Therapists in District Of Columbia, DC

Photo of Kris Oseth, Licensed Professional Counselor in District Of Columbia, DC
Kris Oseth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, LPCC, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I work with clients of all backgrounds, while specializing in following areas: LGBTQ+, Transgender/Gender-Diverse/Non-binary transitioning process and identity; kink/poly/non-monogamous relationships, sex work, substance use/misuse – goals for sobriety/recovery or harm reduction, out of control sexual behavior, anxiety/trauma, Personal Training, EMDR.
I will work with you to illuminate the meaning of your experience and help you practice greater self-acceptance. Therapy goals/counseling/education will be tailored to your unique needs. I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
I work with clients of all backgrounds, while specializing in following areas: LGBTQ+, Transgender/Gender-Diverse/Non-binary transitioning process and identity; kink/poly/non-monogamous relationships, sex work, substance use/misuse – goals for sobriety/recovery or harm reduction, out of control sexual behavior, anxiety/trauma, Personal Training, EMDR.
I will work with you to illuminate the meaning of your experience and help you practice greater self-acceptance. Therapy goals/counseling/education will be tailored to your unique needs. I may show you how to change your behavior by using Mindfulness/changing your thoughts, recovery/harm reduction tools to address substance use, guidance/education/resources for exploring sexual orientation/gender identity/transitioning/coming out, provide couples/individual work for better communication in relationships, and/or I can apply EMDR/somatic-based approaches for trauma/anxiety and even substance using/behavioral urges.
(202) 759-8060 View (202) 759-8060
Photo of Dr. LA McCrae, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in District Of Columbia, DC
Dr. LA McCrae
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LGADC, CCTSA, CCTP, RCP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016  (Online Only)
I am a Black, queer, non-binary, transmasc social justice practitioner who is deeply committed to this project of liberation.
You may be wondering how you are possibly going to put your life back together. Or, maybe, perhaps you're praying that you can finally put the vice down. Maybe the heartbreak of loss and unexpected endings is eating you up. We might be a good fit for one another if you're queer, poly, considering recovery, interested in a somatics based practitioner, and vibe with crystals and energy. Whatever it is, let's share a cup of coffee and figure it out together. If you are committed to your wellness and have a desire to seek restoration for a weary soul, hit my line. Let's Get Well, Y'all!
I am a Black, queer, non-binary, transmasc social justice practitioner who is deeply committed to this project of liberation.
You may be wondering how you are possibly going to put your life back together. Or, maybe, perhaps you're praying that you can finally put the vice down. Maybe the heartbreak of loss and unexpected endings is eating you up. We might be a good fit for one another if you're queer, poly, considering recovery, interested in a somatics based practitioner, and vibe with crystals and energy. Whatever it is, let's share a cup of coffee and figure it out together. If you are committed to your wellness and have a desire to seek restoration for a weary soul, hit my line. Let's Get Well, Y'all!
(410) 970-3237 View (410) 970-3237
Photo of Joan Bellsey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District Of Columbia, DC
Joan Bellsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, CAC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
Alcohol & Drug Abuse, Depression and Anxiety, Uncertainty about Your Career Path, LGBTQ, Relationship Ambivalence,Parenting, Wondering If you are Gay? Coaching.
You've always thought of yourself as confident and determined in your life's purpose, but now you are feeling overwhelmed with feelings of anxiety and thoughts or failure and loss. You may be thinking things are just too difficult to handle alone. If life is throwing you a challenge make the call. I can help. " Let Thoughts Come and Go. Just don't Serve them Tea."
Alcohol & Drug Abuse, Depression and Anxiety, Uncertainty about Your Career Path, LGBTQ, Relationship Ambivalence,Parenting, Wondering If you are Gay? Coaching.
You've always thought of yourself as confident and determined in your life's purpose, but now you are feeling overwhelmed with feelings of anxiety and thoughts or failure and loss. You may be thinking things are just too difficult to handle alone. If life is throwing you a challenge make the call. I can help. " Let Thoughts Come and Go. Just don't Serve them Tea."
(202) 999-3862 View (202) 999-3862
Photo of Robyn S. Zeiger, Counselor in District Of Columbia, DC
Robyn S. Zeiger
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
For the past 4 decades plus, I have specialized in LGBTQ issues. I currently focus on gender identity issues and assist my transgender clients with navigating their often challenging journeys. As an "out" cisgender lesbian practitioner, I strive to help my LGBTQ clients travel from a place of shame to pride. Much of our work centers on self- esteem and the ways in which homophobia and transphobia impact so many areas of our lives-including family, career, and our intimate relationships. I love animals and also do veterinary counseling and consulting. My style is interactive and casual. I highly value your confidentiality.
For the past 4 decades plus, I have specialized in LGBTQ issues. I currently focus on gender identity issues and assist my transgender clients with navigating their often challenging journeys. As an "out" cisgender lesbian practitioner, I strive to help my LGBTQ clients travel from a place of shame to pride. Much of our work centers on self- esteem and the ways in which homophobia and transphobia impact so many areas of our lives-including family, career, and our intimate relationships. I love animals and also do veterinary counseling and consulting. My style is interactive and casual. I highly value your confidentiality.
(301) 825-5154 View (301) 825-5154
Photo of Peter Simon Walsh, Counselor in District Of Columbia, DC
Peter Simon Walsh
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
I work with create space for BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ (diverse) clients toprocess their experiences and identify ways to advocate for themselves and manage the impact of their experiences. We'll identify cognitive, emotional and behavioral patterns and your strengths as we work to alleviate or eliminate sex or intimacy related challenges, identity related distress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, pressure or overwhelm, discrimination or privilege, shame, transitions, self-esteem and more. We'll work to manage or reduce the adverse impact relationships and experiences on current cognitive, emotional and behavioural functioning.
I work with create space for BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ (diverse) clients toprocess their experiences and identify ways to advocate for themselves and manage the impact of their experiences. We'll identify cognitive, emotional and behavioral patterns and your strengths as we work to alleviate or eliminate sex or intimacy related challenges, identity related distress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, pressure or overwhelm, discrimination or privilege, shame, transitions, self-esteem and more. We'll work to manage or reduce the adverse impact relationships and experiences on current cognitive, emotional and behavioural functioning.
(202) 519-8350 View (202) 519-8350
Photo of Tim Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District Of Columbia, DC
Tim Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSAT, CMAT, CPTT, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
Non-judgmental, compassionate care that is sex-positive and LGBTQ+ safe.
Infidelity? Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Trauma? All of these issues can be tough to deal with, but I can help. I have specialized training so that you're not wasting your time and money. Not just talk, talk, talk that gets you nowhere. I used evidence-based treatments so that you're feeling better soon. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and a Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT), I'm trained in many addictions, including substances. Most therapists aren't trained in all these issues. I offer EMDR, as well. There is hope. Together, we'll figure things out.
Non-judgmental, compassionate care that is sex-positive and LGBTQ+ safe.
Infidelity? Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Trauma? All of these issues can be tough to deal with, but I can help. I have specialized training so that you're not wasting your time and money. Not just talk, talk, talk that gets you nowhere. I used evidence-based treatments so that you're feeling better soon. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and a Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT), I'm trained in many addictions, including substances. Most therapists aren't trained in all these issues. I offer EMDR, as well. There is hope. Together, we'll figure things out.
(202) 951-8669 View (202) 951-8669
Photo of Susan Segal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District Of Columbia, DC
Susan Segal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and work with adults in individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and sex therapy for 30 plus years. My patients are single, married, divorced, remarried, straight, gay, queer and range from young adult to older adults.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and work with adults in individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and sex therapy for 30 plus years. My patients are single, married, divorced, remarried, straight, gay, queer and range from young adult to older adults.
(202) 800-1427 View (202) 800-1427
Photo of Maurine K Kelly, Psychologist in District Of Columbia, DC
Maurine K Kelly
Psychologist, PhD, FIPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
(240) 242-9949 View (240) 242-9949
Photo of Kim V. Chisolm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District Of Columbia, DC
Kim V. Chisolm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CSAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor in the state of Virginia. My clinical population includes both adults and adolescents. I specialize in the following clinical areas: addictive disorders, co-dependency, depression, anxiety, stress management, grief issues, gay and lesbian issues, relationship conflicts, and overall wellness. I have 30 yrs of experience as a therapist and have utilized my clinical expertise in outpatient, inpatient, detoxification, EAP, and Emergency Services settings. Pls contact me for Substance Abuse Evaluations, DOT/SAP Evaluations, individual and group needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor in the state of Virginia. My clinical population includes both adults and adolescents. I specialize in the following clinical areas: addictive disorders, co-dependency, depression, anxiety, stress management, grief issues, gay and lesbian issues, relationship conflicts, and overall wellness. I have 30 yrs of experience as a therapist and have utilized my clinical expertise in outpatient, inpatient, detoxification, EAP, and Emergency Services settings. Pls contact me for Substance Abuse Evaluations, DOT/SAP Evaluations, individual and group needs.
(703) 436-9970 View (703) 436-9970
Photo of Dr. Monica L. Johnson LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in District Of Columbia, DC
Dr. Monica L. Johnson LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20019
My areas of specialty include Substance Abuse, Women's Issues, Psychiatric Crisis, LGBT and Mood Disorders.
I am a graduate of Argosy University, where I completed my Doctorate of Education in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Substance Abuse Treatment. My dissertation, "Barriers in Substance Abuse Treatment for Women", highlighted the difficulties women experience in seeking Substance Abuse treatment, and how to overcome these barriers to successful treatment outcomes. Also a graduate of Trinity University in Washington, DC, I earned a Masters in Community Counseling.
My areas of specialty include Substance Abuse, Women's Issues, Psychiatric Crisis, LGBT and Mood Disorders.
I am a graduate of Argosy University, where I completed my Doctorate of Education in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Substance Abuse Treatment. My dissertation, "Barriers in Substance Abuse Treatment for Women", highlighted the difficulties women experience in seeking Substance Abuse treatment, and how to overcome these barriers to successful treatment outcomes. Also a graduate of Trinity University in Washington, DC, I earned a Masters in Community Counseling.
(202) 831-0318 View (202) 831-0318
Photo of Sandhya Sharma, Counselor in District Of Columbia, DC
Sandhya Sharma
Counselor, LPC, CAC II, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20004
Sandhya Sharma is a South Asian Indian LPC and certified addictions specialist who works with: Adults, Teens, LGBTQ community, and International Communities. Sandhya will help create a safe and supportive therapy environment and work with you collaboratively to both accurately assess your strengths as well as areas of struggle. She will develop a treatment plan with you to help you facilitate behavioral changes that more successfully meet your goals. Sandhya will help you look at the ways you have been currently coping with life’s problems and help you to develop new strategies from a strengths-based perspective. 
Sandhya Sharma is a South Asian Indian LPC and certified addictions specialist who works with: Adults, Teens, LGBTQ community, and International Communities. Sandhya will help create a safe and supportive therapy environment and work with you collaboratively to both accurately assess your strengths as well as areas of struggle. She will develop a treatment plan with you to help you facilitate behavioral changes that more successfully meet your goals. Sandhya will help you look at the ways you have been currently coping with life’s problems and help you to develop new strategies from a strengths-based perspective. 
(703) 828-0647 View (703) 828-0647
Photo of Michael A Giordano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District Of Columbia, DC
Michael A Giordano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
In a world full of judgment, you need to trust that your therapist is affirming and ready to hear your "deep, dark secrets." With that, you can then talk about what's really going on and address your true concerns. I have experience helping people with all kinds of issues, including relationships, sex and sexuality, addictions, gender identity, physical/emotional/sexual abuse, as well as general questions of self-worth. Together, we will explore any issue that is important to you. We will discuss your past when relevant, and what you're currently thinking and feeling.
In a world full of judgment, you need to trust that your therapist is affirming and ready to hear your "deep, dark secrets." With that, you can then talk about what's really going on and address your true concerns. I have experience helping people with all kinds of issues, including relationships, sex and sexuality, addictions, gender identity, physical/emotional/sexual abuse, as well as general questions of self-worth. Together, we will explore any issue that is important to you. We will discuss your past when relevant, and what you're currently thinking and feeling.
(202) 559-4269 View (202) 559-4269
Photo of John C Parkhurst, Psychologist in District Of Columbia, DC
John C Parkhurst
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
Dr. Parkhurst's practice frequently centers on self esteem and identity development issues, especially, but not necessarily, as they relate to sexual orientation. Depression, anxiety, obsessiveness, relationship problems, and intimacy issues characterize the types of concerns with which he is often presented by clients. His competencies include couples counseling, parenting and child development issues, and academic concerns as counseling issues. He also has considerable experience in learning and cognition, and in career development from his years of counseling and training within the educational system.
Dr. Parkhurst's practice frequently centers on self esteem and identity development issues, especially, but not necessarily, as they relate to sexual orientation. Depression, anxiety, obsessiveness, relationship problems, and intimacy issues characterize the types of concerns with which he is often presented by clients. His competencies include couples counseling, parenting and child development issues, and academic concerns as counseling issues. He also has considerable experience in learning and cognition, and in career development from his years of counseling and training within the educational system.
(202) 568-8626 View (202) 568-8626
Photo of Fernando De Greef, Licensed Professional Counselor in District Of Columbia, DC
Fernando De Greef
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Inspired by the passion of the clinical field, I became Professional Counselor to help people improving their quality of living. It means that it does no matter what the initial phase of the persons existing living arrangements, the quality of life can be improved through professional counseling. My diverse and intense professional working experience added to the qualified academic, and certified credentials gained; makes me a valuable, suitable and responsible therapist with a strong understanding of human behavior in extreme situations that provides private and confidential therapy, safe environment of treatment, and ethical standards of practice for all clients.
Inspired by the passion of the clinical field, I became Professional Counselor to help people improving their quality of living. It means that it does no matter what the initial phase of the persons existing living arrangements, the quality of life can be improved through professional counseling. My diverse and intense professional working experience added to the qualified academic, and certified credentials gained; makes me a valuable, suitable and responsible therapist with a strong understanding of human behavior in extreme situations that provides private and confidential therapy, safe environment of treatment, and ethical standards of practice for all clients.
(703) 297-8608 View (703) 297-8608
Photo of Zachary Rothwell in District Of Columbia, DC
Zachary Rothwell
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
(202) 953-5174 View (202) 953-5174
Photo of Roberta Rothstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District Of Columbia, DC
Roberta Rothstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Do you feel stuck? Maybe you can't seem to shake the blues. Maybe it’s a loss. Or you can’t make a crucial decision. Perhaps jittery moods have reduced your functioning. Or you’re unable to control unhealthy behavior. Maybe every conversation with your spouse becomes an argument. Feel more confident, improve your relationships, move from illness to health, reconnect with your creativity, learn valuable coping skills, take control of your life and just feel better. I can help you move forward through obstacles, uncovering your true potential. Our work helps you feel resilient, so you can set and reach your goals.
Do you feel stuck? Maybe you can't seem to shake the blues. Maybe it’s a loss. Or you can’t make a crucial decision. Perhaps jittery moods have reduced your functioning. Or you’re unable to control unhealthy behavior. Maybe every conversation with your spouse becomes an argument. Feel more confident, improve your relationships, move from illness to health, reconnect with your creativity, learn valuable coping skills, take control of your life and just feel better. I can help you move forward through obstacles, uncovering your true potential. Our work helps you feel resilient, so you can set and reach your goals.
(202) 618-4387 View (202) 618-4387
Photo of Massimo Scano, Licensed Professional Counselor in District Of Columbia, DC
Massimo Scano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAC II , CSAC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
In my practice I am guided by the belief that change is possible and that every person has the capacity for healthy growth and development but may at times need help in accessing inner resources for positive change. I believe a therapist-client relationship that is characterized by empathy, curiosity, acceptance and caring is what facilitates the therapeutic process. I aim to provide an environment where my clients feel safe and free to explore their feelings, thoughts, needs and goals - an environment where we can work together at understanding what is keeping them from living a more fulfilling life.
In my practice I am guided by the belief that change is possible and that every person has the capacity for healthy growth and development but may at times need help in accessing inner resources for positive change. I believe a therapist-client relationship that is characterized by empathy, curiosity, acceptance and caring is what facilitates the therapeutic process. I aim to provide an environment where my clients feel safe and free to explore their feelings, thoughts, needs and goals - an environment where we can work together at understanding what is keeping them from living a more fulfilling life.
(202) 618-5440 View (202) 618-5440
Photo of Christopher Barry Hill, Licensed Professional Counselor in District Of Columbia, DC
Christopher Barry Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
*Now Accepting Tele-therapy Clients* Do you find yourself feeling sad, anxious, unhappy with life circumstances? Are you having relationship difficulties, feel stress from work, or have a child experiencing difficulties? I offer comprehensive assistance to change and work through many of life's challenges. If you find yourself suffering from any of these situations, or if you do not feel quite like yourself, let us help you begin on the road to improvement by addressing patient concerns, including but not limited to the following:
*Now Accepting Tele-therapy Clients* Do you find yourself feeling sad, anxious, unhappy with life circumstances? Are you having relationship difficulties, feel stress from work, or have a child experiencing difficulties? I offer comprehensive assistance to change and work through many of life's challenges. If you find yourself suffering from any of these situations, or if you do not feel quite like yourself, let us help you begin on the road to improvement by addressing patient concerns, including but not limited to the following:
(202) 759-4221 View (202) 759-4221
Photo of Sara Petrasso, Psychologist in District Of Columbia, DC
Sara Petrasso
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I work with individuals who feel their lives are hindered by unwanted or distressing feelings, or self-defeating patterns of behavior, and who experience depression, anxiety, anger, low self esteem, compulsive or impulsive behaviors, or relationship difficulties. By establishing more effective coping skills and responses, positive changes can develop and lead to a greater sense of fulfillment. I approach each individual treatment collaboratively, exploring the foundation of the problem, identifying problematic patterns, and then developing treatment goals tailored to the unique needs of each individual client.
I work with individuals who feel their lives are hindered by unwanted or distressing feelings, or self-defeating patterns of behavior, and who experience depression, anxiety, anger, low self esteem, compulsive or impulsive behaviors, or relationship difficulties. By establishing more effective coping skills and responses, positive changes can develop and lead to a greater sense of fulfillment. I approach each individual treatment collaboratively, exploring the foundation of the problem, identifying problematic patterns, and then developing treatment goals tailored to the unique needs of each individual client.
(202) 618-5571 View (202) 618-5571
Photo of Anne Brennan Malec, Psychologist in District Of Columbia, DC
Anne Brennan Malec
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
Please note that all sessions are via tele-medicine. I believe that clients seeking counseling services desire tools for living a better life, and I strive to provide those tools. I do not push change on clients, but rather helps them articulate how they want their lives to be, and then collaboratively set out to put the foundation in place to create that life. I feel that clients gain the most from the counseling experience when they feel supported, encouraged, and understood by their therapist. This process works best in a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental space, which I provide.
Please note that all sessions are via tele-medicine. I believe that clients seeking counseling services desire tools for living a better life, and I strive to provide those tools. I do not push change on clients, but rather helps them articulate how they want their lives to be, and then collaboratively set out to put the foundation in place to create that life. I feel that clients gain the most from the counseling experience when they feel supported, encouraged, and understood by their therapist. This process works best in a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental space, which I provide.
(312) 626-9612 View (312) 626-9612

See more therapy options for District Of Columbia

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.