LGBTQ+ Therapists in Eastlake, Seattle, WA

Photo of Eden Amital, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eden Amital
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102
I offer therapy to queer, trans, and/or neurodivergent adolescents and young adults who are experiencing a range of concerns and hold a range of identities.
You deserve a space where every part of you belongs: where you feel unconditionally cared for and seen. I relate from a stance of non-judgmental acceptance with the goal of communicating that you make sense to me. In our work together, I’ll move towards you with curiosity, warmth, and acceptance as you feel into difficult emotions. At times we’ll play, be silly, and feel into and towards joy, excitement, and hope.
I offer therapy to queer, trans, and/or neurodivergent adolescents and young adults who are experiencing a range of concerns and hold a range of identities.
You deserve a space where every part of you belongs: where you feel unconditionally cared for and seen. I relate from a stance of non-judgmental acceptance with the goal of communicating that you make sense to me. In our work together, I’ll move towards you with curiosity, warmth, and acceptance as you feel into difficult emotions. At times we’ll play, be silly, and feel into and towards joy, excitement, and hope.
(425) 230-5724 View (425) 230-5724
Photo of Kaya Colin, MSW, LMHC, PMH-C, Counselor
Kaya Colin
Counselor, MSW, LMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
Clients seek me for my deep understanding of the unique challenges LGBTQ+ couples and families face because therapy should be a place where you feel seen and understood.
As a parent and member of the LGBTQ+ community, you face unique challenges and societal pressures that can strain your relationships. You may be fed up with feeling disconnected from your partner(s) and overwhelmed by the challenges of parenthood, feeling isolated and struggling to communicate effectively. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to feel heard and understood. You’re ready to rekindle the connection and joy in your relationships. Most of all, you’re ready to transform your relationship into a source of strength and support.
Clients seek me for my deep understanding of the unique challenges LGBTQ+ couples and families face because therapy should be a place where you feel seen and understood.
As a parent and member of the LGBTQ+ community, you face unique challenges and societal pressures that can strain your relationships. You may be fed up with feeling disconnected from your partner(s) and overwhelmed by the challenges of parenthood, feeling isolated and struggling to communicate effectively. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to feel heard and understood. You’re ready to rekindle the connection and joy in your relationships. Most of all, you’re ready to transform your relationship into a source of strength and support.
(360) 732-8477 View (360) 732-8477
Photo of Amanda Leigh Watson, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Amanda Leigh Watson
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102
I have also worked with clients providing gender and LGBTQ+ affirming care at different stages of their journey.
As a member of a neurodivergent family, I understand how difficult it can be to find providers who are knowledgeable and/or willing to work with neurodivergent clients in typical mental health settings, and on the things that are important to them, rather than on what society dictates. I am also a queer and gender non-conforming woman, and aim to provide a space that is affirming of all genders and sexualities. In all cases, my goal is to provide the kind of knowledgeable, validating care I wish my family and myself could have had available when we needed it most.
I have also worked with clients providing gender and LGBTQ+ affirming care at different stages of their journey.
As a member of a neurodivergent family, I understand how difficult it can be to find providers who are knowledgeable and/or willing to work with neurodivergent clients in typical mental health settings, and on the things that are important to them, rather than on what society dictates. I am also a queer and gender non-conforming woman, and aim to provide a space that is affirming of all genders and sexualities. In all cases, my goal is to provide the kind of knowledgeable, validating care I wish my family and myself could have had available when we needed it most.
(425) 510-5424 View (425) 510-5424
Photo of Elisa Kristine, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Elisa Kristine
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102
Plus, if personally relevant, you'll find that my LGBTQ-centered perspective on relationships and trans affirming healthcare are core values in my work.
I offer psychoanalysis/psychoanalytic therapy for overcoming anxiety, depression and emotional difficulties at all phases of life. For many, a starting place in therapy may be describing concrete symptoms of pain and illness in your body, and/or life stressors such as finances, relationships, responsibilities, social/political stress, disease/chronic conditions. These topical, real-world struggles are important entry points to your emotional world and your inner life.
Plus, if personally relevant, you'll find that my LGBTQ-centered perspective on relationships and trans affirming healthcare are core values in my work.
I offer psychoanalysis/psychoanalytic therapy for overcoming anxiety, depression and emotional difficulties at all phases of life. For many, a starting place in therapy may be describing concrete symptoms of pain and illness in your body, and/or life stressors such as finances, relationships, responsibilities, social/political stress, disease/chronic conditions. These topical, real-world struggles are important entry points to your emotional world and your inner life.
(206) 203-7081 View (206) 203-7081
Photo of Julie Fortney, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Julie Fortney
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102
I myself identify as queer and neurodivergent and have worked with clients who identify in similar ways.
Hi I’m Julie! I provide mental health counseling, art therapy, and sex therapy to individual adults and adolescents. I am available for therapy online and in person. I integrate a number of different therapeutic styles and modalities, depending on what best fits with the client and their goals for therapy. I am interested in holistic care and intersectionality. Some modalities I use include, Art Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Sex Therapy, Existential Therapy, Jungian, Polyvagal Theory, Mindfulness, as well as some somatic approaches.
I myself identify as queer and neurodivergent and have worked with clients who identify in similar ways.
Hi I’m Julie! I provide mental health counseling, art therapy, and sex therapy to individual adults and adolescents. I am available for therapy online and in person. I integrate a number of different therapeutic styles and modalities, depending on what best fits with the client and their goals for therapy. I am interested in holistic care and intersectionality. Some modalities I use include, Art Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Sex Therapy, Existential Therapy, Jungian, Polyvagal Theory, Mindfulness, as well as some somatic approaches.
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Photo of Alaina Boyle, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Alaina Boyle
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102
Whether you are interested in the LGBTQ+-affirmative counseling, neurodivergent-affirming counseling, or evidence-based therapy for another challenge, I look forward to hearing from you.
I am passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to teens+young adults (ages 12-25) and families. I have worked with a wide variety of clients facing identity questions, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, adjustment challenges, etc. and create a treatment plan based on each client's unique needs. In our work together, you will learn coping+relaxation skills, deepen your self-compassion, build strength+confidence, and progress towards your personal goals.
Whether you are interested in the LGBTQ+-affirmative counseling, neurodivergent-affirming counseling, or evidence-based therapy for another challenge, I look forward to hearing from you.
I am passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to teens+young adults (ages 12-25) and families. I have worked with a wide variety of clients facing identity questions, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, adjustment challenges, etc. and create a treatment plan based on each client's unique needs. In our work together, you will learn coping+relaxation skills, deepen your self-compassion, build strength+confidence, and progress towards your personal goals.
(206) 258-7542 View (206) 258-7542
Photo of Rebecca DiNino, LICSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca DiNino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102
My couples and family work has always included gay/ lesbian/bi-sexual people.
Like many others, we seek help when faced with a problem that impacts our relationships, social or workplace setting. By understanding past experiences, people are better able to place their present behavior within a perspective that allows for change.
My couples and family work has always included gay/ lesbian/bi-sexual people.
Like many others, we seek help when faced with a problem that impacts our relationships, social or workplace setting. By understanding past experiences, people are better able to place their present behavior within a perspective that allows for change.
(206) 650-7710 View (206) 650-7710
Photo of Emily Grogan, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Emily Grogan
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102
I am an ally to the LGBTQ community.
As a Level 3 trained therapist in the Gottman Method and EFT, I provide couples therapy focused on repairing bonds, and strengthening connections. I also love working with couples who would like to build strong skills before their relationship is in crisis. I offer pre-marital counseling for couples wanting to start their marriage with strong skills for healthy communication. I am trained in EMDR for adult individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and distressing life changes.
I am an ally to the LGBTQ community.
As a Level 3 trained therapist in the Gottman Method and EFT, I provide couples therapy focused on repairing bonds, and strengthening connections. I also love working with couples who would like to build strong skills before their relationship is in crisis. I offer pre-marital counseling for couples wanting to start their marriage with strong skills for healthy communication. I am trained in EMDR for adult individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and distressing life changes.
(425) 386-7630 View (425) 386-7630
Photo of Peter Jabin, MDiv, LMHC, Counselor
Peter Jabin
Counselor, MDiv, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102
I have extensive experience working with LGBTQ clients.
At some point, many of us can be overwhelmed by feelings anxiety, anger, disconnectedness -- or maybe we simply feel stuck in life. These painful places are not just emotional experiences; they can also be seen as spiritual. They carry the potential to transform us. The key to unlocking such transformation is to listen deeply enough to discover the meaning inherent in our most difficult experiences. I can help you to do that; it is the work I love to do. My goal is to help you discover greater freedom by connecting with your own deepest wisdom.
I have extensive experience working with LGBTQ clients.
At some point, many of us can be overwhelmed by feelings anxiety, anger, disconnectedness -- or maybe we simply feel stuck in life. These painful places are not just emotional experiences; they can also be seen as spiritual. They carry the potential to transform us. The key to unlocking such transformation is to listen deeply enough to discover the meaning inherent in our most difficult experiences. I can help you to do that; it is the work I love to do. My goal is to help you discover greater freedom by connecting with your own deepest wisdom.
(206) 249-9828 View (206) 249-9828
Photo of Joanna Darsey-Moss, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Joanna Darsey-Moss
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102
My practice is aware and affirming of LGBTQ+ identities and all forms of consensual non-monogamy.
I offer individual, couple, and family therapy. I am a systemic therapist. I believe your community, your family of origin, and the greater world in which you live all impact your situation. My focus is on promoting your strengths to help you achieve your goals. I use a variety of therapeutic interventions, but the common thread that links them is Mindfulness. In my work with couples, I apply Gottman theories to your preferred family structure. I enjoy exploring gender identity and also enjoy working with people to strengthen their relationships with themselves and others who are important in their lives.
My practice is aware and affirming of LGBTQ+ identities and all forms of consensual non-monogamy.
I offer individual, couple, and family therapy. I am a systemic therapist. I believe your community, your family of origin, and the greater world in which you live all impact your situation. My focus is on promoting your strengths to help you achieve your goals. I use a variety of therapeutic interventions, but the common thread that links them is Mindfulness. In my work with couples, I apply Gottman theories to your preferred family structure. I enjoy exploring gender identity and also enjoy working with people to strengthen their relationships with themselves and others who are important in their lives.
(206) 489-2924 View (206) 489-2924
Photo of Brenna Christensen, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Brenna Christensen
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102
I approach my therapeutic work with an emphasis on relationship-building, playfulness, and respect. Rooted firmly in evidenced-based treatment approaches, my clients and I then collaborate, designing goals and adapting treatment to best fit an individual's needs. I aim to provide trauma-informed care which includes both an understanding of how trauma impacts the brain and body as well as the ongoing trauma of being in a marginalized community. I am committed to providing antiracist and anticolonial, Queer and Trans-affirming, and neurodiverse affirming care.
I approach my therapeutic work with an emphasis on relationship-building, playfulness, and respect. Rooted firmly in evidenced-based treatment approaches, my clients and I then collaborate, designing goals and adapting treatment to best fit an individual's needs. I aim to provide trauma-informed care which includes both an understanding of how trauma impacts the brain and body as well as the ongoing trauma of being in a marginalized community. I am committed to providing antiracist and anticolonial, Queer and Trans-affirming, and neurodiverse affirming care.
(425) 428-5063 View (425) 428-5063
Photo of Katie Willott - Vibrant Life Northwest, PLLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Vibrant Life Northwest, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
My work and passion for over the ten years has focused on working with those fellow LGBTQ+ rainbow humans, artists, and empaths to manage burn-out, enhance holistic wellness and life balance, and express oneself authentically.
You are feeling overwhelmed and disconnected. You want to feel grounded and to reconnect with the things that matter most, with time dedicated to the activities you enjoy and positive relationships. This is a safe place where you can explore your story, past, present, and future. Therapy can give you access to new tools for communication, opportunities to examine your values and to design a map for your journey towards authentic living. Together we can help you face your past trauma and begin work on self-compassion and self-care techniques to aid you in navigating the bumpy road of life and the uncertainties of our current world.
My work and passion for over the ten years has focused on working with those fellow LGBTQ+ rainbow humans, artists, and empaths to manage burn-out, enhance holistic wellness and life balance, and express oneself authentically.
You are feeling overwhelmed and disconnected. You want to feel grounded and to reconnect with the things that matter most, with time dedicated to the activities you enjoy and positive relationships. This is a safe place where you can explore your story, past, present, and future. Therapy can give you access to new tools for communication, opportunities to examine your values and to design a map for your journey towards authentic living. Together we can help you face your past trauma and begin work on self-compassion and self-care techniques to aid you in navigating the bumpy road of life and the uncertainties of our current world.
(206) 429-4707 View (206) 429-4707
Photo of Wensi (Macy) Dong, MS, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wensi (Macy) Dong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
When you wish you could have someone with whom you can share your pain, doubts and questions, I am here to listen with completely non-biased and non-judgmental support. God blessed me with a compassionate heart enabling me to genuinely listen, to care and to love. I truly believe every soul will recover when given genuine care, love and understanding. With years of mental health experience as an ABA therapist and child, youth and family therapist at NAVOS, plus HR experience, I am building a solid reputation for providing standout quality child, youth, adult and family counseling.
When you wish you could have someone with whom you can share your pain, doubts and questions, I am here to listen with completely non-biased and non-judgmental support. God blessed me with a compassionate heart enabling me to genuinely listen, to care and to love. I truly believe every soul will recover when given genuine care, love and understanding. With years of mental health experience as an ABA therapist and child, youth and family therapist at NAVOS, plus HR experience, I am building a solid reputation for providing standout quality child, youth, adult and family counseling.
(425) 215-0955 View (425) 215-0955
Photo of Marsha Ecker, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Marsha Ecker
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I have a particular expertise in working with individuals within the LGBTQIA2S+ community, and I am deeply committed to providing affirming and respectful care to people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and relationship dynamics. I understand the importance of cultural competence and sensitivity when working with diverse populations, including those who engage in kink and alternative lifestyles. Whether you are exploring your identity, navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking support for mental health concerns, I offer a non-judgmental and affirming space where you can feel understood and accepted.
I have a particular expertise in working with individuals within the LGBTQIA2S+ community, and I am deeply committed to providing affirming and respectful care to people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and relationship dynamics. I understand the importance of cultural competence and sensitivity when working with diverse populations, including those who engage in kink and alternative lifestyles. Whether you are exploring your identity, navigating relationship dynamics, or seeking support for mental health concerns, I offer a non-judgmental and affirming space where you can feel understood and accepted.
(360) 531-7573 View (360) 531-7573
Photo of Sybil Besheer, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Sybil Besheer
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102
I believe strongly that we each have deeply rooted wisdom that helps us survive and grow. By coming to trust our wisdom and intuition we establish a strong foundation of learning to navigate an ever-changing world. My role is to witness and enter into this process with you as a guide into the unknown through healing exploration. When we can be compassionately curious with ourselves, the stored/protected unconscious begins to emerge and we then have the opportunity to practice new ways of being in the world that feel good to us. Healing is the process of creating space for and integrating aspects of ourselves that need honoring.
I believe strongly that we each have deeply rooted wisdom that helps us survive and grow. By coming to trust our wisdom and intuition we establish a strong foundation of learning to navigate an ever-changing world. My role is to witness and enter into this process with you as a guide into the unknown through healing exploration. When we can be compassionately curious with ourselves, the stored/protected unconscious begins to emerge and we then have the opportunity to practice new ways of being in the world that feel good to us. Healing is the process of creating space for and integrating aspects of ourselves that need honoring.
(425) 414-7706 View (425) 414-7706
Photo of Yi-An Lo Burleson, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Yi-An Lo Burleson
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I believe that everyone can explore internally and foster potential to create a brighter outlook of life. Through open-minded and non-judgmental collaboration, I work with many individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, interpersonal, family dynamic issues, career concerns, trauma, grief, parenting, and body image issues. Almost 20 years of experience, I assist children, adults, families, and couples exploring self-understanding, identifying emotional and behavioral patterns, develop new perspectives and emotion and stress management skills, making meaningful interpersonal connections, and making career decisions.
I believe that everyone can explore internally and foster potential to create a brighter outlook of life. Through open-minded and non-judgmental collaboration, I work with many individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, interpersonal, family dynamic issues, career concerns, trauma, grief, parenting, and body image issues. Almost 20 years of experience, I assist children, adults, families, and couples exploring self-understanding, identifying emotional and behavioral patterns, develop new perspectives and emotion and stress management skills, making meaningful interpersonal connections, and making career decisions.
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Photo of Bonnie Irey, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Bonnie Irey
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102
The continual challenges to our values, relationships, roles, and purpose can leave us feeling unfulfilled, unmotivated, isolated, and overwhelmed. Therapy can be a calm and safe space to pause, reflect, and uncover new parts of yourself and build understanding of the environment that surrounds you. My approach focuses on the lifespan from child to adult and from individual to couple and family. I encourage growth in genuine self-compassion, re-alignment of personal values, and implementing healthy relationship boundaries for stability, confidence, and purposeful movement toward your goals and overall mental health well-being.
The continual challenges to our values, relationships, roles, and purpose can leave us feeling unfulfilled, unmotivated, isolated, and overwhelmed. Therapy can be a calm and safe space to pause, reflect, and uncover new parts of yourself and build understanding of the environment that surrounds you. My approach focuses on the lifespan from child to adult and from individual to couple and family. I encourage growth in genuine self-compassion, re-alignment of personal values, and implementing healthy relationship boundaries for stability, confidence, and purposeful movement toward your goals and overall mental health well-being.
(425) 336-3607 View (425) 336-3607
Photo of George Rhodes, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
George Rhodes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes you don’t know why, but you recognize you are more stressed than usual, worrying more, taking more risks, withdrawing from activities, or aren’t as present in relationships as you’d like to be. Sometimes you know why, but you don’t know what to do about it. Sometimes you know what to do about it, but you find yourself stuck. Regardless of where you might fall on this continuum, we can find a path forward together. I work 1-on-1 with young adults and adults struggling with alcohol and/or drugs, mental health, and co-occurring disorders. I have a particular interest in working with people struggling with substance misuse.
Sometimes you don’t know why, but you recognize you are more stressed than usual, worrying more, taking more risks, withdrawing from activities, or aren’t as present in relationships as you’d like to be. Sometimes you know why, but you don’t know what to do about it. Sometimes you know what to do about it, but you find yourself stuck. Regardless of where you might fall on this continuum, we can find a path forward together. I work 1-on-1 with young adults and adults struggling with alcohol and/or drugs, mental health, and co-occurring disorders. I have a particular interest in working with people struggling with substance misuse.
(206) 279-2808 View (206) 279-2808
Photo of Lisa Benjamin, LMHCA, MA, Counselor
Lisa Benjamin
Counselor, LMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102
Engaging in therapy is an act of bravery and self-love. I have immediate in person, telehealth, & weekend availability. I offer a safe and sex positive place where you will feel seen and heard. My approach is collaborative, non-judgmental and gently direct. I work with clients who may be healing from trauma, experiencing grief and loss, exploring their identity, or grappling with anxiety. I tailor each session to the unique needs of my clients. If you suffer from awful panic attacks, I'll give you strategies to tolerate and manage them so you can stop canceling plans at the last minute and gain control over your anxiety
Engaging in therapy is an act of bravery and self-love. I have immediate in person, telehealth, & weekend availability. I offer a safe and sex positive place where you will feel seen and heard. My approach is collaborative, non-judgmental and gently direct. I work with clients who may be healing from trauma, experiencing grief and loss, exploring their identity, or grappling with anxiety. I tailor each session to the unique needs of my clients. If you suffer from awful panic attacks, I'll give you strategies to tolerate and manage them so you can stop canceling plans at the last minute and gain control over your anxiety
(425) 475-2124 View (425) 475-2124
Photo of Narayan Singh, PhD, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Narayan Singh
Psychologist, PhD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
Eastlake, Seattle, WA 98102
My specialization is in emotion-focused therapy (EFT), an empirically-supported approach that can help you improve your relationships and transform negative emotions at a deep level.
I provide therapy to adult individuals and couples who are dealing with relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, worry, or trauma. By working with me, you will become better able to understand your emotions and change those that are causing you suffering. Being of half South Asian decent, I'm also passionate about working with ethnic minorities, inter-cultural/racial couples, and fellow South Asians. I want to help you find more clarity about your - and your partner's - emotions, so you can build more fulfilling relationships and make better strides toward your life goals.
My specialization is in emotion-focused therapy (EFT), an empirically-supported approach that can help you improve your relationships and transform negative emotions at a deep level.
I provide therapy to adult individuals and couples who are dealing with relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, worry, or trauma. By working with me, you will become better able to understand your emotions and change those that are causing you suffering. Being of half South Asian decent, I'm also passionate about working with ethnic minorities, inter-cultural/racial couples, and fellow South Asians. I want to help you find more clarity about your - and your partner's - emotions, so you can build more fulfilling relationships and make better strides toward your life goals.
(425) 382-5131 View (425) 382-5131
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See more therapy options for Eastlake, Seattle

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.