LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Wisconsin Rapids, WI

Photo of Janelle Hafermann, LPC, ICS, CSAC, NCAC I, SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janelle Hafermann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ICS, CSAC, NCAC I, SAP
Verified Verified
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54495
I work with all populations specializing in the areas of criminal justice, trauma and adversity, grief and loss, substance use, military veterans, sexual and physical violence along with challenges that face both the young and aging populations. I use an eclectic mix of therapeutic styles and embody a belief that each persons story and journey, is one that I am privileged to know and travel alongside. I seek to understand and support the goals and needs of those I work with, offering a holistic culturally informed team approach to each unique individual.
I work with all populations specializing in the areas of criminal justice, trauma and adversity, grief and loss, substance use, military veterans, sexual and physical violence along with challenges that face both the young and aging populations. I use an eclectic mix of therapeutic styles and embody a belief that each persons story and journey, is one that I am privileged to know and travel alongside. I seek to understand and support the goals and needs of those I work with, offering a holistic culturally informed team approach to each unique individual.
(715) 260-3097 View (715) 260-3097
Photo of Anna Syke - Peaceful Pines Healing Practices, LLC, MS, ED, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peaceful Pines Healing Practices, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, ED, LPC
Verified Verified
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494
I believe that every person has the ability to grow, change and overcome obstacles in their life. Within the nurturing environment of a therapeutic relationship, individuals can deepen their understanding of themselves, while learning new ways to handle life's difficulties. I strive to be compassionate, non-judgmental, genuine and down-to-earth, so individuals feel safe and comfortable sharing their deepest feelings. If this is your first time seeking counseling, please know that I will help you feel as comfortable as possible. Please see my website to watch my introduction video and to learn more about me and my practice.
I believe that every person has the ability to grow, change and overcome obstacles in their life. Within the nurturing environment of a therapeutic relationship, individuals can deepen their understanding of themselves, while learning new ways to handle life's difficulties. I strive to be compassionate, non-judgmental, genuine and down-to-earth, so individuals feel safe and comfortable sharing their deepest feelings. If this is your first time seeking counseling, please know that I will help you feel as comfortable as possible. Please see my website to watch my introduction video and to learn more about me and my practice.
(715) 952-5201 View (715) 952-5201
Photo of Jeralyn Stevens - New Directions Counseling Center, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
New Directions Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54495
New Directions Counseling Center is the premier holistic outpatient mental health clinic is Stevens Point and Waupaca, offering non-traditional approaches to psychotherapy. In addition to conventional mental health counseling, our professionals offer alternative, cutting-edge techniques that address the person as a whole - mind, body and spirit. Our goal is to treat all clients with dignity and respect, while providing quality service in a comfortable setting.
New Directions Counseling Center is the premier holistic outpatient mental health clinic is Stevens Point and Waupaca, offering non-traditional approaches to psychotherapy. In addition to conventional mental health counseling, our professionals offer alternative, cutting-edge techniques that address the person as a whole - mind, body and spirit. Our goal is to treat all clients with dignity and respect, while providing quality service in a comfortable setting.
(715) 502-3383 View (715) 502-3383
Photo of Jeralyn T Stevens, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeralyn T Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494
Hello! My name is Jeralyn Stevens! I'm a state licensed professional counselor, local artist, mom to waaay too many pets, and 2 wonderful kids, and a wife. I'm a Stevens Point native and so very proud to be able to serve the community I grew up in. My warmth, sense of humor, and authenticity combined with my passion and expertise in trauma informed care, give me a certain edge as a therapist and healer that you just won't find anywhere else. I firmly believe in practicing therapy from a holistic perspective and meeting my clients wherever they are at on their journey
Hello! My name is Jeralyn Stevens! I'm a state licensed professional counselor, local artist, mom to waaay too many pets, and 2 wonderful kids, and a wife. I'm a Stevens Point native and so very proud to be able to serve the community I grew up in. My warmth, sense of humor, and authenticity combined with my passion and expertise in trauma informed care, give me a certain edge as a therapist and healer that you just won't find anywhere else. I firmly believe in practicing therapy from a holistic perspective and meeting my clients wherever they are at on their journey
(715) 200-3623 View (715) 200-3623
Photo of Kathryn Goel - Point Counseling Center, PhD, Psychologist
Point Counseling Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be stressful. You may be feeling worried, anxious or stressed. Perhaps you are feeling unmotivated and depressed- fighting to complete daily tasks. . Or maybe you're having panic attacks, or struggling with healing from a trauma. We want you to know you CAN feel better, and we can help.
Life can be stressful. You may be feeling worried, anxious or stressed. Perhaps you are feeling unmotivated and depressed- fighting to complete daily tasks. . Or maybe you're having panic attacks, or struggling with healing from a trauma. We want you to know you CAN feel better, and we can help.
(715) 997-4365 View (715) 997-4365
Photo of Serap Franz-Ünder, MSc, SEP, LPC, Counselor
Serap Franz-Ünder
Counselor, MSc, SEP, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes a seemingly minor event from childhood, or at other times major traumatic events that happen at any age, can overwhelm and stress us. Either immediately after or years later we start to feel the effects of these events. We may feel depressed or angry, feel anxiety or panic for no apparent reason, have unexplained physical pain, or experience difficulty sleeping or nightmares. These may start to interfere with daily life, work, and relationships. If some or all these are your experience, you are certainly not alone.
Sometimes a seemingly minor event from childhood, or at other times major traumatic events that happen at any age, can overwhelm and stress us. Either immediately after or years later we start to feel the effects of these events. We may feel depressed or angry, feel anxiety or panic for no apparent reason, have unexplained physical pain, or experience difficulty sleeping or nightmares. These may start to interfere with daily life, work, and relationships. If some or all these are your experience, you are certainly not alone.
(520) 582-0476 View (520) 582-0476

Online Therapists

Photo of Neko J. Vanevenhoven - Authentic Roots Therapy PLLC, LMFT, LP, LPCC, LADC, Supervi, Marriage & Family Therapist
Authentic Roots Therapy PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LP, LPCC, LADC, Supervi
Verified Verified
Little Chute, WI 54140
Authentic Roots Therapy is a mental health collaborative where licensed professionals provide individual, couple, & family mental health therapy in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We specialize in working with children, couples, families, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals who are questioning, curious, transitioning, or identifying as transgender/non-binary, mothers in postpartum, faith communities, individuals experiencing traumatic symptomatology, and highly sensitive men!
Authentic Roots Therapy is a mental health collaborative where licensed professionals provide individual, couple, & family mental health therapy in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We specialize in working with children, couples, families, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals who are questioning, curious, transitioning, or identifying as transgender/non-binary, mothers in postpartum, faith communities, individuals experiencing traumatic symptomatology, and highly sensitive men!
(763) 703-1621 View (763) 703-1621
Photo of Kalen D. Zeiger, MS, LMFT, CCTP, CFTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kalen D. Zeiger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCTP, CFTP
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Appleton, WI 54913  (Online Only)
If you are looking for a queer therapist, please reach out.
Are you queer? Do you have a queer family member, partner, or kid? I provide queer and gender-affirming, neurodiverse-validating mental healthcare; WPATH-informed psychosocial assessments & letters of support; and mental health support for individuals, couples and partners, parents, and families like yours who may be struggling with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, or adjustments and often must navigate confusing & less than accepting social and care scenarios. Have you experienced trauma? Unfortunately, LGBTQIA2S+ people are more likely to experience trauma. I help clients like you manage and process trauma and move forward.
If you are looking for a queer therapist, please reach out.
Are you queer? Do you have a queer family member, partner, or kid? I provide queer and gender-affirming, neurodiverse-validating mental healthcare; WPATH-informed psychosocial assessments & letters of support; and mental health support for individuals, couples and partners, parents, and families like yours who may be struggling with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, or adjustments and often must navigate confusing & less than accepting social and care scenarios. Have you experienced trauma? Unfortunately, LGBTQIA2S+ people are more likely to experience trauma. I help clients like you manage and process trauma and move forward.
(319) 774-8301 View (319) 774-8301
Photo of Frederick Andre Harris - New Beginnings Counseling Center, LLC, MACJ, MA, LPC, SAC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
New Beginnings Counseling Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACJ, MA, LPC, SAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53713
Everyone deserves to be the person they want to be in life! LGBTQ clients are welcome.
I work collaboratively to help people discover the best versions of themselves, to repair broken relationships, to forgive wounds of the past, and to discover strategies to help them enjoy a greater quality of life. The purpose of NBCC is to help individuals achieve their personal life goals by providing evidence-based theoretical approaches that addresses all areas of life. Life can be difficult with obstacles and barriers that may seem impossible for you to be successful. There is no point in allowing anyone or anything to persist in standing in the way of you being your best self.
Everyone deserves to be the person they want to be in life! LGBTQ clients are welcome.
I work collaboratively to help people discover the best versions of themselves, to repair broken relationships, to forgive wounds of the past, and to discover strategies to help them enjoy a greater quality of life. The purpose of NBCC is to help individuals achieve their personal life goals by providing evidence-based theoretical approaches that addresses all areas of life. Life can be difficult with obstacles and barriers that may seem impossible for you to be successful. There is no point in allowing anyone or anything to persist in standing in the way of you being your best self.
(608) 400-0407 View (608) 400-0407
Photo of Elaina Meier, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elaina Meier
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53719
For Trans and gender expansive folx, I use informed consent and self-determination models.
I enjoy working with individuals interested in experiencing a change in their life. Perhaps you want to have greater insight and understanding or perhaps you want to make some really focused changes in your life; I would love to join you in that process and offer support in the journey. I also recognize that pretty much everyone right now is working hard to stay afloat so I am eager to offer a wide array of hours including evenings and weekends as well as telehealth services. Please email to inquire about openings or establishing care.
For Trans and gender expansive folx, I use informed consent and self-determination models.
I enjoy working with individuals interested in experiencing a change in their life. Perhaps you want to have greater insight and understanding or perhaps you want to make some really focused changes in your life; I would love to join you in that process and offer support in the journey. I also recognize that pretty much everyone right now is working hard to stay afloat so I am eager to offer a wide array of hours including evenings and weekends as well as telehealth services. Please email to inquire about openings or establishing care.
(608) 200-2615 View (608) 200-2615
Photo of Dr. Love C Dialogos, LMFT, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Love C Dialogos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53703
Best to submit contact us form on website. Licensed in WI, IL, NY, and FL. I identify as a Queer, Genderless, Womxn. I'm humanistic and person centered in my approaches. This essentially means that you decide the content of our sessions. I believe you are doing the very best you can in your life and you’ve come to a point where you need an additional perspective on a topic or situation. You may feel stuck, maybe you've tried a lot or a little to resolve your predicament. Either way that's where I come in. I'm a temporary stop on your journey. Therapy is not forever.
Best to submit contact us form on website. Licensed in WI, IL, NY, and FL. I identify as a Queer, Genderless, Womxn. I'm humanistic and person centered in my approaches. This essentially means that you decide the content of our sessions. I believe you are doing the very best you can in your life and you’ve come to a point where you need an additional perspective on a topic or situation. You may feel stuck, maybe you've tried a lot or a little to resolve your predicament. Either way that's where I come in. I'm a temporary stop on your journey. Therapy is not forever.
(608) 208-9857 View (608) 208-9857
Photo of Samantha Sussek, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Sussek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Randolph, WI 53956
As a first responder, parent, transracial family, and someone actively involved in the LGBTQIA+ community, I bring a lot of personal experience that has shaped me into the therapist I am today.
Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary. - Fred Rogers. Life can be hard and overwhelming at times. Life can be heavy. Sometimes, we don't even know why it's heavy. All of those feelings are valid and okay. You don't have to carry that weight alone. I am here to meet you where you are at and help you identify realistic goals to help improve or maintain your quality of life.
As a first responder, parent, transracial family, and someone actively involved in the LGBTQIA+ community, I bring a lot of personal experience that has shaped me into the therapist I am today.
Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary. - Fred Rogers. Life can be hard and overwhelming at times. Life can be heavy. Sometimes, we don't even know why it's heavy. All of those feelings are valid and okay. You don't have to carry that weight alone. I am here to meet you where you are at and help you identify realistic goals to help improve or maintain your quality of life.
(608) 496-8808 View (608) 496-8808
Photo of Emma Zeldin, MA, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emma Zeldin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monona, WI 53713
Emma Zeldin (they/them) specializes in neurodivergent affirming care and providing a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals. Emma works with couples, families, and individuals of all ages. Couples that are polyamorous, ethnically non-monogamous, and those involved in kink are welcome in their office. Utilizing a client-centered and systemic approach, Emma creates a safe and supportive space for you to navigate the many influences in your life and find your own personal path. They are a nurturing and compassionate provider who will work with you to find and meet your therapy goals.
Emma Zeldin (they/them) specializes in neurodivergent affirming care and providing a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals. Emma works with couples, families, and individuals of all ages. Couples that are polyamorous, ethnically non-monogamous, and those involved in kink are welcome in their office. Utilizing a client-centered and systemic approach, Emma creates a safe and supportive space for you to navigate the many influences in your life and find your own personal path. They are a nurturing and compassionate provider who will work with you to find and meet your therapy goals.
(608) 650-6249 x514 View (608) 650-6249 x514
Photo of Lynneta Latham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynneta Latham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53711  (Online Only)
As a queer black woman, I understand the unique challenges that come with navigating relationships and personal growth in our diverse and complex world. My ideal client is someone who, like many of us, is experiencing the aftermath of a breakup and is determined to heal and reinvent themselves. They may be facing issues such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and unresolved trauma. They need a supportive, nonjudgmental space where they can freely explore their emotions, understand their past, and build a positive future.
As a queer black woman, I understand the unique challenges that come with navigating relationships and personal growth in our diverse and complex world. My ideal client is someone who, like many of us, is experiencing the aftermath of a breakup and is determined to heal and reinvent themselves. They may be facing issues such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and unresolved trauma. They need a supportive, nonjudgmental space where they can freely explore their emotions, understand their past, and build a positive future.
(608) 708-6189 View (608) 708-6189
Photo of Rhea J Lyons, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rhea J Lyons
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704
I am especially interested in helping you heal from systemic issues impacting LGBTQIA+ experience, negative relationships with your body and food, questions of identity and spirituality, complex trauma, and loneliness.
You deserve to heal. You deserve to be supported, respected, and seen for all you have been, all you will be, and all you are in this moment. I trust you to be the expert on yourself and your own experiences within the body, identities, and relationships that inform your ways of knowing yourself and your world. Our work together will not focus on identifying what’s “wrong” with you, and won’t aim to “fix” you. Together, we will explore areas of distress, discomfort, or questioning through a systemic lens. I will support your intentions toward transformative change and growth from perspectives that matter to you.
I am especially interested in helping you heal from systemic issues impacting LGBTQIA+ experience, negative relationships with your body and food, questions of identity and spirituality, complex trauma, and loneliness.
You deserve to heal. You deserve to be supported, respected, and seen for all you have been, all you will be, and all you are in this moment. I trust you to be the expert on yourself and your own experiences within the body, identities, and relationships that inform your ways of knowing yourself and your world. Our work together will not focus on identifying what’s “wrong” with you, and won’t aim to “fix” you. Together, we will explore areas of distress, discomfort, or questioning through a systemic lens. I will support your intentions toward transformative change and growth from perspectives that matter to you.
(608) 200-3213 View (608) 200-3213
Photo of Hilary Flynn, MFT, Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hilary Flynn
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT, Intern
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53703
My approach to therapy is LGBTQ+ affirmative and trauma-informed.
If you find yourself trapped in a cycle of anxiety, stress, grief, or burnout, therapy can provide a safe place to untangle and process your feelings. Maybe you are struggling to connect authentically with others, or maybe you're hoping to find a deeper sense of purpose, balance, and alignment. Maybe you just need someone to talk to. I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, families, and expanded relationship systems to improve communication, rebuild trust and intimacy, and foster resilience.
My approach to therapy is LGBTQ+ affirmative and trauma-informed.
If you find yourself trapped in a cycle of anxiety, stress, grief, or burnout, therapy can provide a safe place to untangle and process your feelings. Maybe you are struggling to connect authentically with others, or maybe you're hoping to find a deeper sense of purpose, balance, and alignment. Maybe you just need someone to talk to. I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, families, and expanded relationship systems to improve communication, rebuild trust and intimacy, and foster resilience.
(608) 812-8312 View (608) 812-8312
Photo of Mariessa Robles, PsyD, Psychologist
Mariessa Robles
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53703  (Online Only)
My specialty is in working with transgender and gender diverse people and helping folks move towards their embodiment goals.
I provide therapy and surgery readiness letters, both on a sliding scale fee. I am taking new clients (last updated October 2024). My practice includes mostly LGBTQ+ people and I specialize in gender-affirming therapy. I strive to help clients examine the problems in their lives and the roles they take in relationships. I also work with parents and siblings of LGBTQ+ individuals who may be processing and adjusting to a family member's newly disclosed identity.
My specialty is in working with transgender and gender diverse people and helping folks move towards their embodiment goals.
I provide therapy and surgery readiness letters, both on a sliding scale fee. I am taking new clients (last updated October 2024). My practice includes mostly LGBTQ+ people and I specialize in gender-affirming therapy. I strive to help clients examine the problems in their lives and the roles they take in relationships. I also work with parents and siblings of LGBTQ+ individuals who may be processing and adjusting to a family member's newly disclosed identity.
(608) 616-9755 View (608) 616-9755
Photo of Blake Bettis, PsyD, Psychologist
Blake Bettis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53704  (Online Only)
I practice Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, integrating Multicultural and Queer Affirmative perspectives to create a therapy experience that is focused on gaining deep insight into individual, family, and cultural influences that shape who you are and empowering you to begin making new choices where possible and addressing the things getting in the way of this.
We suffer for many reasons: some physical, some psychological, and some social and political, typically a combination. Often, our best efforts to prevent or reduce pain, which might once have been effective, lead to different kinds of pain and we find these ingrained patterns of self-protection difficult to change. It’s important to address suffering at all levels (personal, interpersonal, sociopolitical), and therapy can be one of many steps you need to take to address the sources of your distress. Therapy is a chance to explore the ways you have made meaning of your experiences and how these have helped and/or hindered you.
I practice Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, integrating Multicultural and Queer Affirmative perspectives to create a therapy experience that is focused on gaining deep insight into individual, family, and cultural influences that shape who you are and empowering you to begin making new choices where possible and addressing the things getting in the way of this.
We suffer for many reasons: some physical, some psychological, and some social and political, typically a combination. Often, our best efforts to prevent or reduce pain, which might once have been effective, lead to different kinds of pain and we find these ingrained patterns of self-protection difficult to change. It’s important to address suffering at all levels (personal, interpersonal, sociopolitical), and therapy can be one of many steps you need to take to address the sources of your distress. Therapy is a chance to explore the ways you have made meaning of your experiences and how these have helped and/or hindered you.
(608) 879-1124 View (608) 879-1124
Photo of Tammi Wolfe Zine - Willow Counseling and Therapeutic Arts Center, MSE, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Willow Counseling and Therapeutic Arts Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSE, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704
I am a licensed professional counselor and Kripalu yoga, dance and meditation instructor with over 20 years of experience practicing psychotherapy, experiential and movement based therapies in Wisconsin. My practice experience includes work with individuals, partners, LGBTQ+ queer folx, families and groups. Authentic, effective psychotherapy is an active science and art that involves openness, increasing our own self awareness around strengths and barriers as we walk our healing path.Please visit our website for more information
I am a licensed professional counselor and Kripalu yoga, dance and meditation instructor with over 20 years of experience practicing psychotherapy, experiential and movement based therapies in Wisconsin. My practice experience includes work with individuals, partners, LGBTQ+ queer folx, families and groups. Authentic, effective psychotherapy is an active science and art that involves openness, increasing our own self awareness around strengths and barriers as we walk our healing path.Please visit our website for more information
(608) 439-4315 View (608) 439-4315
Photo of Emily Wagner, MS, LPC-IT, Counselor
Emily Wagner
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eau Claire, WI 54701
I specialize in working with life transitions, trauma processing, self-esteem and body image concerns, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Looking for a safe space to reconnect with yourself? Life can feel hectic and overwhelming, and it is easy to get caught up in the stressors of day-to-day life. Whether you are seeking support in processing trauma from your past, feeling stuck in the present, or feeling anxious about the future, I am dedicated to understanding your needs and meeting you where you are at. In sessions with me, you can expect a judgment-free zone where I will support, encourage, and challenge you as you take the next step towards finding your authentic path.
I specialize in working with life transitions, trauma processing, self-esteem and body image concerns, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Looking for a safe space to reconnect with yourself? Life can feel hectic and overwhelming, and it is easy to get caught up in the stressors of day-to-day life. Whether you are seeking support in processing trauma from your past, feeling stuck in the present, or feeling anxious about the future, I am dedicated to understanding your needs and meeting you where you are at. In sessions with me, you can expect a judgment-free zone where I will support, encourage, and challenge you as you take the next step towards finding your authentic path.
(715) 462-2457 View (715) 462-2457

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Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Wisconsin Rapids

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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.