LGBTQ+ Therapists in Fremont, Seattle, WA

Photo of Justin Lerner, PhD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justin Lerner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
I moved to Seattle in 2017 after spending the previous ten years on the East Coast in New York City and Washington, DC. I grew up in Omaha, Nebraska as a Jewish gay kid who always felt “out of place” in a community where these identities were largely invisible. I also lost my mother to cancer at the tender age of 16 while attempting to accept my gay identity. As a therapist, these experiences have helped me develop resiliency and to better understand how oppressive systems can create feelings of loneliness, isolation, despair, and hopelessness. I work a lot with queer clients around belonging, open relationships, and sexual shame.
I moved to Seattle in 2017 after spending the previous ten years on the East Coast in New York City and Washington, DC. I grew up in Omaha, Nebraska as a Jewish gay kid who always felt “out of place” in a community where these identities were largely invisible. I also lost my mother to cancer at the tender age of 16 while attempting to accept my gay identity. As a therapist, these experiences have helped me develop resiliency and to better understand how oppressive systems can create feelings of loneliness, isolation, despair, and hopelessness. I work a lot with queer clients around belonging, open relationships, and sexual shame.
(206) 339-6925 View (206) 339-6925
Photo of Casey Jordan, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Casey Jordan
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98103
Prior to starting my own practice, I spent three years working with Seattle Counseling Service, an agency centered around LGBTQ+ mental health care.
I work with adults and teens in the state of Washington and focus on issues of depression, anxiety, complex trauma and abuse, religious trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, relationship concerns, and more. In therapy, we will tend to the parts of your story that feel troublesome and work toward a deepening experience of freedom, connection, and joy. We will explore the nature of your individual concerns within the context of your narrative, which may include important relationships, your past experiences, and the societal systems that have impacted you.
Prior to starting my own practice, I spent three years working with Seattle Counseling Service, an agency centered around LGBTQ+ mental health care.
I work with adults and teens in the state of Washington and focus on issues of depression, anxiety, complex trauma and abuse, religious trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, relationship concerns, and more. In therapy, we will tend to the parts of your story that feel troublesome and work toward a deepening experience of freedom, connection, and joy. We will explore the nature of your individual concerns within the context of your narrative, which may include important relationships, your past experiences, and the societal systems that have impacted you.
(206) 222-1852 View (206) 222-1852
Photo of Milo Melville, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Milo Melville
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Do you ever worry that you're 'too much' or 'not enough'? Would you be happier if you were different? Those feelings are common, especially for people of marginalized identity. In the therapy space, my goal is to deconstruct narratives about what you're 'supposed' to be and instead, help you love who you are right now. I specialize in supporting individuals as they navigate the complexities of LGBTQ+ identities, trauma, alternative relationship dynamics, and intersectionality.
Do you ever worry that you're 'too much' or 'not enough'? Would you be happier if you were different? Those feelings are common, especially for people of marginalized identity. In the therapy space, my goal is to deconstruct narratives about what you're 'supposed' to be and instead, help you love who you are right now. I specialize in supporting individuals as they navigate the complexities of LGBTQ+ identities, trauma, alternative relationship dynamics, and intersectionality.
(814) 343-1388 View (814) 343-1388
Photo of Elizabeth Hough, LMHC, R-DMT, Counselor
Elizabeth Hough
Counselor, LMHC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98103
I strive towards anti-oppressive work and identify as a queer cisgender white woman.
The world is real rough sometimes isn't it? Let's find a gentle place for you to land. You might find your heart racing thinking about a stressful conversation or notice that you struggle to breathe after being reminded of a trauma from the past. You’ve been living with this for a while and thought it would just ease with time, but it feels like something in your nervous system is just mis-wired. Through body-based, creative, and relational work we can create a space that allows your body to soften and settle, to find a little more peace.
I strive towards anti-oppressive work and identify as a queer cisgender white woman.
The world is real rough sometimes isn't it? Let's find a gentle place for you to land. You might find your heart racing thinking about a stressful conversation or notice that you struggle to breathe after being reminded of a trauma from the past. You’ve been living with this for a while and thought it would just ease with time, but it feels like something in your nervous system is just mis-wired. Through body-based, creative, and relational work we can create a space that allows your body to soften and settle, to find a little more peace.
(206) 565-0189 View (206) 565-0189
Photo of Kitt Clark, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Kitt Clark
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98103
I specialize in neurodivergence, family systems, parenting skills and support, self-esteem, identity development, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and working with the LGBTQ population.
Do you feel like you have to hide parts of yourself or wish parts would go away? Do you struggle to show up as your authentic self? Are you feeling resentful, lonely, and struggling to connect with loved ones? Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed? Are your relationships nurturing or have life circumstances left those connections feeling stagnant? I have a direct and compassionate approach working with you so the therapeutic plan will reflect you as a whole person. Our holistic treatment plan will include honoring the client’s racial, gender, sexual, and spiritual identities.
I specialize in neurodivergence, family systems, parenting skills and support, self-esteem, identity development, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and working with the LGBTQ population.
Do you feel like you have to hide parts of yourself or wish parts would go away? Do you struggle to show up as your authentic self? Are you feeling resentful, lonely, and struggling to connect with loved ones? Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed? Are your relationships nurturing or have life circumstances left those connections feeling stagnant? I have a direct and compassionate approach working with you so the therapeutic plan will reflect you as a whole person. Our holistic treatment plan will include honoring the client’s racial, gender, sexual, and spiritual identities.
(206) 258-7522 View (206) 258-7522
Photo of Allison Sturges, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Sturges
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Specialties: I specialize in working with those who identify as LGBTQ+, gender affirming therapy, ENM clients, couples experiencing problems surrounding communication and intimacy, and therapy for medical doctors.
I am accepting new clients at this time in WA, OR and ID. I offer a relaxed atmosphere in therapy where humor and lightheartedness can be incorporated into our professional relationship, when appropriate. I work with individuals, teens and couples who are seeking positive change in their lives and relationships. Ultimately, you will get the best idea of what a therapist is like by meeting them, so I encourage you to reach out to set up a free 15 minute consultation so that we might meet and see if we are a good fit. Research shows that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most reliable predictors of therapeutic effectiveness.
Specialties: I specialize in working with those who identify as LGBTQ+, gender affirming therapy, ENM clients, couples experiencing problems surrounding communication and intimacy, and therapy for medical doctors.
I am accepting new clients at this time in WA, OR and ID. I offer a relaxed atmosphere in therapy where humor and lightheartedness can be incorporated into our professional relationship, when appropriate. I work with individuals, teens and couples who are seeking positive change in their lives and relationships. Ultimately, you will get the best idea of what a therapist is like by meeting them, so I encourage you to reach out to set up a free 15 minute consultation so that we might meet and see if we are a good fit. Research shows that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most reliable predictors of therapeutic effectiveness.
(425) 510-5386 View (425) 510-5386
Photo of Ashley Berkey, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Ashley Berkey
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98103
If you're ready to embark on a journey of growth and transformation, I invite you to reach out and schedule a consultation today! Together, we can cultivate a life of authenticity, resilience, and empowerment.
Accepting Premera & Lifewise clients beginning Nov. 1st! Are you in the midst of transition, whether that includes school, work, relationships, identity, aging, spirituality, or something else? Do you find yourself stuck in patterns and habits that are no longer serving you? Are you questioning the core values and beliefs that you grew up with? Are you neurodiverse and trying to navigate a world that doesn’t feel made for you? If you connect with any of these challenges I would love to be able to support you in cultivating a life that you are proud of. I offer walk-and-talk therapy in the Central/North Seattle area, ask me about it!
If you're ready to embark on a journey of growth and transformation, I invite you to reach out and schedule a consultation today! Together, we can cultivate a life of authenticity, resilience, and empowerment.
Accepting Premera & Lifewise clients beginning Nov. 1st! Are you in the midst of transition, whether that includes school, work, relationships, identity, aging, spirituality, or something else? Do you find yourself stuck in patterns and habits that are no longer serving you? Are you questioning the core values and beliefs that you grew up with? Are you neurodiverse and trying to navigate a world that doesn’t feel made for you? If you connect with any of these challenges I would love to be able to support you in cultivating a life that you are proud of. I offer walk-and-talk therapy in the Central/North Seattle area, ask me about it!
(425) 584-6489 View (425) 584-6489
Photo of Jon Huerta - Jon Huerta Therapy, LMHCA, MA, Counselor
Jon Huerta Therapy
Counselor, LMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98103
I have experience and specialize working with the queer community, youth, as well as trauma survivors by using nature therapy, somatic mindfulness, and play therapy.
Life experiences and social systems affect the way we embody ourselves and relate to others and our environment. By exploring alongside youth (6-17) and adults of all genders, relationship styles, and identities, I help you mend the relationship with yourselves and aid you to further trust in your innate strengths and wisdom. By doing so, your capacity to thrive grows outwardly and inwardly. In working together, we will have the safe space to explore your needs, beliefs, stories, and experiences to help heal your mind, body, and social connections.
I have experience and specialize working with the queer community, youth, as well as trauma survivors by using nature therapy, somatic mindfulness, and play therapy.
Life experiences and social systems affect the way we embody ourselves and relate to others and our environment. By exploring alongside youth (6-17) and adults of all genders, relationship styles, and identities, I help you mend the relationship with yourselves and aid you to further trust in your innate strengths and wisdom. By doing so, your capacity to thrive grows outwardly and inwardly. In working together, we will have the safe space to explore your needs, beliefs, stories, and experiences to help heal your mind, body, and social connections.
(206) 752-2821 View (206) 752-2821
Photo of Elisa Kristine, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Elisa Kristine
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98103
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 John A DeBerry, PhD, Psychologist
John A DeBerry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98103
Waitlist for new clients
I also have extensive experience working with members of the LGBTQ+ community on various issues, including identity development, acceptance, and family issues.
As a licensed psychologist providing therapy to individual adults, 18 years and older, I work from a primarily person-centered, humanistic, and interpersonal orientation in psychotherapy. I focus on clients’ unique strengths, helping them to develop skills that can remove obstacles in their lives. Together, we work through a variety of issues, including depression, excessive worry, social anxiety, interpersonal difficulties, family issues, educational stress, grief, and identity issues.
I also have extensive experience working with members of the LGBTQ+ community on various issues, including identity development, acceptance, and family issues.
As a licensed psychologist providing therapy to individual adults, 18 years and older, I work from a primarily person-centered, humanistic, and interpersonal orientation in psychotherapy. I focus on clients’ unique strengths, helping them to develop skills that can remove obstacles in their lives. Together, we work through a variety of issues, including depression, excessive worry, social anxiety, interpersonal difficulties, family issues, educational stress, grief, and identity issues.
(206) 880-0977 View (206) 880-0977
Photo of Eli Kunda, Counselor
Eli Kunda
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98107
I have partnered with Mindful Therapy Group for scheduling and billing. I have a particular passion for working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as anyone experiencing stress with their sexuality &/or religious or theological beliefs, as well as those struggling with self-confidence or depression.
I have partnered with Mindful Therapy Group for scheduling and billing. I have a particular passion for working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as anyone experiencing stress with their sexuality &/or religious or theological beliefs, as well as those struggling with self-confidence or depression.
(425) 406-3097 View (425) 406-3097
Photo of William Vesneski, MSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William Vesneski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98107
Waitlist for new clients
I work with people who are experiencing challenges around anxiety, depression, sex, intimacy, and trauma. I am particularly drawn to clients who are committed to personal growth and want to deepen their experience of life. I truly believe that we all have the capacity to lead fuller lives with more ease and a greater sense of safety. I have been a social worker for more than 20 years and live in Seattle with my family. I identify as gay, white and cis-male and enjoy working with couples, including those in open and poly relationships.
I work with people who are experiencing challenges around anxiety, depression, sex, intimacy, and trauma. I am particularly drawn to clients who are committed to personal growth and want to deepen their experience of life. I truly believe that we all have the capacity to lead fuller lives with more ease and a greater sense of safety. I have been a social worker for more than 20 years and live in Seattle with my family. I identify as gay, white and cis-male and enjoy working with couples, including those in open and poly relationships.
(206) 558-0053 View (206) 558-0053
Photo of Terry Basolo - Terry Basolo & Associates, Psychotherapy, LMHC, NCC, SMMHS, Counselor
Terry Basolo & Associates, Psychotherapy
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, SMMHS
Verified Verified
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98103
My male (cis, bi, queer, trans) clients of all ages, races, ethnicities, orientations and backgrounds tend to find solid connection with me and I get regular feedback that the approach and connection is very helpful.
Hello, I am a Seattle-based psychotherapist who utilizes an array of selected techniques to best adapt to each individual or group I see, based on their life transition point or difficulty motivating them to seek counseling. I believe both short- and long-term counseling are beneficial, dependent on my client's situation and their therapeutic goals.
My male (cis, bi, queer, trans) clients of all ages, races, ethnicities, orientations and backgrounds tend to find solid connection with me and I get regular feedback that the approach and connection is very helpful.
Hello, I am a Seattle-based psychotherapist who utilizes an array of selected techniques to best adapt to each individual or group I see, based on their life transition point or difficulty motivating them to seek counseling. I believe both short- and long-term counseling are beneficial, dependent on my client's situation and their therapeutic goals.
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Photo of Brenda Gil Lopez - Oasis Sex Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Oasis Sex Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98103
Hi, I'm Brenda! I am a sex therapist and support adults with trauma, shame, pain, difficulty with orgasm, concerns with erection and ejaculation, and kink support. I also work with partnered folx to improve relationship dynamics and can address sexual concerns like desire discrepancy and communication challenges. I am especially passionate about collaborating with BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ folks.
Hi, I'm Brenda! I am a sex therapist and support adults with trauma, shame, pain, difficulty with orgasm, concerns with erection and ejaculation, and kink support. I also work with partnered folx to improve relationship dynamics and can address sexual concerns like desire discrepancy and communication challenges. I am especially passionate about collaborating with BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ folks.
(425) 399-5518 View (425) 399-5518
Photo of Jor'rdan Anderson, MFT, Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jor'rdan Anderson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT, Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
I specialize in a plethora of different areas such as LGBTQ, couples, and more.
There is no such thing as normal life- there is just life. It is up to us to define what life is like for us now and how we want life to be. We will differentiate wants from needs, address issues that lack understanding, and realign our goals for the betterment of oneself, lifestyle, and overall mental health. How you feel matters and will always resonate with you. Creating different techniques to help you externalize issues, understand your core self, and disrupt unhealthy patterns will help to transform you, your family, and your outlook on life as you see it. Let's work together to create the best impeccable version of yourself.
I specialize in a plethora of different areas such as LGBTQ, couples, and more.
There is no such thing as normal life- there is just life. It is up to us to define what life is like for us now and how we want life to be. We will differentiate wants from needs, address issues that lack understanding, and realign our goals for the betterment of oneself, lifestyle, and overall mental health. How you feel matters and will always resonate with you. Creating different techniques to help you externalize issues, understand your core self, and disrupt unhealthy patterns will help to transform you, your family, and your outlook on life as you see it. Let's work together to create the best impeccable version of yourself.
(720) 991-0618 View (720) 991-0618
Photo of Tracy Jordan Adams, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Tracy Jordan Adams
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98103
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals who identify as LGBTQ, I also specialize in Bipolar Disorder and anxiety.
It takes courage to ask for help. Life seems to throw us one challenge after another and we can feel weighed down by the stress of daily living. Sometimes we can lose sight of what makes us feel special and valued. I am here to work with your individual needs. Feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, and loneliness can leave us feeling disconnected from others. If we do not take the time to understand where these feelings stem from and how they affect us, we cannot begin to heal and feel whole again. I value you as an individual and want to understand your unique experiences. I want to help you to feel safe and accepted at all times.
I work with individuals who identify as LGBTQ, I also specialize in Bipolar Disorder and anxiety.
It takes courage to ask for help. Life seems to throw us one challenge after another and we can feel weighed down by the stress of daily living. Sometimes we can lose sight of what makes us feel special and valued. I am here to work with your individual needs. Feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, and loneliness can leave us feeling disconnected from others. If we do not take the time to understand where these feelings stem from and how they affect us, we cannot begin to heal and feel whole again. I value you as an individual and want to understand your unique experiences. I want to help you to feel safe and accepted at all times.
(206) 823-0816 View (206) 823-0816
Photo of Susan Smith, LSWAIC , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
My telehealth practice includes collaborative therapy based on a client’s strengths through talk therapy, creative expression, and mindfulness. I welcome clients over 18 addressing anxiety, depression, ADHD, LGBTQ+ concerns, non-traditional relationships, stress, and grief, among others, to meet you where you are in life and to find the next step in your journey.
My telehealth practice includes collaborative therapy based on a client’s strengths through talk therapy, creative expression, and mindfulness. I welcome clients over 18 addressing anxiety, depression, ADHD, LGBTQ+ concerns, non-traditional relationships, stress, and grief, among others, to meet you where you are in life and to find the next step in your journey.
(509) 254-5468 View (509) 254-5468
Photo of Tiffany Thompson - Into Action Therapy, PLLC, MS, LMHCA, Counselor
Into Action Therapy, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Tiffany holds a Master of Science degree in Counseling/Psychology and an LMHCA. She is also a certified Recovery Coach committed to supporting clients. She is dedicated to creating a non-judgmental and compassionate therapeutic environment for individuals seeking help. She enjoys working with the LGBTQ community. Her approach fosters trust and encourages you to name and share your struggles and work towards healing. She combines CBT, Rogerian Therapy/Person Centered Therapy along with years of education in the field of addiction/substance abuse. She is here to help you level up so you can live your best life.
Tiffany holds a Master of Science degree in Counseling/Psychology and an LMHCA. She is also a certified Recovery Coach committed to supporting clients. She is dedicated to creating a non-judgmental and compassionate therapeutic environment for individuals seeking help. She enjoys working with the LGBTQ community. Her approach fosters trust and encourages you to name and share your struggles and work towards healing. She combines CBT, Rogerian Therapy/Person Centered Therapy along with years of education in the field of addiction/substance abuse. She is here to help you level up so you can live your best life.
(360) 845-1183 View (360) 845-1183
Photo of Hayden Comphel, LICSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hayden Comphel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
I have a particular interest in working with clients who identify as queer and gender diverse.
You might be feeling loneliness, loss, hurt, sadness, and frustration. You may also have experiences of family disruption, trauma, societal stigma, and not quite fitting in with your peers. In therapy, we will uncover the blocks that keep you feeling stuck in unresolved grief, disconnected relationships, depression, and anxiety, so that you can live a more enriching life. I come from the understanding that you innately carry the resources to thrive. Together, we can embark on a continued journey, learning about the complexity of who you are and ways you can heal to connect with your core self.
I have a particular interest in working with clients who identify as queer and gender diverse.
You might be feeling loneliness, loss, hurt, sadness, and frustration. You may also have experiences of family disruption, trauma, societal stigma, and not quite fitting in with your peers. In therapy, we will uncover the blocks that keep you feeling stuck in unresolved grief, disconnected relationships, depression, and anxiety, so that you can live a more enriching life. I come from the understanding that you innately carry the resources to thrive. Together, we can embark on a continued journey, learning about the complexity of who you are and ways you can heal to connect with your core self.
(206) 758-2598 View (206) 758-2598
Photo of Shelby Kanaly, MPS, LMHC, ATR, Counselor
Shelby Kanaly
Counselor, MPS, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Fremont, Seattle, WA 98103
I have additional training in DBT, Internal Family Systems, Art Therapy, Mindfulness, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Hello, I am the owner and Supervisor at Creative Expressions Therapy and I have current availability (Updated August 2024). I believe the therapeutic relationship is invaluable. It is undeniable that the systems we exist in perpetuate dispiriting degrees of privilege and oppression for different bodies, which significantly impact how we relate to our selves and our community. I aim to support you in navigating these systems, to gain insight into the impact it has had on your life, and identify ways to build up and protect your sense of self. I value compassion, equity, creativity, humor, and honesty in my work with clients.
I have additional training in DBT, Internal Family Systems, Art Therapy, Mindfulness, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Hello, I am the owner and Supervisor at Creative Expressions Therapy and I have current availability (Updated August 2024). I believe the therapeutic relationship is invaluable. It is undeniable that the systems we exist in perpetuate dispiriting degrees of privilege and oppression for different bodies, which significantly impact how we relate to our selves and our community. I aim to support you in navigating these systems, to gain insight into the impact it has had on your life, and identify ways to build up and protect your sense of self. I value compassion, equity, creativity, humor, and honesty in my work with clients.
(206) 430-1435 View (206) 430-1435

See more therapy options for Fremont, 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.