LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Shrewsbury, PA

Photo of Kimberly S Marsico, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shrewsbury, PA
Kimberly S Marsico
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, PA 17361  (Online Only)
When working with me, you can expect a safe, empathetic environment to share your needs. I help my clients to work through important relationships- past and present. We will work together to understand past issues that may be impacting your life currently. I believe in helping you find your personal strengths, purpose, and meaning to help create and realize your life goals.
When working with me, you can expect a safe, empathetic environment to share your needs. I help my clients to work through important relationships- past and present. We will work together to understand past issues that may be impacting your life currently. I believe in helping you find your personal strengths, purpose, and meaning to help create and realize your life goals.
(717) 801-1816 View (717) 801-1816
Photo of Dr. Debra Doubrava - Emdr Trauma And Play Focused, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shrewsbury, PA
Dr. Debra Doubrava - Emdr Trauma And Play Focused
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, PA 17361  (Online Only)
Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.- John Watson...I am humbled & honored to have over 30 years experience working with clients of all ages & stages to lead more authentic, joyful, & peace-filled lives. I am an integrative, attachment focused & trauma-informed play therapist - inspired by theories grounded in client-centered, family systems, humanistic, Imago, mindfulness, & parts work. I enjoy working with a wide range of issues & diverse backgrounds in the human experience including LGBTQIA2S+. We all need to be truly seen and heard AND it is courageous and wise to seek help as we journey through life & love!
Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.- John Watson...I am humbled & honored to have over 30 years experience working with clients of all ages & stages to lead more authentic, joyful, & peace-filled lives. I am an integrative, attachment focused & trauma-informed play therapist - inspired by theories grounded in client-centered, family systems, humanistic, Imago, mindfulness, & parts work. I enjoy working with a wide range of issues & diverse backgrounds in the human experience including LGBTQIA2S+. We all need to be truly seen and heard AND it is courageous and wise to seek help as we journey through life & love!
(717) 301-4263 View (717) 301-4263

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kristin Hobson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shrewsbury, PA
Kristin Hobson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, NCSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallastown, PA 17313  (Online Only)
CALLING clients and families: Do you or your child struggle with depression and anxiety which makes a daily routine difficult? Do you or your child question on how to manage challenging moments in your life? Have you or your child experienced a traumatic event in your life that seems impossible to process? Do you feel like you are in a stage of crisis that makes it hard to manage daily norms? Have you had multiple anxiety attacks that left you exhausted and tired, but want to learn coping strategies? Do you question your confidence in your relationships, career and personal identity? Are you ready to START the healing process?
CALLING clients and families: Do you or your child struggle with depression and anxiety which makes a daily routine difficult? Do you or your child question on how to manage challenging moments in your life? Have you or your child experienced a traumatic event in your life that seems impossible to process? Do you feel like you are in a stage of crisis that makes it hard to manage daily norms? Have you had multiple anxiety attacks that left you exhausted and tired, but want to learn coping strategies? Do you question your confidence in your relationships, career and personal identity? Are you ready to START the healing process?
(717) 366-7530 View (717) 366-7530
Photo of Peter Myers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shrewsbury, PA
Peter Myers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CNIT
Verified Verified
Glen Rock, PA 17327
I have immediate openings Are you questioning what direction you are going in life? Are you feeling down and lack the normal energy or interest you have in life? Are you struggling with identity or having issues related to being othered? Do you worry about things you cannot control? Do you want to get from point A to point B? Do you just need someone to talk to in a safe space? This journey of life can be scary, confusing, and sometimes frustrating, are you ready to become the best version of yourself?
I have immediate openings Are you questioning what direction you are going in life? Are you feeling down and lack the normal energy or interest you have in life? Are you struggling with identity or having issues related to being othered? Do you worry about things you cannot control? Do you want to get from point A to point B? Do you just need someone to talk to in a safe space? This journey of life can be scary, confusing, and sometimes frustrating, are you ready to become the best version of yourself?
(717) 931-6856 View (717) 931-6856
Photo of Alexys Grim, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shrewsbury, PA
Alexys Grim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dallastown, PA 17313
Waitlist for new clients
Alexys Grim is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been working in the human services field since 2010. She has a variety of experience working with children, families and couples, including a background in domestic violence and substance abuse. Alexys uses a client focused approach in her sessions and strives for full engagement of clients in building a strength based treatment plan.
Alexys Grim is a Licensed Professional Counselor, who has been working in the human services field since 2010. She has a variety of experience working with children, families and couples, including a background in domestic violence and substance abuse. Alexys uses a client focused approach in her sessions and strives for full engagement of clients in building a strength based treatment plan.
(717) 584-9642 View (717) 584-9642

Online Therapists

Photo of Jae (Jennifer) Swanson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shrewsbury, 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 Shannon L. Hays, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shrewsbury, PA
Shannon L. Hays
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MPH, CEDS, CAADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults wishing to overcome array of challenges. My main specializations are ADHD, Trauma/PTSD, Grief, Chronic health issues, eating disorders, addictions and working with the LGBTQIA+ plus community. I also specialize in working with anxiety, OCD and related disorders. I also provide executive functioning coaching, career coaching and love working with people in life transition and healing from burnout. I have a Master of Arts in Professional Clinical Counseling from LaSalle University and a Master of Public Health from Capella U.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults wishing to overcome array of challenges. My main specializations are ADHD, Trauma/PTSD, Grief, Chronic health issues, eating disorders, addictions and working with the LGBTQIA+ plus community. I also specialize in working with anxiety, OCD and related disorders. I also provide executive functioning coaching, career coaching and love working with people in life transition and healing from burnout. I have a Master of Arts in Professional Clinical Counseling from LaSalle University and a Master of Public Health from Capella U.
(267) 728-7341 View (267) 728-7341
Photo of Christine Kennedy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shrewsbury, PA
Christine Kennedy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newtown Square, PA 19073
I have 20+ years of experience supporting adults, teens, couples, and families including LGBTQ+ navigating grief/loss, life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, spiritual concerns, and life-limiting illness.
Finding the right support is important. It takes courage to seek help when you are hurting. Perhaps life has brought you challenges and transitions that feel overwhelming, My goal is to meet you where you are and provide a warm and collaborative environment in which you are supported, cared for, and seen. I can provide you with tools to help rebalance your life so that you can move forward with confidence and clarity. Together let’s create the beautiful story of the life your heart knows is possible. Give me a call and let's find out if we are a good fit.
I have 20+ years of experience supporting adults, teens, couples, and families including LGBTQ+ navigating grief/loss, life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, spiritual concerns, and life-limiting illness.
Finding the right support is important. It takes courage to seek help when you are hurting. Perhaps life has brought you challenges and transitions that feel overwhelming, My goal is to meet you where you are and provide a warm and collaborative environment in which you are supported, cared for, and seen. I can provide you with tools to help rebalance your life so that you can move forward with confidence and clarity. Together let’s create the beautiful story of the life your heart knows is possible. Give me a call and let's find out if we are a good fit.
(610) 609-8336 View (610) 609-8336
Photo of Sean Hyatt, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Shrewsbury, PA
Sean Hyatt
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodlyn, PA 19094  (Online Only)
My experiences in working with families with children with illnesses and in LGBTQ+ supports give me the expertise to help you not feel alone & have a safe space to explore & heal.
As a beginning therapist, my goal is not only to learn to help others in every way that I can, but to be a sounding board for those who struggle with their identity, who have been silenced in their lives, and have been looking for a caring person to turn to. In the journey of 1000 miles, the first 500 are often taking the step to seek the help that one needs, and I have experience in helping people who are having difficulties in life with grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, family medical diagnoses, and other challenging areas.
My experiences in working with families with children with illnesses and in LGBTQ+ supports give me the expertise to help you not feel alone & have a safe space to explore & heal.
As a beginning therapist, my goal is not only to learn to help others in every way that I can, but to be a sounding board for those who struggle with their identity, who have been silenced in their lives, and have been looking for a caring person to turn to. In the journey of 1000 miles, the first 500 are often taking the step to seek the help that one needs, and I have experience in helping people who are having difficulties in life with grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, family medical diagnoses, and other challenging areas.
(484) 946-4218 View (484) 946-4218
Photo of Vincent Lamont, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shrewsbury, PA
Vincent Lamont
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I have experience working with depression and anxiety disorders addiction disorders, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, co-occurring disorders (mental illness and addiction), career changes, dysfunctional family of origin issues, LGBT issues and concerns and adjustment disorders.
My name is Vincent Lamont and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (Pennsylvania). Entering therapy can be a difficult decision for most people. I am committed to gently guiding my clients toward a place of relief from emotional distress and an enhanced sense of well-being. I am here to provide a safe space, and to help you work through whatever issue or conflict is troubling you.
I have experience working with depression and anxiety disorders addiction disorders, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, co-occurring disorders (mental illness and addiction), career changes, dysfunctional family of origin issues, LGBT issues and concerns and adjustment disorders.
My name is Vincent Lamont and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (Pennsylvania). Entering therapy can be a difficult decision for most people. I am committed to gently guiding my clients toward a place of relief from emotional distress and an enhanced sense of well-being. I am here to provide a safe space, and to help you work through whatever issue or conflict is troubling you.
(267) 433-2706 View (267) 433-2706
Photo of West Philly Therapy Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Shrewsbury, 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 Transgender Dysphoria Diagnosis - WPATH Letters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shrewsbury, PA
Transgender Dysphoria Diagnosis - WPATH Letters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18101  (Online Only)
Your transition ally is waiting at Queer Talk Therapy. Specializing in gender identity, they offer thorough assessments and readiness letters, rooted in an informed consent model, simplifying your path to medical transition. Your $175 investment goes beyond an assessment—it's a comprehensive, WPATH-compliant roadmap, inclusive of letter updates and ongoing support. More than an assessment, it’s an invaluable bridge to your next chapter. Simply visit our WEBSITE to schedule and get started today.
Your transition ally is waiting at Queer Talk Therapy. Specializing in gender identity, they offer thorough assessments and readiness letters, rooted in an informed consent model, simplifying your path to medical transition. Your $175 investment goes beyond an assessment—it's a comprehensive, WPATH-compliant roadmap, inclusive of letter updates and ongoing support. More than an assessment, it’s an invaluable bridge to your next chapter. Simply visit our WEBSITE to schedule and get started today.
Photo of Emet Bergman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shrewsbury, PA
Emet Bergman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19143
I utilize trauma-informed practices from a queer and anti-racist perspective, incorporating Attachment and Psychodynamic theories.
Whether you are seeking support around a particular question or area for growth, or searching for a space to figure out what the questions are, you are welcome. I endeavor to provide a collaborative and individualized approach to meet you where you are, and support you in achieving your goals. In relationships I believe authenticity is crucial to build trust and engage in growth. I seek to build authentic connection in therapeutic relationships and view this as an essential foundation for humans in building a deeper connection with the self as a reservoir of their own power. I am also offering ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP).
I utilize trauma-informed practices from a queer and anti-racist perspective, incorporating Attachment and Psychodynamic theories.
Whether you are seeking support around a particular question or area for growth, or searching for a space to figure out what the questions are, you are welcome. I endeavor to provide a collaborative and individualized approach to meet you where you are, and support you in achieving your goals. In relationships I believe authenticity is crucial to build trust and engage in growth. I seek to build authentic connection in therapeutic relationships and view this as an essential foundation for humans in building a deeper connection with the self as a reservoir of their own power. I am also offering ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP).
(215) 935-4939 View (215) 935-4939
Photo of Kaleb Aronson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shrewsbury, PA
Kaleb Aronson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
 I work from a trauma-informed, anti-racist, trans & queer-affirming, feminist, & social justice lens.
People of all identities deserve mental health care that honors their whole, unique self, and lived experiences. With my warm, collaborative style, I work to build a therapeutic relationship rooted in trust and safety that fosters curiosity, healing, and growth. Together we can explore how your past informs your present, consider how your environment(s) and systems of oppression impact your wellbeing, and bring curiosity and compassion to the parts of you that are hardest to address.
 I work from a trauma-informed, anti-racist, trans & queer-affirming, feminist, & social justice lens.
People of all identities deserve mental health care that honors their whole, unique self, and lived experiences. With my warm, collaborative style, I work to build a therapeutic relationship rooted in trust and safety that fosters curiosity, healing, and growth. Together we can explore how your past informs your present, consider how your environment(s) and systems of oppression impact your wellbeing, and bring curiosity and compassion to the parts of you that are hardest to address.
(215) 770-1346 View (215) 770-1346
Photo of Phil Gardner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shrewsbury, PA
Phil Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19148  (Online Only)
I believe in a strengths-based approach to treatment, which means I start by working to understand who my client is, what their concerns/goals are, and how they can best be approached. This allows me to collaborate with my clients to develop effective coping skills for substance use, anxiety, depression, adjustment to aging, grief, relationship stress and boundary setting, or reactions to trauma. I also have experience with queer populations (LGBTQ+). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania with 10 years of professional experience in nonprofit and an additional 4 years in therapy practice.
I believe in a strengths-based approach to treatment, which means I start by working to understand who my client is, what their concerns/goals are, and how they can best be approached. This allows me to collaborate with my clients to develop effective coping skills for substance use, anxiety, depression, adjustment to aging, grief, relationship stress and boundary setting, or reactions to trauma. I also have experience with queer populations (LGBTQ+). I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania with 10 years of professional experience in nonprofit and an additional 4 years in therapy practice.
(267) 754-9212 View (267) 754-9212
Photo of Bea Mitchell-Rodriguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shrewsbury, PA
Bea Mitchell-Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with other mixed-race and Latine folks, culture workers like artists and poets, activists and movement builders, survivors of neglect, and queer folks.
I work with people to help them explore, understand, and heal from the ways life has left its imprints upon them— be that from trauma, oppression, or simply the complexity of our messy and beautiful interconnectedness with each other. My approach is creative, humorous and relational. It is rooted in values of anti-oppression, abolitionism, and harm reduction.
I enjoy working with other mixed-race and Latine folks, culture workers like artists and poets, activists and movement builders, survivors of neglect, and queer folks.
I work with people to help them explore, understand, and heal from the ways life has left its imprints upon them— be that from trauma, oppression, or simply the complexity of our messy and beautiful interconnectedness with each other. My approach is creative, humorous and relational. It is rooted in values of anti-oppression, abolitionism, and harm reduction.
(215) 584-4587 View (215) 584-4587
Photo of Mitchell Wright, Pre-Licensed Professional in Shrewsbury, PA
Mitchell Wright
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19110
As a queer man, I am a major advocate for inclusivity and my door is open to anyone who feels marginalized in society.
Feeling comfortable, supported, and safe are imperative for your therapeutic experience. I prioritize a person-centered approach, embracing every client wholeheartedly. Together, we'll delve into the patterns of your thoughts, emotions, actions, and values to foster a richer self-awareness and awareness of your relationships with others. I am passionate about providing a non-judgmental and open space to explore your experiences and help you overcome any challenges. I also have experience helping individuals recover from substance use issues and build a healthy relationship with alcohol and drugs.
As a queer man, I am a major advocate for inclusivity and my door is open to anyone who feels marginalized in society.
Feeling comfortable, supported, and safe are imperative for your therapeutic experience. I prioritize a person-centered approach, embracing every client wholeheartedly. Together, we'll delve into the patterns of your thoughts, emotions, actions, and values to foster a richer self-awareness and awareness of your relationships with others. I am passionate about providing a non-judgmental and open space to explore your experiences and help you overcome any challenges. I also have experience helping individuals recover from substance use issues and build a healthy relationship with alcohol and drugs.
(267) 710-8560 View (267) 710-8560
Photo of Tanya Koifman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Shrewsbury, PA
Tanya Koifman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104  (Online Only)
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, and provide gender-affirming support for transgender & non-binary individuals.
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, and provide gender-affirming support for transgender & non-binary individuals.
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
(646) 798-6332 View (646) 798-6332
Photo of Jack Wolcott in Shrewsbury, PA
Jack Wolcott
MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Therapy, an all-queer and gender-affirming private practice, I am here to offer the unwavering support you need.
I am passionate about supporting clients to find balance in their emotional and social well-being, resolve trauma, and achieve a life worth living. I work with teenagers and adults who experience overwhelming emotions, thoughts, and behaviors such as self-harm, and suicidal actions, by utilizing full-model Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I specialize in clients diagnosed with BPD or who have tried many different therapies without success. I also work with clients who are exploring their identity, using an intersectional systems approach that is tailored to each client's unique experiences.
Therapy, an all-queer and gender-affirming private practice, I am here to offer the unwavering support you need.
I am passionate about supporting clients to find balance in their emotional and social well-being, resolve trauma, and achieve a life worth living. I work with teenagers and adults who experience overwhelming emotions, thoughts, and behaviors such as self-harm, and suicidal actions, by utilizing full-model Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I specialize in clients diagnosed with BPD or who have tried many different therapies without success. I also work with clients who are exploring their identity, using an intersectional systems approach that is tailored to each client's unique experiences.
(484) 218-4046 View (484) 218-4046
Photo of Timothy Reider, Licensed Professional Counselor in Shrewsbury, PA
Timothy Reider
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Royersford, PA 19468  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m Tim Reider! I'm a therapist who specializes in LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy, depression/anxiety, and neurodiversity. I work well with people who want the geek therapy approach to support their identity journey and relationships. If your fandoms are an important anchor in your mental health storm, I’m here to respect the whole picture. If you are trans, I can also provide WPATH V8 format referral letters for transition care. If you are looking for a queer affirming therapist who can speak to your emotional health needs and the nuance of the community, get in touch!
Hi! I’m Tim Reider! I'm a therapist who specializes in LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy, depression/anxiety, and neurodiversity. I work well with people who want the geek therapy approach to support their identity journey and relationships. If your fandoms are an important anchor in your mental health storm, I’m here to respect the whole picture. If you are trans, I can also provide WPATH V8 format referral letters for transition care. If you are looking for a queer affirming therapist who can speak to your emotional health needs and the nuance of the community, get in touch!
(484) 939-6188 View (484) 939-6188

See more therapy options for Shrewsbury

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.