Photo of West Philly Therapy Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
West Philly Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19143
West Philly Therapy Center is a group practice that specializes in working with relationship, sexuality and gender related issues. While each of our therapist has their own style and specialty, they are all collectively & actively working from an anti-racist, queer & trans affirming, social justice, and trauma-informed lens. We provide a warm, collaborative and compassionate space for clients to process, explore, grow, and heal. We strive to develop a therapeutic environment of mutual trust, respect and care, where the complexities of each client's experiences and identities are honored.
West Philly Therapy Center is a group practice that specializes in working with relationship, sexuality and gender related issues. While each of our therapist has their own style and specialty, they are all collectively & actively working from an anti-racist, queer & trans affirming, social justice, and trauma-informed lens. We provide a warm, collaborative and compassionate space for clients to process, explore, grow, and heal. We strive to develop a therapeutic environment of mutual trust, respect and care, where the complexities of each client's experiences and identities are honored.
(215) 201-4599 View (215) 201-4599
Photo of Jonathan Toman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Jonathan Toman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19123
My focus areas include anxiety, depression, LGBTQ, sports performance, self-esteem, and relationships.
Thanks for visiting my profile. I realize you may be going through a tough time. Perhaps you’re experiencing a significant transition, a loss, or feelings you’re not sure how to deal with. This can be scary and difficult. Sometimes the hardest part is acknowledging the need for help. I have hope for you. I believe we all have the internal resources to heal and grow, and I would like to help you uncover this healing power within yourself.
My focus areas include anxiety, depression, LGBTQ, sports performance, self-esteem, and relationships.
Thanks for visiting my profile. I realize you may be going through a tough time. Perhaps you’re experiencing a significant transition, a loss, or feelings you’re not sure how to deal with. This can be scary and difficult. Sometimes the hardest part is acknowledging the need for help. I have hope for you. I believe we all have the internal resources to heal and grow, and I would like to help you uncover this healing power within yourself.
(267) 551-5860 View (267) 551-5860
Photo of Jae (Jennifer) Swanson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Jae (Jennifer) Swanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MMT, MT-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
I am a psychotherapist and music therapist. I enjoy working with kids, teens, and adults of all ages. I approach therapy from an anti-oppressive and systems perspective, meaning that my primary lens seeks to understand systemic barriers and discriminatory cultural contexts that impact the well-being of those I work with. I am well positioned to work with folks who are LGBTQIA+ and/or inhabit non-traditional family/relationship structures. I have many years of experience working with folks who are grieving, chronically/terminally ill, autistic, depressed, anxious, and folks who have experienced trauma.
I am a psychotherapist and music therapist. I enjoy working with kids, teens, and adults of all ages. I approach therapy from an anti-oppressive and systems perspective, meaning that my primary lens seeks to understand systemic barriers and discriminatory cultural contexts that impact the well-being of those I work with. I am well positioned to work with folks who are LGBTQIA+ and/or inhabit non-traditional family/relationship structures. I have many years of experience working with folks who are grieving, chronically/terminally ill, autistic, depressed, anxious, and folks who have experienced trauma.
(215) 608-0625 View (215) 608-0625
Photo of Grace Molloy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Grace Molloy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ESFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19129  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing individual and family therapy services. I am LGBTQ-affirming and specialize in working with teens, young adults, and families around depression, suicidality, gender and sexuality, neurodiversity, and trauma. Therapy can be a vulnerable and formative process, and it is important to find a therapist that feels like a good fit for you! I practice from a relational, social-justice-oriented, trauma-informed, systemic lens. I believe that change comes from authentic connection between a client and a therapist, involvement of a supportive network, and a mutual collaboration around treatment.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing individual and family therapy services. I am LGBTQ-affirming and specialize in working with teens, young adults, and families around depression, suicidality, gender and sexuality, neurodiversity, and trauma. Therapy can be a vulnerable and formative process, and it is important to find a therapist that feels like a good fit for you! I practice from a relational, social-justice-oriented, trauma-informed, systemic lens. I believe that change comes from authentic connection between a client and a therapist, involvement of a supportive network, and a mutual collaboration around treatment.
(215) 392-4097 View (215) 392-4097
Photo of Kayla Ann Stouffer, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Kayla Ann Stouffer
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19144  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with LGBT clients, adult ADHD, depression and anxiety, intergenerational patterns, couples and family work. Clients who come to me would be receiving support from a holistic perspective; our lives don't occur in a vacuum, so neither should our mental health. A client who came to me would be aiming both to address concerns in the present; whether those be relational or their own behavior or thoughts, as well as to help understand the patterns and history that impact how they see the world, so that they can identify where to make changes.
I specialize in working with LGBT clients, adult ADHD, depression and anxiety, intergenerational patterns, couples and family work. Clients who come to me would be receiving support from a holistic perspective; our lives don't occur in a vacuum, so neither should our mental health. A client who came to me would be aiming both to address concerns in the present; whether those be relational or their own behavior or thoughts, as well as to help understand the patterns and history that impact how they see the world, so that they can identify where to make changes.
(267) 848-9341 View (267) 848-9341
Photo of Sophie Nathan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Sophie Nathan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adults navigating ADHD, anxiety, parenthood and LGBTQ+ folks in particular.
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 enjoy working with adults navigating ADHD, anxiety, parenthood and LGBTQ+ folks in particular.
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 Philip A Rutter, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Philip A Rutter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19129
Waitlist for new clients
My Areas of Expertise: Individual Therapy: Sexual orientation/identity issues, depression or anxiety issues, sexual abuse survivorship. Pitman Couples & Family Therapy, LLC offers Couples counseling, coparenting strategies for blended families, recovery from affairs, or pre-marital counseling (LGBT inclusive) using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Gottman Marriage Clinic strategies. Family therapy for conflict, estrangement, suicidal or self injurious behaviors, blended families/parenting using Structural Family Therapy.
My Areas of Expertise: Individual Therapy: Sexual orientation/identity issues, depression or anxiety issues, sexual abuse survivorship. Pitman Couples & Family Therapy, LLC offers Couples counseling, coparenting strategies for blended families, recovery from affairs, or pre-marital counseling (LGBT inclusive) using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Gottman Marriage Clinic strategies. Family therapy for conflict, estrangement, suicidal or self injurious behaviors, blended families/parenting using Structural Family Therapy.
(267) 820-9724 View (267) 820-9724
Photo of Aliyyah Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Aliyyah Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
As a queer Black woman, I'm intentional about using an intersectional lens in my work.
At the core, I believe we all want to feel loved, heard, and understood. However, there may be things getting in the way of what we want, such as trauma, family influences, and societal messaging. My goal is to co-create a space with you (and your partner) that is affirming of your unique background and experiences. We can explore where you’re feeling stuck and how to create new opportunities for healing, intimacy, and connection. I work with individuals and couples of all backgrounds but have particular interest and experience in the queer, poly/CNM, and Black communities.
As a queer Black woman, I'm intentional about using an intersectional lens in my work.
At the core, I believe we all want to feel loved, heard, and understood. However, there may be things getting in the way of what we want, such as trauma, family influences, and societal messaging. My goal is to co-create a space with you (and your partner) that is affirming of your unique background and experiences. We can explore where you’re feeling stuck and how to create new opportunities for healing, intimacy, and connection. I work with individuals and couples of all backgrounds but have particular interest and experience in the queer, poly/CNM, and Black communities.
(484) 577-2453 View (484) 577-2453
Photo of Elena Greenland, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Elena Greenland
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I work with adolescents, adult individuals, couples, and families to address issues related to family dynamics, self-esteem, trauma, life transitions, and queer issues.
Therapy is a space to get to know and make friends with yourself through a collaborative and supportive relationship. My therapeutic style combines mindfulness approaches, somatic work, and psychodynamic principles, ensuring our sessions are open to whatever arises, all with a purposeful focus. My passion lies not just in understanding your story but in walking with you on a journey of genuine self-discovery and acceptance. I aim to create a safe and personalized space that suits your unique needs. I invite you to empower yourself toward a fulfilled and authentic life by starting where you are with openness and curiosity.
I work with adolescents, adult individuals, couples, and families to address issues related to family dynamics, self-esteem, trauma, life transitions, and queer issues.
Therapy is a space to get to know and make friends with yourself through a collaborative and supportive relationship. My therapeutic style combines mindfulness approaches, somatic work, and psychodynamic principles, ensuring our sessions are open to whatever arises, all with a purposeful focus. My passion lies not just in understanding your story but in walking with you on a journey of genuine self-discovery and acceptance. I aim to create a safe and personalized space that suits your unique needs. I invite you to empower yourself toward a fulfilled and authentic life by starting where you are with openness and curiosity.
(267) 710-9790 View (267) 710-9790
Photo of Kris Miraglia, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Kris Miraglia
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19106  (Online Only)
Throughout my training and career I have developed a speciality in working with the queer and trans community, individuals, couples, poly-relationship styles, and families.
I am a relational therapist who emphasizes a social justice approach to my work. I believe that to truly, deeply understand ourselves, we must look at the larger context within which we operate. In the therapy room, I strive to support you as you explore your own history and identity with curiosity, warmth, and care. I apply a trauma-informed lens to provide affirming care, as I believe that a respectful, supportive relationship is a key aspect of facilitating growth and self-acceptance. I am especially effective at working with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and ASD, alongside life transitions and gender and sexuality explorations.
Throughout my training and career I have developed a speciality in working with the queer and trans community, individuals, couples, poly-relationship styles, and families.
I am a relational therapist who emphasizes a social justice approach to my work. I believe that to truly, deeply understand ourselves, we must look at the larger context within which we operate. In the therapy room, I strive to support you as you explore your own history and identity with curiosity, warmth, and care. I apply a trauma-informed lens to provide affirming care, as I believe that a respectful, supportive relationship is a key aspect of facilitating growth and self-acceptance. I am especially effective at working with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and ASD, alongside life transitions and gender and sexuality explorations.
(215) 774-5870 View (215) 774-5870
Photo of Laura Kochman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Laura Kochman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106
I think of therapy as a space where we can explore not only what is difficult or distressing, but also what is joyful, connective, warm, and creative. I believe that noticing what goes unspoken is just as important as recognizing the patterns in your life, and that not-knowing is just as valuable as curiosity. While I work with clients of all identities and areas of concern, I have a specific background in working with people under the LGBTQ+ umbrella, people exploring their relationships to their bodies, people who are neurodivergent and/or disabled, and people with complex, intergenerational, and/or cultural trauma histories.
I think of therapy as a space where we can explore not only what is difficult or distressing, but also what is joyful, connective, warm, and creative. I believe that noticing what goes unspoken is just as important as recognizing the patterns in your life, and that not-knowing is just as valuable as curiosity. While I work with clients of all identities and areas of concern, I have a specific background in working with people under the LGBTQ+ umbrella, people exploring their relationships to their bodies, people who are neurodivergent and/or disabled, and people with complex, intergenerational, and/or cultural trauma histories.
(267) 214-7593 View (267) 214-7593
Photo of Ari (Jake) Kirkman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Ari (Jake) Kirkman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
Healing happens relationally–within our communities, our families, and within ourselves. Therapy works best if we can build a safe and trusting relationship, so you should know a little bit about who I am! I am a white, queer and trans femme musician turned therapist. I am areligious, but I find many experiences to be deeply spiritual, including cooking, being in community with others, singing together, and walking in nature. Folks who do well with me don't fit the status quo, are navigating transitions, are noticing patterns in their relationships they want to examine and change, and are in search of healing and transformation.
Healing happens relationally–within our communities, our families, and within ourselves. Therapy works best if we can build a safe and trusting relationship, so you should know a little bit about who I am! I am a white, queer and trans femme musician turned therapist. I am areligious, but I find many experiences to be deeply spiritual, including cooking, being in community with others, singing together, and walking in nature. Folks who do well with me don't fit the status quo, are navigating transitions, are noticing patterns in their relationships they want to examine and change, and are in search of healing and transformation.
(267) 214-1739 View (267) 214-1739
Photo of Lauren Scangarella, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Lauren Scangarella
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, BA
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My personal insights as a queer, neurodivergent, fat, disabled person working on my own mental health and internalized biases inform my work and how I relate to those I work with.
I support people dealing with depression, anxiety, relational distress, life transitions, gender and sexuality exploration, chronic illness, autism and/or ADHD. Healthy relationships with our family, friends, and support systems including therapy inform our ability to cope, process, and grow. I believe healing happens when we develop self-compassion for our most shamed parts and build support systems that meet us with care and understanding. My style is integrative, mindful and rooted in social justice.
My personal insights as a queer, neurodivergent, fat, disabled person working on my own mental health and internalized biases inform my work and how I relate to those I work with.
I support people dealing with depression, anxiety, relational distress, life transitions, gender and sexuality exploration, chronic illness, autism and/or ADHD. Healthy relationships with our family, friends, and support systems including therapy inform our ability to cope, process, and grow. I believe healing happens when we develop self-compassion for our most shamed parts and build support systems that meet us with care and understanding. My style is integrative, mindful and rooted in social justice.
(267) 848-9676 View (267) 848-9676
Photo of Emily Skale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Emily Skale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
Her approach is strengths-based, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, family-centered, and queer/trans-affirming.
Emily is a Licensed Clinical Social worker with 10 years experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families seeking therapy to heal from trauma, manage anxiety and depression, and improve their relationships. Emily is deeply committed to creating a safe space for reflective conversations that promote healing. Emily meets clients where they are, empowering them to achieve their self-determined goals and improve their overall well-being. She strongly believes every person has the capacity for change, and can utilize their strengths to manage the stress of challenging life events.
Her approach is strengths-based, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, family-centered, and queer/trans-affirming.
Emily is a Licensed Clinical Social worker with 10 years experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families seeking therapy to heal from trauma, manage anxiety and depression, and improve their relationships. Emily is deeply committed to creating a safe space for reflective conversations that promote healing. Emily meets clients where they are, empowering them to achieve their self-determined goals and improve their overall well-being. She strongly believes every person has the capacity for change, and can utilize their strengths to manage the stress of challenging life events.
(267) 651-0528 View (267) 651-0528
Photo of Hunter Erin Zelner, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Hunter Erin Zelner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
My therapy style is informed by my desire to explore, understand, and empower my clients. I am Kink/BDSM, non-monogamy, body neutral and queer aligned. I believe therapy is political and a space where clients can be intentional about their identities. Topics that I particularly enjoy working with include gender affirming care, chronic pain, working through infidelity, aging, navigating multiple racial and cultural identities, and processing sexual trauma.
My therapy style is informed by my desire to explore, understand, and empower my clients. I am Kink/BDSM, non-monogamy, body neutral and queer aligned. I believe therapy is political and a space where clients can be intentional about their identities. Topics that I particularly enjoy working with include gender affirming care, chronic pain, working through infidelity, aging, navigating multiple racial and cultural identities, and processing sexual trauma.
(484) 669-8302 View (484) 669-8302
Photo of Jared D Von Arx, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Jared D Von Arx
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I also specialize in working with LGBTQ individuals to address issues of discovery, acceptance, relationship issues (including family), and moving beyond labels.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who believes that everyone needs options when managing their problems. Through the safety of a trusting relationship, I work with a wide array of clients (older adolescents, college students, and adults) in tackling various targeted life issues. I believe that practical coping skills combined with a journey towards a more in-depth understanding of your problems ultimately leads to longer-term success. Together, you and I will review and determine problem areas, discover and explore attainable and healthy choices, and develop a plan to implement changes to meet your goals.
I also specialize in working with LGBTQ individuals to address issues of discovery, acceptance, relationship issues (including family), and moving beyond labels.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who believes that everyone needs options when managing their problems. Through the safety of a trusting relationship, I work with a wide array of clients (older adolescents, college students, and adults) in tackling various targeted life issues. I believe that practical coping skills combined with a journey towards a more in-depth understanding of your problems ultimately leads to longer-term success. Together, you and I will review and determine problem areas, discover and explore attainable and healthy choices, and develop a plan to implement changes to meet your goals.
(215) 688-5916 View (215) 688-5916
Photo of Jessie Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Jessie Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I also specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ populations, whether on concerns specifically related to sexuality and gender identity, or other issues.
Whether you have a specific issue you want to address, or just know you want something different out of life, therapy can be a great place to explore yourself and begin to make changes. I believe that everyone has the capacity to grow and heal, and I approach therapy as a place to collaborate on bringing out these fundamental abilities in you. Because relationships are deeply meaningful within each person’s life, I specialize in exploring the impact of your relationships — including your relationship yourself — in your life, to help you better understand and care for yourself and those you love.
I also specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ populations, whether on concerns specifically related to sexuality and gender identity, or other issues.
Whether you have a specific issue you want to address, or just know you want something different out of life, therapy can be a great place to explore yourself and begin to make changes. I believe that everyone has the capacity to grow and heal, and I approach therapy as a place to collaborate on bringing out these fundamental abilities in you. Because relationships are deeply meaningful within each person’s life, I specialize in exploring the impact of your relationships — including your relationship yourself — in your life, to help you better understand and care for yourself and those you love.
(267) 497-3027 View (267) 497-3027
Photo of Jordan Marisa Roe, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Jordan Marisa Roe
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I'm a great fit for queer folk, teens, intellectualizers, or anyone dealing with relationship anxiety, body image issues, gender and sexuality exploration, emotional disregulation, and low self-esteem.
Do you feel stuck and tangled in your own head? Process your thoughts and feelings in session with me, Jordan (she/hers)! We'll explore your mind non-judgmentally to carefully unravel what can feel at times like a knotted mess. Feeling misunderstood is isolating–let's develop a deeper understanding of yourself together, and probably giggle along the way.
I'm a great fit for queer folk, teens, intellectualizers, or anyone dealing with relationship anxiety, body image issues, gender and sexuality exploration, emotional disregulation, and low self-esteem.
Do you feel stuck and tangled in your own head? Process your thoughts and feelings in session with me, Jordan (she/hers)! We'll explore your mind non-judgmentally to carefully unravel what can feel at times like a knotted mess. Feeling misunderstood is isolating–let's develop a deeper understanding of yourself together, and probably giggle along the way.
(484) 930-1878 View (484) 930-1878
Photo of Latasha Hayes, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Latasha Hayes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
For over 20 years, I have helped children, families, couples and members of the LGBTQIA+ community learn to be curious with themselves and navigate the journey to healing. I look forward to helping those with anxiety, relationship challenges, anger, life transitions and trauma by using an understanding approach that helps you to feel heard and valued. By providing a supportive and welcoming environment, I help my clients to be their most authentic selves, by learning to give themselves grace and appreciate the power of forgiveness.
For over 20 years, I have helped children, families, couples and members of the LGBTQIA+ community learn to be curious with themselves and navigate the journey to healing. I look forward to helping those with anxiety, relationship challenges, anger, life transitions and trauma by using an understanding approach that helps you to feel heard and valued. By providing a supportive and welcoming environment, I help my clients to be their most authentic selves, by learning to give themselves grace and appreciate the power of forgiveness.
(215) 798-5549 View (215) 798-5549
Photo of Katharine M Berg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Katharine M Berg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Some particular challenges that I'm experienced with include LGBTQ+ folx, addiction, alcoholism, depression, anxiety, grief, and body image concerns.
As a seasoned therapist I am deeply committed to my clients and to the therapeutic process. My clients can expect that I will hold the space of our sessions for safe exploration of issues that might otherwise feel overwhelming. Together we will be co-creating what the process of your individual journey looks like. I will bring warmth, radical acceptance, creativity, curiosity, safety and even humor to the work and I will help you do the same. We will seek out your truth, how to face it, and how to make changes in your life accordingly. I believe in bringing secrets into the light and bringing self love to your healing.
Some particular challenges that I'm experienced with include LGBTQ+ folx, addiction, alcoholism, depression, anxiety, grief, and body image concerns.
As a seasoned therapist I am deeply committed to my clients and to the therapeutic process. My clients can expect that I will hold the space of our sessions for safe exploration of issues that might otherwise feel overwhelming. Together we will be co-creating what the process of your individual journey looks like. I will bring warmth, radical acceptance, creativity, curiosity, safety and even humor to the work and I will help you do the same. We will seek out your truth, how to face it, and how to make changes in your life accordingly. I believe in bringing secrets into the light and bringing self love to your healing.
(267) 460-0162 View (267) 460-0162

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

LGBTQ+ Therapists

Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?

Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?

Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?

While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.