LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Jacksonville, FL

Photo of Nick Harper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Nick Harper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32203  (Online Only)
As a queer-identified, trauma-informed, and sex-positive professional, my expertise lies in supporting individuals living with HIV, addressing substance use disorders, and working with a broad spectrum of relationship dynamics.
Ever feel like you're navigating through a fog when it comes to understanding your emotions, needs, or desires? Imagine a life where you truly connect with yourself and those around you, where past traumas become stepping stones to a brighter future. At Inclusive Therapy and Consulting Services LLC, we don't just offer therapy — we open doors to a transformative experience. Specializing in supporting the LGBTQ+ community, individuals living with HIV, and their allies, our mission is to bring you world-class psychotherapy that's not just compassionate but deeply tailored to your unique journey. Early morning appointments 7am EST.
As a queer-identified, trauma-informed, and sex-positive professional, my expertise lies in supporting individuals living with HIV, addressing substance use disorders, and working with a broad spectrum of relationship dynamics.
Ever feel like you're navigating through a fog when it comes to understanding your emotions, needs, or desires? Imagine a life where you truly connect with yourself and those around you, where past traumas become stepping stones to a brighter future. At Inclusive Therapy and Consulting Services LLC, we don't just offer therapy — we open doors to a transformative experience. Specializing in supporting the LGBTQ+ community, individuals living with HIV, and their allies, our mission is to bring you world-class psychotherapy that's not just compassionate but deeply tailored to your unique journey. Early morning appointments 7am EST.
(303) 493-9574 View (303) 493-9574
Photo of Rebecca Deloucas, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Rebecca Deloucas
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32211  (Online Only)
My clinical focus is LGBT+ issues, trauma & PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, and life changes & adjustments. I came into therapy later in life and graduated from the University of South Florida with a BA in Women and Gender Studies. I am strongly feminist aligned, anti-racist in my work values and activism. I have an unrelenting desire to support people and be by their side as they do this deeply challenging work. I bring an eclectic mix of humanistic, strength based, rogerian, trauma-informed, and experiential therapies to meet her clients where they are and create a safe place for them to heal and make sense of their lives.
My clinical focus is LGBT+ issues, trauma & PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, and life changes & adjustments. I came into therapy later in life and graduated from the University of South Florida with a BA in Women and Gender Studies. I am strongly feminist aligned, anti-racist in my work values and activism. I have an unrelenting desire to support people and be by their side as they do this deeply challenging work. I bring an eclectic mix of humanistic, strength based, rogerian, trauma-informed, and experiential therapies to meet her clients where they are and create a safe place for them to heal and make sense of their lives.
(813) 896-3761 View (813) 896-3761
Photo of Casey Hendershot in Jacksonville, FL
Casey Hendershot
LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256  (Online Only)
My practice is inclusive and affirming, welcoming clients from all walks of life, including LGBTQIA+ individuals & those on a spiritual healing journey.
Life's journey can take unexpected turns, leaving us feeling shattered, exhausted &alone. If you're experiencing the weight of trauma, burnout or navigating challenging life transitions, know that you're not alone. With over 14 years of experience guiding individuals towards healing, self-discovery & wholeness, I specialize in helping individuals find peace within themselves. It's normal to feel overwhelmed by emotions like guilt or shame especially when others seem unable to grasp the depth of your struggles. You might yearn for a sense of normalcy yet find yourself trapped in a cycle of frustration & disconnection. There is hope.
My practice is inclusive and affirming, welcoming clients from all walks of life, including LGBTQIA+ individuals & those on a spiritual healing journey.
Life's journey can take unexpected turns, leaving us feeling shattered, exhausted &alone. If you're experiencing the weight of trauma, burnout or navigating challenging life transitions, know that you're not alone. With over 14 years of experience guiding individuals towards healing, self-discovery & wholeness, I specialize in helping individuals find peace within themselves. It's normal to feel overwhelmed by emotions like guilt or shame especially when others seem unable to grasp the depth of your struggles. You might yearn for a sense of normalcy yet find yourself trapped in a cycle of frustration & disconnection. There is hope.
(904) 650-4434 View (904) 650-4434
Photo of QueerSpace Counseling, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
QueerSpace Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32205
Hello everyone! I opened QueerSpace Counseling because it is my passion to work with the LGBTQ+ community to foster a safe space where clients can share their stories and find practical, easy to use interventions that provide relief. I believe that each of us can take steps for measurable success in our goals and operate from a trauma-informed approach. I work only with adult individuals (I do not offer couple's counseling).
Hello everyone! I opened QueerSpace Counseling because it is my passion to work with the LGBTQ+ community to foster a safe space where clients can share their stories and find practical, easy to use interventions that provide relief. I believe that each of us can take steps for measurable success in our goals and operate from a trauma-informed approach. I work only with adult individuals (I do not offer couple's counseling).
(904) 977-8240 View (904) 977-8240
Photo of Taylor Garff, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Taylor Garff
Counselor, LCPC, CMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32202  (Online Only)
Does it feel like there is something wrong with you? Are you overwhelmed with daily life, while it seems everyone else is getting along fine? Many people struggle with past trauma, anxiety, or high levels of stress that make it difficult to cope, let alone enjoy life. Often my clients find me when they’re at this point. They’re dealing with PTSD, feel trapped in the past, or have crushing depression and anxiety. I work with motivated adults, those in the LGBTQ+ community, and others who need an accepting and supportive therapist. I know it can feel like you’ll never get better, but you can get through this, and you deserve support.
Does it feel like there is something wrong with you? Are you overwhelmed with daily life, while it seems everyone else is getting along fine? Many people struggle with past trauma, anxiety, or high levels of stress that make it difficult to cope, let alone enjoy life. Often my clients find me when they’re at this point. They’re dealing with PTSD, feel trapped in the past, or have crushing depression and anxiety. I work with motivated adults, those in the LGBTQ+ community, and others who need an accepting and supportive therapist. I know it can feel like you’ll never get better, but you can get through this, and you deserve support.
(208) 469-4984 View (208) 469-4984
Photo of Justin Dement- A Safe Port Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Justin Dement- A Safe Port Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
I have experience in working with clients coping with grief and loss (including pet bereavement), LGBTQ+ clients, clients diagnosed with terminal illness, self-esteem issues, helping clients with setting healthy boundaries, caregiver stress, stress related to aging, life transitions, relationship counseling, adjustment disorders, depression, and anxiety.
Life can be overwhelming at times. There are often moments of despair and feelings that others simply just don't "get it". Whether you are dealing with grief and loss or navigating situations or relationships that are increasing your anxiety or negatively impacting your self-esteem, I can assist you by helping you first identify strengths and then help you face challenges head-on, at your own pace. In my practice I partner with my clients to reach their goals through open, non-judgmental counseling. Deciding to begin therapy can be a bit scary at times, but you can be proud of yourself for taking the first step!
I have experience in working with clients coping with grief and loss (including pet bereavement), LGBTQ+ clients, clients diagnosed with terminal illness, self-esteem issues, helping clients with setting healthy boundaries, caregiver stress, stress related to aging, life transitions, relationship counseling, adjustment disorders, depression, and anxiety.
Life can be overwhelming at times. There are often moments of despair and feelings that others simply just don't "get it". Whether you are dealing with grief and loss or navigating situations or relationships that are increasing your anxiety or negatively impacting your self-esteem, I can assist you by helping you first identify strengths and then help you face challenges head-on, at your own pace. In my practice I partner with my clients to reach their goals through open, non-judgmental counseling. Deciding to begin therapy can be a bit scary at times, but you can be proud of yourself for taking the first step!
(904) 664-1061 View (904) 664-1061
Photo of Scott Harvey, Psychologist in Jacksonville, FL
Scott Harvey
Psychologist, PsyD, TCT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32201  (Online Only)
I am board certified in transgender mental health and have expertise in sexual orientation and gender identity development.
Have you been struggling to engage in your life? Experiencing uncertainty about what direction is the right one to choose? Feeling anxious or depressed? Having questions about relationships, sex, gender, or sexuality? Could you use another perspective, or would you like someone to help you figure things out? My name is Dr. Scott Harvey, and I am a licensed psychologist who provides culturally and sexuality-sensitive individual therapy, and I’m here to help. I offer a free consultation and can be reached by both phone and email.
I am board certified in transgender mental health and have expertise in sexual orientation and gender identity development.
Have you been struggling to engage in your life? Experiencing uncertainty about what direction is the right one to choose? Feeling anxious or depressed? Having questions about relationships, sex, gender, or sexuality? Could you use another perspective, or would you like someone to help you figure things out? My name is Dr. Scott Harvey, and I am a licensed psychologist who provides culturally and sexuality-sensitive individual therapy, and I’m here to help. I offer a free consultation and can be reached by both phone and email.
(772) 539-4833 View (772) 539-4833
Photo of Aeron DeGroat, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Aeron DeGroat
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MCAP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32246
I specialize in LGBTQIA+ issues & trauma, specifically gender identity and transgender issues.
My ideal client may present with a variety of issues, but ultimately they are motivated to seek change and implement strategies discussed in therapy while in-between sessions. They strive to be open and vulnerable in sessions and are looking to be an active and collaborative part of their therapeutic journey. I believe that we are all experts on our own experience, and a client who is willing to provide feedback on what is working and what isn't can assist in helping them tailor the therapy experience to their individual needs.
I specialize in LGBTQIA+ issues & trauma, specifically gender identity and transgender issues.
My ideal client may present with a variety of issues, but ultimately they are motivated to seek change and implement strategies discussed in therapy while in-between sessions. They strive to be open and vulnerable in sessions and are looking to be an active and collaborative part of their therapeutic journey. I believe that we are all experts on our own experience, and a client who is willing to provide feedback on what is working and what isn't can assist in helping them tailor the therapy experience to their individual needs.
(561) 794-3438 View (561) 794-3438
Photo of Megan McKenzie, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Megan McKenzie
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32223
Waitlist for new clients
I have vast experience working with LGBTQ+ adults, teens, and those who love them, as well as those in other non-traditional relationships.
I am currently out of the office until June 10, 2024. When you or your teen are feeling scared, depressed, angry, or like you just don’t fit in, it can be really challenging. Reaching out for help can be difficult, but it is the first step on the path toward healing. I aim to provide a warm, inviting environment in which you feel comfortable teaching me about the real you. By collaborating with you, I will help you develop the tools and skills you need to solve your problems now, and to solve them as they come in the future.
I have vast experience working with LGBTQ+ adults, teens, and those who love them, as well as those in other non-traditional relationships.
I am currently out of the office until June 10, 2024. When you or your teen are feeling scared, depressed, angry, or like you just don’t fit in, it can be really challenging. Reaching out for help can be difficult, but it is the first step on the path toward healing. I aim to provide a warm, inviting environment in which you feel comfortable teaching me about the real you. By collaborating with you, I will help you develop the tools and skills you need to solve your problems now, and to solve them as they come in the future.
(904) 643-6648 View (904) 643-6648
Photo of Sarah Berger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Sarah Berger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32258  (Online Only)
I have worked with people of all ages ranging from children to the elderly, with more focus devoted to those in their late teen s - mid - life stages . I specialize in working with anxiety, anger management, ADHD, stress management, improving relationships and communication, navigating life transitions, and parenting challenges. I have considerable experience supporting LGBTQIA individuals and helping them to navigate the challenges they may encounter with family, friends, or community. I also have worked extensively with parents on navigating challenging childhood behaviors and teenage puberty.
I have worked with people of all ages ranging from children to the elderly, with more focus devoted to those in their late teen s - mid - life stages . I specialize in working with anxiety, anger management, ADHD, stress management, improving relationships and communication, navigating life transitions, and parenting challenges. I have considerable experience supporting LGBTQIA individuals and helping them to navigate the challenges they may encounter with family, friends, or community. I also have worked extensively with parents on navigating challenging childhood behaviors and teenage puberty.
(904) 822-9773 View (904) 822-9773
Photo of Taci Clay, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Jacksonville, FL
Taci Clay
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32205  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Mental Health Intern specializing in ADHD coaching, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness practices and LGBTQIA+ issues. My journey into therapy stems from a deep-seated passion for helping individuals accept where they are and understand the waves of energy and productivity our brains give us.
I am a Registered Mental Health Intern specializing in ADHD coaching, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness practices and LGBTQIA+ issues. My journey into therapy stems from a deep-seated passion for helping individuals accept where they are and understand the waves of energy and productivity our brains give us.
(904) 595-9603 View (904) 595-9603
Photo of Elsa Juall, Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern in Jacksonville, FL
Elsa Juall
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32257
Elsa Juall is a Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern (RCSW-I) with the state of Florida. Elsa has years of experience and a passion for collaborating with families and LGBTQIA+ youth. She specializes in supporting adolescents, adults with LGBTQIA+ identities, and/or those who are suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, coping skills, and major life transitions.
Elsa Juall is a Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern (RCSW-I) with the state of Florida. Elsa has years of experience and a passion for collaborating with families and LGBTQIA+ youth. She specializes in supporting adolescents, adults with LGBTQIA+ identities, and/or those who are suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, coping skills, and major life transitions.
(904) 872-6859 View (904) 872-6859
Photo of Jacob Gandy, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Jacob Gandy
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, BCBA, NCC, TCT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32223
I work with people ages 12 to 100 who are gay, straight, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, gender queer, male, female, in the minority or in the majority.
I have experience and a passion for working with people who feel like they are on the outside, looking in. This may lead to depression, anxiety, frustration, or questions about your identity. I offer a safe space to talk about your challenges and I will do my best to help you work toward progress. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ adults and teens and hold a certification as a Transgender Care Therapist from The International Transgender Certification Association.
I work with people ages 12 to 100 who are gay, straight, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, gender queer, male, female, in the minority or in the majority.
I have experience and a passion for working with people who feel like they are on the outside, looking in. This may lead to depression, anxiety, frustration, or questions about your identity. I offer a safe space to talk about your challenges and I will do my best to help you work toward progress. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ adults and teens and hold a certification as a Transgender Care Therapist from The International Transgender Certification Association.
(904) 842-4335 View (904) 842-4335
Photo of Rosalyn Zacarias, Pre-Licensed Professional in Jacksonville, FL
Rosalyn Zacarias
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32223
I have also done research on the sex lives of bisexual women.
I provide a safe space for people to work on the issues that are causing you stress and may seem to be taking over your life. In therapy, we can work together to set goals and figure out how to achieve them.
I have also done research on the sex lives of bisexual women.
I provide a safe space for people to work on the issues that are causing you stress and may seem to be taking over your life. In therapy, we can work together to set goals and figure out how to achieve them.
(904) 595-9149 View (904) 595-9149
Photo of Tina Gillems, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Tina Gillems
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32218  (Online Only)
I have over 17 years of experience with Children and Families, Adults and children within the community, child welfare, individual and family therapy, case management and medical social work. I have worked within the Juvenile and adult justice system, LGBTQ population and their families, children and adults with mental health, children and adults that have aged out of foster care, and others in the community. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, domestic violence, and many more.
I have over 17 years of experience with Children and Families, Adults and children within the community, child welfare, individual and family therapy, case management and medical social work. I have worked within the Juvenile and adult justice system, LGBTQ population and their families, children and adults with mental health, children and adults that have aged out of foster care, and others in the community. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, domestic violence, and many more.
(904) 467-1249 View (904) 467-1249
Photo of Kim Ehly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Kim Ehly, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32224
My practice includes individuals, couples w/ focus on communication, LGBTQA+, polyamory, transgender, adoptee challenges, grief/loss, pet loss, abandonment issues, Complex-PTSD, and relationship abuse recovery.
When life is challenging and hard to navigate, reaching out for guidance is often the most loving thing you can do for yourself, your intimate relationship, or your family. So my guess is, if you have landed here, you're ready to begin the journey toward healing. One of my greatest passions is helping you come through difficult times to discover how resilient and resourceful you really are. I believe therapy is a journey that can help anyone of any background gain comfort and contentment in life. We will be a team journeying toward the life you wish to lead.
My practice includes individuals, couples w/ focus on communication, LGBTQA+, polyamory, transgender, adoptee challenges, grief/loss, pet loss, abandonment issues, Complex-PTSD, and relationship abuse recovery.
When life is challenging and hard to navigate, reaching out for guidance is often the most loving thing you can do for yourself, your intimate relationship, or your family. So my guess is, if you have landed here, you're ready to begin the journey toward healing. One of my greatest passions is helping you come through difficult times to discover how resilient and resourceful you really are. I believe therapy is a journey that can help anyone of any background gain comfort and contentment in life. We will be a team journeying toward the life you wish to lead.
(954) 289-6635 View (954) 289-6635
Photo of Moises Ramy, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Moises Ramy
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32208  (Online Only)
My clinical spectrum covers diverse females and males, LGBTQ members, homeless veterans, and young college students experiencing moderate to severe adjustment problems as well as older adult issues.
Hello, My name is Moises Ramy. I am a licensed mental health therapist, a Qualified Supervisor in the State of Florida, and a doctor of psychology. I graduated as a Doctor of Clinical Psychology from Carlos Albizu University, Miami Campus and completed my doctoral internship at the Federal Medical Center (FMC) in Lexington, Kentucky. At that time, the mission of FMC was a federal prison/hospital for incarcerated females with medical and psychological conditions. During my doctoral internship, I completed three clinical rotations. Two at FMC, in the Crisis Wing and in the General Population Unit and an elective rotation
My clinical spectrum covers diverse females and males, LGBTQ members, homeless veterans, and young college students experiencing moderate to severe adjustment problems as well as older adult issues.
Hello, My name is Moises Ramy. I am a licensed mental health therapist, a Qualified Supervisor in the State of Florida, and a doctor of psychology. I graduated as a Doctor of Clinical Psychology from Carlos Albizu University, Miami Campus and completed my doctoral internship at the Federal Medical Center (FMC) in Lexington, Kentucky. At that time, the mission of FMC was a federal prison/hospital for incarcerated females with medical and psychological conditions. During my doctoral internship, I completed three clinical rotations. Two at FMC, in the Crisis Wing and in the General Population Unit and an elective rotation
(772) 773-1532 View (772) 773-1532
Photo of Rachel Greene, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Rachel Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32099
My particular areas of interest include surviving the trauma of interpersonal, sexual, and/or political violence; negotiating a lesbian/ gay/ bisexual/ transgender/ queer identity; and the impact of stigma on mental and physical well-being.
Reaching out and asking for help can be one of the most challenging aspects of starting the therapy process. If you have made it this far, you are ready to start. The majority of the clients I work with are aware of the issues they would like to focus on for treatment. With that, my approach tends to be both relational in style and goal oriented in terms of treatment planning and working towards the best way to assist you in your personal growth and success.
My particular areas of interest include surviving the trauma of interpersonal, sexual, and/or political violence; negotiating a lesbian/ gay/ bisexual/ transgender/ queer identity; and the impact of stigma on mental and physical well-being.
Reaching out and asking for help can be one of the most challenging aspects of starting the therapy process. If you have made it this far, you are ready to start. The majority of the clients I work with are aware of the issues they would like to focus on for treatment. With that, my approach tends to be both relational in style and goal oriented in terms of treatment planning and working towards the best way to assist you in your personal growth and success.
(850) 739-2448 View (850) 739-2448
Photo of Kelly R Minter, Mental Health Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Kelly R Minter
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32099
I am a queer therapist who focuses on the LGBTQIA+ community and religious recovery. I work with relationships, individuals, families, and teens all with the goal of helping them live the most authentic version of themselves. We will deal with issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, difficulty getting into or maintaining relationships. I have real life experience AND the training to help my you with these things, and let you know that you are not alone.
I am a queer therapist who focuses on the LGBTQIA+ community and religious recovery. I work with relationships, individuals, families, and teens all with the goal of helping them live the most authentic version of themselves. We will deal with issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, difficulty getting into or maintaining relationships. I have real life experience AND the training to help my you with these things, and let you know that you are not alone.
(904) 853-3748 View (904) 853-3748
Photo of Allegra Kartha, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Allegra Kartha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32209  (Online Only)
I am Allegra (they/them), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida. I received my master's from Smith College School for Social Work and have over three years of experience. My main areas of expertise are anxiety, grief, and working with those that identify as LGBTQIA+. Outside of my clinical work, I have much experience organizing and advocating for LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and QTPOC communities. As a clinician, I will support you along your therapeutic journey in gaining more self-confidence, awareness, and empowerment.
I am Allegra (they/them), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida. I received my master's from Smith College School for Social Work and have over three years of experience. My main areas of expertise are anxiety, grief, and working with those that identify as LGBTQIA+. Outside of my clinical work, I have much experience organizing and advocating for LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and QTPOC communities. As a clinician, I will support you along your therapeutic journey in gaining more self-confidence, awareness, and empowerment.
(352) 480-0607 View (352) 480-0607

See more therapy options for Jacksonville

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.