LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Rochester, NY

Photo of Spotted Rabbit Creative Arts Therapy, Art Therapist in Rochester, NY
Spotted Rabbit Creative Arts Therapy
Art Therapist, LCAT
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
Spotted Rabbit therapists aren’t here to “fix” you. We live for empowering neurodivergents, LGBTQ+ folx, and adults who’ve experienced emotional neglect (trauma) to be their true selves and live a life aligned with their own personal values. We specialize in helping teens and adults relax their nervous systems, better regulate their emotions, and develop healthier relationships with others. We are also experienced in treating related conditions such as anxiety, eating disorders, and dissociative identity disorder (DID). We use trauma informed and culturally sensitive practices and believe in an intuitive eating/HAES approach.
Spotted Rabbit therapists aren’t here to “fix” you. We live for empowering neurodivergents, LGBTQ+ folx, and adults who’ve experienced emotional neglect (trauma) to be their true selves and live a life aligned with their own personal values. We specialize in helping teens and adults relax their nervous systems, better regulate their emotions, and develop healthier relationships with others. We are also experienced in treating related conditions such as anxiety, eating disorders, and dissociative identity disorder (DID). We use trauma informed and culturally sensitive practices and believe in an intuitive eating/HAES approach.
(585) 684-3970 View (585) 684-3970
Photo of Emma L. Wolford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rochester, NY
Emma L. Wolford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14620
I have extensive experience serving the LGBTQ community, as well as overburdened women and teens/ college students.
Has life has put a lot of challenges in your way recently and you are feeling depressed & anxious? Not feeling like yourself? I provide you with a non-judgmental place to process your concerns and gain coping skills as you embrace your authentic self & strengthen your relationships. I have 20+ years of experience & my practice focuses on older teens, college students & adults (individuals & couples). I can effectively help with a wide range of issues. Areas of specialty include LGBTQ concerns, women's issues, emotional regulation/mood disorders, coping with life changes & identity development focusing on the whole person.
I have extensive experience serving the LGBTQ community, as well as overburdened women and teens/ college students.
Has life has put a lot of challenges in your way recently and you are feeling depressed & anxious? Not feeling like yourself? I provide you with a non-judgmental place to process your concerns and gain coping skills as you embrace your authentic self & strengthen your relationships. I have 20+ years of experience & my practice focuses on older teens, college students & adults (individuals & couples). I can effectively help with a wide range of issues. Areas of specialty include LGBTQ concerns, women's issues, emotional regulation/mood disorders, coping with life changes & identity development focusing on the whole person.
(585) 440-7107 View (585) 440-7107
Photo of Sam Dinga, Counselor in Rochester, NY
Sam Dinga
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14623
Waitlist for new clients
I practice using a queer and trans-affirming, anti-racist, anti-ableist, trauma-informed lens.
I treat clients from a wide variety of backgrounds and identities, but I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ adolescents and adults, and treat conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. I am hearing, am proficient in American Sign Language (ASL) and am experienced with Deaf culture.
I practice using a queer and trans-affirming, anti-racist, anti-ableist, trauma-informed lens.
I treat clients from a wide variety of backgrounds and identities, but I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ adolescents and adults, and treat conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. I am hearing, am proficient in American Sign Language (ASL) and am experienced with Deaf culture.
(585) 479-3478 View (585) 479-3478
Photo of Morgan Camman, Mental Health Counselor in Rochester, NY
Morgan Camman
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14618
Welcome, I'm Morgan (they/she)! Since 2019, I've been working in community mental health and now have decided to take my experiences into a private setting. I enjoy serving those in the queer community, non-monogamous relationship structures, and BDSM/kink dynamics. I also enjoy working with young people (ages 12+) by giving them a safe space in which to explore their identity, and have begun supporting those with late diagnosed Autism. My additional passion is supervising/guiding new therapists in the field to develop as professionals.
Welcome, I'm Morgan (they/she)! Since 2019, I've been working in community mental health and now have decided to take my experiences into a private setting. I enjoy serving those in the queer community, non-monogamous relationship structures, and BDSM/kink dynamics. I also enjoy working with young people (ages 12+) by giving them a safe space in which to explore their identity, and have begun supporting those with late diagnosed Autism. My additional passion is supervising/guiding new therapists in the field to develop as professionals.
(585) 902-0520 View (585) 902-0520
Photo of Leah E Mead, Counselor in Rochester, NY
Leah E Mead
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14620
I have a passion for helping marginalized groups, specifically the LGBTQIA+ and queer communities, and for addressing trauma and trauma disorders.
Hi, I'm Leah (she/her). If you’re struggling with life stressors, past traumas, difficulty in relationships, or just want to improve yourself, I would be honored to assist you on your journey. My style is very genuine, accepting, and collaborative. I believe that you know yourself better than anyone, and I am here to assist and empower you to become the person you want to be.
I have a passion for helping marginalized groups, specifically the LGBTQIA+ and queer communities, and for addressing trauma and trauma disorders.
Hi, I'm Leah (she/her). If you’re struggling with life stressors, past traumas, difficulty in relationships, or just want to improve yourself, I would be honored to assist you on your journey. My style is very genuine, accepting, and collaborative. I believe that you know yourself better than anyone, and I am here to assist and empower you to become the person you want to be.
(585) 565-6931 View (585) 565-6931
Photo of Maureen Sharp, Counselor in Rochester, NY
Maureen Sharp
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14627  (Online Only)
I work with individuals of all diverse identities, backgrounds, and sexual orientations, and I specialize in queer affirming therapy.
Welcome! My therapeutic approach centers around the power of vulnerability, honoring your personal story, and the importance of embracing your authentic self. This is a safe space where you can explore what is relevant for you, whether it's LGBTQIA+ issues, anxiety, depression, self-doubt, boundaries, family dynamics, spirituality, or self-discovery. I'm here to support you in your journey toward growth and wellness. I invite you to schedule a free consultation appointment and ask any questions you may have about the therapeutic process. :)
I work with individuals of all diverse identities, backgrounds, and sexual orientations, and I specialize in queer affirming therapy.
Welcome! My therapeutic approach centers around the power of vulnerability, honoring your personal story, and the importance of embracing your authentic self. This is a safe space where you can explore what is relevant for you, whether it's LGBTQIA+ issues, anxiety, depression, self-doubt, boundaries, family dynamics, spirituality, or self-discovery. I'm here to support you in your journey toward growth and wellness. I invite you to schedule a free consultation appointment and ask any questions you may have about the therapeutic process. :)
(347) 434-6845 View (347) 434-6845
Photo of The Queer Wellness Center: Channyn Quinn in Rochester, NY
The Queer Wellness Center: Channyn Quinn
LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14610
I specialize in treating LGBTQIA persons, therapy for mental health professionals, trauma/PTSD, relationship, shame, & self-esteem issues.
My name is Channyn (pronounced Shannon). Congratulations for starting (or restarting) your journey in taking care of yourself. My goal is to assist you with self-discovery, change, and improving your quality of life. I help my clients cope with the psychological and emotional difficulties that underlie unhealthy thoughts, patterns, and behaviors. I am anti-racist & committed to working with people regardless of gender identity, race, religion, or sexual orientation. My therapy style is warm, supportive, empowering, interactive, sometimes funny, and focused on assisting clients in developing mindful awareness.
I specialize in treating LGBTQIA persons, therapy for mental health professionals, trauma/PTSD, relationship, shame, & self-esteem issues.
My name is Channyn (pronounced Shannon). Congratulations for starting (or restarting) your journey in taking care of yourself. My goal is to assist you with self-discovery, change, and improving your quality of life. I help my clients cope with the psychological and emotional difficulties that underlie unhealthy thoughts, patterns, and behaviors. I am anti-racist & committed to working with people regardless of gender identity, race, religion, or sexual orientation. My therapy style is warm, supportive, empowering, interactive, sometimes funny, and focused on assisting clients in developing mindful awareness.
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Photo of Shannon McCormick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rochester, NY
Shannon McCormick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14620
People seek therapy for many different needs: to develop skills and resources, to have space to process and unpack, and to receive support with navigating life transitions and challenges. My goal as a therapist is to support you with whatever you may be carrying. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process and I trust that you ultimately have the answers. Focus areas of my work include trauma recovery, work with neurodivergent folks, and the LGBTQIA+ community. I enjoy working with people in process of exploring and embracing sense of identity.
People seek therapy for many different needs: to develop skills and resources, to have space to process and unpack, and to receive support with navigating life transitions and challenges. My goal as a therapist is to support you with whatever you may be carrying. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process and I trust that you ultimately have the answers. Focus areas of my work include trauma recovery, work with neurodivergent folks, and the LGBTQIA+ community. I enjoy working with people in process of exploring and embracing sense of identity.
(585) 449-6932 View (585) 449-6932
Photo of Shannon Lynch, Licensed Master Social Worker in Rochester, NY
Shannon Lynch
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14600
I primarily work with clients who may struggle with trauma-related disorders, eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and depressive disorders. I enjoy working with clients who are queer, neurodiverse, and/or poly-amorous/Non-Monogamous. My goal is to help people live their lives radically and authentically as they heal. I use a range of practices such as Trauma Systems Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy through a feminist and health-at-every-size lens.
I primarily work with clients who may struggle with trauma-related disorders, eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and depressive disorders. I enjoy working with clients who are queer, neurodiverse, and/or poly-amorous/Non-Monogamous. My goal is to help people live their lives radically and authentically as they heal. I use a range of practices such as Trauma Systems Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy through a feminist and health-at-every-size lens.
(518) 760-0885 View (518) 760-0885
Photo of Monika Rybak in Rochester, NY
Monika Rybak
LP-MHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14602  (Online Only)
As a queer, non-binary therapist, I want to provide members of the LGBTQ+, a space to be celebrated and empowered.
Connections with others are a vital lifeline in times of stress. I work with adults who may be struggling with a variety of issues, life transitions, or would like support on their mental health journeys. I want to be a positive support system while challenging you to become your most empowered self. We will work together to foster a balanced life. As a Mental Health Counselor-LP, working under the supervision of Silvia B. Arias, I look forward to counseling those who want to learn emotional regulation and maintain healthy relationships, explore gender identity, or may be living with trauma.
As a queer, non-binary therapist, I want to provide members of the LGBTQ+, a space to be celebrated and empowered.
Connections with others are a vital lifeline in times of stress. I work with adults who may be struggling with a variety of issues, life transitions, or would like support on their mental health journeys. I want to be a positive support system while challenging you to become your most empowered self. We will work together to foster a balanced life. As a Mental Health Counselor-LP, working under the supervision of Silvia B. Arias, I look forward to counseling those who want to learn emotional regulation and maintain healthy relationships, explore gender identity, or may be living with trauma.
(914) 415-5708 View (914) 415-5708
Photo of Lia Lesnick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rochester, NY
Lia Lesnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
Waitlist for new clients
Additionally, I am aligned with and passionate about advocating for and working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Life is often unpredictable and painful. It can be easy to find ourselves feeling stuck in a spiral of shame and uncertainty. As humans, we often have an “inner knowing” that we have grown far away from. It’s difficult to commit to the journey of healing. However, choosing this journey is often “the right kind of hard,” while remaining stuck, frozen, and numb, is “the wrong kind of hard.” Sitting with big emotions can often times feel uncomfortable and scary. Everyone deserves a safe space to process difficult emotions and life's challenges.
Additionally, I am aligned with and passionate about advocating for and working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Life is often unpredictable and painful. It can be easy to find ourselves feeling stuck in a spiral of shame and uncertainty. As humans, we often have an “inner knowing” that we have grown far away from. It’s difficult to commit to the journey of healing. However, choosing this journey is often “the right kind of hard,” while remaining stuck, frozen, and numb, is “the wrong kind of hard.” Sitting with big emotions can often times feel uncomfortable and scary. Everyone deserves a safe space to process difficult emotions and life's challenges.
(585) 857-9735 View (585) 857-9735
Photo of Rivka Polisky, Art Therapist in Rochester, NY
Rivka Polisky
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
As someone who is LGBTQIA+ and grew up in a conservative community, I know how living inauthentically can weigh on you. Pleasing others at the expense of yourself can have some challenging and long-term consequences. What starts as suppressing your emotions ends up as ongoing depression and anxiety as you continually make choices to minimize conflict rather than truly meet your own needs. While the path forward can feel confusing, there is hope for finding a sense of clarity and relief, and awakening to a life that you genuinely want to engage with and thrive in.
As someone who is LGBTQIA+ and grew up in a conservative community, I know how living inauthentically can weigh on you. Pleasing others at the expense of yourself can have some challenging and long-term consequences. What starts as suppressing your emotions ends up as ongoing depression and anxiety as you continually make choices to minimize conflict rather than truly meet your own needs. While the path forward can feel confusing, there is hope for finding a sense of clarity and relief, and awakening to a life that you genuinely want to engage with and thrive in.
(585) 515-2965 x709 View (585) 515-2965 x709
Photo of Frank W Noll, Mental Health Counselor in Rochester, NY
Frank W Noll
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, ACS, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14617  (Online Only)
I specialize in LGBTQIA+ related issues and have additional certifications in Trauma Informed Care and Counseling (University at Buffalo), Indigenous Psychotherapy (Rafiki Consortium, LLC), and I am an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (Evergreen Certifications).
I believe each and every individual has the power and courage to make positive changes in their lives, even though there may be times when we struggle to recognize our strengths and our ability to overcome adversity. Although there are times when we feel stuck and without direction, I believe each and every person holds the map to a better future for themselves. Through processing, a trusting relationship, authenticity, unconditional positive regard, and the use of therapeutic modalities; I help my clients identify and work towards goals to make positive changes in their lives.
I specialize in LGBTQIA+ related issues and have additional certifications in Trauma Informed Care and Counseling (University at Buffalo), Indigenous Psychotherapy (Rafiki Consortium, LLC), and I am an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (Evergreen Certifications).
I believe each and every individual has the power and courage to make positive changes in their lives, even though there may be times when we struggle to recognize our strengths and our ability to overcome adversity. Although there are times when we feel stuck and without direction, I believe each and every person holds the map to a better future for themselves. Through processing, a trusting relationship, authenticity, unconditional positive regard, and the use of therapeutic modalities; I help my clients identify and work towards goals to make positive changes in their lives.
(585) 558-1810 View (585) 558-1810
Photo of Scott LaForce Coaching LLC in Rochester, NY
Scott LaForce Coaching LLC
MA, MFA, Coach
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14615
I specialize in creative and empowerment-focused relational approaches as a LGBTQ+ affirming and sex-positive Life-Coach.
I am currently accepting clients along the spectrum of issues revolving around relationships, intimacy, sexuality, and sexual identity. This includes individuals seeking a more full, balanced, and healthy relationship to self; as well as anyone seeking better relationships to others, including monogamous or polyamorous relationships, and communities.
I specialize in creative and empowerment-focused relational approaches as a LGBTQ+ affirming and sex-positive Life-Coach.
I am currently accepting clients along the spectrum of issues revolving around relationships, intimacy, sexuality, and sexual identity. This includes individuals seeking a more full, balanced, and healthy relationship to self; as well as anyone seeking better relationships to others, including monogamous or polyamorous relationships, and communities.
(503) 714-7843 View (503) 714-7843
Photo of Jada N. Howcroft, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rochester, NY
Jada N. Howcroft
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14607  (Online Only)
As an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, my priority is fostering a supportive, candid, and authentic relationship with you to facilitate transformation.
Painful experiences shake us to our core. As a result, perhaps you’ve been crafting narratives about yourself based on the most challenging experiences you’ve endured. These stories may leave you feeling misunderstood and struggling to forge a strong sense of self, especially when your lived experience doesn’t align with societal norms. This can manifest as debilitating symptoms, difficulty connecting with others, and damaging self-beliefs, causing you to question your inherent worth and identity. Despite what your inner critic may be telling you, it is possible to embrace your authentic self.
As an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, my priority is fostering a supportive, candid, and authentic relationship with you to facilitate transformation.
Painful experiences shake us to our core. As a result, perhaps you’ve been crafting narratives about yourself based on the most challenging experiences you’ve endured. These stories may leave you feeling misunderstood and struggling to forge a strong sense of self, especially when your lived experience doesn’t align with societal norms. This can manifest as debilitating symptoms, difficulty connecting with others, and damaging self-beliefs, causing you to question your inherent worth and identity. Despite what your inner critic may be telling you, it is possible to embrace your authentic self.
(585) 648-1047 View (585) 648-1047
Photo of Johnny Sparrow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rochester, NY
Johnny Sparrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14626  (Online Only)
You have taken the first step in learning and understanding more about yourself. I am hoping that we will be able to make that journey together. If you are struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, depression and/o seeking gender affirming care please consider me. My personal journey has brought me to become a therapist. It has provided a unique perspective that is helpful and feels safe for many clients. As a person who identifies as part of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) community myself, I am proud to specialize in LGBTQ+ affirmative treatment. "It always seems impossible, until it's done."-Nelson Mendela
You have taken the first step in learning and understanding more about yourself. I am hoping that we will be able to make that journey together. If you are struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, depression and/o seeking gender affirming care please consider me. My personal journey has brought me to become a therapist. It has provided a unique perspective that is helpful and feels safe for many clients. As a person who identifies as part of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) community myself, I am proud to specialize in LGBTQ+ affirmative treatment. "It always seems impossible, until it's done."-Nelson Mendela
(585) 299-5591 View (585) 299-5591
Photo of Shanna Chepelsky, Pre-Licensed Professional in Rochester, NY
Shanna Chepelsky
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14625
Therapy, at its core, is a conversation between two people about mental health. You don't have to be going through a life-altering event to get something out of it. Anybody can benefit from having someone to talk things through with and offer an outside perspective. As a therapist, it’s my goal to work with you to create a judgment-free environment where you can feel comfortable being yourself. I work with clients ranging in age from teenage years to adulthood. I’m passionate about working with athletes, First Responders, neurodivergent folks and those in the LGBTQ+ community.
Therapy, at its core, is a conversation between two people about mental health. You don't have to be going through a life-altering event to get something out of it. Anybody can benefit from having someone to talk things through with and offer an outside perspective. As a therapist, it’s my goal to work with you to create a judgment-free environment where you can feel comfortable being yourself. I work with clients ranging in age from teenage years to adulthood. I’m passionate about working with athletes, First Responders, neurodivergent folks and those in the LGBTQ+ community.
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Photo of Lyrah Wallace, Creative Arts Therapist in Rochester, NY
Lyrah Wallace
Creative Arts Therapist, LCAT
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
As a queer and nonbinary individual, I am passionate about working with and advocating for the queer and neurodiverse communities. I strive to provide my clients a safe, sensory-friendly, and creative space to work through life’s challenges with a provider with whom they know has shared experiences and extensive experience in providing affirming care. I also have advanced training in systemic oppression and multicultural therapy, and provide gender-affirming services like letters of recommendation for HRT and gender affirming surgeries.
As a queer and nonbinary individual, I am passionate about working with and advocating for the queer and neurodiverse communities. I strive to provide my clients a safe, sensory-friendly, and creative space to work through life’s challenges with a provider with whom they know has shared experiences and extensive experience in providing affirming care. I also have advanced training in systemic oppression and multicultural therapy, and provide gender-affirming services like letters of recommendation for HRT and gender affirming surgeries.
(585) 800-1181 View (585) 800-1181
Photo of Meaghan Confer, Counselor in Rochester, NY
Meaghan Confer
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14610  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with young adults, adults, older adults, and folks in the LGBTQ+ community who struggle with their self-esteem, identity, and anxiety.
We receive many messages from our loved ones and society about who we are and who we should be. These messages can make us feel stifled and pressured to conform to others' expectations to fit in or feel worthy. It is isolating and painful when our true selves don't align with others' expectations. This pain can cause us to hold negative beliefs about ourselves, isolate ourselves from others, and avoid trying new things. This pain keeps us from embracing our life, relationships, and ourselves. The path to embracing your authentic self starts here.
I specialize in working with young adults, adults, older adults, and folks in the LGBTQ+ community who struggle with their self-esteem, identity, and anxiety.
We receive many messages from our loved ones and society about who we are and who we should be. These messages can make us feel stifled and pressured to conform to others' expectations to fit in or feel worthy. It is isolating and painful when our true selves don't align with others' expectations. This pain can cause us to hold negative beliefs about ourselves, isolate ourselves from others, and avoid trying new things. This pain keeps us from embracing our life, relationships, and ourselves. The path to embracing your authentic self starts here.
(585) 252-5783 View (585) 252-5783
Photo of E. S. Pelkey in Rochester, NY
E. S. Pelkey
LCAT
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
I am part of the LGBTQ+ community and am neurodivergent affirming in my approach.
As people, we often find ourselves feeling confined by the beliefs of friends, family, and society. It can be paralyzing trying to meet what are often conflicting expectations, leaving us with chronic feelings of anxiety, stress, and shame. It can feel as if you are compromising your true self to please other people, struggling to balance what you want for yourself and what others ask of you. Thinking about the person that you want to be can be stressful, but self-discovery is a crucial step towards leading a more fulfilled life.
I am part of the LGBTQ+ community and am neurodivergent affirming in my approach.
As people, we often find ourselves feeling confined by the beliefs of friends, family, and society. It can be paralyzing trying to meet what are often conflicting expectations, leaving us with chronic feelings of anxiety, stress, and shame. It can feel as if you are compromising your true self to please other people, struggling to balance what you want for yourself and what others ask of you. Thinking about the person that you want to be can be stressful, but self-discovery is a crucial step towards leading a more fulfilled life.
(585) 536-0981 View (585) 536-0981
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.