LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Orange County, CA
Ryan Borland
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Constantly anxious or find your self people pleasing? Have difficulty identifying how you are feeling and what you might even need? You might even feel overwhelmed with this huge list of therapists you are scrolling through! I get it and understand just how overwhelming life can be. If you are looking for help with anxiety, perfectionism, and/or relationship conflicts, there is help. I am also an LGBTQ affirming therapist with experience working with the community.
Constantly anxious or find your self people pleasing? Have difficulty identifying how you are feeling and what you might even need? You might even feel overwhelmed with this huge list of therapists you are scrolling through! I get it and understand just how overwhelming life can be. If you are looking for help with anxiety, perfectionism, and/or relationship conflicts, there is help. I am also an LGBTQ affirming therapist with experience working with the community.
Leonidas Gkimisis
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92868 (Online Only)
As an LGBTQ-friendly psychotherapist with a diverse client base, my ideal client seeks growth amidst life transitions, emotional challenges, or relationship issues. They need an inclusive, understanding space for self-discovery and acceptance, and strategies for resilience. They aim for emotional stability, authentic self-expression, and improved relationships. My clients want to feel seen, live authentically, and build a supportive network. I guide them towards these goals with empathy and expertise.
As an LGBTQ-friendly psychotherapist with a diverse client base, my ideal client seeks growth amidst life transitions, emotional challenges, or relationship issues. They need an inclusive, understanding space for self-discovery and acceptance, and strategies for resilience. They aim for emotional stability, authentic self-expression, and improved relationships. My clients want to feel seen, live authentically, and build a supportive network. I guide them towards these goals with empathy and expertise.
LGBTherapy Matters (LGBTQ+ Couples & Individuals)
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92618 (Online Only)
I'm an openly gay therapist and proud member of the LGBTQ+ Community and I have been personally navigating my own Coming Out Journey for over 20 years, so I understand what you're going through, and I offer a safe space to allow you to discover your authentic self and to let others see who you were born to be.
Navigating the Coming Out Journey is a lifelong process, and going through it—with or without a partner—while dealing with the judgment and expectations from family, work, church, and society, instills shame, fear, confusion, pain, suffering, and loss that seems to control every waking moment.
I'm an openly gay therapist and proud member of the LGBTQ+ Community and I have been personally navigating my own Coming Out Journey for over 20 years, so I understand what you're going through, and I offer a safe space to allow you to discover your authentic self and to let others see who you were born to be.
Navigating the Coming Out Journey is a lifelong process, and going through it—with or without a partner—while dealing with the judgment and expectations from family, work, church, and society, instills shame, fear, confusion, pain, suffering, and loss that seems to control every waking moment.
John J Raasch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92866
It is both courageous and wise that you have noticed a need and are seeking help. Your mental health is a huge part of your overall well-being and life fulfillment. The following is a partial list of the types of folks I have worked with and the challenges we have addressed together: • The LGBTQ+ community • Spiritual seekers/crises of faith/religious abuse • College students/those transitioning to adulthood • Creatives • Death and dying • Depression • Anxiety • Addiction • Infertility • Adoption • Men’s mental health • Life transitions • Trauma • Disability/learning disability • Domestic violence/conflict
It is both courageous and wise that you have noticed a need and are seeking help. Your mental health is a huge part of your overall well-being and life fulfillment. The following is a partial list of the types of folks I have worked with and the challenges we have addressed together: • The LGBTQ+ community • Spiritual seekers/crises of faith/religious abuse • College students/those transitioning to adulthood • Creatives • Death and dying • Depression • Anxiety • Addiction • Infertility • Adoption • Men’s mental health • Life transitions • Trauma • Disability/learning disability • Domestic violence/conflict
Kai Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I am a queer transgender therapist with client experience across all LGBTQ identities.
Perhaps you are brand new to therapy, or returning for better results. Maybe you are looking for a therapist that relates to the LGBTQ+ identities/experiences you have, and how those may affect other areas of your life. You're looking for a space to be authentic and explore complex parts of who you are in a safe, affirming space. You might be experiencing anxiety, depression, confusion, or other barriers to your well-being. My priority is inviting you to share who you are so we can create positive outcomes. I combine evidence-based practices with real-world application, placing your experiences at the forefront of therapy.
I am a queer transgender therapist with client experience across all LGBTQ identities.
Perhaps you are brand new to therapy, or returning for better results. Maybe you are looking for a therapist that relates to the LGBTQ+ identities/experiences you have, and how those may affect other areas of your life. You're looking for a space to be authentic and explore complex parts of who you are in a safe, affirming space. You might be experiencing anxiety, depression, confusion, or other barriers to your well-being. My priority is inviting you to share who you are so we can create positive outcomes. I combine evidence-based practices with real-world application, placing your experiences at the forefront of therapy.
Emily Ruiz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
I am an openly queer, latinx licensed therapist specializing in supporting queer, trans, and BIPOC affirming mental health care. I work alongside clients, exploring their strengths, resilience, and finding ways to build a fulfilling life that aligns with their values and authentic self, rather than the version of themselves they've had to become to conform to the pressures of the world around them. I strive to empower clients to increase their sense of safety and connection to themselves, their bodies and the difficult systems they navigate.
I am an openly queer, latinx licensed therapist specializing in supporting queer, trans, and BIPOC affirming mental health care. I work alongside clients, exploring their strengths, resilience, and finding ways to build a fulfilling life that aligns with their values and authentic self, rather than the version of themselves they've had to become to conform to the pressures of the world around them. I strive to empower clients to increase their sense of safety and connection to themselves, their bodies and the difficult systems they navigate.
Tracey M Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92835
I use an integrative model incorporating systems theories, existential theory, queer and feminist theory into my work with both clinicians and clients.
Hi there! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in gender and sexuality. I've been doing this work for more than ten years and enjoy it immensely. I value deep connection and enjoy helping people make positive changes in their lives. Some of my areas of interest include: intersectional identity, anxiety, relational issues, and ADHD.
I use an integrative model incorporating systems theories, existential theory, queer and feminist theory into my work with both clinicians and clients.
Hi there! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in gender and sexuality. I've been doing this work for more than ten years and enjoy it immensely. I value deep connection and enjoy helping people make positive changes in their lives. Some of my areas of interest include: intersectional identity, anxiety, relational issues, and ADHD.
Steven Su
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92832
I have experience working effectively with adults, young adults, and teenagers facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, phase-of-life issues, trauma, and grief. Additionally, I provide couples therapy to enhance relationships and communication skills. My specialization includes supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, racial minorities, Asian Americans, children of immigrants, individuals with autism, and their families.
I have experience working effectively with adults, young adults, and teenagers facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, phase-of-life issues, trauma, and grief. Additionally, I provide couples therapy to enhance relationships and communication skills. My specialization includes supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, racial minorities, Asian Americans, children of immigrants, individuals with autism, and their families.
Justin Amigo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92614
Justin is a passionate clinician who is dedicated to promoting social justice and equity in mental healthcare. As an LGBTQ+ identifying clinician, Justin brings a unique perspective to his work that's rooted in compassion and empathy for marginalized communities. He focuses on providing trauma-informed care. Justin holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Clinical Psychology. His areas of expertise include treating teens and young adults, LGBTQ+ populations, Asian American and Filipinx individuals, interpersonal conflict, and career counseling.
Justin is a passionate clinician who is dedicated to promoting social justice and equity in mental healthcare. As an LGBTQ+ identifying clinician, Justin brings a unique perspective to his work that's rooted in compassion and empathy for marginalized communities. He focuses on providing trauma-informed care. Justin holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Clinical Psychology. His areas of expertise include treating teens and young adults, LGBTQ+ populations, Asian American and Filipinx individuals, interpersonal conflict, and career counseling.
Yanel Bueno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garden Grove, CA 92841 (Online Only)
As a non-binary, queer, Latine therapist, I understand the nuance of intersectional identities on our mental health.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA2S+ community, specifically gender and sexual identity exploration, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, codependency, people-pleasing, intergenerational trauma, intimate partner violence, embracing neurodiversity and unmasking, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem. Intersectionality is important to my therapeutic space. I find power in vulnerability and encourage you to bring or find your most authentic self to the therapy room. You are valid because you exist! I love challenging folks to reframe negative thinking patterns learned through socialization and embrace the life they want to live.
As a non-binary, queer, Latine therapist, I understand the nuance of intersectional identities on our mental health.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA2S+ community, specifically gender and sexual identity exploration, perfectionism, imposter syndrome, codependency, people-pleasing, intergenerational trauma, intimate partner violence, embracing neurodiversity and unmasking, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem. Intersectionality is important to my therapeutic space. I find power in vulnerability and encourage you to bring or find your most authentic self to the therapy room. You are valid because you exist! I love challenging folks to reframe negative thinking patterns learned through socialization and embrace the life they want to live.
Eliott Gillooly
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I work with children, teenagers, and adults, and I am especially passionate about working with LGBTQ, Disabled, and Neurodivergent individuals of all ages. I am here to create an empathetic and supportive space to assist clients in exploring a range of mental health concerns effectively, including depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, ADHD, Autism, self-harm, suicidal ideation, trauma and PTSD.
I work with children, teenagers, and adults, and I am especially passionate about working with LGBTQ, Disabled, and Neurodivergent individuals of all ages. I am here to create an empathetic and supportive space to assist clients in exploring a range of mental health concerns effectively, including depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, ADHD, Autism, self-harm, suicidal ideation, trauma and PTSD.
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Jack Senese IV
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I am a licensed therapist who approaches therapy with a direct, strengths-based approach. I spent my life in New York before moving out to LA to do therapy. While here, I have worked my professional career in a diverse number of settings, including a neurofeedback clinic, rehab center, and LGBTQ center. I was driven to the mental health field because I genuinely enjoy working with others to train their brain and create a better future. I am also an industrial-organizational psychologist where my focus is on work-life balance.
I am a licensed therapist who approaches therapy with a direct, strengths-based approach. I spent my life in New York before moving out to LA to do therapy. While here, I have worked my professional career in a diverse number of settings, including a neurofeedback clinic, rehab center, and LGBTQ center. I was driven to the mental health field because I genuinely enjoy working with others to train their brain and create a better future. I am also an industrial-organizational psychologist where my focus is on work-life balance.
Hilary Ghozali
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92614
Hilary enjoys working with people who are undergoing life transitions, those who have unique cultural needs, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hilary is an open and objective clinician who provides a safe, non-judgmental space for clients. She believes that respectfulness and acceptance of her clients is key to building a therapeutic relationship. Hilary grew up in Indonesia and understands the unique struggles of clients with diverse backgrounds. Hilary believes that cultural differences play a crucial role in each client’s life. Hilary holds a master's degree in psychology from Pepperdine University and is currently working to obtain her doctorate in clinical psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Hilary enjoys working with people who are undergoing life transitions, those who have unique cultural needs, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hilary is an open and objective clinician who provides a safe, non-judgmental space for clients. She believes that respectfulness and acceptance of her clients is key to building a therapeutic relationship. Hilary grew up in Indonesia and understands the unique struggles of clients with diverse backgrounds. Hilary believes that cultural differences play a crucial role in each client’s life. Hilary holds a master's degree in psychology from Pepperdine University and is currently working to obtain her doctorate in clinical psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Ryan Juarez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Ryan. I am a proud Mexican-American and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. I am passionate about providing affirmative therapy and a safe space for all of my clients. I enjoy working with people who want to work on improving their situations. I believe all people are unique and therapy is not a “one size fits all”. Because everyone brings in their own unique set of skills, based on their circumstances, I will meet you where you are.
Hi, I'm Ryan. I am a proud Mexican-American and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. I am passionate about providing affirmative therapy and a safe space for all of my clients. I enjoy working with people who want to work on improving their situations. I believe all people are unique and therapy is not a “one size fits all”. Because everyone brings in their own unique set of skills, based on their circumstances, I will meet you where you are.
Mike Tran
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626 (Online Only)
As a queer, second-generation, Asian-American, I believe that kindness and compassion are my natural orientation and I position myself accordingly as a therapist. I believe that we're all inherently enough no matter what we’ve learned from our childhood, what society has told us we are capable of, or who we think we should be to have self-worth and fulfilling relationships. I believe we're all capable of unlearning and learning, and giving ourselves the grace to do so. My clients typically struggle with depression, anxiety, life transitions, relational conflict, intimacy and trust, childhood and intergenerational trauma, and grief.
As a queer, second-generation, Asian-American, I believe that kindness and compassion are my natural orientation and I position myself accordingly as a therapist. I believe that we're all inherently enough no matter what we’ve learned from our childhood, what society has told us we are capable of, or who we think we should be to have self-worth and fulfilling relationships. I believe we're all capable of unlearning and learning, and giving ourselves the grace to do so. My clients typically struggle with depression, anxiety, life transitions, relational conflict, intimacy and trust, childhood and intergenerational trauma, and grief.
Insight4Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+, BIPOC, transgender and gender non-conforming, and culturally diverse communities.
Hello! I'm a licensed therapist practicing in Costa Mesa, CA, who enjoys working with clients from diverse backgrounds and with a range of challenges, such as depression, anxiety, self/family acceptance, relationship conflicts, and trauma. If you are feeling stuck and wanting to change, therapy is an option worth exploring. Let me help you improve your emotional well being, enhance your ability to engage in relationships, and empower you with the tools necessary to restore balance in your life.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+, BIPOC, transgender and gender non-conforming, and culturally diverse communities.
Hello! I'm a licensed therapist practicing in Costa Mesa, CA, who enjoys working with clients from diverse backgrounds and with a range of challenges, such as depression, anxiety, self/family acceptance, relationship conflicts, and trauma. If you are feeling stuck and wanting to change, therapy is an option worth exploring. Let me help you improve your emotional well being, enhance your ability to engage in relationships, and empower you with the tools necessary to restore balance in your life.
Jacky Tse
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MPhil, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92618 (Online Only)
Life can sometimes be stressful and overwhelming but you are not alone and it is important to seek help to care for your mental health needs. Therapy can be the help you need and it is my pleasure to offer support at this challenging time. With more than 8 years of experience serving diverse populations including rare disease and disabilities populations, AAPI and LGBTQIA communities, children and teens with behavioral and emotional issues, my therapeutic practice covers perfectionism, depression, trauma, anxiety and stress management. I hold Master of Philosophy from University of Cambridge and Master of Social Work MSW from CSUSB.
Life can sometimes be stressful and overwhelming but you are not alone and it is important to seek help to care for your mental health needs. Therapy can be the help you need and it is my pleasure to offer support at this challenging time. With more than 8 years of experience serving diverse populations including rare disease and disabilities populations, AAPI and LGBTQIA communities, children and teens with behavioral and emotional issues, my therapeutic practice covers perfectionism, depression, trauma, anxiety and stress management. I hold Master of Philosophy from University of Cambridge and Master of Social Work MSW from CSUSB.
Affirming Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92614
Therapists at Affirming Psychological Services have various subspecialties, such as transgender care, behavioral analysis, and substance abuse treatment.
The clinicians at Affirming Psychological Services are highly experienced in treating trauma, anxiety, and depression. All of our clinicians are also trained in treating the needs of the LGBT+ community, and many of our clinicians have lived experience as part of this community. We are conveniently located in Irvine, CA, and can provide both in person and telehealth services for you and your loved ones. We provide individual, couples, and family therapy as well as psychological testing and diagnostic clarification services. We provide a safe, comforting environment and expert therapists to help you meet your therapeutic goals.
Therapists at Affirming Psychological Services have various subspecialties, such as transgender care, behavioral analysis, and substance abuse treatment.
The clinicians at Affirming Psychological Services are highly experienced in treating trauma, anxiety, and depression. All of our clinicians are also trained in treating the needs of the LGBT+ community, and many of our clinicians have lived experience as part of this community. We are conveniently located in Irvine, CA, and can provide both in person and telehealth services for you and your loved ones. We provide individual, couples, and family therapy as well as psychological testing and diagnostic clarification services. We provide a safe, comforting environment and expert therapists to help you meet your therapeutic goals.
Nick Ulrich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92835
I believe that one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Beginning in therapy can be a way for you to start to put together the pieces of your life and who you are. And ultimately, you deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. If you're someone that struggles with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, LGBTQIA issues, and past trauma, I'd love to help you work through those challenges. I want to be the therapist that helps you along that journey.
I believe that one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Beginning in therapy can be a way for you to start to put together the pieces of your life and who you are. And ultimately, you deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. If you're someone that struggles with depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, LGBTQIA issues, and past trauma, I'd love to help you work through those challenges. I want to be the therapist that helps you along that journey.
Katie Moore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92614
Moore has a subspecialty in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families.
Dr. Katie Moore is a highly experienced licensed clinical psychologist with an extraordinary ability to connect with teens and adults who have been unable to make progress, or were even unwilling to meet, with previous therapists. Additionally, she is formally trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): two of the premier evidence based treatments for trauma. Dr. Moore started her career as a therapist treating adults, including severely and persistently mentally ill adults in a locked psychiatric facility.
Moore has a subspecialty in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families.
Dr. Katie Moore is a highly experienced licensed clinical psychologist with an extraordinary ability to connect with teens and adults who have been unable to make progress, or were even unwilling to meet, with previous therapists. Additionally, she is formally trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): two of the premier evidence based treatments for trauma. Dr. Moore started her career as a therapist treating adults, including severely and persistently mentally ill adults in a locked psychiatric facility.
See more therapy options for Orange 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.