LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Colorado Springs, CO

Photo of Ann-Marie Manning, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Ann-Marie Manning
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Furthermore, I find it fulfilling to work with individuals that identify as BIPOC, multiracial, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, polyamory/non-monogamy, kink friendly, women, and providing supervision for MSWs, LSWs, & LPCCs pursuing licensure.
I believe it is important to find the right therapist so you feel like you can be yourself and talk about the challenges you are facing. An essential part of my practice is to build rapport with my clients, so they feel comfortable talking about their problems and the hurtful issues they’ve experienced. I have enjoyed assisting individuals from multiple cultural, educational, gender, spirituality, and socioeconomic backgrounds who have experienced challenges with trauma, grief, anxiety, social identities, life transitions, sleep disturbances, mental health, health issues, adult children of alcoholics/addicts, & DV survivors.
Furthermore, I find it fulfilling to work with individuals that identify as BIPOC, multiracial, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, polyamory/non-monogamy, kink friendly, women, and providing supervision for MSWs, LSWs, & LPCCs pursuing licensure.
I believe it is important to find the right therapist so you feel like you can be yourself and talk about the challenges you are facing. An essential part of my practice is to build rapport with my clients, so they feel comfortable talking about their problems and the hurtful issues they’ve experienced. I have enjoyed assisting individuals from multiple cultural, educational, gender, spirituality, and socioeconomic backgrounds who have experienced challenges with trauma, grief, anxiety, social identities, life transitions, sleep disturbances, mental health, health issues, adult children of alcoholics/addicts, & DV survivors.
(719) 581-5490 View (719) 581-5490
Photo of Ashley Root, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Colorado Springs, CO
Ashley Root
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Waitlist for new clients
They have a passion for LGBTQIA+ clients, especially trans and gender expansive individuals, from diverse expressions of sexuality, affection, gender, and intimate relationships.
Ashley (she/they) has extensive experience processing gender identity, gender expression, sexuality, trauma, grief, abuse, and mental illness. The work that they do in the therapeutic space is well suited for clients looking for an affirming, non-judgmental space to process their experiences and make changes towards a more authentic and aligned sense of self . Holding an intersectional lens, Ashley values the work of creating space for folks with varying and diverse identities to explore the intricacies of their lived experience. .
They have a passion for LGBTQIA+ clients, especially trans and gender expansive individuals, from diverse expressions of sexuality, affection, gender, and intimate relationships.
Ashley (she/they) has extensive experience processing gender identity, gender expression, sexuality, trauma, grief, abuse, and mental illness. The work that they do in the therapeutic space is well suited for clients looking for an affirming, non-judgmental space to process their experiences and make changes towards a more authentic and aligned sense of self . Holding an intersectional lens, Ashley values the work of creating space for folks with varying and diverse identities to explore the intricacies of their lived experience. .
(719) 695-7023 View (719) 695-7023
Photo of Trevor Gates-Crandall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Trevor Gates-Crandall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80909  (Online Only)
I am a social work educator and clinical social worker who specializes in practice with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer+ people.
I use a solution-focused and person-centered approach, and work best with people who enjoy finding creative solutions to what's bothering them. Most of my clients are interested in being goal-focused, constructing meaningful solutions, identifying appropriate community resources, and engaging in respectful and collaborative dialogue.
I am a social work educator and clinical social worker who specializes in practice with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer+ people.
I use a solution-focused and person-centered approach, and work best with people who enjoy finding creative solutions to what's bothering them. Most of my clients are interested in being goal-focused, constructing meaningful solutions, identifying appropriate community resources, and engaging in respectful and collaborative dialogue.
(719) 738-8849 View (719) 738-8849
Photo of Therapy by Liam Huntley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Therapy by Liam Huntley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
As a member of the LGBTQ+ Community, who self-identifies as Gay/Queer.
Immediate Openings Available - Contact me. Dual licensed in Colorado and California. "All manner of things shall be well." Sometimes we get stuck. Is the past holding on tight and refusing to let you move forward? Is the current state of the world around you, local and far away, keeping you awake into the night with fear and anxiety? You are not alone. Reaching out for support can feel like an impossible step. Seeking support is a sign of strength, of courage, NOT weakness. They can be, and you have taken the first step by reaching out.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ Community, who self-identifies as Gay/Queer.
Immediate Openings Available - Contact me. Dual licensed in Colorado and California. "All manner of things shall be well." Sometimes we get stuck. Is the past holding on tight and refusing to let you move forward? Is the current state of the world around you, local and far away, keeping you awake into the night with fear and anxiety? You are not alone. Reaching out for support can feel like an impossible step. Seeking support is a sign of strength, of courage, NOT weakness. They can be, and you have taken the first step by reaching out.
(719) 223-3896 View (719) 223-3896
Photo of Krissi Franzen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Krissi Franzen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80902  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Most of my experience is working with the LGBTQIA+, kink, and poly communities, and I am a WPATH and IFS informed counselor! I like to use curiosity, expression, and experimentation to support you towards your goals!.
My role is to help support you to lead happier, healthier life. Sometimes this means lessening your symptoms of anxiety or depression, or maybe it's working towards a specific goal like changing jobs or making friends. It can also look like wanting to find your true, authentic self, which can be exploring gender, sexuality, life after loss, or even just trying to figure out who you are!
Most of my experience is working with the LGBTQIA+, kink, and poly communities, and I am a WPATH and IFS informed counselor! I like to use curiosity, expression, and experimentation to support you towards your goals!.
My role is to help support you to lead happier, healthier life. Sometimes this means lessening your symptoms of anxiety or depression, or maybe it's working towards a specific goal like changing jobs or making friends. It can also look like wanting to find your true, authentic self, which can be exploring gender, sexuality, life after loss, or even just trying to figure out who you are!
(720) 782-1620 View (720) 782-1620
Photo of Dr. Brett Bartruff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Colorado Springs, CO
Dr. Brett Bartruff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80916  (Online Only)
I am a proud LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapist and advocate. I aim to help clients discover and engage in a meaningful and purposeful life. The great thing about therapy and wellness is it is different for everyone and should be based on each unique individual. I focus on understanding people holistically, with particular attention on a person’s strengths, attachments, stressful/traumatic events, and cultural environment. I integrate aspects of cognitive therapy, psycho-dynamic principles, adaptive processing theory, and motivational interviewing as part of my therapeutic practice.
I am a proud LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapist and advocate. I aim to help clients discover and engage in a meaningful and purposeful life. The great thing about therapy and wellness is it is different for everyone and should be based on each unique individual. I focus on understanding people holistically, with particular attention on a person’s strengths, attachments, stressful/traumatic events, and cultural environment. I integrate aspects of cognitive therapy, psycho-dynamic principles, adaptive processing theory, and motivational interviewing as part of my therapeutic practice.
(385) 284-0423 View (385) 284-0423
Photo of Alan Hale, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Colorado Springs, CO
Alan Hale
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, MFTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80901
Schedule instantly through my website! (Link in profile). As a queer BIPOC individual, my passion is working with other individuals, relationships, and family systems of the queer and or BIPOC community. If you grew up in a culture that viewed mental health as taboo, you may be feeling alone and hopeless. Know that you are not alone in your journey. I believe that people and relationships can thrive if given the proper support, nourishment, and environment. We are all given the same tools, but how helpful can it be if we were never taught how to use them?
Schedule instantly through my website! (Link in profile). As a queer BIPOC individual, my passion is working with other individuals, relationships, and family systems of the queer and or BIPOC community. If you grew up in a culture that viewed mental health as taboo, you may be feeling alone and hopeless. Know that you are not alone in your journey. I believe that people and relationships can thrive if given the proper support, nourishment, and environment. We are all given the same tools, but how helpful can it be if we were never taught how to use them?
(720) 923-8580 View (720) 923-8580
Photo of Dr. Rae de Lune, Psychologist in Colorado Springs, CO
Dr. Rae de Lune
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80901
With a deep-seated expertise in women's issues, LGBTQ+ and transgender-specific care, relational dynamics, and overall mental health, my services are especially attuned to the needs of LGBTQ+ people.
Hello there! I'm Rae. In my practice as a clinical psychologist, I offer a blend of psychotherapeutic support, LGBTQ+ wellness guidance, and consultative expertise, all carefully crafted to meet your individual journey. My practice is enriched by a diverse range of interests including self-identity exploration, the intricacies of human relationships, the embrace of neurodiversity, navigating trauma, managing existential angst, as well as tackling anxiety, depression, and fostering personal growth. My commitment is to foster an authentic and secure environment that allows you to honor your truest self.
With a deep-seated expertise in women's issues, LGBTQ+ and transgender-specific care, relational dynamics, and overall mental health, my services are especially attuned to the needs of LGBTQ+ people.
Hello there! I'm Rae. In my practice as a clinical psychologist, I offer a blend of psychotherapeutic support, LGBTQ+ wellness guidance, and consultative expertise, all carefully crafted to meet your individual journey. My practice is enriched by a diverse range of interests including self-identity exploration, the intricacies of human relationships, the embrace of neurodiversity, navigating trauma, managing existential angst, as well as tackling anxiety, depression, and fostering personal growth. My commitment is to foster an authentic and secure environment that allows you to honor your truest self.
(303) 351-5939 View (303) 351-5939
Photo of A. J. Durben, Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
A. J. Durben
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80902  (Online Only)
As both a therapist and a fellow traveler of life, I know the complexity and challenges of being a human in this world. I believe our identities are our most precious assets, despite what society has conditioned us to believe. Because of my own queer identity, I am particularly delighted to support folks who identify as queer/LGBTQIA+. My work is centered around helping clients reconnect with their inherent worth, heal the impact of the past, and learn to regulate. I will help you explore the life experiences and narratives that challenge you showing up exactly as you are, and guide you towards the healing and wellness you deserve.
As both a therapist and a fellow traveler of life, I know the complexity and challenges of being a human in this world. I believe our identities are our most precious assets, despite what society has conditioned us to believe. Because of my own queer identity, I am particularly delighted to support folks who identify as queer/LGBTQIA+. My work is centered around helping clients reconnect with their inherent worth, heal the impact of the past, and learn to regulate. I will help you explore the life experiences and narratives that challenge you showing up exactly as you are, and guide you towards the healing and wellness you deserve.
(720) 730-6798 View (720) 730-6798
Photo of Emily King, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Emily King
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80904  (Online Only)
I offer an integrative, trauma-informed approach specializing in identity exploration, anxiety, OCD, and disordered eating. As a queer therapist, I also value and specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ clients and those who are deconstructing faith transitions. With a relational and grounded style, I create a space where clients feel safe to explore, process distress, and challenge themselves to live with greater balance and authenticity.
I offer an integrative, trauma-informed approach specializing in identity exploration, anxiety, OCD, and disordered eating. As a queer therapist, I also value and specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ clients and those who are deconstructing faith transitions. With a relational and grounded style, I create a space where clients feel safe to explore, process distress, and challenge themselves to live with greater balance and authenticity.
(866) 721-4642 View (866) 721-4642
Photo of Sam Haid, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Sam Haid
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
We all have the innate capacity to reclaim our story, unlearn, and step into our most authentic self. The heart of my practice focuses on supporting people through challenging times and helping them to cultivate meaning, purpose, and joy from struggle. My clients learn to embrace their whole self through their experience of depression, grief, anxiety, life transition, relationship struggles, etc. My ideal client is queer or queer-allying, struggling to harness self-empowerment for change/growth, inquisitive about their world, and is open to exploring somatically, creatively, and existentially.
We all have the innate capacity to reclaim our story, unlearn, and step into our most authentic self. The heart of my practice focuses on supporting people through challenging times and helping them to cultivate meaning, purpose, and joy from struggle. My clients learn to embrace their whole self through their experience of depression, grief, anxiety, life transition, relationship struggles, etc. My ideal client is queer or queer-allying, struggling to harness self-empowerment for change/growth, inquisitive about their world, and is open to exploring somatically, creatively, and existentially.
(720) 782-5446 View (720) 782-5446
Photo of Brysen Bocchino, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Brysen Bocchino
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80924  (Online Only)
Additionally, I particularly enjoy working with clients who identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community (as I am a gay therapist).
I believe in a holistic approach to therapy, and I do my best to ensure that treatment is tailored specifically to each client. I do not follow a “one-size-fits-all” approach. As a therapist, I emphasize the therapeutic relationship between the client and therapist, as I think that this the foundation and key to successful therapy.
Additionally, I particularly enjoy working with clients who identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community (as I am a gay therapist).
I believe in a holistic approach to therapy, and I do my best to ensure that treatment is tailored specifically to each client. I do not follow a “one-size-fits-all” approach. As a therapist, I emphasize the therapeutic relationship between the client and therapist, as I think that this the foundation and key to successful therapy.
(303) 625-6247 View (303) 625-6247
Photo of Chingonx Counseling & Consulting, LLC, Clinical Social Work Candidate in Colorado Springs, CO
Chingonx Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work Candidate, MSSW, CSWC, ADDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80918  (Online Only)
I welcome all of my clients intersectionality in sessions. My clinical practice engages in culturally responsive trauma- informed healing. My work centers with LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities.
I welcome all of my clients intersectionality in sessions. My clinical practice engages in culturally responsive trauma- informed healing. My work centers with LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities.
(720) 784-5408 View (720) 784-5408
Photo of Sharon F. Hester, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Sharon F. Hester
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80916
, queer, trans, gay).
Therapy is a space for you, the entire you. It is a space for finding joy among the chaos, and for speaking your truth, perhaps for the first time. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, or life transitions such as gender exploration, work-life balance, or achievement pressure, I am here to help. As part of therapy, we will creatively explore how to step out of your comfort zone, while also taking good care of yourself. Choosing to change is scary, and worth it. You’re not in this alone.
, queer, trans, gay).
Therapy is a space for you, the entire you. It is a space for finding joy among the chaos, and for speaking your truth, perhaps for the first time. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, or life transitions such as gender exploration, work-life balance, or achievement pressure, I am here to help. As part of therapy, we will creatively explore how to step out of your comfort zone, while also taking good care of yourself. Choosing to change is scary, and worth it. You’re not in this alone.
(720) 713-3559 View (720) 713-3559
Photo of Jean Parcher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Jean Parcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80920
I help people GET & KEEP the change they want in life. As a lesbian military veteran, I offer compassionate and non-judgmental assistance to people who desire to grow & live a complete & more balanced life. I will help identify the root causes of problems and to assist with resolution. Equipping people with life skills and tools helps people achieve internal balance, success, and self-discovery. I specialize in LGBT+ issues, transgender transitions, gender identity counseling, and light sensitivity.
I help people GET & KEEP the change they want in life. As a lesbian military veteran, I offer compassionate and non-judgmental assistance to people who desire to grow & live a complete & more balanced life. I will help identify the root causes of problems and to assist with resolution. Equipping people with life skills and tools helps people achieve internal balance, success, and self-discovery. I specialize in LGBT+ issues, transgender transitions, gender identity counseling, and light sensitivity.
(719) 259-2299 View (719) 259-2299
Photo of Butterfly Therapeutics, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Butterfly Therapeutics, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80923  (Online Only)
Why Hello! I'm Amy. Being apart of the LGBTQIA+ community and growing up experiencing generational trauma, I became oh too familiar with that detached and unseen feeling. I mean in a crisis I was great! But aren't most children survivors? It was those everyday tasks and relationships that seemed so hard. Through my own healing and teachings as a Holistic Therapist I learned to become unstuck from the past and find peace in the present. This is now what I do for my clients! I combine evidence-based practices with holistic full system wellness to help my clients find their peace and power! It's Time!
Why Hello! I'm Amy. Being apart of the LGBTQIA+ community and growing up experiencing generational trauma, I became oh too familiar with that detached and unseen feeling. I mean in a crisis I was great! But aren't most children survivors? It was those everyday tasks and relationships that seemed so hard. Through my own healing and teachings as a Holistic Therapist I learned to become unstuck from the past and find peace in the present. This is now what I do for my clients! I combine evidence-based practices with holistic full system wellness to help my clients find their peace and power! It's Time!
(719) 416-4897 View (719) 416-4897
Photo of Charis Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado Springs, CO
Charis Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80910
In particular I have particular training in EMDR, racial trauma/anti-racism, LGBTQ+ affirming care, family systems theory, boundaries and communication skills.
Are you ready to start this next part of your healing journey? I believe you have an innate capacity to heal and grow. My role is to create a safe relationship and environment that supports your process. I also happen to be a psychology nerd and will probably introduce different tools or theories for us to explore and see what is helpful for you. Often my work with people focuses on learning to understand and feel emotions, identifying how their past has impacted them, and building stronger relationships (with themselves and with others).
In particular I have particular training in EMDR, racial trauma/anti-racism, LGBTQ+ affirming care, family systems theory, boundaries and communication skills.
Are you ready to start this next part of your healing journey? I believe you have an innate capacity to heal and grow. My role is to create a safe relationship and environment that supports your process. I also happen to be a psychology nerd and will probably introduce different tools or theories for us to explore and see what is helpful for you. Often my work with people focuses on learning to understand and feel emotions, identifying how their past has impacted them, and building stronger relationships (with themselves and with others).
(719) 735-4971 View (719) 735-4971
Photo of Samantha Bunecke, Pre-Licensed Professional in Colorado Springs, CO
Samantha Bunecke
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
As a military spouse, I have a passion for working with military members and their families. Additionally, I have a particular focus on working with sexual assault survivors, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and first responders. Occasionally, we encounter situations that override our ability to cope and are at a loss for how to move forward. In these times, having a dedicated space where you can show-up however you need and process through the experience in a supportive environment is game-changing. I have sliding scale fees in an effort to make therapy affordable for everyone.
As a military spouse, I have a passion for working with military members and their families. Additionally, I have a particular focus on working with sexual assault survivors, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and first responders. Occasionally, we encounter situations that override our ability to cope and are at a loss for how to move forward. In these times, having a dedicated space where you can show-up however you need and process through the experience in a supportive environment is game-changing. I have sliding scale fees in an effort to make therapy affordable for everyone.
(719) 259-5243 View (719) 259-5243
Photo of Lisa Schoenstein, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Colorado Springs, CO
Lisa Schoenstein
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
I'm a queer genderfluid therapist, meeting ALL clients with: safety, transparency, mutuality, and curiosity.
You need not walk alone through trauma, grief, loss, anger, stuckness, numbness, overwhelm. You're getting through the day, exhausted from saying "It's fine," needing new perspectives and tools. We will work together to foster a new way forward, carried by meaning-making, gentle curiosity, inviting change, and recalibration toward wholeness. I approach therapy as an intentional, collaborative relationship rooted in the belief that people are inherently adaptive and fundamentally whole. My approach is trauma-informed and person-centered, both reflective and practical. We uncover, discover, discard, reimagine, restore, re-story.
I'm a queer genderfluid therapist, meeting ALL clients with: safety, transparency, mutuality, and curiosity.
You need not walk alone through trauma, grief, loss, anger, stuckness, numbness, overwhelm. You're getting through the day, exhausted from saying "It's fine," needing new perspectives and tools. We will work together to foster a new way forward, carried by meaning-making, gentle curiosity, inviting change, and recalibration toward wholeness. I approach therapy as an intentional, collaborative relationship rooted in the belief that people are inherently adaptive and fundamentally whole. My approach is trauma-informed and person-centered, both reflective and practical. We uncover, discover, discard, reimagine, restore, re-story.
(719) 628-1454 View (719) 628-1454
Photo of Alexis Phillips, Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate in Colorado Springs, CO
Alexis Phillips
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
Additionally, I have a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community, nontraditional relationships, and transitioning individuals.
Deciding to go to therapy is a big step that may cause you to feel nervous, vulnerable, and maybe even a bit overwhelmed. At this point you have probably tried many things to fix the problem, and you are unsure of what to try or where to go next. You are in the right place. Searching for a therapist can be difficult and it is important to find the right fit for you. I work with a variety of people with a variety of concerns utilizing systemic and relational therapies. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment of mutual respect and open communication.
Additionally, I have a passion for working with the LGBTQIA+ community, nontraditional relationships, and transitioning individuals.
Deciding to go to therapy is a big step that may cause you to feel nervous, vulnerable, and maybe even a bit overwhelmed. At this point you have probably tried many things to fix the problem, and you are unsure of what to try or where to go next. You are in the right place. Searching for a therapist can be difficult and it is important to find the right fit for you. I work with a variety of people with a variety of concerns utilizing systemic and relational therapies. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment of mutual respect and open communication.
(719) 751-5752 View (719) 751-5752

See more therapy options for Colorado Springs

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.