Transgender Therapists in Narvon, PA

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Photo of Denise Villega, Licensed Professional Counselor in Narvon, PA
Denise Villega
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Leola, PA 17540
Hi There! I am so glad that you are taking the time to get your needs met by searching for your perfect support team in a therapist. We are all deserving of support, wouldn't you agree? It is rare that we do what we need for ourselves, and I love enabling people to meet their needs through a therapeutic relationship. Through my EMDR Certification, I specialize in supporting people who have experienced adverse life events. If you have suffered abuse, relational hardship, grief and loss, work-stressors, mood issues, anxiety or depression, and many more, I would love to support you in the healing relationship that therapy offers.
Hi There! I am so glad that you are taking the time to get your needs met by searching for your perfect support team in a therapist. We are all deserving of support, wouldn't you agree? It is rare that we do what we need for ourselves, and I love enabling people to meet their needs through a therapeutic relationship. Through my EMDR Certification, I specialize in supporting people who have experienced adverse life events. If you have suffered abuse, relational hardship, grief and loss, work-stressors, mood issues, anxiety or depression, and many more, I would love to support you in the healing relationship that therapy offers.
(223) 204-9319 View (223) 204-9319

Online Therapists

Photo of Kris Burke, Pre-Licensed Professional in Narvon, PA
Kris Burke
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wyncote, PA 19095
I am a therapist who is passionate about working with clients who are often seen outside the “typical,” including transgender, gender expansive, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent individuals. I provide counseling for adolescents, adults, and families in the greater Philadelphia area. I am a queer, trans non-binary therapist and I believe deeply in working toward social justice, so I pay close attention to your intersecting identities and environments to help us both understand your experiences.
I am a therapist who is passionate about working with clients who are often seen outside the “typical,” including transgender, gender expansive, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent individuals. I provide counseling for adolescents, adults, and families in the greater Philadelphia area. I am a queer, trans non-binary therapist and I believe deeply in working toward social justice, so I pay close attention to your intersecting identities and environments to help us both understand your experiences.
(215) 714-3500 View (215) 714-3500
Photo of Hope Krashnak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Narvon, PA
Hope Krashnak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingston, PA 18704
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with clinical focuses on working with trauma, anxiety disorders, gender exploration, identity issues, and sexuality/sexual orientation. I am a member of WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) and utilize peer consultation to improve my skillset to best support your needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with clinical focuses on working with trauma, anxiety disorders, gender exploration, identity issues, and sexuality/sexual orientation. I am a member of WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) and utilize peer consultation to improve my skillset to best support your needs.
(570) 209-9317 View (570) 209-9317
Photo of Julian R Malys-Gordon, Psychologist in Narvon, PA
Julian R Malys-Gordon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I have provided care for those in the transgender community for several years, which my focus being in an integrated health setting.
My professional goal is to help those in the LGBTQ+ community navigate the social and personal challenges of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as co-occurring mental health symptoms that they may be experiencing. I provide a safe therapeutic environment to meet the unique needs of this community. I have experience working with those of varying gender identities, sexual orientations, as well as varying non-monogamous relationship orientations. I also have experience working with individuals preparing for or receiving gender affirming medical care.
I have provided care for those in the transgender community for several years, which my focus being in an integrated health setting.
My professional goal is to help those in the LGBTQ+ community navigate the social and personal challenges of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as co-occurring mental health symptoms that they may be experiencing. I provide a safe therapeutic environment to meet the unique needs of this community. I have experience working with those of varying gender identities, sexual orientations, as well as varying non-monogamous relationship orientations. I also have experience working with individuals preparing for or receiving gender affirming medical care.
(267) 491-9371 View (267) 491-9371
Photo of Rain Smolinsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Narvon, PA
Rain Smolinsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17602
Communities include LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families, transgender and gender diverse folks, and neurodiverse communities.
Do you sometimes struggle to find your voice or move in a direction that feels aligned? Are you looking for a space where you can begin to lean into what is true and explore ways to show up more fully in your life? I am deeply drawn to the work of showing up, holding space and providing guidance as a person does the work of moving towards an authentic and fulfilling life. With a steady and affirming approach, we can explore what areas of your life you would like to bring focus and healing to.
Communities include LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families, transgender and gender diverse folks, and neurodiverse communities.
Do you sometimes struggle to find your voice or move in a direction that feels aligned? Are you looking for a space where you can begin to lean into what is true and explore ways to show up more fully in your life? I am deeply drawn to the work of showing up, holding space and providing guidance as a person does the work of moving towards an authentic and fulfilling life. With a steady and affirming approach, we can explore what areas of your life you would like to bring focus and healing to.
(223) 215-4510 View (223) 215-4510
Photo of Penny Orr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Narvon, PA
Penny Orr
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, ATR-BC, ATCS, RPT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I am a parent of a transgender child of whom I am proud.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed or anxious? Through stress management, identity exploration, mindfulness, and active listening, I hope that I can help you to understand yourself better, love yourself more and manage your feelings and behaviors better. I use a combination of counseling, art therapy, play therapy, and pet therapy(depending on interest and age) to help you to be comfortable with the person that you are instead of the person you think you should be.
I am a parent of a transgender child of whom I am proud.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed or anxious? Through stress management, identity exploration, mindfulness, and active listening, I hope that I can help you to understand yourself better, love yourself more and manage your feelings and behaviors better. I use a combination of counseling, art therapy, play therapy, and pet therapy(depending on interest and age) to help you to be comfortable with the person that you are instead of the person you think you should be.
(843) 755-6390 View (843) 755-6390
Photo of Sophie Nathan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Narvon, PA
Sophie Nathan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119  (Online Only)
I have experience working with ADHD, LGBTQ+ Identities, Nonbinary and Transgender identity, Anxiety, and Depression.
My goal is to help clients feel heard, supported and understood. Whether you are coming to therapy to navigate difficult life changes, in order to set healthy boundaries, for support in reframing your anxious thoughts, thinking through how your past family dynamics affect you or navigating your identity, I am here to offer encouraging guidance, direct engagement and nurturing support. Therapy is a collaborative process and I take a relational approach to support you in expressing yourself authentically, navigating change, reframing negative self talk, setting healthy boundaries and supporting you in enhancing the way you cope.
I have experience working with ADHD, LGBTQ+ Identities, Nonbinary and Transgender identity, Anxiety, and Depression.
My goal is to help clients feel heard, supported and understood. Whether you are coming to therapy to navigate difficult life changes, in order to set healthy boundaries, for support in reframing your anxious thoughts, thinking through how your past family dynamics affect you or navigating your identity, I am here to offer encouraging guidance, direct engagement and nurturing support. Therapy is a collaborative process and I take a relational approach to support you in expressing yourself authentically, navigating change, reframing negative self talk, setting healthy boundaries and supporting you in enhancing the way you cope.
(856) 644-1253 View (856) 644-1253
Photo of Melissa Sziga Dessereau, Marriage & Family Therapist in Narvon, PA
Melissa Sziga Dessereau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
They completed their Master of Science in Family Therapy/Sex Therapy at Thomas Jefferson University, Master of Arts in Child Development from Tufts University, and Affirming Approaches for Transgender Communities at Widener U.
Sziga is a perceptive and nuanced therapist with a refreshingly frank style. For over 25 years, they have been working with individuals, couples, and families to foster personal growth and satisfying relationships. They have a way of making clients feel comfortable, understood, and at ease — like no matter what you say they get it and don’t judge you. And they're funny.
They completed their Master of Science in Family Therapy/Sex Therapy at Thomas Jefferson University, Master of Arts in Child Development from Tufts University, and Affirming Approaches for Transgender Communities at Widener U.
Sziga is a perceptive and nuanced therapist with a refreshingly frank style. For over 25 years, they have been working with individuals, couples, and families to foster personal growth and satisfying relationships. They have a way of making clients feel comfortable, understood, and at ease — like no matter what you say they get it and don’t judge you. And they're funny.
(267) 705-6288 View (267) 705-6288
Photo of Therapy Center of Philadelphia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Narvon, PA
Therapy Center of Philadelphia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LMFT, LPC, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
We welcome people who are transgender or gender non-conforming regardless, as well as people of color.
With 50 years of experience, Therapy Center of Philadelphia offers a healing space that is accessible, deep, and lasting. We do this by meeting you fully in your experience and identity. We pay attention to the therapy relationship and de-emphasize diagnosing people. We consider systemic oppression (racism, misogyny, anti-queerness, cissexism) as a form of trauma and explore this as part of the healing work. All of our therapists strive to be trans-affirming and we offer support around medical transition. Serving adult women and trans communities, our therapy services are offered on a sliding fee scale and without treatment limits.
We welcome people who are transgender or gender non-conforming regardless, as well as people of color.
With 50 years of experience, Therapy Center of Philadelphia offers a healing space that is accessible, deep, and lasting. We do this by meeting you fully in your experience and identity. We pay attention to the therapy relationship and de-emphasize diagnosing people. We consider systemic oppression (racism, misogyny, anti-queerness, cissexism) as a form of trauma and explore this as part of the healing work. All of our therapists strive to be trans-affirming and we offer support around medical transition. Serving adult women and trans communities, our therapy services are offered on a sliding fee scale and without treatment limits.
(267) 310-1241 View (267) 310-1241
Photo of Dr. Jacob Glickman, Psychologist in Narvon, PA
Dr. Jacob Glickman
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104  (Online Only)
Jacob specializes in providing mental healthcare for people who identify as transgender/non-binary/gender expansive, as well as the larger LGBTQIA+ communities and their families; additionally, he maintains an anti-racist, sex positive, kink positive, and poly-aware practice. In collaboration with individuals, families, and people in relationships, Jacob's identities inform his past decade of work as a feminist therapist with a focus in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Jacob specializes in providing mental healthcare for people who identify as transgender/non-binary/gender expansive, as well as the larger LGBTQIA+ communities and their families; additionally, he maintains an anti-racist, sex positive, kink positive, and poly-aware practice. In collaboration with individuals, families, and people in relationships, Jacob's identities inform his past decade of work as a feminist therapist with a focus in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(267) 490-4762 View (267) 490-4762
Photo of Daniel Pinsk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Narvon, PA
Daniel Pinsk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19122
I believe that therapy should be an engaging and enriching experience. Therapy is collaborative, it is a conversation, and it can even be enjoyable. I strive to do what I can to make you as comfortable as possible in session. You are the expert on you, and it’s my job to help you figure out what that means. I specialize in the following: Queer and Transgender issues, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Adolescent and Young Adult Issues, Stress Management, Aging, Grief Counseling. and Relationship Stress
I believe that therapy should be an engaging and enriching experience. Therapy is collaborative, it is a conversation, and it can even be enjoyable. I strive to do what I can to make you as comfortable as possible in session. You are the expert on you, and it’s my job to help you figure out what that means. I specialize in the following: Queer and Transgender issues, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Adolescent and Young Adult Issues, Stress Management, Aging, Grief Counseling. and Relationship Stress
(215) 273-9338 View (215) 273-9338
Photo of Christian Jordal, Marriage & Family Therapist in Narvon, PA
Christian Jordal
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CST-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I work with clients who are cis-gendered, gender-fluid, and transgender, including supporting clients seeking gender affirming healthcare services.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, in practice since 2004, working with individuals, couples, and families. I see clients for brief and extended periods of time, assisting them with issues including: depression; anxiety; sexual issues, communication and relationship difficulties; conflict resolution; trauma and attachment injuries; infidelity; adjustment issues related to separation, divorce, grief, and loss. I view issues contextually and address race, culture, gender, among others, in my work.
I work with clients who are cis-gendered, gender-fluid, and transgender, including supporting clients seeking gender affirming healthcare services.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, in practice since 2004, working with individuals, couples, and families. I see clients for brief and extended periods of time, assisting them with issues including: depression; anxiety; sexual issues, communication and relationship difficulties; conflict resolution; trauma and attachment injuries; infidelity; adjustment issues related to separation, divorce, grief, and loss. I view issues contextually and address race, culture, gender, among others, in my work.
(267) 388-4586 View (267) 388-4586
Photo of Robin Frederick Witts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Narvon, PA
Robin Frederick Witts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CS, CPRP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19140  (Online Only)
I have worked extensively with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community, focusing on the coming-out-process and negotiating a relationship.
I have been working in mental health for over 15 years providing psychotherapy, supportive counseling and grief counseling. I believe in the strength of the human spirit and I view the client as the expert in their journey to wellness. I hold strength in the statement "I can walk with you but I cannot walk for you".
I have worked extensively with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community, focusing on the coming-out-process and negotiating a relationship.
I have been working in mental health for over 15 years providing psychotherapy, supportive counseling and grief counseling. I believe in the strength of the human spirit and I view the client as the expert in their journey to wellness. I hold strength in the statement "I can walk with you but I cannot walk for you".
(267) 930-1630 View (267) 930-1630
Photo of Kahl Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Narvon, PA
Kahl Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wernersville, PA 19565  (Online Only)
Polly Kahl, LPC, specializes in PTSD, transgender clients, mood disorders, relationship challenges, addictions and other issues with clients age 14 and up.
Are you seeking counseling for general mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem and grief, or special challenges such as PTSD, hoarding & gender issues? We are experienced licensed professional counselors providing in-office and online psychotherapy for a variety of mental health concerns. Our counseling services are dynamic, client-centered and strength-based and we provide free in-office or telephone consultations to help you determine if we're appropriate to meet your counseling needs. Let us help you determine your counseling goals & then work together with you to help you meet those goals. FREE CONSULTS.
Polly Kahl, LPC, specializes in PTSD, transgender clients, mood disorders, relationship challenges, addictions and other issues with clients age 14 and up.
Are you seeking counseling for general mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem and grief, or special challenges such as PTSD, hoarding & gender issues? We are experienced licensed professional counselors providing in-office and online psychotherapy for a variety of mental health concerns. Our counseling services are dynamic, client-centered and strength-based and we provide free in-office or telephone consultations to help you determine if we're appropriate to meet your counseling needs. Let us help you determine your counseling goals & then work together with you to help you meet those goals. FREE CONSULTS.
(610) 422-3496 View (610) 422-3496
Photo of Audrey Ervin, Psychologist in Narvon, PA
Audrey Ervin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
I specialize in anxiety, depression, women's issues, body image concerns, assertiveness, stress management, relationship problems, career decision making, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, transgender and gender expansive identities.
I am a licensed psychologist in Doylestown, PA who creates a warm, compassionate and supportive space where you are empowered to move in new directions. As a strengths oriented psychologist who focuses on human resiliency, I work with you to overcome obstacles and develop proactive strategies to reach your goals. Change is possible.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, women's issues, body image concerns, assertiveness, stress management, relationship problems, career decision making, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, transgender and gender expansive identities.
I am a licensed psychologist in Doylestown, PA who creates a warm, compassionate and supportive space where you are empowered to move in new directions. As a strengths oriented psychologist who focuses on human resiliency, I work with you to overcome obstacles and develop proactive strategies to reach your goals. Change is possible.
(267) 622-4191 View (267) 622-4191
Photo of Ariana Zeno Individual And Couples Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Narvon, PA
Ariana Zeno Individual And Couples Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MCP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146  (Online Only)
You may find yourself feeling stuck, struggling with unsatisfying relationships, or wanting to feel more connected to yourself and others. Together we will work on co-creating an environment most conducive to what you need to feel safe and heard to heal and grow. My approach is compassionate, humorous and committed to helping you to live your life more fully. I enjoy working with adults and couples. I specialize in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and queer folks exploring questions of gender identity and sexuality. Expertise working with parents/families of transgender folks.
You may find yourself feeling stuck, struggling with unsatisfying relationships, or wanting to feel more connected to yourself and others. Together we will work on co-creating an environment most conducive to what you need to feel safe and heard to heal and grow. My approach is compassionate, humorous and committed to helping you to live your life more fully. I enjoy working with adults and couples. I specialize in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and queer folks exploring questions of gender identity and sexuality. Expertise working with parents/families of transgender folks.
(215) 660-3937 View (215) 660-3937
Photo of L. Elaine Dutton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Narvon, PA
L. Elaine Dutton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
I have considerable experience working with people who identify as transgender, non-binary, gender nonconforming, LGBQ, asexual, etc.
I view psychotherapy as a collaborative experience between therapist and patient. I see my role as that of a space holder and guide. I will shed light on and explore what may be causing difficulty in your life, provide affirmation, and offer tools that will help sustain your therapeutic goals. I believe that transformation and change can evolve through collaboration and the development of a renewed narrative that is validating and hopeful.
I have considerable experience working with people who identify as transgender, non-binary, gender nonconforming, LGBQ, asexual, etc.
I view psychotherapy as a collaborative experience between therapist and patient. I see my role as that of a space holder and guide. I will shed light on and explore what may be causing difficulty in your life, provide affirmation, and offer tools that will help sustain your therapeutic goals. I believe that transformation and change can evolve through collaboration and the development of a renewed narrative that is validating and hopeful.
(267) 202-4489 View (267) 202-4489
Photo of Hannah Heffner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Narvon, PA
Hannah Heffner
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LPCC, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
I am Linehan Board Certified in DBT, certified in Trauma Focused CBT, and hold an advanced post graduate training in Affirmative Therapy for Transgender Communities and (TGNCNB) folk.
I have a passion for working with teens and young adults who are exploring their identity and hold a safe and supportive space for LGBTQ+ affirming counseling. I work well with teens and young adults who experience anxiety, depression, disordered eating and self-harm behaviors. I take a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), person-centered, trauma informed approach within a social justice frame to support clients in blending the creative and practical so that clients enjoy the process of exploration and can see results in their mood and behaviors. New Group starting in April- Youth AFFIRM which is a group for LGBTQIA+ teens!
I am Linehan Board Certified in DBT, certified in Trauma Focused CBT, and hold an advanced post graduate training in Affirmative Therapy for Transgender Communities and (TGNCNB) folk.
I have a passion for working with teens and young adults who are exploring their identity and hold a safe and supportive space for LGBTQ+ affirming counseling. I work well with teens and young adults who experience anxiety, depression, disordered eating and self-harm behaviors. I take a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), person-centered, trauma informed approach within a social justice frame to support clients in blending the creative and practical so that clients enjoy the process of exploration and can see results in their mood and behaviors. New Group starting in April- Youth AFFIRM which is a group for LGBTQIA+ teens!
(484) 549-9434 View (484) 549-9434
Photo of John Watson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Narvon, PA
John Watson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19125
I also specialize in LGBTQ and transgender issues.
I am John Watson. I am a therapist at Eagles Counseling. I have been working as a therapist for over 20 years. I am an expert on addiction and substance abuse. I specialize in treating individuals with alcohol abuse, drug abuse, gambling, video game addiction, and porn addiction.
I also specialize in LGBTQ and transgender issues.
I am John Watson. I am a therapist at Eagles Counseling. I have been working as a therapist for over 20 years. I am an expert on addiction and substance abuse. I specialize in treating individuals with alcohol abuse, drug abuse, gambling, video game addiction, and porn addiction.
(484) 559-6782 View (484) 559-6782
Photo of Cori Grachek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Narvon, PA
Cori Grachek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147
I work with clients ages 18-70+, of diverse ethnicity/religious backgrounds, sexual orientation, male, female, non-binary, transgender, with people experiencing issues with relationships, divorce, coming out, communication, family, discerning religious life, anxiety, depression, career decisions, managing stress.
Life can be really hard. Sometimes you need help to move through the tougher times. You are the expert on your life and with my experience and expertise we form a strong, workng relationship. I work and teach from an integrative perspective incorporating mindfulness with the traditional therapeutic approaches Cognitive Behavioral and Humanistic. I believe that healing, growth and change are best supported by raising our awareness around our thoughts, actions, feelings and our physical selves. I advocate movement, internal work and meditative practice when appropriate.
I work with clients ages 18-70+, of diverse ethnicity/religious backgrounds, sexual orientation, male, female, non-binary, transgender, with people experiencing issues with relationships, divorce, coming out, communication, family, discerning religious life, anxiety, depression, career decisions, managing stress.
Life can be really hard. Sometimes you need help to move through the tougher times. You are the expert on your life and with my experience and expertise we form a strong, workng relationship. I work and teach from an integrative perspective incorporating mindfulness with the traditional therapeutic approaches Cognitive Behavioral and Humanistic. I believe that healing, growth and change are best supported by raising our awareness around our thoughts, actions, feelings and our physical selves. I advocate movement, internal work and meditative practice when appropriate.
(215) 839-1086 View (215) 839-1086
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.