Transgender Therapists in Fort Worth, TX

Photo of Tomas Altamirano, Pre-Licensed Professional in Fort Worth, TX
Tomas Altamirano
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76104
As an agender person myself, I have a great understanding of transgender issues as well as sexuality issues.
I'm a bit of a jack of all trades when it comes to therapy, and I haven't found a client that I couldn't work with yet! I can work with a client who knows exactly what they want out of therapy, and I can also work with clients who aren't sure of how to move forward. I make sure that I will only work as hard as you do, so I love working with people who want to be pushed to make progress. For me, as long a client wants to come to therapy, I will do what I can to help you.
As an agender person myself, I have a great understanding of transgender issues as well as sexuality issues.
I'm a bit of a jack of all trades when it comes to therapy, and I haven't found a client that I couldn't work with yet! I can work with a client who knows exactly what they want out of therapy, and I can also work with clients who aren't sure of how to move forward. I make sure that I will only work as hard as you do, so I love working with people who want to be pushed to make progress. For me, as long a client wants to come to therapy, I will do what I can to help you.
(682) 243-8573 View (682) 243-8573
Photo of Randall Storey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fort Worth, TX
Randall Storey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76102
I am also a specialist in working with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning/Queer, and other clients.
LGBTQ+ people experience many different situations and circumstances that are unique to the LGBT community. Your gender and orientation doesn't define you, but it does play a large role in your life and impacts many different other issues that you may face. You deserve a counselor who not only understands this, but also knows how to incorporate a person's whole self into counseling and addresses the specific challenges unique to the LGBTQ+ Community.
I am also a specialist in working with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning/Queer, and other clients.
LGBTQ+ people experience many different situations and circumstances that are unique to the LGBT community. Your gender and orientation doesn't define you, but it does play a large role in your life and impacts many different other issues that you may face. You deserve a counselor who not only understands this, but also knows how to incorporate a person's whole self into counseling and addresses the specific challenges unique to the LGBTQ+ Community.
(682) 204-1082 View (682) 204-1082
Photo of Jennifer Nichols, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Worth, TX
Jennifer Nichols
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76112
I am experienced in counseling transgender and gender non-conforming individuals as decisions are made about transitions and living authentic lives.
Every person experiences hurdles in life, some of which leave one needing assistance. Whether your current difficulties are large or small, new or life long, I can help. Focusing on your specific needs, I will work with you toward your own goals. Whether you come as an individual, a couple, or a family, healthy relationships are the goal so we will work toward healthy relationships with self, with family and friends, and within community. In addition to my therapy skills, I am a comprehensive sexuality educator and have worked extensively with youth for many years. Every person is treated with respect and dignity here.
I am experienced in counseling transgender and gender non-conforming individuals as decisions are made about transitions and living authentic lives.
Every person experiences hurdles in life, some of which leave one needing assistance. Whether your current difficulties are large or small, new or life long, I can help. Focusing on your specific needs, I will work with you toward your own goals. Whether you come as an individual, a couple, or a family, healthy relationships are the goal so we will work toward healthy relationships with self, with family and friends, and within community. In addition to my therapy skills, I am a comprehensive sexuality educator and have worked extensively with youth for many years. Every person is treated with respect and dignity here.
(817) 567-2438 View (817) 567-2438
Photo of Renee Mehlmann, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fort Worth, TX
Renee Mehlmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76107
I have a passion for working with the LGBTQ community; I received a specialty certification in LGBT Affirmative Therapy with a focus on working with transgender clients.
Quite often this time of year brings about the term "new year, new me", but what would it be like if we could love ourselves exactly as we are while learning new skills to cope with all that life throws at us? My mission is to provide my clients with a safe and supportive atmosphere in which they can be their most authentic selves. I believe when the way we are living is no longer in alignment with who we truly are on the inside, difficulties both within ourselves and with others can occur. I view my role as helping my clients live their lives more authentically; walking alongside them as we unravel the layers of their experiences.
I have a passion for working with the LGBTQ community; I received a specialty certification in LGBT Affirmative Therapy with a focus on working with transgender clients.
Quite often this time of year brings about the term "new year, new me", but what would it be like if we could love ourselves exactly as we are while learning new skills to cope with all that life throws at us? My mission is to provide my clients with a safe and supportive atmosphere in which they can be their most authentic selves. I believe when the way we are living is no longer in alignment with who we truly are on the inside, difficulties both within ourselves and with others can occur. I view my role as helping my clients live their lives more authentically; walking alongside them as we unravel the layers of their experiences.
(682) 356-2615 View (682) 356-2615
Photo of Megan Foreman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Worth, TX
Megan Foreman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, MA, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76107
I specialize in work with the LGBTQIA+ community, those seeking secular (non-faith based) therapy and people facing interpersonal conflicts. That said, I put a high value on diversity and do not limit my practice to specific communities amongst the age 18+ population. I have also worked extensively with clients in rural Appalachia and Veterans. I work with clients experiencing a range of issues including interpersonal problems, sexuality conflict, stress, social anxiety, gender dysphoria, infidelity, divorce/breakups, transitional life events and women’s empowerment.
I specialize in work with the LGBTQIA+ community, those seeking secular (non-faith based) therapy and people facing interpersonal conflicts. That said, I put a high value on diversity and do not limit my practice to specific communities amongst the age 18+ population. I have also worked extensively with clients in rural Appalachia and Veterans. I work with clients experiencing a range of issues including interpersonal problems, sexuality conflict, stress, social anxiety, gender dysphoria, infidelity, divorce/breakups, transitional life events and women’s empowerment.
(817) 442-2173 View (817) 442-2173
Photo of (Mary) Susan Lyons, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fort Worth, TX
(Mary) Susan Lyons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, # 83754
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76123  (Online Only)
As an LGBTQ+ ally, I've had the privilege of working with lesbian, gay, and transgender youth, fostering an environment of collaboration where your input shapes our journey towards healing.
Greetings! I'm Susan, a proud former Marine and native Texan with a heartfelt dedication to providing therapeutic support. I've also had the privilege of working extensively with adults facing various challenges, including Intellectual Developmental Disabilities, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Usher Syndrome, and more. As a Neuro-diverse individual myself, I have a special affinity for working with Neuro-Diverse individuals, along with veterans.
As an LGBTQ+ ally, I've had the privilege of working with lesbian, gay, and transgender youth, fostering an environment of collaboration where your input shapes our journey towards healing.
Greetings! I'm Susan, a proud former Marine and native Texan with a heartfelt dedication to providing therapeutic support. I've also had the privilege of working extensively with adults facing various challenges, including Intellectual Developmental Disabilities, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Usher Syndrome, and more. As a Neuro-diverse individual myself, I have a special affinity for working with Neuro-Diverse individuals, along with veterans.
(469) 552-7605 View (469) 552-7605
Photo of Landry Therapy Group PLLC - Arlington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Worth, TX
Landry Therapy Group PLLC - Arlington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76109  (Online Only)
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through struggles with which they are confronted. Lisa works with adults, individuals, couples, and LGBTQ+. Our other 8 therapists work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. We help clients with anxiety, depression, self harm/suicidal ideation, trauma, addiction, issues resulting from trauma, and life's daily struggles. We would like to help you foster a healthier style of living to ensure your future well-being.
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through struggles with which they are confronted. Lisa works with adults, individuals, couples, and LGBTQ+. Our other 8 therapists work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. We help clients with anxiety, depression, self harm/suicidal ideation, trauma, addiction, issues resulting from trauma, and life's daily struggles. We would like to help you foster a healthier style of living to ensure your future well-being.
(214) 234-9157 View (214) 234-9157
Photo of Landry Therapy Group, Psychologist in Fort Worth, TX
Landry Therapy Group
Psychologist, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76109  (Online Only)
Therapy services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
Taking New Patients! We have over 25 years experience working with children and families performing comprehensive psychological valuations. Results of these evaluations can assist mental health professionals, medical personnel, educators, and members of treatment teams to help a client progress & have a better quality of life. : Our therapy goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted.
Therapy services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
Taking New Patients! We have over 25 years experience working with children and families performing comprehensive psychological valuations. Results of these evaluations can assist mental health professionals, medical personnel, educators, and members of treatment teams to help a client progress & have a better quality of life. : Our therapy goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted.
(469) 933-0570 View (469) 933-0570
Photo of Landry Therapy Group PLLC - Mansfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Worth, TX
Landry Therapy Group PLLC - Mansfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76104
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
Accepting New Clients- Our goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through struggles with which they are confronted. Our desire is to cultivate a healthier style of living to ensure the client's future mental well-being. We staff therapists who specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, individuals, couples, family conflict, special needs clients, Christian counseling and LGBT to help them cope with life's daily struggles and/or issues resulting from past trauma or conflict. We can help.
We offer treatment services for marital/couple, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-injury, suicidal ideation/attempt, bipolar disorder, lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender issues, & general life stresses & stressors.
Accepting New Clients- Our goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through struggles with which they are confronted. Our desire is to cultivate a healthier style of living to ensure the client's future mental well-being. We staff therapists who specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, individuals, couples, family conflict, special needs clients, Christian counseling and LGBT to help them cope with life's daily struggles and/or issues resulting from past trauma or conflict. We can help.
(817) 522-1495 View (817) 522-1495
Photo of Megan Diann Chandler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fort Worth, TX
Megan Diann Chandler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76179  (Online Only)
Hi there! Welcome to my page! As a queer therapist, I have seen (and experienced) some of life's hardest challenges aimed at the LGBTQIA+ community- this is exactly why I chose to open my practice. I wanted to ensure ALL individuals felt welcomed and safe. Over the years, I have gained experience working with many different diagnoses and levels of care. These areas include mood disorders, personality disorders, anxiety disorders, disordered eating, LGBTQIA+ concerns, gender dysphoria and depression. My hope is that my clients leave my office feeling heard, validated and with clear direction of the future.
Hi there! Welcome to my page! As a queer therapist, I have seen (and experienced) some of life's hardest challenges aimed at the LGBTQIA+ community- this is exactly why I chose to open my practice. I wanted to ensure ALL individuals felt welcomed and safe. Over the years, I have gained experience working with many different diagnoses and levels of care. These areas include mood disorders, personality disorders, anxiety disorders, disordered eating, LGBTQIA+ concerns, gender dysphoria and depression. My hope is that my clients leave my office feeling heard, validated and with clear direction of the future.
(817) 646-9753 View (817) 646-9753
Photo of Robin Deisher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Worth, TX
Robin Deisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76109  (Online Only)
Finding the right therapist can feel like an impossible task when you're struggling. I can help get you started quickly in the right direction. I offer a free 15 minute phone consultation to help you determine whether my style is a good fit for you. You are not alone in this. Each of our paths may look different but change and growth is always possible. Let me help you get where you want to go. I will work with you to help you define your goals and take steps that allow for the health and well-being you deserve.
Finding the right therapist can feel like an impossible task when you're struggling. I can help get you started quickly in the right direction. I offer a free 15 minute phone consultation to help you determine whether my style is a good fit for you. You are not alone in this. Each of our paths may look different but change and growth is always possible. Let me help you get where you want to go. I will work with you to help you define your goals and take steps that allow for the health and well-being you deserve.
(682) 310-6314 View (682) 310-6314
Photo of Garreth Baldwin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Fort Worth, TX
Garreth Baldwin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76105
As a queer non-binary person that is part of both the ethical nonmonogamy and kink communities, I know personally how hard it can be to find a mental health professional that understands. After my own struggle I decided to pursue mental health as a profession so that I could give back to the communities that have meant so much to me. Everyone needs help with life sometimes and everyone should be able to get that help in a judgement free way that affirms one’s identity. Even if what you are currently struggling with has nothing to do with your identity, it can still be good to find help in a way that feels authentic to who you are.
As a queer non-binary person that is part of both the ethical nonmonogamy and kink communities, I know personally how hard it can be to find a mental health professional that understands. After my own struggle I decided to pursue mental health as a profession so that I could give back to the communities that have meant so much to me. Everyone needs help with life sometimes and everyone should be able to get that help in a judgement free way that affirms one’s identity. Even if what you are currently struggling with has nothing to do with your identity, it can still be good to find help in a way that feels authentic to who you are.
(940) 204-5329 View (940) 204-5329
Photo of Andrea Talbot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fort Worth, TX
Andrea Talbot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76177
My therapeutic focus involves working with adults, adolescents, and couples, and I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community.. I have provided care to clients experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and other mental health struggles in individual and group therapy environments. My goal as a therapist is to provide my clients with the best opportunity to overcome the difficulties within their lives through providing them with the tools, setting, and resources that they need to empower them to create change in their lives.
My therapeutic focus involves working with adults, adolescents, and couples, and I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community.. I have provided care to clients experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and other mental health struggles in individual and group therapy environments. My goal as a therapist is to provide my clients with the best opportunity to overcome the difficulties within their lives through providing them with the tools, setting, and resources that they need to empower them to create change in their lives.
(817) 518-4909 x1 View (817) 518-4909 x1
Photo of April Wooldridge, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fort Worth, TX
April Wooldridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76244
I enjoy working with preteen/teens who struggle with depression, anxiety, and those questioning gender identity. I love watching them develop their own self confidence by becoming more funtional at home, school, and in personal relationships. I work with families to help them work together and take on life's challenges with their kids. I also enjoy working with women to build confidence and deal with anxiety and depression. In addition to that, I work with 212 Behavioral which is a parent focused program. We go into the home and help parents set up a routine and build a family vision with their kid(s).
I enjoy working with preteen/teens who struggle with depression, anxiety, and those questioning gender identity. I love watching them develop their own self confidence by becoming more funtional at home, school, and in personal relationships. I work with families to help them work together and take on life's challenges with their kids. I also enjoy working with women to build confidence and deal with anxiety and depression. In addition to that, I work with 212 Behavioral which is a parent focused program. We go into the home and help parents set up a routine and build a family vision with their kid(s).
(817) 330-8560 View (817) 330-8560
Photo of Amber Bloom, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fort Worth, TX
Amber Bloom
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76104
Amber Bloom is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has 11 years of experience. She is passionate about helping children, teens, and adults address their unique challenges and create a more fulfilling life. Amber specializes in working with the LGBTQ2SIA+ community as well as with issues related to trauma, neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, parenting, and relationship issues. Amber completed her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Indiana Wesleyan University. She is currently working on her Doctorate in Counseling and Counselor Education at Texas Christian University.
Amber Bloom is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has 11 years of experience. She is passionate about helping children, teens, and adults address their unique challenges and create a more fulfilling life. Amber specializes in working with the LGBTQ2SIA+ community as well as with issues related to trauma, neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, parenting, and relationship issues. Amber completed her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Indiana Wesleyan University. She is currently working on her Doctorate in Counseling and Counselor Education at Texas Christian University.
(817) 670-2445 View (817) 670-2445
Photo of Lisa D Hensley, Psychologist in Fort Worth, TX
Lisa D Hensley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76105  (Online Only)
It's easy to feel alone with your pain, especially if you don't fit into the neat little boxes that other people expect. Perhaps it's your gender, sexuality or relationship structure (such as consensual non-monogamy) that cause you to feel different. Maybe you're a professional trying to juggle everything and feeling like you're failing on all fronts. Whether as an individual or as part of a relationship, you may need information, emotional support, insight, communication and/or coping skills, and/or just a safe, affirming place to gain some clarity and move forward.
It's easy to feel alone with your pain, especially if you don't fit into the neat little boxes that other people expect. Perhaps it's your gender, sexuality or relationship structure (such as consensual non-monogamy) that cause you to feel different. Maybe you're a professional trying to juggle everything and feeling like you're failing on all fronts. Whether as an individual or as part of a relationship, you may need information, emotional support, insight, communication and/or coping skills, and/or just a safe, affirming place to gain some clarity and move forward.
(817) 385-9498 View (817) 385-9498
Photo of Miguel Lopez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fort Worth, TX
Miguel Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76107  (Online Only)
Welcome to my “Why you should pick me to be your counselor,” bio! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas working primarily with the LGBTQIA+ community. Together we can tackle issues related to depression, anxiety, gender and sexual discovery/acceptance, dismantling internalized queer-phobia, strategies to come out, family dynamics, etc. Additionally, I am Gottman Method Level 1 trained in Relationship Counseling. I work with my couples on strengthening communication, enhancing sexual/romantic intimacy, manage conflict as well as assist couples who are exploring ethical non-monogamy and polyamory.
Welcome to my “Why you should pick me to be your counselor,” bio! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Texas working primarily with the LGBTQIA+ community. Together we can tackle issues related to depression, anxiety, gender and sexual discovery/acceptance, dismantling internalized queer-phobia, strategies to come out, family dynamics, etc. Additionally, I am Gottman Method Level 1 trained in Relationship Counseling. I work with my couples on strengthening communication, enhancing sexual/romantic intimacy, manage conflict as well as assist couples who are exploring ethical non-monogamy and polyamory.
(737) 232-6056 View (737) 232-6056
Photo of Wes Parks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fort Worth, TX
Wes Parks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76104
If you're looking for a gay therapist in the DFW Metroplex who personally understands the confusion, frustration, and difficulties that can come with being LGBTQ+, look no further. Whether it is problems in your relationships, a lack of acceptance from your family or others, or confusion about who you are, I can help. Together we will find ways to improve your outlook, work on your relationships, feel better about yourself, and live your best life true to who you are.
If you're looking for a gay therapist in the DFW Metroplex who personally understands the confusion, frustration, and difficulties that can come with being LGBTQ+, look no further. Whether it is problems in your relationships, a lack of acceptance from your family or others, or confusion about who you are, I can help. Together we will find ways to improve your outlook, work on your relationships, feel better about yourself, and live your best life true to who you are.
(817) 591-4647 View (817) 591-4647
Photo of Rebekka N Ouer in Fort Worth, TX
Rebekka N Ouer
LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76102
I am a therapist with over 20 years of experience & a published author who has worked with LGBT individuals, couples, & families at this practice for over a decade. If you or someone you love are within this population and looking for a therapist who understands the unique aspects of life within this community, know that you have come to the right place. Come into therapy confident that this therapist knows & understands the unique challenges facing our community in Texas, and know that you will be safe here.
I am a therapist with over 20 years of experience & a published author who has worked with LGBT individuals, couples, & families at this practice for over a decade. If you or someone you love are within this population and looking for a therapist who understands the unique aspects of life within this community, know that you have come to the right place. Come into therapy confident that this therapist knows & understands the unique challenges facing our community in Texas, and know that you will be safe here.
(214) 616-5082 View (214) 616-5082
Photo of Laura Rosser, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fort Worth, TX
Laura Rosser
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76110
Howdy! The techniques I utilize are from the foundations of Person Centered and Solution Focused Theory with some art therapy mixed in (if you are comfortable with experimenting with creative therapy). To begin, we will discuss what goals you would like to accomplish during our time together. My philosophy of therapy is, I feel you are the authority in your life and therapy can be a catalyst to identify barriers keeping you from achieving goals. We join together as a team to process, help identify goals, and strategize in making the positive change you would like to see in your life.
Howdy! The techniques I utilize are from the foundations of Person Centered and Solution Focused Theory with some art therapy mixed in (if you are comfortable with experimenting with creative therapy). To begin, we will discuss what goals you would like to accomplish during our time together. My philosophy of therapy is, I feel you are the authority in your life and therapy can be a catalyst to identify barriers keeping you from achieving goals. We join together as a team to process, help identify goals, and strategize in making the positive change you would like to see in your life.
(817) 242-5996 View (817) 242-5996
Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.