LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Torrance, CA
Danielle Torres
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
Have you been hit with unimaginable life circumstances that make it difficult to move forward? Are you struggling with Low self esteem or negative self talk? Do you feel overwhelmed, avoid uncomfortable feelings, or have low motivation for change? Perhaps you want to change but don’t know where to start? I specialize in work with teens/adults dealing with grief and loss, and LGBTQIA and trans hurdles of coming, out and transitioning, anxiety and depression. I also work with 1st generation college students, professionals, and student athletes managing work life balance, cultural pressures, and performance issues.
Have you been hit with unimaginable life circumstances that make it difficult to move forward? Are you struggling with Low self esteem or negative self talk? Do you feel overwhelmed, avoid uncomfortable feelings, or have low motivation for change? Perhaps you want to change but don’t know where to start? I specialize in work with teens/adults dealing with grief and loss, and LGBTQIA and trans hurdles of coming, out and transitioning, anxiety and depression. I also work with 1st generation college students, professionals, and student athletes managing work life balance, cultural pressures, and performance issues.
Rickey A Bates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90501
Waitlist for new clients
I have been in practice as a psychotherapist for over 7 years. My Master’s in Social Work focused on Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality and how our different life experiences shape and influence how we navigate our surroundings. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous Person of Color) & LGBTQIA, and a veteran of the United States Armed Forces, some of my approaches in helping my clients identify their challenges and barriers to their identified problems start from a person-centered approach by discovering who they are and what they need and want in life.
I have been in practice as a psychotherapist for over 7 years. My Master’s in Social Work focused on Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality and how our different life experiences shape and influence how we navigate our surroundings. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous Person of Color) & LGBTQIA, and a veteran of the United States Armed Forces, some of my approaches in helping my clients identify their challenges and barriers to their identified problems start from a person-centered approach by discovering who they are and what they need and want in life.
Sara Levin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90501
You and your partner(s) have fallen into patterns of miscommunication, leaving you in emotional distress. You feel there has been a breach of trust in your relationship and are unsure how to move forward. You’ve noticed as your relationship has progressed, your individual priorities have shifted, leaving everyone feeling adrift and confused on how to grow together while also growing thriving as individuals. If any of these sound like you and your partner(s), I provide individual and relationship therapy in person and virtually especially for those who identify as neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, and/or persons of color.
You and your partner(s) have fallen into patterns of miscommunication, leaving you in emotional distress. You feel there has been a breach of trust in your relationship and are unsure how to move forward. You’ve noticed as your relationship has progressed, your individual priorities have shifted, leaving everyone feeling adrift and confused on how to grow together while also growing thriving as individuals. If any of these sound like you and your partner(s), I provide individual and relationship therapy in person and virtually especially for those who identify as neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, and/or persons of color.
Dr. Erin Carpenter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
Thank you for viewing my profile. I specialize in working with adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma and recovery, and relationship issues. I also have experience and interest in supporting adults in their 20s and 30s and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Thank you for viewing my profile. I specialize in working with adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma and recovery, and relationship issues. I also have experience and interest in supporting adults in their 20s and 30s and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Allison Marx
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
Are you looking for a therapist who is sex-positive, LGBTQIA+ affirming, poly-friendly, and kink-knowledgeable? You’re tired of feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and stuck in patterns of people-pleasing or perfectionist thinking. You wish you felt comfortable telling your partners what you really need. You want to feel better about yourself, and embrace the parts of your identity you’ve been hesitant to explore or acknowledge because you fear how others might judge you. You’re ready for change, and you deserve a supportive, non-judgmental place to make that change happen.
Are you looking for a therapist who is sex-positive, LGBTQIA+ affirming, poly-friendly, and kink-knowledgeable? You’re tired of feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and stuck in patterns of people-pleasing or perfectionist thinking. You wish you felt comfortable telling your partners what you really need. You want to feel better about yourself, and embrace the parts of your identity you’ve been hesitant to explore or acknowledge because you fear how others might judge you. You’re ready for change, and you deserve a supportive, non-judgmental place to make that change happen.
John Valenzuela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90501
My name is John M. Valenzuela and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, and stress. Additional areas of specialized practice include healthy relationship building, men's issues, and LGBTQ+ affirmative counseling. I am certified in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and well-versed in several additional modalities.
My name is John M. Valenzuela and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, and stress. Additional areas of specialized practice include healthy relationship building, men's issues, and LGBTQ+ affirmative counseling. I am certified in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and well-versed in several additional modalities.
Amber Robison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC, MS
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90501 (Online Only)
I have specialized training and am passionate in supporting Transgender, Gender Nonconforming, and LGBTQ(IA+) individuals.
Alliance Family Counseling Services is led by Amber Robison, LCSW. I have over 19 years experience as a clinical therapist providing therapy to adults, couples, families, children, and adolescents. I am a solution-focused therapist and my therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical strategies to help clients/families effectively address personal life challenges. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual/family to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth to cope with the challenges faced.
I have specialized training and am passionate in supporting Transgender, Gender Nonconforming, and LGBTQ(IA+) individuals.
Alliance Family Counseling Services is led by Amber Robison, LCSW. I have over 19 years experience as a clinical therapist providing therapy to adults, couples, families, children, and adolescents. I am a solution-focused therapist and my therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical strategies to help clients/families effectively address personal life challenges. With compassion and understanding, I work with each individual/family to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth to cope with the challenges faced.
Ayuja Dixit
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
I am an American of South East Asian descent and hold an identity of part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hello, my name is Ayuja (ah- you- Jha). I am a an Associate with The Effective Therapy Group. If you are reading this, you have already taken the first step in finding ways to better support your mental health. We can become weighed down by anxiety, depression, racing thoughts and fears. If that wasn’t bad enough, the feelings of guilt which can cause us to lose our parts of identity, motivation and meaning. In working with clients my intention is to help you move from fear to fulfillment.
I am an American of South East Asian descent and hold an identity of part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hello, my name is Ayuja (ah- you- Jha). I am a an Associate with The Effective Therapy Group. If you are reading this, you have already taken the first step in finding ways to better support your mental health. We can become weighed down by anxiety, depression, racing thoughts and fears. If that wasn’t bad enough, the feelings of guilt which can cause us to lose our parts of identity, motivation and meaning. In working with clients my intention is to help you move from fear to fulfillment.
Dr. Karyn Harmon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503 (Online Only)
I specialize in the following areas- LGBTQIA couples and families, parenting, foster care, adoption and infertility.
I provide therapy to individuals, children, couples, and families to help them to find the best solutions to their problems. Whether you are looking to improve yourself, your relationships, or help others in your family, you will find my services to be supportive yet challenging enough to help reach your goals.
I specialize in the following areas- LGBTQIA couples and families, parenting, foster care, adoption and infertility.
I provide therapy to individuals, children, couples, and families to help them to find the best solutions to their problems. Whether you are looking to improve yourself, your relationships, or help others in your family, you will find my services to be supportive yet challenging enough to help reach your goals.
Cleo Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Waitlist for new clients
Rooted in compassion and person-centered care, Cleo collaborates with and help clients who suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD/traumas, transgenerational burden, grief/losses, life's transitions... Cleo has extensive experience in assisting clients with self-image and eating concerns. She is in alliance with LGBTQIA+ community and has spent years assisting clients with intimate partner violence and ageing-related mental health challenges in addition to being a substance use specialist.
Rooted in compassion and person-centered care, Cleo collaborates with and help clients who suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD/traumas, transgenerational burden, grief/losses, life's transitions... Cleo has extensive experience in assisting clients with self-image and eating concerns. She is in alliance with LGBTQIA+ community and has spent years assisting clients with intimate partner violence and ageing-related mental health challenges in addition to being a substance use specialist.
Yvonne Ho-Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503
We all have one lifetime to live, to explore and to experience. It is my belief our past and our present greatly impact the future we will have. As we all know, past experiences cannot be altered. However, it is my firm belief, together, we can explore better ways to deal with our emotions and thoughts that no longer serve us. I specialize in stress and anxiety management, depression, relationships, LGBT awareness as well as concerns specific to Asian-Americans. Please contact me if I can be of service to you. I am here to help. Be well and stay positive. Never give up as I truly believe brighter days are ahead of us!
We all have one lifetime to live, to explore and to experience. It is my belief our past and our present greatly impact the future we will have. As we all know, past experiences cannot be altered. However, it is my firm belief, together, we can explore better ways to deal with our emotions and thoughts that no longer serve us. I specialize in stress and anxiety management, depression, relationships, LGBT awareness as well as concerns specific to Asian-Americans. Please contact me if I can be of service to you. I am here to help. Be well and stay positive. Never give up as I truly believe brighter days are ahead of us!
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Audrey Hu
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
I also provide LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
I also provide LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
Joy Jaco
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503 (Online Only)
I am a trans-affirming therapist working with individuals and families.
I provide competent, compassionate mental health care with a flare of comic relief. I approach psychological work from a non-dualistic lens. I believe each of us has inherent wisdom and that we all need support and reminders to more readily access our internal and external resources. I look forward to walking side by side with you on your journey of growth, reflection, and healing. I'm skilled at providing in-depth mental health assessments/diagnostics to support clients in better understanding their challenges and I provide congruent coping strategies/treatment.
I am a trans-affirming therapist working with individuals and families.
I provide competent, compassionate mental health care with a flare of comic relief. I approach psychological work from a non-dualistic lens. I believe each of us has inherent wisdom and that we all need support and reminders to more readily access our internal and external resources. I look forward to walking side by side with you on your journey of growth, reflection, and healing. I'm skilled at providing in-depth mental health assessments/diagnostics to support clients in better understanding their challenges and I provide congruent coping strategies/treatment.
Tiffany Drake
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
My name is Tiffany Drake, I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is to create a warm and inviting environment. My theoretical approach is CBT, Client-Centered, and Solution-Focused. My theoretical approach is CBT, Solution-Focused and Client-Centered. I work with Clients who struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, LGBTQ+, Parenting, Domestic Violence, Post- Partum. I create a safe and warm space for my clients and allow them to freely speak with no judgment.
My name is Tiffany Drake, I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is to create a warm and inviting environment. My theoretical approach is CBT, Client-Centered, and Solution-Focused. My theoretical approach is CBT, Solution-Focused and Client-Centered. I work with Clients who struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, LGBTQ+, Parenting, Domestic Violence, Post- Partum. I create a safe and warm space for my clients and allow them to freely speak with no judgment.
WALTZ Trauma Care and Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ASW, AMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505 (Online Only)
We are a trauma-focused telehealth group practice in California. We help adult individuals find their way to a healing journey through feeling heard and seen. Individuals come see us to address their underlying trauma, family of origin issues, relationship challenges, substance use issues, depression, and anxiety. We love working with BIPOC, AAPI, and LGBTQ+ communities.
We are a trauma-focused telehealth group practice in California. We help adult individuals find their way to a healing journey through feeling heard and seen. Individuals come see us to address their underlying trauma, family of origin issues, relationship challenges, substance use issues, depression, and anxiety. We love working with BIPOC, AAPI, and LGBTQ+ communities.
Adrienne Ramirez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90501
Hello! I am Adrienne Ramirez, MS, LMFT. My clinical focus is trauma-informed dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Me and my work are a safe space for LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and any marginalized community. Everything I do is trauma-informed which means that I focus on behaviors, beliefs, and thoughts as a response to trauma, not "bad behavior" on your part. My approach is pretty eclectic as needed; however, I mainly use dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Hello! I am Adrienne Ramirez, MS, LMFT. My clinical focus is trauma-informed dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Me and my work are a safe space for LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and any marginalized community. Everything I do is trauma-informed which means that I focus on behaviors, beliefs, and thoughts as a response to trauma, not "bad behavior" on your part. My approach is pretty eclectic as needed; however, I mainly use dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Stephanie Mason
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90508 (Online Only)
I also hold an array of clinical expertise in dealing with chronic pain, depression, anxiety, stress management, LGBTQIA+ issues, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and much more.
New beginnings can often be disguised as painful endings. I work closely with those who have been through tragic events, suffered childhood abuse, those who have been victimized by others, as well as those who might feel like they have nowhere left to turn. My goal is to help you find your inner strength, and to courageously be free to display it and be proud. I am empathetic to my client’s needs, ambitious to provide support, and offer a nonjudgmental space for you to share and truly be heard.
I also hold an array of clinical expertise in dealing with chronic pain, depression, anxiety, stress management, LGBTQIA+ issues, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and much more.
New beginnings can often be disguised as painful endings. I work closely with those who have been through tragic events, suffered childhood abuse, those who have been victimized by others, as well as those who might feel like they have nowhere left to turn. My goal is to help you find your inner strength, and to courageously be free to display it and be proud. I am empathetic to my client’s needs, ambitious to provide support, and offer a nonjudgmental space for you to share and truly be heard.
Dr. Andrea Aoun
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505 (Online Only)
Dr. Aoun is trained to work with adults who are navigating various life challenges such as: parenting obstacles, maternal mental health, work and school stress, grief and loss, issues pertaining to the LGBTQ+ community, immigration and acculturation challenges, depression, anxiety, unresolved childhood traumas, and relational conflicts.
Dr. Aoun is trained to work with adults who are navigating various life challenges such as: parenting obstacles, maternal mental health, work and school stress, grief and loss, issues pertaining to the LGBTQ+ community, immigration and acculturation challenges, depression, anxiety, unresolved childhood traumas, and relational conflicts.
Ricardo Martinez
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90504
Hi there, I'm Dr. Rick. My name is Dr. Ricardo (Rick) Martinez and I am a Licensed Psychologist based in Pasadena, CA and working with clients across California via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in helping clients who struggle with anxiety, stress, depression, those with alcohol and/or substance abuse issues, their family members, and those in recovery. I also specialize in serving clients from diverse multicultural backgrounds including those from the LGBTQ+ community.
Hi there, I'm Dr. Rick. My name is Dr. Ricardo (Rick) Martinez and I am a Licensed Psychologist based in Pasadena, CA and working with clients across California via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in helping clients who struggle with anxiety, stress, depression, those with alcohol and/or substance abuse issues, their family members, and those in recovery. I also specialize in serving clients from diverse multicultural backgrounds including those from the LGBTQ+ community.
Courtney Olinger
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90503 (Online Only)
My practice is neuro-diversity affirming, LGBTQ+ affirming, and gender-affirming.
Our journey through life is complex and for every person, will come with successes, joys, and pleasures as well as challenges, concerns, and problems. I believe it is important to view the whole person, within the context of their relationships, family, community and society to gain a better understanding of all that is helpful or unhelpful along this journey. I have been honored to support this journey for individuals of all ages when faced with concerns related to learning differences, school/college/work struggles, social/relational challenges, and the process of developing an identity that one can be proud of.
My practice is neuro-diversity affirming, LGBTQ+ affirming, and gender-affirming.
Our journey through life is complex and for every person, will come with successes, joys, and pleasures as well as challenges, concerns, and problems. I believe it is important to view the whole person, within the context of their relationships, family, community and society to gain a better understanding of all that is helpful or unhelpful along this journey. I have been honored to support this journey for individuals of all ages when faced with concerns related to learning differences, school/college/work struggles, social/relational challenges, and the process of developing an identity that one can be proud of.
See more therapy options for Torrance
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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.