on anti-oppression theory. Somatic, or body-based therapy, can be particularly helpful for grounding, connection with self and others, integrating past and current experience, and embodiment. If you are looking for ways to shift out of survival patterns and into deeper presence in your life, you're in the right place. I work with adults and kids.
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As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?
A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.
What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?
Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.
How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?
An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?
Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.