LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Arizona

Photo of Sam Barrons, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Arizona
Sam Barrons
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85032  (Online Only)
Are you seeking a therapist who understands and celebrates your unique identity, relationship, and experiences? As an LGBTAI+ provider, I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to explore their unique challenges and work toward healing and growth. My practice focuses on serving the LGBTQ+, kinky, polyamorous/CNM, and trauma survivor communities, and I am dedicated to fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding. With a passion for helping others navigate life's complexities, I offer personalized guidance and support tailored to your needs.
Are you seeking a therapist who understands and celebrates your unique identity, relationship, and experiences? As an LGBTAI+ provider, I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to explore their unique challenges and work toward healing and growth. My practice focuses on serving the LGBTQ+, kinky, polyamorous/CNM, and trauma survivor communities, and I am dedicated to fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding. With a passion for helping others navigate life's complexities, I offer personalized guidance and support tailored to your needs.
(602) 560-4351 View (602) 560-4351
Photo of Kusha Giahi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Kusha Giahi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I'm passionate about supporting the LGBTQ+ community and working with a diverse population.
Feeling overwhelmed by stress, emotions, relationships, or all of the above? Totally understandable. The journey to find yourself can be daunting, and I can help you navigate it. Whether you're experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, or trauma, I'm here to support you. With a focus on cognitive-behavioral therapy, we can work together to bridge thoughts, behaviors, and actions for a more fulfilling life.
I'm passionate about supporting the LGBTQ+ community and working with a diverse population.
Feeling overwhelmed by stress, emotions, relationships, or all of the above? Totally understandable. The journey to find yourself can be daunting, and I can help you navigate it. Whether you're experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, or trauma, I'm here to support you. With a focus on cognitive-behavioral therapy, we can work together to bridge thoughts, behaviors, and actions for a more fulfilling life.
(623) 343-2034 View (623) 343-2034
Photo of Taegan Elmer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Taegan Elmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85018
I help LGBTQ+ adults feel empowered in their lives by reducing self-doubt, anxiety, and fear, and increasing your confidence to live a braver, bolder life.
Licensed in AZ and CO. TeleHealth appts available for Colorado based clients. TeleHealth and In-Person available for Arizona based clients. I am deeply passionate about working with emerging LGBTQ+ adults who are questioning or integrating their identities and sexualities. I work with young and helping professionals who feel stuck in their job, are questioning their career path, or who may love their career but feel paralyzed by anxiety or fear of not being enough. Most importantly, I work with you. I strive to create a space and path forward that feels uniquely tailored for you.
I help LGBTQ+ adults feel empowered in their lives by reducing self-doubt, anxiety, and fear, and increasing your confidence to live a braver, bolder life.
Licensed in AZ and CO. TeleHealth appts available for Colorado based clients. TeleHealth and In-Person available for Arizona based clients. I am deeply passionate about working with emerging LGBTQ+ adults who are questioning or integrating their identities and sexualities. I work with young and helping professionals who feel stuck in their job, are questioning their career path, or who may love their career but feel paralyzed by anxiety or fear of not being enough. Most importantly, I work with you. I strive to create a space and path forward that feels uniquely tailored for you.
(520) 214-2691 View (520) 214-2691
Photo of Sammy Skinner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Sammy Skinner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I’m Sammy and I'm an openly queer therapist who is passionate about supporting the LGBTQ+ community. I offer virtual therapy services for individuals ages 18 and older. My primary passion and area of advanced training as a therapist is LGBTQ+ care, including a variety of related topics such as identity clarification, gender dysphoria, minority stress, intersectionality, coming out, navigating relationships, processing trauma, reducing shame, and fostering self-love. I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) but I am trained in a variety of other modalities which I can use to adapt to each client’s individual needs.
Hi! I’m Sammy and I'm an openly queer therapist who is passionate about supporting the LGBTQ+ community. I offer virtual therapy services for individuals ages 18 and older. My primary passion and area of advanced training as a therapist is LGBTQ+ care, including a variety of related topics such as identity clarification, gender dysphoria, minority stress, intersectionality, coming out, navigating relationships, processing trauma, reducing shame, and fostering self-love. I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) but I am trained in a variety of other modalities which I can use to adapt to each client’s individual needs.
(602) 641-3412 View (602) 641-3412
Photo of Dr. Dylan Richard, Psychologist in Arizona
Dr. Dylan Richard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85048  (Online Only)
Are you seeking a compassionate, experienced, and authentic psychologist to join you in your journey towards mental wellness and self-discovery? Are you looking for someone who doesn't fit the stereotypical mold of "psychologist"? Are you seeking a psychologist who is affirming and understanding of what it is like to be queer, polyamorous, kinky, neurodivergent, and/or alternative? When meeting with a new therapist, do you feel as though you spend way too much time educating them rather than on your actual concerns? Well look no further!
Are you seeking a compassionate, experienced, and authentic psychologist to join you in your journey towards mental wellness and self-discovery? Are you looking for someone who doesn't fit the stereotypical mold of "psychologist"? Are you seeking a psychologist who is affirming and understanding of what it is like to be queer, polyamorous, kinky, neurodivergent, and/or alternative? When meeting with a new therapist, do you feel as though you spend way too much time educating them rather than on your actual concerns? Well look no further!
(520) 523-4949 View (520) 523-4949
Photo of Sage Jaurequi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Arizona
Sage Jaurequi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020
I have years of experience working with the LGBTQ population.
Summer 2024 (May-Sep) availability, virtual sessions only. I am a Couples/Relationship Therapist who focuses on attachment. There is no worse feeling than feeling disconnected, alone, and misunderstood in the most important relationship in your life. Allow me to help you reconnect and strengthen your relationship bond. If you want to improve your communication and deepen your experience of connection, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy may work for you. I also work with individuals who currently are experiencing, or have experienced, relationship anxiety, parental neglect/abandonment, and trauma.
I have years of experience working with the LGBTQ population.
Summer 2024 (May-Sep) availability, virtual sessions only. I am a Couples/Relationship Therapist who focuses on attachment. There is no worse feeling than feeling disconnected, alone, and misunderstood in the most important relationship in your life. Allow me to help you reconnect and strengthen your relationship bond. If you want to improve your communication and deepen your experience of connection, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy may work for you. I also work with individuals who currently are experiencing, or have experienced, relationship anxiety, parental neglect/abandonment, and trauma.
(619) 394-6660 View (619) 394-6660
Photo of Logan Denny, Counselor in Arizona
Logan Denny
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Hey! I am Logan (they/them)- I am a queer, nonbinary, neurodivergent LAC/sex therapist with an education background in trauma-informed sex therapy. I am committed to creating a collaborative space where folx can seek wellness, pleasure, and liberation. I believe in supporting and empowering people in navigating the exploration of gender, sexuality, kink, non-monogamous relationships, intimate relationships, shame free sex, religious trauma and any other situations life has to offer.
Hey! I am Logan (they/them)- I am a queer, nonbinary, neurodivergent LAC/sex therapist with an education background in trauma-informed sex therapy. I am committed to creating a collaborative space where folx can seek wellness, pleasure, and liberation. I believe in supporting and empowering people in navigating the exploration of gender, sexuality, kink, non-monogamous relationships, intimate relationships, shame free sex, religious trauma and any other situations life has to offer.
(623) 210-6199 View (623) 210-6199
Photo of Forrest Marvin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Forrest Marvin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85003
I am a non-binary, transgender person who strongly values being a part of queer community.
Maybe you're feeling stuck in the same cycles you can't seem to break out of. Maybe you're struggling to maintain relationships that feel safe and supportive. Maybe you know that you've been impacted by the painful experiences you've had, but you don't know where to start with unpacking them. It can be scary to face your pain, and you deserve support. You're not too much, and you're not alone. I want to support you with deepening your self-understanding and self-compassion. Healing is possible when you're ready to start.
I am a non-binary, transgender person who strongly values being a part of queer community.
Maybe you're feeling stuck in the same cycles you can't seem to break out of. Maybe you're struggling to maintain relationships that feel safe and supportive. Maybe you know that you've been impacted by the painful experiences you've had, but you don't know where to start with unpacking them. It can be scary to face your pain, and you deserve support. You're not too much, and you're not alone. I want to support you with deepening your self-understanding and self-compassion. Healing is possible when you're ready to start.
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Photo of Maya Duncan-Pope, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Maya Duncan-Pope
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I am a Licensed Social worker with degrees in Psychology and Human & Family Development and a Master of Social Work. I am a queer and neurodivergent therapist. I specialize in working with teens, adults, and LGBT+ individuals.
I am a Licensed Social worker with degrees in Psychology and Human & Family Development and a Master of Social Work. I am a queer and neurodivergent therapist. I specialize in working with teens, adults, and LGBT+ individuals.
(480) 462-5450 View (480) 462-5450
Photo of Mary A Brasch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Mary A Brasch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACL, MA, LPC, Regd-Ht, CAGS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85032
I host a transgender ( LGBTQ) support group in person.
I believe in creating and maintaining a safe and supportive environment in which my clients have the opportunity to explore their histories and experiences, develop greater self awareness, achieve insight into their issues, and enhance their strengths. My treatment approach is both creative and flexible. I treat adults for issues that may include: Parenting, Marriage and Relationships, Communication, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Bereavement, and Gender issues. My experience over years as an educator, school counselor and behavioral specialist makes treating children and teens a special skill area I offer.
I host a transgender ( LGBTQ) support group in person.
I believe in creating and maintaining a safe and supportive environment in which my clients have the opportunity to explore their histories and experiences, develop greater self awareness, achieve insight into their issues, and enhance their strengths. My treatment approach is both creative and flexible. I treat adults for issues that may include: Parenting, Marriage and Relationships, Communication, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Bereavement, and Gender issues. My experience over years as an educator, school counselor and behavioral specialist makes treating children and teens a special skill area I offer.
(602) 910-2332 View (602) 910-2332
Photo of Ren Elliott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Ren Elliott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85012  (Online Only)
I'm a queer, neurodivergent therapist that brings a queer, neurodiverse perspective to therapy.
If you're LGBT+ or neurodiverse, you know how murky and chaotic this road can be. It's a difficult journey, figuring yourself out and untangling yourself from your trauma. I'm here to help. I take a comfortable, compassionate, slightly humorous approach to therapy where I focus on self-empowerment in the face of complicated systems of oppression, collaboration with my clients where we go wherever you want to go in your journey, and discovering the joy of living authentically.
I'm a queer, neurodivergent therapist that brings a queer, neurodiverse perspective to therapy.
If you're LGBT+ or neurodiverse, you know how murky and chaotic this road can be. It's a difficult journey, figuring yourself out and untangling yourself from your trauma. I'm here to help. I take a comfortable, compassionate, slightly humorous approach to therapy where I focus on self-empowerment in the face of complicated systems of oppression, collaboration with my clients where we go wherever you want to go in your journey, and discovering the joy of living authentically.
(417) 900-3101 View (417) 900-3101
Photo of Kendahl Florio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Kendahl Florio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85013  (Online Only)
I have good news: therapy doesn't have to be painful to work. Many of us are struggling to thrive in the world, dealing with unprecedented stress, oppression, and disconnection. I strive to offer hope to queer people, neurodivergent folks, and those living with painful trauma experiences. Let's honor your complexity, learn to heal your wounds through mindful self-compassion and find your spark of aliveness again. I can help you root out self-shaming, and find love for yourself again. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Everyone. Yes, even you. You deserve that, too.
I have good news: therapy doesn't have to be painful to work. Many of us are struggling to thrive in the world, dealing with unprecedented stress, oppression, and disconnection. I strive to offer hope to queer people, neurodivergent folks, and those living with painful trauma experiences. Let's honor your complexity, learn to heal your wounds through mindful self-compassion and find your spark of aliveness again. I can help you root out self-shaming, and find love for yourself again. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Everyone. Yes, even you. You deserve that, too.
(480) 571-3841 View (480) 571-3841
Photo of Alison Williams, Counselor in Arizona
Alison Williams
Counselor, MC, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85032
In Person & Virtual Intakes Available! Alison is a licensed associate counselor who utilizes a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to therapy as a way to gain a better understanding of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Alison is passionate about working with those identifying with the LGBTQIA+ community, individuals working through life transitions (i.e., starting a new chapter of life, entering into adulthood, changing family dynamics, starting college), and those looking to begin processing generational trauma in a safe space as well as navigating symptoms of anxiety and depression.
In Person & Virtual Intakes Available! Alison is a licensed associate counselor who utilizes a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to therapy as a way to gain a better understanding of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Alison is passionate about working with those identifying with the LGBTQIA+ community, individuals working through life transitions (i.e., starting a new chapter of life, entering into adulthood, changing family dynamics, starting college), and those looking to begin processing generational trauma in a safe space as well as navigating symptoms of anxiety and depression.
(602) 932-7170 View (602) 932-7170
Photo of Marr Hassan, Counselor in Arizona
Marr Hassan
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85705
Do you have a desire to feel comforted, listened to, heard, and experience healing without judgement? Together we can facilitate an honest and open environment to explore your innermost feelings and trauma without fear of stigma. I take a collaborative and client-centered approach to work towards developing a fulfilling relationship with yourself and others. My practice is tailored to those that have been considered "outsiders" such as (but not limited to) people from LGBTQ+, polyamorous, leftist, and kink communities who have traditionally been left out or exploited by the mental health field. Email is the fastest way to reach me.
Do you have a desire to feel comforted, listened to, heard, and experience healing without judgement? Together we can facilitate an honest and open environment to explore your innermost feelings and trauma without fear of stigma. I take a collaborative and client-centered approach to work towards developing a fulfilling relationship with yourself and others. My practice is tailored to those that have been considered "outsiders" such as (but not limited to) people from LGBTQ+, polyamorous, leftist, and kink communities who have traditionally been left out or exploited by the mental health field. Email is the fastest way to reach me.
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Photo of Rachel Sommerfield, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Rachel Sommerfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC-S, ADHD-CP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85704
I love to work with adolescents and young adults who are neurodiverse, LGBTQ+, experiencing self-doubt and perfectionism and have experience with these areas myself.
Life can get messy and overwhelming, even when we think we've got our shit together! You may be coming here as a parent feeling exhausted by how to help your child, wanting to find the right therapist for your child or teen that they connect with, or searching as an adult needing a space to process all the stressors of life. I am excited to help you get started with identifying your needs and working together to come up with goals that you feel motivated to tackle.
I love to work with adolescents and young adults who are neurodiverse, LGBTQ+, experiencing self-doubt and perfectionism and have experience with these areas myself.
Life can get messy and overwhelming, even when we think we've got our shit together! You may be coming here as a parent feeling exhausted by how to help your child, wanting to find the right therapist for your child or teen that they connect with, or searching as an adult needing a space to process all the stressors of life. I am excited to help you get started with identifying your needs and working together to come up with goals that you feel motivated to tackle.
(520) 231-7386 View (520) 231-7386
Photo of Crista Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Crista Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Waitlist for new clients
As a queer, person of color, I believe in creating a non-judgmental and culturally sensitive space to assist clients in creating a life that they love. Due to the pandemic, many of us have had more time for reflection than we might have had in the past. Maybe this time of reflection has caused you to question your identity, gender or sexuality. Exploring and integrating your gender or sexuality can feel overwhelming, especially in a world that can be hostile to LGBT/Queer people, but you do not have to do it alone. Seeking help takes courage. You are courageous.
As a queer, person of color, I believe in creating a non-judgmental and culturally sensitive space to assist clients in creating a life that they love. Due to the pandemic, many of us have had more time for reflection than we might have had in the past. Maybe this time of reflection has caused you to question your identity, gender or sexuality. Exploring and integrating your gender or sexuality can feel overwhelming, especially in a world that can be hostile to LGBT/Queer people, but you do not have to do it alone. Seeking help takes courage. You are courageous.
(480) 933-2568 View (480) 933-2568
Photo of Rachel Baumgardner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Rachel Baumgardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in LGBTQIA2S+ (queer) issues and domestic/intimate partner violence.
I believe that embracing oneself can be one of life's most challenging journeys, yet among the most rewarding! I'm here to meet you where you are, and help you on your journey. I treat every client with compassion and through a lens of non-judgment. I spent six years working in community mental health and have treated marginalized/underserved peoples. I love helping clients through phase of life issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, mood struggles, and more. I apply an integrated approach and use motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and person-centered therapy. I am social justice oriented.
I specialize in LGBTQIA2S+ (queer) issues and domestic/intimate partner violence.
I believe that embracing oneself can be one of life's most challenging journeys, yet among the most rewarding! I'm here to meet you where you are, and help you on your journey. I treat every client with compassion and through a lens of non-judgment. I spent six years working in community mental health and have treated marginalized/underserved peoples. I love helping clients through phase of life issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, mood struggles, and more. I apply an integrated approach and use motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and person-centered therapy. I am social justice oriented.
(623) 304-6796 View (623) 304-6796
Photo of Adam Lovallo Counseling , Counselor in Arizona
Adam Lovallo Counseling
Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85742  (Online Only)
I specialize in individual counseling, with experience working on the following issues: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, grief, LGBTQ, adoption, substance abuse and video game addiction, as well low self-esteem.
I am Telehealth Therapist, licensed to serve Arizona residents. As a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor for over 25 years, my job is to help you to address the challenges in your life by providing you with a safe space to discover and embrace your true authentic self first and foremost. I can help you achieve this by providing you with constructive feedback coupled with unconditional positive regard and encouragement. In therapy I will also help you to understand how your thoughts and behavior affect your feelings. So let's move you from a place of simply existing and enduring life to actually living life to its fullest!
I specialize in individual counseling, with experience working on the following issues: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, grief, LGBTQ, adoption, substance abuse and video game addiction, as well low self-esteem.
I am Telehealth Therapist, licensed to serve Arizona residents. As a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor for over 25 years, my job is to help you to address the challenges in your life by providing you with a safe space to discover and embrace your true authentic self first and foremost. I can help you achieve this by providing you with constructive feedback coupled with unconditional positive regard and encouragement. In therapy I will also help you to understand how your thoughts and behavior affect your feelings. So let's move you from a place of simply existing and enduring life to actually living life to its fullest!
(520) 224-1007 View (520) 224-1007
Photo of Alyssa Palty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Alyssa Palty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044  (Online Only)
Discovering and disclosing your identity can be anxiety provoking. I partner with folks to navigate this journey including LGBTQIA+, Transgender, Faith Transitions, and Ex Mormon communities. Perhaps you've had questions about your identity your entire life that you've kept in the back of your mind. Or maybe some article or video just sparked something for you now. Not feeling trans enough? Can't wait to transition? It can feel daunting task to contemplate coming out. It can feel even more rewarding to live in a way that feels free and happy. I can't wait to see you happy and at peace.
Discovering and disclosing your identity can be anxiety provoking. I partner with folks to navigate this journey including LGBTQIA+, Transgender, Faith Transitions, and Ex Mormon communities. Perhaps you've had questions about your identity your entire life that you've kept in the back of your mind. Or maybe some article or video just sparked something for you now. Not feeling trans enough? Can't wait to transition? It can feel daunting task to contemplate coming out. It can feel even more rewarding to live in a way that feels free and happy. I can't wait to see you happy and at peace.
(520) 214-0742 View (520) 214-0742
Photo of Tee-Jay Netters, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arizona
Tee-Jay Netters
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Are you ready to be seen? Welcome to Melanin Plus Counseling & Wellness. The world is constantly evolving and can be hard to navigate with life transitions and stress, especially for men. My goal is to provide services to couples and men of color identifying with queer sexual orientations in relationship communication, PTSD, perfectionism, and shame. I utilize a unique, holistic, and systemic approach to working with individuals and relationships who want to enrich their lives. I enjoy guiding and exploring solutions at a client-centered pace using accountability for change.
Are you ready to be seen? Welcome to Melanin Plus Counseling & Wellness. The world is constantly evolving and can be hard to navigate with life transitions and stress, especially for men. My goal is to provide services to couples and men of color identifying with queer sexual orientations in relationship communication, PTSD, perfectionism, and shame. I utilize a unique, holistic, and systemic approach to working with individuals and relationships who want to enrich their lives. I enjoy guiding and exploring solutions at a client-centered pace using accountability for change.
(623) 263-3708 View (623) 263-3708
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.