LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Nevada County, CA

Photo of Mariya Milan, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Nevada County, CA
Mariya Milan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945
Waitlist for new clients
My therapy is LGBTQ+ affirming, sex-positive, geek/nerd-friendly, and culturally humble.
I want to be your sparkle homie (a.k.a. therapist). What does it mean to be a sparkle homie? To me, a sparkle homie is a person who “gets you” where you are at. As a therapist (and sparkle homie), I seek to affirm, understand, and truly see folx. I utilize holistic, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive therapies to be a partner in folxs’ journeys toward wholeness.
My therapy is LGBTQ+ affirming, sex-positive, geek/nerd-friendly, and culturally humble.
I want to be your sparkle homie (a.k.a. therapist). What does it mean to be a sparkle homie? To me, a sparkle homie is a person who “gets you” where you are at. As a therapist (and sparkle homie), I seek to affirm, understand, and truly see folx. I utilize holistic, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive therapies to be a partner in folxs’ journeys toward wholeness.
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Photo of Jill Babbitt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada County, CA
Jill Babbitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nevada City, CA 95959
You are worthy of deep intimate connections, of being seen, loved and adored. You can transform your suffering, feel less anxious and depressed and have more meaningful relationships. I have tools to help you learn effective communication skills, heal from past traumas, and transform negative thinking and stress that no longer serves you. I see individuals and couples in monogamous, polyamorous, open, LGBTQ+, kink, and BDSM communities. I support clients in moving through sexual dysfunctions and disorders. Claim your right to sexual fulfillment, erotic and emotional intimacy, and joyful embodiment in every aspect of your life.
You are worthy of deep intimate connections, of being seen, loved and adored. You can transform your suffering, feel less anxious and depressed and have more meaningful relationships. I have tools to help you learn effective communication skills, heal from past traumas, and transform negative thinking and stress that no longer serves you. I see individuals and couples in monogamous, polyamorous, open, LGBTQ+, kink, and BDSM communities. I support clients in moving through sexual dysfunctions and disorders. Claim your right to sexual fulfillment, erotic and emotional intimacy, and joyful embodiment in every aspect of your life.
(831) 800-2016 View (831) 800-2016
Photo of Dr. Sage Rian, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nevada County, CA
Dr. Sage Rian
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, CPC, NCC, RYT
Verified Verified
Truckee, CA 96161  (Online Only)
As a queer, trans, and neurodivergent clinician, I am passionate about serving my own communities through therapy & adult Autism or ADHD diagnostic evaluations.
Reaching out for help takes courage and strength, and in our work together we will draw on the strengths you already have. I take a collaborative and holistic approach to healing, meaning we will work together to achieve wellness in all areas of your life: mind, body, and spirit. Our sessions will explore how you make meaning in life, the impact of your unconscious patterns, and the roles your environment & relationships play in your current issues. Whatever we are working on, my goal is to provide a non-judgmental place for you to express, explore, and discover yourself.
As a queer, trans, and neurodivergent clinician, I am passionate about serving my own communities through therapy & adult Autism or ADHD diagnostic evaluations.
Reaching out for help takes courage and strength, and in our work together we will draw on the strengths you already have. I take a collaborative and holistic approach to healing, meaning we will work together to achieve wellness in all areas of your life: mind, body, and spirit. Our sessions will explore how you make meaning in life, the impact of your unconscious patterns, and the roles your environment & relationships play in your current issues. Whatever we are working on, my goal is to provide a non-judgmental place for you to express, explore, and discover yourself.
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Photo of Lindsay French, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Nevada County, CA
Lindsay French
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Nevada City, CA 95959
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion for working with couples to create satisfying relationships and am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist.
As a Kindred Heart Therapy Group clinician, I understand that life can be difficult, and at times the challenges may feel impossible. A variety of reasons can prompt the decision to seek therapy. Whether it be a traumatic experience, a life transition, or another reason, I can help navigate challenges in your life in a way that works for you. I work with individuals and couples to explore their emotions and experiences in a safe environment that can increase understanding and help them reach their goals.
I have a passion for working with couples to create satisfying relationships and am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist.
As a Kindred Heart Therapy Group clinician, I understand that life can be difficult, and at times the challenges may feel impossible. A variety of reasons can prompt the decision to seek therapy. Whether it be a traumatic experience, a life transition, or another reason, I can help navigate challenges in your life in a way that works for you. I work with individuals and couples to explore their emotions and experiences in a safe environment that can increase understanding and help them reach their goals.
(530) 418-6778 View (530) 418-6778
Photo of Cate Taylor, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nevada County, CA
Cate Taylor
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grass Valley, CA 95945
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in issues around trauma, self-worth, depression, anxiety, substance use, eating disorders, body image, LGBTQ+, adoption, and cancer.
I honor the trials and challenges that bring us to the point of choosing to make a change. From this place, we can become empowered to be who we truly are. I am passionate about meeting people where they’re at and supporting their unique path of self-discovery as they feel guided. I welcome working with individuals in any phase of life, couples, and families from diverse, multicultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities on any issues.
I specialize in issues around trauma, self-worth, depression, anxiety, substance use, eating disorders, body image, LGBTQ+, adoption, and cancer.
I honor the trials and challenges that bring us to the point of choosing to make a change. From this place, we can become empowered to be who we truly are. I am passionate about meeting people where they’re at and supporting their unique path of self-discovery as they feel guided. I welcome working with individuals in any phase of life, couples, and families from diverse, multicultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities on any issues.
(530) 451-0607 View (530) 451-0607
Photo of Cassandra Clark, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada County, CA
Cassandra Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nevada City, CA 95959
My approach is influenced by Jungian, Depth, and Transpersonal psychology, feminist, queer and social justice-allied, and strength-based.
My work is grounded in the belief & experience that we all have access to a deep well of unconscious wisdom, and that creative & imaginal processes are some of the most direct ways to contact it. To assist you in doing so, I use expressive arts, dreamwork, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), guided imagery & visualization, and other creative & imaginal approaches to enhance and deepen traditional talk therapy. As a client-centered therapist, I believe that you are the expert on your own healing. My job is to listen deeply and to put you in closer touch with your inner knowing so that you can arrive at your own answers.
My approach is influenced by Jungian, Depth, and Transpersonal psychology, feminist, queer and social justice-allied, and strength-based.
My work is grounded in the belief & experience that we all have access to a deep well of unconscious wisdom, and that creative & imaginal processes are some of the most direct ways to contact it. To assist you in doing so, I use expressive arts, dreamwork, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), guided imagery & visualization, and other creative & imaginal approaches to enhance and deepen traditional talk therapy. As a client-centered therapist, I believe that you are the expert on your own healing. My job is to listen deeply and to put you in closer touch with your inner knowing so that you can arrive at your own answers.
(530) 444-8829 View (530) 444-8829
Photo of Sierra Therese Sparks, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada County, CA
Sierra Therese Sparks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945
I specialize in: **IMAGO and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy **Depression/Anxiety/Panic **Children/Teens **Family Systems **Nurtured Heart Approach (children) **EMDR (certified for trauma recovery) **Parent Coaching **Couples communication and reconnection **Life transitions **LGBTQ.
The best project you will ever work on is YOU (or your relationships). There is HOPE and everyone has a story. I am here to hear yours, your families, relationships or child's. I will coach you through the challenges you face with compassion and trust. I am a psychotherapist and the owner/director of Sierra Family Therapy Centers in Nevada County. I work with couples, individuals and troubled teens/children. My approach is strength-based, providing support and feedback to my clients in order to help gain insight towards improving your life.
I specialize in: **IMAGO and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy **Depression/Anxiety/Panic **Children/Teens **Family Systems **Nurtured Heart Approach (children) **EMDR (certified for trauma recovery) **Parent Coaching **Couples communication and reconnection **Life transitions **LGBTQ.
The best project you will ever work on is YOU (or your relationships). There is HOPE and everyone has a story. I am here to hear yours, your families, relationships or child's. I will coach you through the challenges you face with compassion and trust. I am a psychotherapist and the owner/director of Sierra Family Therapy Centers in Nevada County. I work with couples, individuals and troubled teens/children. My approach is strength-based, providing support and feedback to my clients in order to help gain insight towards improving your life.
(530) 419-5818 View (530) 419-5818
Photo of Joy D Jaco, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada County, CA
Joy D Jaco
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nevada City, CA 95959  (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 the psychological work from a non-dualistic lens. I believe each of us have 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 you on your journey of growth, reflection and healing. I'm skilled at providing in-depth mental health assessments/diagnostics to support client's 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 the psychological work from a non-dualistic lens. I believe each of us have 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 you on your journey of growth, reflection and healing. I'm skilled at providing in-depth mental health assessments/diagnostics to support client's in better understanding their challenges and I provide congruent coping strategies/treatment.
(530) 240-7453 View (530) 240-7453
Photo of Kyla Dawn Mosby, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Nevada County, CA
Kyla Dawn Mosby
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT , MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nevada City, CA 95959
I am passionate about supporting adults, teens, and children, including the LGBTQIA+ community through life’s challenges and transitions.
Therapy can support in navigating tough emotions, getting unstuck through life’s challenges, and learning more about ourselves and others. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive therapeutic environment for all of my clients, that fosters empowerment and healing. In this space, you will be met with genuine empathy and deep caring. You deserve to feel seen and heard in your story. I believe in an integrative therapy approach tailored to your needs.
I am passionate about supporting adults, teens, and children, including the LGBTQIA+ community through life’s challenges and transitions.
Therapy can support in navigating tough emotions, getting unstuck through life’s challenges, and learning more about ourselves and others. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive therapeutic environment for all of my clients, that fosters empowerment and healing. In this space, you will be met with genuine empathy and deep caring. You deserve to feel seen and heard in your story. I believe in an integrative therapy approach tailored to your needs.
(530) 838-4325 View (530) 838-4325
Photo of Danielle Vanaman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada County, CA
Danielle Vanaman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nevada City, CA 95959  (Online Only)
I believe therapy is a collaborative and creative endeavor, and provide a safe, supportive environment for you to explore your identity, relationships, history, and desired changes. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you create lasting changes, and am also influenced by Mindfulness, Narrative, Relational, and Systemic approaches to therapy. I am certified in the Triple P Positive Parenting Program and trained in Trauma-Focused CBT. I am also supportive and affirmative of clients of all sexual orientations and gender identifications, and can assist with issues such as coming out, homophobia, and LGBT relationship or parenting issues.
I believe therapy is a collaborative and creative endeavor, and provide a safe, supportive environment for you to explore your identity, relationships, history, and desired changes. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you create lasting changes, and am also influenced by Mindfulness, Narrative, Relational, and Systemic approaches to therapy. I am certified in the Triple P Positive Parenting Program and trained in Trauma-Focused CBT. I am also supportive and affirmative of clients of all sexual orientations and gender identifications, and can assist with issues such as coming out, homophobia, and LGBT relationship or parenting issues.
(510) 849-6886 View (510) 849-6886
Photo of Cecilia Camacho Sandoval, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nevada County, CA
Cecilia Camacho Sandoval
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nevada City, CA 95959
Hello! My name is Cecilia Camacho Sandoval. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I provide psychotherapy for adolescents/teens, women, men, and LGBTQIA+. I am comfortable treating mood disorders, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, psychosis, addiction, anger management, self-esteem, job stress, general stress, and trauma and PTSD. My approach is both person-centered and existential. I commonly use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Person-Centered, Existential, Humanistic, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused (SFBT) modalities.
Hello! My name is Cecilia Camacho Sandoval. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I provide psychotherapy for adolescents/teens, women, men, and LGBTQIA+. I am comfortable treating mood disorders, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, psychosis, addiction, anger management, self-esteem, job stress, general stress, and trauma and PTSD. My approach is both person-centered and existential. I commonly use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Person-Centered, Existential, Humanistic, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused (SFBT) modalities.
(559) 272-4941 View (559) 272-4941
Photo of Dr. Michael Grey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada County, CA
Dr. Michael Grey
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nevada City, CA 95959  (Online Only)
You never thought Sex Work would be like this. You built this persona on screen to keep the viewers engaged and the subscriptions flowing. When the camera shuts off and everyone leaves, you feel disconnected, alone in your own body. When you first started making content, everything seemed fine; you were excited to make money. You got to hang out with some fantastic people, collaborate with others you always dreamed of, made new friends, the parties & drugs were fun. You thought this was the life; people "know you," but now, everyday when you wake up, you feel less connected to who you are. You don't even recognize yourself anymore.
You never thought Sex Work would be like this. You built this persona on screen to keep the viewers engaged and the subscriptions flowing. When the camera shuts off and everyone leaves, you feel disconnected, alone in your own body. When you first started making content, everything seemed fine; you were excited to make money. You got to hang out with some fantastic people, collaborate with others you always dreamed of, made new friends, the parties & drugs were fun. You thought this was the life; people "know you," but now, everyday when you wake up, you feel less connected to who you are. You don't even recognize yourself anymore.
(725) 999-6361 View (725) 999-6361
Photo of Murial Barkley-Aylmer, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Nevada County, CA
Murial Barkley-Aylmer
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945  (Online Only)
Looking for a therapist can be daunting, especially if you are seeking support for the first time. You may feel pressure to know “what kind” of therapy will be best for you or feel anxiety about what actually happens inside a therapy session. I give the same advice to every friend and client who asks: choose your therapist based largely on the connection you feel when you meet them. Do you feel listened to? Do they speak to you in a way that helps you to understand yourself better?
Looking for a therapist can be daunting, especially if you are seeking support for the first time. You may feel pressure to know “what kind” of therapy will be best for you or feel anxiety about what actually happens inside a therapy session. I give the same advice to every friend and client who asks: choose your therapist based largely on the connection you feel when you meet them. Do you feel listened to? Do they speak to you in a way that helps you to understand yourself better?
(530) 203-6271 View (530) 203-6271
Photo of Amanda Downs, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada County, CA
Amanda Downs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nevada City, CA 95959
Do you seek relief from experiences of anxiety, depression, or shame? You may be wanting more self-confidence or deeper intimacy in your relationships. Perhaps you long to shed unwanted conditioning and live more fully in your embodied truth. I can support you to identify and move through old patterns that constrict your vitality, helping you to unearth your passion and unique gifts. My approach is warm, grounded, and collaborative. Together we will develop a safe space to explore any wounds and limiting beliefs and allow you to encounter and live into your deepest wisdom.
Do you seek relief from experiences of anxiety, depression, or shame? You may be wanting more self-confidence or deeper intimacy in your relationships. Perhaps you long to shed unwanted conditioning and live more fully in your embodied truth. I can support you to identify and move through old patterns that constrict your vitality, helping you to unearth your passion and unique gifts. My approach is warm, grounded, and collaborative. Together we will develop a safe space to explore any wounds and limiting beliefs and allow you to encounter and live into your deepest wisdom.
(628) 228-6175 View (628) 228-6175
Photo of Susan Garner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada County, CA
Susan Garner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945  (Online Only)
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for 20 years, working primarily with individuals and couples (including same sex couples): including individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, parents and adult children seeking to heal old wounds and improve communication. My work with individual adult clients has focussed primarily on anxiety, panic attacks, depression, adjusting to life transitions and problems in primary relationships. Whatever your objectives, whether to identify and change self-limiting narratives, heal trauma and losses, improve communication skills and/or need couples therapy, I can help you.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for 20 years, working primarily with individuals and couples (including same sex couples): including individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, parents and adult children seeking to heal old wounds and improve communication. My work with individual adult clients has focussed primarily on anxiety, panic attacks, depression, adjusting to life transitions and problems in primary relationships. Whatever your objectives, whether to identify and change self-limiting narratives, heal trauma and losses, improve communication skills and/or need couples therapy, I can help you.
(530) 285-2508 View (530) 285-2508
Photo of Lin Jovanovic, Psychologist in Nevada County, CA
Lin Jovanovic
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grass Valley, CA 95945
Do you feel like you are disconnected from your partner or do you fight all the time? I know what these struggles feel like, and I know how painful it is to face those problems alone. Creating stronger and healthier relationships and sex lives is my primary focus. I have extensive training in helping couples and I get down to business in the very first session. I offer individual therapy, couples therapy, two day in person intensives for more complex issues, and Discernment Counseling. Get more information about my approach at my website: www.relationshipexplorations.com.
Do you feel like you are disconnected from your partner or do you fight all the time? I know what these struggles feel like, and I know how painful it is to face those problems alone. Creating stronger and healthier relationships and sex lives is my primary focus. I have extensive training in helping couples and I get down to business in the very first session. I offer individual therapy, couples therapy, two day in person intensives for more complex issues, and Discernment Counseling. Get more information about my approach at my website: www.relationshipexplorations.com.
(530) 491-4779 View (530) 491-4779
Photo of Sylvia Wenninger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada County, CA
Sylvia Wenninger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grass Valley, CA 95945
Waitlist for new clients
If you feel stuck -- whether it's the loneliness of an unfulfilling relationship, the dark hole of depression, or the bewilderment of grief -- I would welcome the chance to connect with you. In my fifteen years of practice, I have helped clients to emerge renewed from some of life's hardest places.
If you feel stuck -- whether it's the loneliness of an unfulfilling relationship, the dark hole of depression, or the bewilderment of grief -- I would welcome the chance to connect with you. In my fifteen years of practice, I have helped clients to emerge renewed from some of life's hardest places.
(415) 799-4207 View (415) 799-4207
Photo of Algiu Mihai, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada County, CA
Algiu Mihai
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nevada City, CA 95959
Besides individual sessions, couples work sessions and Group Work, I also train clinicians in awareness based somatic psychotherapy. I also, hold two types of weekly groups that are ongoing, although they are open to new people from time time. Check my website and youtube channel (Circle of Being Somatic Shadow Work) to understand more about my work and different modules I have available. Before booking sessions with me, please watch the video called 'Watch this video before booking 1:1 sessions with Mihai Intro to somatic therapy vs talk therapy' (cannot insert this video here but you can find on my above mentioned youtube channel)
Besides individual sessions, couples work sessions and Group Work, I also train clinicians in awareness based somatic psychotherapy. I also, hold two types of weekly groups that are ongoing, although they are open to new people from time time. Check my website and youtube channel (Circle of Being Somatic Shadow Work) to understand more about my work and different modules I have available. Before booking sessions with me, please watch the video called 'Watch this video before booking 1:1 sessions with Mihai Intro to somatic therapy vs talk therapy' (cannot insert this video here but you can find on my above mentioned youtube channel)
(530) 287-4537 View (530) 287-4537
Photo of Robert Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada County, CA
Robert Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grass Valley, CA 95945
I believe in the healing force within each person and its natural inclination to arc towards wholeness and health. If we want it enough, have patience, clarity and support we can heal and feel freedom in life. Growth happens best in relationship and I am here to support you on your path, wherever that might be. I am anchored in Jungian psychology, Existentialism and AEDP/Somatic work. More importantly, I try to cultivate a sense of warmth, care, respect and curiosity in my work with clients. I work with clients experiencing: anxiety, depression, grief, relationship/family issues, PTSD, self-criticism and lack of meaning.
I believe in the healing force within each person and its natural inclination to arc towards wholeness and health. If we want it enough, have patience, clarity and support we can heal and feel freedom in life. Growth happens best in relationship and I am here to support you on your path, wherever that might be. I am anchored in Jungian psychology, Existentialism and AEDP/Somatic work. More importantly, I try to cultivate a sense of warmth, care, respect and curiosity in my work with clients. I work with clients experiencing: anxiety, depression, grief, relationship/family issues, PTSD, self-criticism and lack of meaning.
(530) 248-6965 View (530) 248-6965
Photo of Resonate Individual and Family Therapy , Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada County, CA
Resonate Individual and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Truckee, CA 96161
Accepting new clients throughout California for remote and in-person sessions in our group practice. We have clinicians available that specialize in a variety of client populations and mental health issues. We work with people to find real improvement in their lives and relationships. What would improve for you if you felt seen, heard and understood? How could your relationships grow if you moved beyond triggers and old wounds to a place of confidence and compassion?
Accepting new clients throughout California for remote and in-person sessions in our group practice. We have clinicians available that specialize in a variety of client populations and mental health issues. We work with people to find real improvement in their lives and relationships. What would improve for you if you felt seen, heard and understood? How could your relationships grow if you moved beyond triggers and old wounds to a place of confidence and compassion?
(760) 452-3671 View (760) 452-3671

See more therapy options for Nevada County

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.