Photo of Jen Ducharme, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Jen Ducharme
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32257
I also specialize in treating gender dysphoria, and writing HRT Readiness Assessments, adherent to WPATH guidelines.
We cannot change past chapters of our lives. Where we can take power is now, and the future chapters we have yet to write. If we don't address something unhealthy, every aspect of life can become impacted negatively. Whether you are wanting to learn to manage mental health symptoms, begin the transitioning process, seeking help for everyday concerns like relationship issues, job stress or self-doubt, or experiencing difficult times such as divorce and loss, things can improve. I assure you the strength and ability you will use is already residing in you.
I also specialize in treating gender dysphoria, and writing HRT Readiness Assessments, adherent to WPATH guidelines.
We cannot change past chapters of our lives. Where we can take power is now, and the future chapters we have yet to write. If we don't address something unhealthy, every aspect of life can become impacted negatively. Whether you are wanting to learn to manage mental health symptoms, begin the transitioning process, seeking help for everyday concerns like relationship issues, job stress or self-doubt, or experiencing difficult times such as divorce and loss, things can improve. I assure you the strength and ability you will use is already residing in you.
(904) 423-8052 View (904) 423-8052
Photo of Noelle Pomeroy, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Noelle Pomeroy
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32223
I work with people ages 16 to 103 who are straight, gay, bisexual, a minority, in the majority, male, female, or gender queer, or transgender.
VERY LIMITED AVAILABILITY BUT WE HAVE OTHER THERAPISTS ON STAFF TAKING NEW CLIENTS WHO TAKE MANY INSURANCES. There are many things that can stop you from having the sex life you want. Maybe you're having too little sex, you're not enjoying it, or what you're doing doesn't seem to be working. Imagine finding a way to make it better. As a licensed mental health counselor and clinical sexologist, I have worked with hundreds of people looking for ways to improve intimacy, learn more about who they are, and what they like. There are things you could change today that will help get your where you want to be.
I work with people ages 16 to 103 who are straight, gay, bisexual, a minority, in the majority, male, female, or gender queer, or transgender.
VERY LIMITED AVAILABILITY BUT WE HAVE OTHER THERAPISTS ON STAFF TAKING NEW CLIENTS WHO TAKE MANY INSURANCES. There are many things that can stop you from having the sex life you want. Maybe you're having too little sex, you're not enjoying it, or what you're doing doesn't seem to be working. Imagine finding a way to make it better. As a licensed mental health counselor and clinical sexologist, I have worked with hundreds of people looking for ways to improve intimacy, learn more about who they are, and what they like. There are things you could change today that will help get your where you want to be.
(904) 413-8944 View (904) 413-8944
Photo of Jacob Gandy, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Jacob Gandy
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, BCBA, NCC, TCT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32223
I work with people ages 12 to 100 who are gay, straight, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, gender queer, male, female, in the minority or in the majority.
I have experience and a passion for working with people who feel like they are on the outside, looking in. This may lead to depression, anxiety, frustration, or questions about your identity. I offer a safe space to talk about your challenges and I will do my best to help you work toward progress. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ adults and teens and hold a certification as a Transgender Care Therapist from The International Transgender Certification Association.
I work with people ages 12 to 100 who are gay, straight, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, gender queer, male, female, in the minority or in the majority.
I have experience and a passion for working with people who feel like they are on the outside, looking in. This may lead to depression, anxiety, frustration, or questions about your identity. I offer a safe space to talk about your challenges and I will do my best to help you work toward progress. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ adults and teens and hold a certification as a Transgender Care Therapist from The International Transgender Certification Association.
(904) 842-4335 View (904) 842-4335
Photo of Denise Hueso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Denise Hueso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32099
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 19 years' experience helping families and youth transform their lives for the better. My holistic approach to treatment provides a safe and empathic environment for clients to work towards improved emotional health and well being. I provide counseling to children, adults, families and couples. I am bilingual and specialize in working with gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning (GLBTQ) individuals and their families as well as child behavioral problems, depression, anxiety, stress management and relationship challenges. I offer caring, competent therapy services to meet the goals you have for your life.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 19 years' experience helping families and youth transform their lives for the better. My holistic approach to treatment provides a safe and empathic environment for clients to work towards improved emotional health and well being. I provide counseling to children, adults, families and couples. I am bilingual and specialize in working with gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning (GLBTQ) individuals and their families as well as child behavioral problems, depression, anxiety, stress management and relationship challenges. I offer caring, competent therapy services to meet the goals you have for your life.
(305) 767-7033 View (305) 767-7033
Photo of Rachel Greene, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Rachel Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32099
My particular areas of interest include surviving the trauma of interpersonal, sexual, and/or political violence; negotiating a lesbian/ gay/ bisexual/ transgender/ queer identity; and the impact of stigma on mental and physical well-being.
Reaching out and asking for help can be one of the most challenging aspects of starting the therapy process. If you have made it this far, you are ready to start. The majority of the clients I work with are aware of the issues they would like to focus on for treatment. With that, my approach tends to be both relational in style and goal oriented in terms of treatment planning and working towards the best way to assist you in your personal growth and success.
My particular areas of interest include surviving the trauma of interpersonal, sexual, and/or political violence; negotiating a lesbian/ gay/ bisexual/ transgender/ queer identity; and the impact of stigma on mental and physical well-being.
Reaching out and asking for help can be one of the most challenging aspects of starting the therapy process. If you have made it this far, you are ready to start. The majority of the clients I work with are aware of the issues they would like to focus on for treatment. With that, my approach tends to be both relational in style and goal oriented in terms of treatment planning and working towards the best way to assist you in your personal growth and success.
(850) 739-2448 View (850) 739-2448
Photo of Scott Harvey, Psychologist in Jacksonville, FL
Scott Harvey
Psychologist, PsyD, TCT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32201  (Online Only)
I am board certified in transgender mental health and have expertise in sexual orientation and gender identity development.
Have you been struggling to engage in your life? Experiencing uncertainty about what direction is the right one to choose? Feeling anxious or depressed? Having questions about relationships, sex, gender, or sexuality? Could you use another perspective, or would you like someone to help you figure things out? My name is Dr. Scott Harvey, and I am a licensed psychologist who provides culturally and sexuality-sensitive individual therapy, and I’m here to help. I offer a free consultation and can be reached by both phone and email.
I am board certified in transgender mental health and have expertise in sexual orientation and gender identity development.
Have you been struggling to engage in your life? Experiencing uncertainty about what direction is the right one to choose? Feeling anxious or depressed? Having questions about relationships, sex, gender, or sexuality? Could you use another perspective, or would you like someone to help you figure things out? My name is Dr. Scott Harvey, and I am a licensed psychologist who provides culturally and sexuality-sensitive individual therapy, and I’m here to help. I offer a free consultation and can be reached by both phone and email.
(772) 539-4833 View (772) 539-4833
Photo of Dr. Laura Fernandez, Psychologist in Jacksonville, FL
Dr. Laura Fernandez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32204
As a licensed clinical psychologist I employ evidence-based treatments to help clients with improvement of identity issues, assertiveness, emotional regulation, low self-esteem, narcissistic abuse, ethnic or racial discrimination, or have gone through traumatic events. I employ DBT, CBT, and EMDR to treat my clients. I specialize in assisting LGBT and transgender individuals, as well as those with Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Depression and Anxiety. My typical client is a person who has experienced trauma, has self esteem and boundary issues, has problems maintaining relationships, needs help asserting self. Hablo Espanol!
As a licensed clinical psychologist I employ evidence-based treatments to help clients with improvement of identity issues, assertiveness, emotional regulation, low self-esteem, narcissistic abuse, ethnic or racial discrimination, or have gone through traumatic events. I employ DBT, CBT, and EMDR to treat my clients. I specialize in assisting LGBT and transgender individuals, as well as those with Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Depression and Anxiety. My typical client is a person who has experienced trauma, has self esteem and boundary issues, has problems maintaining relationships, needs help asserting self. Hablo Espanol!
(786) 868-7017 View (786) 868-7017
Photo of Philemon Ministry Of Counseling Academy, Pastoral Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Philemon Ministry Of Counseling Academy
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32219
I help individuals from a Christ Centered Therapy Model, addressing the body, soul, and spiritual factors from the science of psychology integrated with theology to treat chronic disorders, marriage problems, premarital initiatives, human development, gender dysphoria, sexual addiction, alcohol addiction, drug addiction, sexual abuse, conflict factors.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor and Board Certified as a Temperament Specialist and Clinical Supervisor by the National Christian Counselors Association. In addition, I'm Supreme Court Certified County, Family, and Circuit-Civil Mediator and Court appointed Child Custody Evaluator; Certified Thinking for a Change Facilitator. Also, I facilitate and provides counseling and coping mechanism, and adjustments techniques to the reentry individuals transitioning from jails and prisons as well as helping their family members with the life adjustments and understanding chronic disorders, pharmacological regimens and management.
I help individuals from a Christ Centered Therapy Model, addressing the body, soul, and spiritual factors from the science of psychology integrated with theology to treat chronic disorders, marriage problems, premarital initiatives, human development, gender dysphoria, sexual addiction, alcohol addiction, drug addiction, sexual abuse, conflict factors.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor and Board Certified as a Temperament Specialist and Clinical Supervisor by the National Christian Counselors Association. In addition, I'm Supreme Court Certified County, Family, and Circuit-Civil Mediator and Court appointed Child Custody Evaluator; Certified Thinking for a Change Facilitator. Also, I facilitate and provides counseling and coping mechanism, and adjustments techniques to the reentry individuals transitioning from jails and prisons as well as helping their family members with the life adjustments and understanding chronic disorders, pharmacological regimens and management.
(904) 344-0689 View (904) 344-0689
Photo of Bailey Sheetz in Jacksonville, FL
Bailey Sheetz
MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32258  (Online Only)
Media & societal pressures have conditioned us to hate ourselves and our appearance. We speak to ourselves as if we are the bully and the victim. The only hope we have is to alter our appearance, until we realize that doesn’t help how we view ourselves. My experience is with people who struggle from eating disorders, OCD, body image, gender dysphoria, trauma, and co-occurring diagnoses. My heart goes out to those who are disillusioned about their lack of worth. In struggling with my own body image, learning to love myself was a huge transition. This journey prepared me to help others along with their own self-worth challenges.
Media & societal pressures have conditioned us to hate ourselves and our appearance. We speak to ourselves as if we are the bully and the victim. The only hope we have is to alter our appearance, until we realize that doesn’t help how we view ourselves. My experience is with people who struggle from eating disorders, OCD, body image, gender dysphoria, trauma, and co-occurring diagnoses. My heart goes out to those who are disillusioned about their lack of worth. In struggling with my own body image, learning to love myself was a huge transition. This journey prepared me to help others along with their own self-worth challenges.
(863) 591-0275 View (863) 591-0275
Photo of Rennie Manning, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Rennie Manning
Counselor, MACP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32210
With more focus on diversity and the struggle of young people with gender dysphoria and gender identity issues there is a real need to treat this often underserved population.
'Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced." - James Baldwin. At times in our lives most of use have experienced some feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, anxiety, fear - whether we are single or in a relationship. We may be experiencing grief. Often, romantic relationships open old wounds. And even more often, your 'inner voice' may be critical and a replica of what you experienced growing up. I help you soften self criticism by practicing Compassion-Focused Therapy, and I tailor other modalities as we work together. You will be safe, and you will be heard.
With more focus on diversity and the struggle of young people with gender dysphoria and gender identity issues there is a real need to treat this often underserved population.
'Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced." - James Baldwin. At times in our lives most of use have experienced some feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, anxiety, fear - whether we are single or in a relationship. We may be experiencing grief. Often, romantic relationships open old wounds. And even more often, your 'inner voice' may be critical and a replica of what you experienced growing up. I help you soften self criticism by practicing Compassion-Focused Therapy, and I tailor other modalities as we work together. You will be safe, and you will be heard.
(904) 421-9710 View (904) 421-9710
Photo of Kim Ehly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Kim Ehly, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32224
My practice includes individuals, couples w/ focus on communication, LGBTQA+, polyamory, transgender, adoptee challenges, grief/loss, pet loss, abandonment issues, Complex-PTSD, and relationship abuse recovery.
When life is challenging and hard to navigate, reaching out for guidance is often the most loving thing you can do for yourself, your intimate relationship, or your family. So my guess is, if you have landed here, you're ready to begin the journey toward healing. One of my greatest passions is helping you come through difficult times to discover how resilient and resourceful you really are. I believe therapy is a journey that can help anyone of any background gain comfort and contentment in life. We will be a team journeying toward the life you wish to lead.
My practice includes individuals, couples w/ focus on communication, LGBTQA+, polyamory, transgender, adoptee challenges, grief/loss, pet loss, abandonment issues, Complex-PTSD, and relationship abuse recovery.
When life is challenging and hard to navigate, reaching out for guidance is often the most loving thing you can do for yourself, your intimate relationship, or your family. So my guess is, if you have landed here, you're ready to begin the journey toward healing. One of my greatest passions is helping you come through difficult times to discover how resilient and resourceful you really are. I believe therapy is a journey that can help anyone of any background gain comfort and contentment in life. We will be a team journeying toward the life you wish to lead.
(954) 289-6635 View (954) 289-6635
Photo of Annie McGuire (Kindland), Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Annie McGuire (Kindland)
Counselor, MA, LMHC, DMCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
What we experience throughout our lifetime impacts how we form relationships, process information, or show up in the world. Expectations, environment, or your inner voice not aligning with what you know or have been told, can influence how you view yourself or others. Do your experiences not align with how you feel? If you struggle with understanding who you are, how you identify, improving your relationships, or even your relationship with your own feelings/behaviors, I can help. I work to assist clients in finding their true, authentic self. My job is to help clients find their own needs and how to obtain them for themselves.
What we experience throughout our lifetime impacts how we form relationships, process information, or show up in the world. Expectations, environment, or your inner voice not aligning with what you know or have been told, can influence how you view yourself or others. Do your experiences not align with how you feel? If you struggle with understanding who you are, how you identify, improving your relationships, or even your relationship with your own feelings/behaviors, I can help. I work to assist clients in finding their true, authentic self. My job is to help clients find their own needs and how to obtain them for themselves.
(904) 474-3230 View (904) 474-3230
Photo of Curt D'Achille, Pre-Licensed Professional in Jacksonville, FL
Curt D'Achille
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32218
I have provided leadership in program operations for several children's residential facilities and shelters and have supervised clinical therapies in acute residential treatment to those suffering from emergency psychiatric, emotional and behavioral problems, substance and sexual abuse and addictions.
I have provided leadership in program operations for several children's residential facilities and shelters and have supervised clinical therapies in acute residential treatment to those suffering from emergency psychiatric, emotional and behavioral problems, substance and sexual abuse and addictions.
(904) 513-0619 View (904) 513-0619
Photo of Judith A. Asermely, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Judith A. Asermely
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Having extensive clinical experience working with adolescents, adults, and families struggling with trauma, depression, and anxiety. I specialize in addressing the needs of LGBTQI+ individuals and families seeking to understand sexual orientation or gender identity. This can be a confusing time for all involved, and it is essential to address the emotional needs of the person coming out and their parents/families. Working together, we will identify areas you would like to improve upon.
Having extensive clinical experience working with adolescents, adults, and families struggling with trauma, depression, and anxiety. I specialize in addressing the needs of LGBTQI+ individuals and families seeking to understand sexual orientation or gender identity. This can be a confusing time for all involved, and it is essential to address the emotional needs of the person coming out and their parents/families. Working together, we will identify areas you would like to improve upon.
(904) 844-0041 View (904) 844-0041
Photo of Anchor Life Clinic, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Anchor Life Clinic
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32241  (Online Only)
My mission is to provide affordable and accessible mental health services to all of those who are in need. Regardless of your ability to pay, I will be happy to work with anyone and everyone on a case-by-case basis so they can get the mental health services they desire. My goal is to empower you with reality based approaches and stress reduction techniques to successfully deal with stressful circumstances and traumatic events.
My mission is to provide affordable and accessible mental health services to all of those who are in need. Regardless of your ability to pay, I will be happy to work with anyone and everyone on a case-by-case basis so they can get the mental health services they desire. My goal is to empower you with reality based approaches and stress reduction techniques to successfully deal with stressful circumstances and traumatic events.
(904) 977-2428 View (904) 977-2428
Photo of Bridget Ann Rivera, Psychologist in Jacksonville, FL
Bridget Ann Rivera
Psychologist, PsyD, MAC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32246
My work is grounded in compassion and support while offering specialized expertise in psychological assessment to understand the whole person in his or her context. I conduct psychological testing, pre-employment evaluations, fitness for duty assessments, bariatric surgery evaluations, write nexus letters/complete DBQs for Veterans, and letters of support for gender affirming surgery.
My work is grounded in compassion and support while offering specialized expertise in psychological assessment to understand the whole person in his or her context. I conduct psychological testing, pre-employment evaluations, fitness for duty assessments, bariatric surgery evaluations, write nexus letters/complete DBQs for Veterans, and letters of support for gender affirming surgery.
(904) 320-1361 View (904) 320-1361
Photo of Katie Ziskind, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Katie Ziskind
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, LMFT, RYT500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32205
Are you fighting or arguing and feeling hopeless afterwards? Do you have a sexless marriage? Wishing you had more frequent sex? Wanting better communication skills, more intimacy and a better sex life? Are you stressed and frustrated with the state of your relationship and feeling sexually rejected, or avoiding sex all together? Stuck and needing help rebuilding sexual desire? It can be overwhelming without a safe place. I help distant couples rebuild their sex life. You get a safe place to talk about sex and intimacy in a confident and comfortable way. And, you can overcome anger, betrayal, secret keeping, and infidelity.
Are you fighting or arguing and feeling hopeless afterwards? Do you have a sexless marriage? Wishing you had more frequent sex? Wanting better communication skills, more intimacy and a better sex life? Are you stressed and frustrated with the state of your relationship and feeling sexually rejected, or avoiding sex all together? Stuck and needing help rebuilding sexual desire? It can be overwhelming without a safe place. I help distant couples rebuild their sex life. You get a safe place to talk about sex and intimacy in a confident and comfortable way. And, you can overcome anger, betrayal, secret keeping, and infidelity.
(727) 732-4947 View (727) 732-4947
Photo of FL Gender Affirming Letter Assessments/K. Cascio, Psychologist in Jacksonville, FL
FL Gender Affirming Letter Assessments/K. Cascio
Psychologist, PhD, QS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32204  (Online Only)
I'm Dr. Katherine Cascio, licensed psychologist. I provide affirming therapy & letter assessments for trans, non-binary, & gender diverse adults seeking gender confirming medical care. You know what care you need, my job is to remove barriers to the treatment you deserve. I stay updated on Florida laws & have a long history of helping folks get approval from many insurances (Blue Cross-Blue Shield, Florida Blue, Aetna, Humana, United, Cigna, & more). I've done 80+ hormone & surgery letters since 2017 & was trained by a trans psychologist for these assessments. I would be honored to be of service as you navigate this process.
I'm Dr. Katherine Cascio, licensed psychologist. I provide affirming therapy & letter assessments for trans, non-binary, & gender diverse adults seeking gender confirming medical care. You know what care you need, my job is to remove barriers to the treatment you deserve. I stay updated on Florida laws & have a long history of helping folks get approval from many insurances (Blue Cross-Blue Shield, Florida Blue, Aetna, Humana, United, Cigna, & more). I've done 80+ hormone & surgery letters since 2017 & was trained by a trans psychologist for these assessments. I would be honored to be of service as you navigate this process.
(561) 867-3691 View (561) 867-3691
Photo of Monique Murray, Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern in Jacksonville, FL
Monique Murray
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32218
I have always had a strong desire to help others. This strong desire lead me to the mental health field. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to explore the challenges or fears you are facing. Through my social work background, I take into consideration how various aspect of your life intersect with each other. Through a deep understanding of diverse perspectives and backgrounds, I tailor my therapeutic techniques to meet you where you are. My goal is to collaboratively support you in gaining insight, developing coping strategies, and fostering a sense of empowerment.
I have always had a strong desire to help others. This strong desire lead me to the mental health field. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to explore the challenges or fears you are facing. Through my social work background, I take into consideration how various aspect of your life intersect with each other. Through a deep understanding of diverse perspectives and backgrounds, I tailor my therapeutic techniques to meet you where you are. My goal is to collaboratively support you in gaining insight, developing coping strategies, and fostering a sense of empowerment.
(904) 780-6310 View (904) 780-6310
Photo of Krista Jo Buda, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Krista Jo Buda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PATP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32099  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with people who are trying to overcome trauma, self doubt or unhelpful thought and behavioral patterns. I am passionate about and have an extensive background in working with poly/ENM, kink, LGBTQIA and other alternative lifestyle communities.
I am passionate about working with people who are trying to overcome trauma, self doubt or unhelpful thought and behavioral patterns. I am passionate about and have an extensive background in working with poly/ENM, kink, LGBTQIA and other alternative lifestyle communities.
(385) 263-0409 View (385) 263-0409

See more therapy options for Jacksonville

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.