Transgender Therapists in Pennsylvania

Photo of Quiet Retreat Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Quiet Retreat Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15209
We have experience working with the LGBTQ community are well versed in the WPATH guidelines for Transgender care.
My goal in providing therapy is to promote a judgement free, non-anxious presence so that you can explore and grow in ways that feel right to you. By using a mix of traditional and trauma-informed therapy styles, we will work together towards healing and authenticity. Whether you struggle with abuse, discrimination, anxiety, depression, need to hone your coping skills or discover your future path, we are here for you. Discover a safe, confidential, and friendly place to explore issues that are close to your heart. You are cared for and loved.
We have experience working with the LGBTQ community are well versed in the WPATH guidelines for Transgender care.
My goal in providing therapy is to promote a judgement free, non-anxious presence so that you can explore and grow in ways that feel right to you. By using a mix of traditional and trauma-informed therapy styles, we will work together towards healing and authenticity. Whether you struggle with abuse, discrimination, anxiety, depression, need to hone your coping skills or discover your future path, we are here for you. Discover a safe, confidential, and friendly place to explore issues that are close to your heart. You are cared for and loved.
(724) 573-8992 View (724) 573-8992
Photo of Remy Garland, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pennsylvania
Remy Garland
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
My passion lies in providing inclusive, comprehensive, and accessible care. I believe that healing work is social justice work. My practice has a strong focus on LGBTQIA folks, social justice oriented community members, misfits, outsiders, and alternative relationship styles (including poly and kink aligned). I love to work with my non-binary and transgender communities to thrive and navigate all of life’s transitions. I support clients living with chronic pain and illness (currently respecting the energy you are using right now to look for a therapist!).
My passion lies in providing inclusive, comprehensive, and accessible care. I believe that healing work is social justice work. My practice has a strong focus on LGBTQIA folks, social justice oriented community members, misfits, outsiders, and alternative relationship styles (including poly and kink aligned). I love to work with my non-binary and transgender communities to thrive and navigate all of life’s transitions. I support clients living with chronic pain and illness (currently respecting the energy you are using right now to look for a therapist!).
View
Photo of Julian R Malys-Gordon, Psychologist in Pennsylvania
Julian R Malys-Gordon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I have provided care for those in the transgender community for several years, which my focus being in an integrated health setting.
My professional goal is to help those in the LGBTQ+ community navigate the social and personal challenges of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as co-occurring mental health symptoms that they may be experiencing. I provide a safe therapeutic environment to meet the unique needs of this community. I have experience working with those of varying gender identities, sexual orientations, as well as varying non-monogamous relationship orientations. I also have experience working with individuals preparing for or receiving gender affirming medical care.
I have provided care for those in the transgender community for several years, which my focus being in an integrated health setting.
My professional goal is to help those in the LGBTQ+ community navigate the social and personal challenges of gender identity and sexual orientation, as well as co-occurring mental health symptoms that they may be experiencing. I provide a safe therapeutic environment to meet the unique needs of this community. I have experience working with those of varying gender identities, sexual orientations, as well as varying non-monogamous relationship orientations. I also have experience working with individuals preparing for or receiving gender affirming medical care.
(267) 491-9371 View (267) 491-9371
Photo of Dr. Jacob Glickman, Psychologist in Pennsylvania
Dr. Jacob Glickman
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104  (Online Only)
Jacob specializes in providing mental healthcare for people who identify as transgender/non-binary/gender expansive, as well as the larger LGBTQIA+ communities and their families; additionally, he maintains an anti-racist, sex positive, kink positive, and poly-aware practice. In collaboration with individuals, families, and people in relationships, Jacob's identities inform his past decade of work as a feminist therapist with a focus in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Jacob specializes in providing mental healthcare for people who identify as transgender/non-binary/gender expansive, as well as the larger LGBTQIA+ communities and their families; additionally, he maintains an anti-racist, sex positive, kink positive, and poly-aware practice. In collaboration with individuals, families, and people in relationships, Jacob's identities inform his past decade of work as a feminist therapist with a focus in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(267) 490-4762 View (267) 490-4762
Photo of Rain Smolinsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Rain Smolinsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17602
Communities include LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families, transgender and gender diverse folks, and neurodiverse communities.
Do you sometimes struggle to find your voice or move in a direction that feels aligned? Are you looking for a space where you can begin to lean into what is true and explore ways to show up more fully in your life? I am deeply drawn to the work of showing up, holding space and providing guidance as a person does the work of moving towards an authentic and fulfilling life. With a steady and affirming approach, we can explore what areas of your life you would like to bring focus and healing to.
Communities include LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families, transgender and gender diverse folks, and neurodiverse communities.
Do you sometimes struggle to find your voice or move in a direction that feels aligned? Are you looking for a space where you can begin to lean into what is true and explore ways to show up more fully in your life? I am deeply drawn to the work of showing up, holding space and providing guidance as a person does the work of moving towards an authentic and fulfilling life. With a steady and affirming approach, we can explore what areas of your life you would like to bring focus and healing to.
(223) 215-4510 View (223) 215-4510
Photo of Melissa Sziga Dessereau, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pennsylvania
Melissa Sziga Dessereau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
They completed their Master of Science in Family Therapy/Sex Therapy at Thomas Jefferson University, Master of Arts in Child Development from Tufts University, and Affirming Approaches for Transgender Communities at Widener U.
Sziga is a perceptive and nuanced therapist with a refreshingly frank style. For over 25 years, they have been working with individuals, couples, and families to foster personal growth and satisfying relationships. They have a way of making clients feel comfortable, understood, and at ease — like no matter what you say they get it and don’t judge you. And they're funny.
They completed their Master of Science in Family Therapy/Sex Therapy at Thomas Jefferson University, Master of Arts in Child Development from Tufts University, and Affirming Approaches for Transgender Communities at Widener U.
Sziga is a perceptive and nuanced therapist with a refreshingly frank style. For over 25 years, they have been working with individuals, couples, and families to foster personal growth and satisfying relationships. They have a way of making clients feel comfortable, understood, and at ease — like no matter what you say they get it and don’t judge you. And they're funny.
(267) 705-6288 View (267) 705-6288
Photo of Hope Krashnak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Hope Krashnak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingston, PA 18704
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with clinical focuses on working with trauma, anxiety disorders, gender exploration, identity issues, and sexuality/sexual orientation. I am a member of WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) and utilize peer consultation to improve my skillset to best support your needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with clinical focuses on working with trauma, anxiety disorders, gender exploration, identity issues, and sexuality/sexual orientation. I am a member of WPATH (World Professional Association for Transgender Health) and utilize peer consultation to improve my skillset to best support your needs.
(570) 209-9317 View (570) 209-9317
Photo of Patricia Gherovici, Licensed Psychoanalyst in Pennsylvania
Patricia Gherovici
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Current Research: How transgender issues are reorienting psychoanalytic practice while making us redefine notions of sexuality.
In my practice I offer a welcoming setting and provide a safe space for your suffering or difficulties. When you speak about yourself to someone who is trained to listen and examine the circumstances that motivated your consultation, a change occurs. A psychoanalyst is a person trained to hear what is happening under the surface, and provides a place where you may speak and hear yourself differently. I have been working as a psychoanalyst and psychotherapist for 25 years and I have found that words can hurt, words can make people sick, but words can also save. Talking cures.
Current Research: How transgender issues are reorienting psychoanalytic practice while making us redefine notions of sexuality.
In my practice I offer a welcoming setting and provide a safe space for your suffering or difficulties. When you speak about yourself to someone who is trained to listen and examine the circumstances that motivated your consultation, a change occurs. A psychoanalyst is a person trained to hear what is happening under the surface, and provides a place where you may speak and hear yourself differently. I have been working as a psychoanalyst and psychotherapist for 25 years and I have found that words can hurt, words can make people sick, but words can also save. Talking cures.
(215) 642-8654 View (215) 642-8654
Photo of Nick Matalik, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Nick Matalik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Indiana, PA 15701
Waitlist for new clients
I am also passionate about the LGB+ community and have extensive knowledge working with transgender individuals.
Do you find yourself struggling with your identity or questioning “who am I, what do I want, how do I get there?” Are you in a relationship where things went stale and you’re looking to find what was lost? What if being aware of yourself and your relationships helped to ease some of those thoughts and led you towards a better understanding? My approach is simple. I love to be surrounded by a mellow atmosphere where hard work is done with warmth and encouragement. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where diversity is honored, bravery is respected, and discovering your true-self is encouraged.
I am also passionate about the LGB+ community and have extensive knowledge working with transgender individuals.
Do you find yourself struggling with your identity or questioning “who am I, what do I want, how do I get there?” Are you in a relationship where things went stale and you’re looking to find what was lost? What if being aware of yourself and your relationships helped to ease some of those thoughts and led you towards a better understanding? My approach is simple. I love to be surrounded by a mellow atmosphere where hard work is done with warmth and encouragement. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where diversity is honored, bravery is respected, and discovering your true-self is encouraged.
(724) 200-8523 View (724) 200-8523
Photo of Dr. Amana Carvalho, Psychologist in Pennsylvania
Dr. Amana Carvalho
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Mars, PA 16046
I have helped clients address struggles with anxiety, depression, self-injury, low self-esteem, lesbian/gay/bisexual & transgender identity issues, family relationship difficulties, religious traumas, & eating disorders / negative body image.
It takes strength & courage to acknowledge personal shortcomings, painful experiences, & life stressors. I commend you for seeking professional help & I would be honored to be part of your journey of healing & self-improvement. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist, lesbian, & woman of color. I believe that, in addition to my professional training, these multiple identities & life experiences have enabled me to understand & help a variety of therapy clients. My therapeutic style is collaborative, egalitarian, & non-judgmental. The most significant aspect of treatment is our relationship.
I have helped clients address struggles with anxiety, depression, self-injury, low self-esteem, lesbian/gay/bisexual & transgender identity issues, family relationship difficulties, religious traumas, & eating disorders / negative body image.
It takes strength & courage to acknowledge personal shortcomings, painful experiences, & life stressors. I commend you for seeking professional help & I would be honored to be part of your journey of healing & self-improvement. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist, lesbian, & woman of color. I believe that, in addition to my professional training, these multiple identities & life experiences have enabled me to understand & help a variety of therapy clients. My therapeutic style is collaborative, egalitarian, & non-judgmental. The most significant aspect of treatment is our relationship.
(724) 252-4637 View (724) 252-4637
Photo of Sara Edwards, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Sara Edwards
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Hello! I'm looking forward to meeting you. I am a therapist specializing in working with sexuality topics. Maybe you are looking for a therapist for a sexuality concern, sex therapy, sexual pain, trauma, or for transgender-affirming care. Maybe you just want to see someone who "gets it" and will be affirming of everything that makes you uniquely you. Whatever the reason, I am excited to accompany you on this wellness journey you're taking! I bring great enthusiasm to my therapy and I am looking forward to helping you achieve your life's passions. I have immediate openings, so we can get started soon without the wait.
Hello! I'm looking forward to meeting you. I am a therapist specializing in working with sexuality topics. Maybe you are looking for a therapist for a sexuality concern, sex therapy, sexual pain, trauma, or for transgender-affirming care. Maybe you just want to see someone who "gets it" and will be affirming of everything that makes you uniquely you. Whatever the reason, I am excited to accompany you on this wellness journey you're taking! I bring great enthusiasm to my therapy and I am looking forward to helping you achieve your life's passions. I have immediate openings, so we can get started soon without the wait.
(215) 688-5866 View (215) 688-5866
Photo of John C. Capozuca, Psychologist in Pennsylvania
John C. Capozuca
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New Hope, PA 18938
Capozuca, his practice policies, as well as helpful links, please visit his website at Transgender-Therapy.
Dr. John C. Capozuca is a licensed psychologist in New York and Pennsylvania with 30 years of experience treating Trans individuals and their families. A WPATH Certified Mentor and GEI Faculty Member, and recent USPATH Board Member, Dr. Capozuca has successfully facilitated the medical, legal and social transitions of hundreds of transsexual and transgender people and is widely regarded as an insightful and compassionate clinician by his patients and colleagues. He is also supervising psychologist for the Gender Identity Project at the LGBT Community Center and consulting psychologist to the the Callen/Lorde Community Health Center.
Capozuca, his practice policies, as well as helpful links, please visit his website at Transgender-Therapy.
Dr. John C. Capozuca is a licensed psychologist in New York and Pennsylvania with 30 years of experience treating Trans individuals and their families. A WPATH Certified Mentor and GEI Faculty Member, and recent USPATH Board Member, Dr. Capozuca has successfully facilitated the medical, legal and social transitions of hundreds of transsexual and transgender people and is widely regarded as an insightful and compassionate clinician by his patients and colleagues. He is also supervising psychologist for the Gender Identity Project at the LGBT Community Center and consulting psychologist to the the Callen/Lorde Community Health Center.
(646) 512-8995 View (646) 512-8995
Photo of Maureen Zdanis, Psychologist in Pennsylvania
Maureen Zdanis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19130
At any stage of development, we are bound to encounter obstacles to our ability to thrive. I help clients to become proactive agents in their own process. I have worked with all ages to reduce symptoms, promote growth, and instill lasting change. I support children, teens, adults, and families in healing from anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression and OCD. I have a speciality in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially GNC and transgender folks. I am licensed in AL, AZ, AR, CT, CO, DE, GA, FL, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY.
At any stage of development, we are bound to encounter obstacles to our ability to thrive. I help clients to become proactive agents in their own process. I have worked with all ages to reduce symptoms, promote growth, and instill lasting change. I support children, teens, adults, and families in healing from anxiety, trauma, grief, and depression and OCD. I have a speciality in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, especially GNC and transgender folks. I am licensed in AL, AZ, AR, CT, CO, DE, GA, FL, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY.
(267) 376-8313 View (267) 376-8313
Photo of Hayley Roverana, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Hayley Roverana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090  (Online Only)
You just want to know that you can walk into a room and don't have to play the "pronoun game", pretend you only have one partner, or have to listen to someone minimize your relationship, sexuality, or gender dysphoria. I am here, above all, to be your biggest advocate. I aim to create a radically accepting space to confront, question, and explore what makes you who you are. I’m not afraid to talk about the hard things. Sex, intimacy, relationships, trauma… This is your space to let it all out. Everyone is welcome here. Judgement isn't tolerated. Arriving with your real, raw, and heavy baggage is celebrated.
You just want to know that you can walk into a room and don't have to play the "pronoun game", pretend you only have one partner, or have to listen to someone minimize your relationship, sexuality, or gender dysphoria. I am here, above all, to be your biggest advocate. I aim to create a radically accepting space to confront, question, and explore what makes you who you are. I’m not afraid to talk about the hard things. Sex, intimacy, relationships, trauma… This is your space to let it all out. Everyone is welcome here. Judgement isn't tolerated. Arriving with your real, raw, and heavy baggage is celebrated.
(724) 576-6753 View (724) 576-6753
Photo of Sabrina J Heller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Sabrina J Heller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ICGC-I
Verified Verified
Bethel Park, PA 15102  (Online Only)
My practice LGBTQA+ affirming and I have extensive training and consultation in providing services for those struggling with gender dysphoria or gender issues.
Not accepting new clients. The choice to start therapy can be a difficult one. Sometimes life’s greatest challenges also present opportunities for transformation. My desire is to provide a safe and comfortable space where that can occur. Psychotherapy can be a wonderful process to take much needed time for yourself. The world throws a lot at us. I believe therapy needs to be a conversation-tailored to each persons individual needs. Collaboration is key and my goal is to help my clients learn skills and strategies to increase coping and find peace. I also believe that change is possible for every person. My pronouns are she/her.
My practice LGBTQA+ affirming and I have extensive training and consultation in providing services for those struggling with gender dysphoria or gender issues.
Not accepting new clients. The choice to start therapy can be a difficult one. Sometimes life’s greatest challenges also present opportunities for transformation. My desire is to provide a safe and comfortable space where that can occur. Psychotherapy can be a wonderful process to take much needed time for yourself. The world throws a lot at us. I believe therapy needs to be a conversation-tailored to each persons individual needs. Collaboration is key and my goal is to help my clients learn skills and strategies to increase coping and find peace. I also believe that change is possible for every person. My pronouns are she/her.
(412) 265-1486 View (412) 265-1486
Photo of Audrey Ervin, Psychologist in Pennsylvania
Audrey Ervin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
I specialize in anxiety, depression, women's issues, body image concerns, assertiveness, stress management, relationship problems, career decision making, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, transgender and gender expansive identities.
I am a licensed psychologist in Doylestown, PA who creates a warm, compassionate and supportive space where you are empowered to move in new directions. As a strengths oriented psychologist who focuses on human resiliency, I work with you to overcome obstacles and develop proactive strategies to reach your goals. Change is possible.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, women's issues, body image concerns, assertiveness, stress management, relationship problems, career decision making, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, transgender and gender expansive identities.
I am a licensed psychologist in Doylestown, PA who creates a warm, compassionate and supportive space where you are empowered to move in new directions. As a strengths oriented psychologist who focuses on human resiliency, I work with you to overcome obstacles and develop proactive strategies to reach your goals. Change is possible.
(267) 622-4191 View (267) 622-4191
Photo of Jennifer Whitlock, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania
Jennifer Whitlock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Easton, PA 18042  (Online Only)
I have taught workshops on transgender issues at universities, high schools and conferences.
I have a soft spot for people who are quirky and unconventional, as I am. I welcome free spirits and those who yearn to express their authentic selves. Life can be more satisfying when one lives for what brings joy, not approval. I love to work with people who already have some insight into their issues and are ready to explore their emotions, thoughts and behaviors in greater depth and try new behaviors - that's why I do so well counseling fellow therapists. I encourage my clients to experience and understand their emotions, rather than regarding feelings as nasty symptoms that they want to get rid of.
I have taught workshops on transgender issues at universities, high schools and conferences.
I have a soft spot for people who are quirky and unconventional, as I am. I welcome free spirits and those who yearn to express their authentic selves. Life can be more satisfying when one lives for what brings joy, not approval. I love to work with people who already have some insight into their issues and are ready to explore their emotions, thoughts and behaviors in greater depth and try new behaviors - that's why I do so well counseling fellow therapists. I encourage my clients to experience and understand their emotions, rather than regarding feelings as nasty symptoms that they want to get rid of.
(973) 222-3750 View (973) 222-3750
Bucks LGBTQ Center
Psychologist, LPC, MPH, CAADC, CEDS, CCTp
Verified Verified
Newtown, PA 18940
Located in Newtown & Buckingham PA, Bucks LGBTQ Center is an affirming, safe space for members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families. We provide Masters and Doctoral level therapeutic support, professional educational trainings, and community events. Many of our providers have lived experience in the queer community in addition to extensive clinical training. Our providers specialize in working with transgender and gender expansive clients. We follow WPATH standards of care.
Located in Newtown & Buckingham PA, Bucks LGBTQ Center is an affirming, safe space for members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families. We provide Masters and Doctoral level therapeutic support, professional educational trainings, and community events. Many of our providers have lived experience in the queer community in addition to extensive clinical training. Our providers specialize in working with transgender and gender expansive clients. We follow WPATH standards of care.
(267) 281-1925 View (267) 281-1925
Photo of Jessica R. Tighe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Jessica R. Tighe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pottsville, PA 17901
I have worked with a diversity of populations during my 18 year career both in community with children and families and in an out patient setting with children and adults to the elderly. My experience lies with behavioral issues with children and family dynamics. Additionally, I have a specialization in substance abuse with a belief in harm reduction leading to abstinence. I have worked with many people of the LGBTQ community and specifically with the transgender population. In working with the LGBTQ community, I also have become versed in people living alternative lifestyles.
I have worked with a diversity of populations during my 18 year career both in community with children and families and in an out patient setting with children and adults to the elderly. My experience lies with behavioral issues with children and family dynamics. Additionally, I have a specialization in substance abuse with a belief in harm reduction leading to abstinence. I have worked with many people of the LGBTQ community and specifically with the transgender population. In working with the LGBTQ community, I also have become versed in people living alternative lifestyles.
View
Photo of Tanya Koifman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pennsylvania
Tanya Koifman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104  (Online Only)
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, and provide gender-affirming support for transgender & non-binary individuals.
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
I work with the LGBTQIA+ community, and provide gender-affirming support for transgender & non-binary individuals.
I am a warm, affirming, non-judgmental psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience, and I work with an interactive, humanistic, strengths-based, trauma-informed, HAES-aligned, and transparent, narrative approach. I believe that people have the innate capacity to heal and change. We will work together to develop a deeper understanding of your life goals and perspectives, so that we can custom-tailor techniques to make life most meaningful for you. We will work together toward resolving life challenges by identifying your personal strengths, coping strategies, and by helping you to see things in your life from a different lens.
(646) 798-6332 View (646) 798-6332

See more therapy options for Pennsylvania

Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.