Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Alex Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Alex Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in issues important to teenagers and young adults/families, including issues related to family dynamics, depression, anxiety, bipolar/schizophrenia, substance abuse concerns, transracial adoptions, grief, LGBTQ dynamics, racial identity, gender transitioning process, and abandonment trauma. My relational approach to therapy can help you gain awareness of your road blocks and provide you with the tools (skills/coping strategies) you have for your own growth.
I specialize in issues important to teenagers and young adults/families, including issues related to family dynamics, depression, anxiety, bipolar/schizophrenia, substance abuse concerns, transracial adoptions, grief, LGBTQ dynamics, racial identity, gender transitioning process, and abandonment trauma. My relational approach to therapy can help you gain awareness of your road blocks and provide you with the tools (skills/coping strategies) you have for your own growth.
(503) 433-8452 View (503) 433-8452
Photo of Amanda J Kruszka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Amanda J Kruszka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
Currently FULL 3/15/24. Will update when available for intakes. I am a trauma-informed Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience connecting with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, ethnicities, and social populations, specializing in LGBTQ+
Currently FULL 3/15/24. Will update when available for intakes. I am a trauma-informed Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience connecting with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, ethnicities, and social populations, specializing in LGBTQ+
(503) 543-1466 View (503) 543-1466
Photo of Sarah Dunnings-Smith, Clinical Social Work Associate in Portland, OR
Sarah Dunnings-Smith
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Finding a therapist you can identify with can be difficult. I offer lived experience as a BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ identifying person, a parent, and serve a diverse, and often marginalized, population of beautifully resilient humans. Addressing holistic health is my passion. Whether you are working through identity, trauma, family of origin issues, LGBTQIA concerns, parenting, grief and loss, suicidal thoughts, anxiety or self care, come join me in this safe space as we use a variety of tools to help you live a more full and fulfilled life.
Finding a therapist you can identify with can be difficult. I offer lived experience as a BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ identifying person, a parent, and serve a diverse, and often marginalized, population of beautifully resilient humans. Addressing holistic health is my passion. Whether you are working through identity, trauma, family of origin issues, LGBTQIA concerns, parenting, grief and loss, suicidal thoughts, anxiety or self care, come join me in this safe space as we use a variety of tools to help you live a more full and fulfilled life.
(971) 260-3472 View (971) 260-3472
Photo of Grace Manger, Clinical Social Work Associate in Portland, OR
Grace Manger
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97203  (Online Only)
My name is Grace, and I am a white queer woman who works with teens and adults to support them in learning about themselves and healing from past trauma. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA folks and anyone exploring their identity; as well as people of color, disabled/chronically ill folks, and others who face intersecting forms of oppression. My practice is rooted in social justice and anti-racism, and a belief that systemic oppression directly affects our mental health. In our work together, we’ll explore the ways in which systems of power and societal expectations interfere with our right to authenticity and wholeness.
My name is Grace, and I am a white queer woman who works with teens and adults to support them in learning about themselves and healing from past trauma. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA folks and anyone exploring their identity; as well as people of color, disabled/chronically ill folks, and others who face intersecting forms of oppression. My practice is rooted in social justice and anti-racism, and a belief that systemic oppression directly affects our mental health. In our work together, we’ll explore the ways in which systems of power and societal expectations interfere with our right to authenticity and wholeness.
(503) 966-2415 View (503) 966-2415
Photo of Shayna MacLean, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Shayna MacLean
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Hello my name is Shayna and it's nice to meet you. I currently have openings for new clients. I am passionate about serving marginalized communities who have previously experienced harm within the mental health system as a result of institutionalized biases. Additionally, I specialize in working with folx transitioning into adulthood, individuals exploring their various identities including gender and sexuality identities, and survivors of trauma related to domestic violence and sexual assault. I have passion in serving the LGBTQ+ community and identify as part of the community. Trauma informed therapy is the basis for my work.
Hello my name is Shayna and it's nice to meet you. I currently have openings for new clients. I am passionate about serving marginalized communities who have previously experienced harm within the mental health system as a result of institutionalized biases. Additionally, I specialize in working with folx transitioning into adulthood, individuals exploring their various identities including gender and sexuality identities, and survivors of trauma related to domestic violence and sexual assault. I have passion in serving the LGBTQ+ community and identify as part of the community. Trauma informed therapy is the basis for my work.
(503) 212-6681 View (503) 212-6681
Photo of Savannah V. Jackson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Savannah V. Jackson
Pre-Licensed Professional, AAS, BA, MA-Psy, LPCr, QMHPr
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97220  (Online Only)
My ideal client wants to be engaged during therapy. My clients come prepared to do heavy work that is necessary to heal and move on from their issues. I expect accountability, transparency, a willingness to do homework, and be vulnerable during sessions. I employ a diverse approach to psychology that is specifically tailored to each person. Overall, this takes the shape of mindfulness cognitive behavior therapy. This feminist-queer lens includes your intersectional identity, personal goals, individual growth speed, identity, religious background, ethnicity, race, sexuality, gender, social economic status, and social stratification.
My ideal client wants to be engaged during therapy. My clients come prepared to do heavy work that is necessary to heal and move on from their issues. I expect accountability, transparency, a willingness to do homework, and be vulnerable during sessions. I employ a diverse approach to psychology that is specifically tailored to each person. Overall, this takes the shape of mindfulness cognitive behavior therapy. This feminist-queer lens includes your intersectional identity, personal goals, individual growth speed, identity, religious background, ethnicity, race, sexuality, gender, social economic status, and social stratification.
(503) 966-4187 View (503) 966-4187
Photo of Jenny Feldman-Adams, Clinical Social Work Associate in Portland, OR
Jenny Feldman-Adams
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97207
There’s no denying the stressors that make being a functioning human in this shitshow feel unbearable at times. My goal is to collaborate with you to find the joy, connections, and moments of beauty that bring your life meaning. I want to hear about the parts you’re ashamed of, the times you weren’t your best self (we’re ALL messy), and help you uncover and disrupt thoughts, behaviors, & relationship patterns that are no longer serving you. Whether you’re a queer teen carving out space in your conventional family/ town or an empty nester trying to figure out what YOU like and who YOU are after 25 years, you deserve to be heard.
There’s no denying the stressors that make being a functioning human in this shitshow feel unbearable at times. My goal is to collaborate with you to find the joy, connections, and moments of beauty that bring your life meaning. I want to hear about the parts you’re ashamed of, the times you weren’t your best self (we’re ALL messy), and help you uncover and disrupt thoughts, behaviors, & relationship patterns that are no longer serving you. Whether you’re a queer teen carving out space in your conventional family/ town or an empty nester trying to figure out what YOU like and who YOU are after 25 years, you deserve to be heard.
(503) 854-4113 View (503) 854-4113
Photo of Kannon Elizabeth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kannon Elizabeth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
I assist clients who are experiencing a range of presenting concerns, including: adolescents 12 and older, trauma, adoption, LGBTQIA+ (including medical assessments), depression, anxiety, racial Identity, racial trauma, suicidal ideation, self harm, school issues, self-esteem, family conflict, coping skills, and peer relationships.
Currently Accepting New Clients! My approach is person centered: You are the expert in your own life and I am here to help and support with your journey whatever that looks like. I use a variety of techniques that are both collaborative and strengths-based and draw from social justice and equity work. I don’t just look at you as the individual but also how your surrounding environment impacts you. My counseling style is warm and compassionate. I want to offer you a safe space to heal and grow. It would be an honor to work with you on your life journey. You are the expert and I am here to support you on that journey.
I assist clients who are experiencing a range of presenting concerns, including: adolescents 12 and older, trauma, adoption, LGBTQIA+ (including medical assessments), depression, anxiety, racial Identity, racial trauma, suicidal ideation, self harm, school issues, self-esteem, family conflict, coping skills, and peer relationships.
Currently Accepting New Clients! My approach is person centered: You are the expert in your own life and I am here to help and support with your journey whatever that looks like. I use a variety of techniques that are both collaborative and strengths-based and draw from social justice and equity work. I don’t just look at you as the individual but also how your surrounding environment impacts you. My counseling style is warm and compassionate. I want to offer you a safe space to heal and grow. It would be an honor to work with you on your life journey. You are the expert and I am here to support you on that journey.
(971) 319-9085 View (971) 319-9085
Photo of Karenna Bozicevich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Karenna Bozicevich
Licensed Professional Counselor, L, P, C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I work from a client-centered and strengths-based perspective, which views counseling as a collaborative process and the client as the expert in their own life. I work with each client to foster self-exploration, strengthen their relationships with themselves and others, and to find meaning and purpose in their lives. I specialize in working with ADHD, trauma, anxiety, relationship struggles, and identity issues. I identify as queer and particularly enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ population.
I work from a client-centered and strengths-based perspective, which views counseling as a collaborative process and the client as the expert in their own life. I work with each client to foster self-exploration, strengthen their relationships with themselves and others, and to find meaning and purpose in their lives. I specialize in working with ADHD, trauma, anxiety, relationship struggles, and identity issues. I identify as queer and particularly enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ population.
(971) 366-2817 View (971) 366-2817
Photo of Kat Canada, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kat Canada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I am queer, trans, and neurodiversity affirming.
I provide psychotherapy to children, teens, and emergent adults using an integrative relational or play-centered approach. I specialize in working young people who are curious about themselves but may feel adrift, alienated, misunderstood, or just tired and angry. For most of us, it makes sense to feel weary, outraged, anxious, or demoralized right now. It does not have to make sense to carry the weight of it alone.
I am queer, trans, and neurodiversity affirming.
I provide psychotherapy to children, teens, and emergent adults using an integrative relational or play-centered approach. I specialize in working young people who are curious about themselves but may feel adrift, alienated, misunderstood, or just tired and angry. For most of us, it makes sense to feel weary, outraged, anxious, or demoralized right now. It does not have to make sense to carry the weight of it alone.
(503) 744-5409 View (503) 744-5409
Photo of Jules Duncan-Martinez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Jules Duncan-Martinez
Pre-Licensed Professional, PCA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
It is important to understand systematic oppression as it affects marginalized communities, including BIPOC and LGBTQ+.
Hello my name is Jules (she/her) it is nice to meet you. I’m a mental health therapist located in Oregon, welcoming to people of diverse social, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds. I specialize in working with adolescents (14+) and adults presenting with issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief and loss, history of abuse, sexual assault, sexual and gender identity, and self-harm. In my approach, traumatic experiences must be approached through a trauma informed lens, meaning creating an environment that understands trauma as multifaceted while minimizing risk of re-traumatization
It is important to understand systematic oppression as it affects marginalized communities, including BIPOC and LGBTQ+.
Hello my name is Jules (she/her) it is nice to meet you. I’m a mental health therapist located in Oregon, welcoming to people of diverse social, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds. I specialize in working with adolescents (14+) and adults presenting with issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief and loss, history of abuse, sexual assault, sexual and gender identity, and self-harm. In my approach, traumatic experiences must be approached through a trauma informed lens, meaning creating an environment that understands trauma as multifaceted while minimizing risk of re-traumatization
(503) 809-5582 View (503) 809-5582
Photo of Em Feldman-Adams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Em Feldman-Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
Whether you want to work on a more connected relationship (mono or poly), are a middle aged man who’s always been skeptical of therapy, are a queer emerging adult trying to be yourself in a more conservative family/community, or are the family matriarch looking to redefine yourself & the path you’re on, you deserve a supportive space to sort it all out.
For most of us, these last few years have involved a dumpster fire or 3. That, on top of whatever other stuff is weighing you down is a lot to carry. You're human. You have your best self, worst self, & most days are somewhere in between. We’ll look at your patterns & decide which are serving you well & which you want to shift. My goal is to normalize your messiness & then help you untangle it, so you can connect with your underlying needs & feel good about getting them met. By getting in touch with your body’s innate wisdom, you will learn to better trust yourself, simplify your communication, & feel more connected with others.
Whether you want to work on a more connected relationship (mono or poly), are a middle aged man who’s always been skeptical of therapy, are a queer emerging adult trying to be yourself in a more conservative family/community, or are the family matriarch looking to redefine yourself & the path you’re on, you deserve a supportive space to sort it all out.
For most of us, these last few years have involved a dumpster fire or 3. That, on top of whatever other stuff is weighing you down is a lot to carry. You're human. You have your best self, worst self, & most days are somewhere in between. We’ll look at your patterns & decide which are serving you well & which you want to shift. My goal is to normalize your messiness & then help you untangle it, so you can connect with your underlying needs & feel good about getting them met. By getting in touch with your body’s innate wisdom, you will learn to better trust yourself, simplify your communication, & feel more connected with others.
(503) 468-4797 View (503) 468-4797
Photo of Tom Swafford, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Tom Swafford
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I am a member of the LGBTQ community.
My belief is that we enter life with an inherent idea of who we are and what we want to accomplish. As we strive for acceptance, we cover ourselves in layers of others' expectations, eventually losing our ‘selves’ in the process. My desire is to help you strip away these layers to discover who you are at your core. We do this together by using feedback, intuitive healing, trauma informed therapy, dream work and active imagination. We do this by sitting with and listening to your stories of pain and unmet needs. We exchange heavier emotional layers with lighter ones until you can then stand in your own original brilliance.
I am a member of the LGBTQ community.
My belief is that we enter life with an inherent idea of who we are and what we want to accomplish. As we strive for acceptance, we cover ourselves in layers of others' expectations, eventually losing our ‘selves’ in the process. My desire is to help you strip away these layers to discover who you are at your core. We do this together by using feedback, intuitive healing, trauma informed therapy, dream work and active imagination. We do this by sitting with and listening to your stories of pain and unmet needs. We exchange heavier emotional layers with lighter ones until you can then stand in your own original brilliance.
(503) 744-5872 View (503) 744-5872
Photo of Erin Reyburn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Erin Reyburn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97086  (Online Only)
​I specialize in the treatment of adults struggling with LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transitions, and relational stressors.
I am a state-licensed and board-certified Professional Counselor in Oregon and Washington. I received my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University and began my clinical work in the mental health field in 2006.
​I specialize in the treatment of adults struggling with LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transitions, and relational stressors.
I am a state-licensed and board-certified Professional Counselor in Oregon and Washington. I received my Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University and began my clinical work in the mental health field in 2006.
(503) 455-7381 View (503) 455-7381
Photo of Quinne Salameh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Quinne Salameh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Quinne. I have been in the Social Work field since 2006, and have focused most of my career in behavioral health and public health. I often spend a lot of time working with folx around healthy relationships, attachment, trauma healing, the complexities of identity, and I work from an anti-oppressive practice lens. I often bring considerations of intersectionality and privilege into the room. I identify as Queer and Biracial myself, and often support folx in these realms. I like to have a consultation with folx to see if we are a good fit, and think it's important for folx to find the therapist that is right for them.
Hello, I'm Quinne. I have been in the Social Work field since 2006, and have focused most of my career in behavioral health and public health. I often spend a lot of time working with folx around healthy relationships, attachment, trauma healing, the complexities of identity, and I work from an anti-oppressive practice lens. I often bring considerations of intersectionality and privilege into the room. I identify as Queer and Biracial myself, and often support folx in these realms. I like to have a consultation with folx to see if we are a good fit, and think it's important for folx to find the therapist that is right for them.
(971) 318-2816 View (971) 318-2816
Photo of Alma Hadzidedic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Alma Hadzidedic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
Your willingness to seek help is a courageous step towards healing & change. I believe in the transformative power of a therapeutic relationship and view it as our combined effort. I use LGBTQIA+ affirming, social justice-oriented, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approaches to foster a safe, consistent and curious environment that supports your wisdom while guiding your pursuit of valued and meaningful living. Our partnership will include my extensive education & advanced training working with individuals who have been adversely impacted by relational and attachment disruptions, abuse/neglect and complex traumatic experiences.
Your willingness to seek help is a courageous step towards healing & change. I believe in the transformative power of a therapeutic relationship and view it as our combined effort. I use LGBTQIA+ affirming, social justice-oriented, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approaches to foster a safe, consistent and curious environment that supports your wisdom while guiding your pursuit of valued and meaningful living. Our partnership will include my extensive education & advanced training working with individuals who have been adversely impacted by relational and attachment disruptions, abuse/neglect and complex traumatic experiences.
(503) 300-6261 View (503) 300-6261
Photo of Sahar L. Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Sahar L. Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, QMHP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I welcome LGBTQ, disabled, and ethnic & racial minority individuals and families, and hold these identities myself.
Feeling isolated, unsure of your purpose, stressed in your relationships, or ashamed or confused about your thoughts, actions or feelings? You are not alone. Mental health, relationship conflict, social/economic stressors, and life during COVID can all make it challenging to feel truly connected. But experiencing connection – whether with yourself, loved ones, pets, or the natural world – is the cornerstone to wellness, and it's worth the vulnerability it takes to get there. Together we'll explore how to support you in building connections and coping skills that nourish you and your relationships for the long term.
I welcome LGBTQ, disabled, and ethnic & racial minority individuals and families, and hold these identities myself.
Feeling isolated, unsure of your purpose, stressed in your relationships, or ashamed or confused about your thoughts, actions or feelings? You are not alone. Mental health, relationship conflict, social/economic stressors, and life during COVID can all make it challenging to feel truly connected. But experiencing connection – whether with yourself, loved ones, pets, or the natural world – is the cornerstone to wellness, and it's worth the vulnerability it takes to get there. Together we'll explore how to support you in building connections and coping skills that nourish you and your relationships for the long term.
(503) 300-5274 View (503) 300-5274
Photo of Daniel Maher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Daniel Maher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97227  (Online Only)
I am also sensitive to the particular needs of LGBTQ people.
Many people come to therapy seeking relief from painful symptoms, relationship issues and self-defeating patterns. They may feel alone and isolated in their suffering. I work to create a safe, respectful and supportive environment that alleviates aloneness and facilitates connection, healing and positive change. My style is relational, warm and forthright. My clients achieve more than just symptom relief -- they also grow in their capacity to feel safe and connected with others, and they experience improved self-esteem and identity.
I am also sensitive to the particular needs of LGBTQ people.
Many people come to therapy seeking relief from painful symptoms, relationship issues and self-defeating patterns. They may feel alone and isolated in their suffering. I work to create a safe, respectful and supportive environment that alleviates aloneness and facilitates connection, healing and positive change. My style is relational, warm and forthright. My clients achieve more than just symptom relief -- they also grow in their capacity to feel safe and connected with others, and they experience improved self-esteem and identity.
(503) 382-8626 View (503) 382-8626
Photo of Nevada Martinez-Warren, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Nevada Martinez-Warren
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
My areas of focus include LGBTQIA+, trauma healing, & relationships.
When relationship challenges arise, it can be more difficult to feel connected, in alignment, and in choice. Most of us are doing our best, but if our strategies aren't effective we can sometimes feel stuck, distressed, or confused. By bringing awareness to our relational patterns in a compassionate and non-judgmental environment, I believe we build capacity to take on our unique challenges as a team with the important people in our life. My goal is to support people to feel greater safety, self worth, regulation, collaboration and alignment in their lives and relationships.
My areas of focus include LGBTQIA+, trauma healing, & relationships.
When relationship challenges arise, it can be more difficult to feel connected, in alignment, and in choice. Most of us are doing our best, but if our strategies aren't effective we can sometimes feel stuck, distressed, or confused. By bringing awareness to our relational patterns in a compassionate and non-judgmental environment, I believe we build capacity to take on our unique challenges as a team with the important people in our life. My goal is to support people to feel greater safety, self worth, regulation, collaboration and alignment in their lives and relationships.
(458) 213-4949 View (458) 213-4949
Photo of Willamette Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Willamette Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
WWC now has psychiatric medication services available for OR and WA! WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of Oregon and Washington. We have a wide range of specialties including medication management, eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, post partum work, bariatric surgery letters, psychedelic psychotherapy, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
WWC now has psychiatric medication services available for OR and WA! WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of Oregon and Washington. We have a wide range of specialties including medication management, eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, post partum work, bariatric surgery letters, psychedelic psychotherapy, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
(971) 803-4515 View (971) 803-4515
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.