Therapists in 90403
Tamala J. Poljak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
I specialize in working LGBTQ+ folks and/or artists/creative folks.
People seek therapy for so many reasons, but mostly we all want to feel loved, safe and understood. We want to feel a sense purpose & feel good enough as we are, and yet so many of us struggle to feel these ways. Sometimes our lives look very different than we imagined & we need help making sense out of things. We might be feeling numb or disconnected, uncertain or alone. We might be questioning the direction we are heading and need to find some hope or clarity. Self compassion & radical self-acceptance are cornerstones of my work. I'd like to explore these concepts with you and help you make meaning of your life and sense of self.
I specialize in working LGBTQ+ folks and/or artists/creative folks.
People seek therapy for so many reasons, but mostly we all want to feel loved, safe and understood. We want to feel a sense purpose & feel good enough as we are, and yet so many of us struggle to feel these ways. Sometimes our lives look very different than we imagined & we need help making sense out of things. We might be feeling numb or disconnected, uncertain or alone. We might be questioning the direction we are heading and need to find some hope or clarity. Self compassion & radical self-acceptance are cornerstones of my work. I'd like to explore these concepts with you and help you make meaning of your life and sense of self.
Max Fay
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
My areas of focus include: the LGBTQ+ community, anxiety, ADHD, self-esteem, complex trauma, relationships (with self & others), and people pleasing.
I believe everyone is capable of living their fullest, most vibrant life and it is my passion to help them achieve it. I help clients foster insight by processing their past experiences and gently uncovering the ways their pasts connect with their current struggles. I teach clients to discover the patterns and rules that keep them stuck and then support them in cultivating a life that brings them joy and fulfillment. I invite my clients on a journey of self-compassion and teach them how to prioritize gentleness and self-care. I believe therapy can be silly and even fun while still being impactful and effective.
My areas of focus include: the LGBTQ+ community, anxiety, ADHD, self-esteem, complex trauma, relationships (with self & others), and people pleasing.
I believe everyone is capable of living their fullest, most vibrant life and it is my passion to help them achieve it. I help clients foster insight by processing their past experiences and gently uncovering the ways their pasts connect with their current struggles. I teach clients to discover the patterns and rules that keep them stuck and then support them in cultivating a life that brings them joy and fulfillment. I invite my clients on a journey of self-compassion and teach them how to prioritize gentleness and self-care. I believe therapy can be silly and even fun while still being impactful and effective.
Seana Diemer Iwanyk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Specializing in supporting creatives, LGBTQ+ individuals, and "former gifted kids," I understand the unique stressors these groups face and the burnout that can result.
We all have a story, but when burnout spirals into deeper struggles like anxiety, depression, exhaustion, and compassion fatigue, we can lose sight of that narrative. Pressures like work stress, relationship issues, societal expectations, identity struggles, or pursuit of perfection can engulf us to the point that we can't handle the burden. This impacts our creativity, relationships, and sense of direction. But burnout isn't the end of the story; with support, a new chapter can unfold. I love stories because they foster understanding. Throughout history, stories have been our tools for making sense of ourselves and the world.
Specializing in supporting creatives, LGBTQ+ individuals, and "former gifted kids," I understand the unique stressors these groups face and the burnout that can result.
We all have a story, but when burnout spirals into deeper struggles like anxiety, depression, exhaustion, and compassion fatigue, we can lose sight of that narrative. Pressures like work stress, relationship issues, societal expectations, identity struggles, or pursuit of perfection can engulf us to the point that we can't handle the burden. This impacts our creativity, relationships, and sense of direction. But burnout isn't the end of the story; with support, a new chapter can unfold. I love stories because they foster understanding. Throughout history, stories have been our tools for making sense of ourselves and the world.
Natalie Badawy
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, APCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I'm sex-positive and supportive of all lifestyle and relationship paths inclusive of monogamy, ethical non-monogamy, LGBTQIA, and kink.
Many of us carry our emotional wounds in our bodies and only when we create a connection between the mind and the body can we feel whole again. I utilize a blend of therapeutic techniques that include shadow work, inner child healing, internal family systems (IFS), somatic therapy, and reparenting in order to create a safe connection within the body and mind. When you are in connection with your whole self you are then equipped to heal your relationship with others and the planet. I help clients struggling with sexual trauma, grief, codependency, depression, and relationship challenges.
I'm sex-positive and supportive of all lifestyle and relationship paths inclusive of monogamy, ethical non-monogamy, LGBTQIA, and kink.
Many of us carry our emotional wounds in our bodies and only when we create a connection between the mind and the body can we feel whole again. I utilize a blend of therapeutic techniques that include shadow work, inner child healing, internal family systems (IFS), somatic therapy, and reparenting in order to create a safe connection within the body and mind. When you are in connection with your whole self you are then equipped to heal your relationship with others and the planet. I help clients struggling with sexual trauma, grief, codependency, depression, and relationship challenges.
Laura Kay Mclauchlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I have worked with many clients in the LGBT community.
Are you struggling with DEPRESSION or ANXIETY? Is your RELATIONSHIP stuck in negative patterns?Is SUBSTANCE USE getting in your way, or you're needing extra support in RECOVERY? Are you going through a stressful LIFE TRANSITION? If you answered "yes" to any these questions, or even "maybe", I might be the help you are looking for. I've been told by my clients that I take a more active, direct approach to therapy, and I believe humor is a great healer. It is my 1st job to help you feel accepted, and listened to. I want to help you achieve your therapeutic goals by learning about what motivates you as a unique individual.
I have worked with many clients in the LGBT community.
Are you struggling with DEPRESSION or ANXIETY? Is your RELATIONSHIP stuck in negative patterns?Is SUBSTANCE USE getting in your way, or you're needing extra support in RECOVERY? Are you going through a stressful LIFE TRANSITION? If you answered "yes" to any these questions, or even "maybe", I might be the help you are looking for. I've been told by my clients that I take a more active, direct approach to therapy, and I believe humor is a great healer. It is my 1st job to help you feel accepted, and listened to. I want to help you achieve your therapeutic goals by learning about what motivates you as a unique individual.
Kristen Welke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Whether a client is grappling with anger, depression, anxiety, substance-related concerns, identity issues, grief/loss, LGBTQIA-specific topics, or relationship issues, I am here to collaboratively address and support my clients in achieving their therapeutic goals.
Life can be really hard and oftentimes we need additional support. I love working with individuals through life's transitions and challenges. A belief and dedication to growth, resilience, and well-being, I prioritize trauma-informed care and social justice in my practice. I emphasize authenticity and genuine connections by integrating empathy, creativity, and humor into sessions using Gestalt Therapy. Whether guiding teens or adults through various life’s transitions or focusing on improving a client’s mental well-being, my approach remains culturally conscious and sensitive to individual experiences in the broader societal context
Whether a client is grappling with anger, depression, anxiety, substance-related concerns, identity issues, grief/loss, LGBTQIA-specific topics, or relationship issues, I am here to collaboratively address and support my clients in achieving their therapeutic goals.
Life can be really hard and oftentimes we need additional support. I love working with individuals through life's transitions and challenges. A belief and dedication to growth, resilience, and well-being, I prioritize trauma-informed care and social justice in my practice. I emphasize authenticity and genuine connections by integrating empathy, creativity, and humor into sessions using Gestalt Therapy. Whether guiding teens or adults through various life’s transitions or focusing on improving a client’s mental well-being, my approach remains culturally conscious and sensitive to individual experiences in the broader societal context
Audrey Hu
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I also provide LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
I also provide LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy.
We all feel lost from time to time, but there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. I’ve been through my own therapy as a young adult when I was stuck in a bout of anxiety and panic attacks due to childhood trauma. Throughout my years of working with traumatized individuals, I learned first-hand about how childhood trauma can have a strong impact on adulthood. I can help you address unresolved trauma, in order for you to find passion, connection, and purpose in your life.
Joan I Rosenberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
My expertise addresses: anxiety and worry, addictions, disordered eating, depression, self-esteem, relationships, men's/women's issues, gay/lesbian issues.
Well-being involves having awareness of and connection to your self plus good connections with others. If you have struggled with distracting from your own experience, are lost in negative self evaluation, or if you have lost your curiousity about the world, face roadblocks or obstacles to your creativity and want to get relief, reclaim a sense of aliveness, vitality, presence, purpose or optimism - then I can be of help to you. I developed Emotional Pilates - the focus is on helping you build your core emotional strength, balance, flexibility and resilience, including learning how to speak your true experience.
My expertise addresses: anxiety and worry, addictions, disordered eating, depression, self-esteem, relationships, men's/women's issues, gay/lesbian issues.
Well-being involves having awareness of and connection to your self plus good connections with others. If you have struggled with distracting from your own experience, are lost in negative self evaluation, or if you have lost your curiousity about the world, face roadblocks or obstacles to your creativity and want to get relief, reclaim a sense of aliveness, vitality, presence, purpose or optimism - then I can be of help to you. I developed Emotional Pilates - the focus is on helping you build your core emotional strength, balance, flexibility and resilience, including learning how to speak your true experience.
Eddie Hunt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I specialize in trauma, dual diagnosis, relationship issues, LGBT issues, depression, anxiety and cultivating creativity.
Is something getting in your way? Feeling stuck? Lacking fulfillment in relationships? Through our work together, we'll uncover obstacles and negative patterns of behavior, identify and explore recurring themes, and reconnect you to your authentic wants and needs. I believe healing occurs through the bond formed by the therapist-client relationship. I welcome individuals, couples and families into my practice, and also facilitate a weekly men's therapy group.
I specialize in trauma, dual diagnosis, relationship issues, LGBT issues, depression, anxiety and cultivating creativity.
Is something getting in your way? Feeling stuck? Lacking fulfillment in relationships? Through our work together, we'll uncover obstacles and negative patterns of behavior, identify and explore recurring themes, and reconnect you to your authentic wants and needs. I believe healing occurs through the bond formed by the therapist-client relationship. I welcome individuals, couples and families into my practice, and also facilitate a weekly men's therapy group.
Dr. Andrea F Polard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Thank you for reaching out, which is a first, brave step in finding the therapist you like -the best predictor for therapeutic success. I feel blessed in my role as a therapist and deeply love my work. My clients suffer from depression, new relational wounds, old wounds and trauma, stress, anxiety, autism, and/or LGBTQ+ related problems. Because happiness and success depend on a sense of interconnectedness, my clients often seek to improve the quality of their relationships to themselves (inner peace, self-love, mindfulness, clarity), others (e.g., partnerships, parents, friends, employers), and the universe that can seem so cold.
Thank you for reaching out, which is a first, brave step in finding the therapist you like -the best predictor for therapeutic success. I feel blessed in my role as a therapist and deeply love my work. My clients suffer from depression, new relational wounds, old wounds and trauma, stress, anxiety, autism, and/or LGBTQ+ related problems. Because happiness and success depend on a sense of interconnectedness, my clients often seek to improve the quality of their relationships to themselves (inner peace, self-love, mindfulness, clarity), others (e.g., partnerships, parents, friends, employers), and the universe that can seem so cold.
Lauren J Auerbach
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
LGBTQIA+-affirming.
Does anxiety, fear, sadness, grief, confusion, helplessness, anger, or shame overwhelm you? Maybe a recent loss or previous trauma affects the way you are coping. Perhaps you struggle to navigate your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, or relationships. Let me help you find meaning, patterns, and ultimately relief, with compassion, insight, and tools to heal. Through this process, I hope you will find a greater sense of calm, clarity, and agency.
LGBTQIA+-affirming.
Does anxiety, fear, sadness, grief, confusion, helplessness, anger, or shame overwhelm you? Maybe a recent loss or previous trauma affects the way you are coping. Perhaps you struggle to navigate your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, or relationships. Let me help you find meaning, patterns, and ultimately relief, with compassion, insight, and tools to heal. Through this process, I hope you will find a greater sense of calm, clarity, and agency.
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Hollie Granato
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I am dedicated to working with marginalized communities, social justice is a strong value of mine, and I am particularly interested in serving the LGBTQIA community.
I am licensed in CA, TX, HI, and all psypact states. My mission as a clinical psychologist is to help individuals reduce suffering and achieve purpose in their lives. I view therapy as teamwork and am dedicated to collaboratively helping clients reach their goals. I strive to provide evidence-based treatment, rooted in the latest scientific findings, facilitated by a validating and safe space.
I am dedicated to working with marginalized communities, social justice is a strong value of mine, and I am particularly interested in serving the LGBTQIA community.
I am licensed in CA, TX, HI, and all psypact states. My mission as a clinical psychologist is to help individuals reduce suffering and achieve purpose in their lives. I view therapy as teamwork and am dedicated to collaboratively helping clients reach their goals. I strive to provide evidence-based treatment, rooted in the latest scientific findings, facilitated by a validating and safe space.
Ryan Sweat
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Ryan. I’m a somatic therapist with an empathetic, solution-focused, and results-driven approach. I work with adults and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, and life changes. I also work with couples, moresomes, and families, focusing on improving communication and connection. I have experience working with a diverse range of clients, including neurodivergent, neurotypical, poly, mono, straight, and LGBTQIA+ folx. My mission is to help people find freedom from limiting beliefs and patterns that hold them back. I seek to empower people to access and activate their own inner strengths and wisdom for change and agency
Hi, I’m Ryan. I’m a somatic therapist with an empathetic, solution-focused, and results-driven approach. I work with adults and teens struggling with anxiety, depression, and life changes. I also work with couples, moresomes, and families, focusing on improving communication and connection. I have experience working with a diverse range of clients, including neurodivergent, neurotypical, poly, mono, straight, and LGBTQIA+ folx. My mission is to help people find freedom from limiting beliefs and patterns that hold them back. I seek to empower people to access and activate their own inner strengths and wisdom for change and agency
Kenneth Kennaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
As a sex-positive care provider, I am a passionate ally to individuals from all walks of life, especially the LGBTQ+, Cancer, HIV / AIDS, Open Relationships/Non-Monogamy, Kink, Transgender, and Orthodox communities.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) with certification from the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP). After graduating from UCLA with a degree in Sociology, concentrating in Conversational Analysis, I earned my Master's in Social Work from USC, concentrating in Business and Social Work in Global Communities. Prior to becoming Clinical Director at Center for Sexual Integrity, I served as the Associate Clinical Director at Center for Healthy Sex, working closely with one of the most respected authorities in the field, Dr. Alexandra Katehakis.
As a sex-positive care provider, I am a passionate ally to individuals from all walks of life, especially the LGBTQ+, Cancer, HIV / AIDS, Open Relationships/Non-Monogamy, Kink, Transgender, and Orthodox communities.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) with certification from the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP). After graduating from UCLA with a degree in Sociology, concentrating in Conversational Analysis, I earned my Master's in Social Work from USC, concentrating in Business and Social Work in Global Communities. Prior to becoming Clinical Director at Center for Sexual Integrity, I served as the Associate Clinical Director at Center for Healthy Sex, working closely with one of the most respected authorities in the field, Dr. Alexandra Katehakis.
Sascha Goldhor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403 (Online Only)
My practice is body positive, sex positive, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, in solidarity with BIPOC, and is informed by Jungian and depth psychology + Gestalt therapy.
Our sessions together will transform your life. One of my main aims is to support you to trust your Self. You'll learn how to attune to the unconscious, both to alleviate your suffering and to guide your Self towards wholeness. We'll focus on your emergent somatic experience and incorporate imaginal practices. Throughout, we gain insights into your relationship patterns and nurture your creative function. My style is collaborative + curious. I hold this profound, rewarding process with care and integrity. Many clients express how our sessions have led to lasting change in their lives.
My practice is body positive, sex positive, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, in solidarity with BIPOC, and is informed by Jungian and depth psychology + Gestalt therapy.
Our sessions together will transform your life. One of my main aims is to support you to trust your Self. You'll learn how to attune to the unconscious, both to alleviate your suffering and to guide your Self towards wholeness. We'll focus on your emergent somatic experience and incorporate imaginal practices. Throughout, we gain insights into your relationship patterns and nurture your creative function. My style is collaborative + curious. I hold this profound, rewarding process with care and integrity. Many clients express how our sessions have led to lasting change in their lives.
Aviv Michael Linden
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I work with people from all walks of life. Everyone is unique and so each client has a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs. People who see me for psychological treatment are often experiencing low mood, anxiety, difficulty relaxing, excessive criticism and low self esteem. Many have experienced a significant loss or a traumatic life event. I will help you to better understand how your present responses (emotional, behavioral, emotional and physical) are influenced by your past experiences. Working collaboratively with you, I will facilitate a safe space for you to reflect, process and grow.
I work with people from all walks of life. Everyone is unique and so each client has a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs. People who see me for psychological treatment are often experiencing low mood, anxiety, difficulty relaxing, excessive criticism and low self esteem. Many have experienced a significant loss or a traumatic life event. I will help you to better understand how your present responses (emotional, behavioral, emotional and physical) are influenced by your past experiences. Working collaboratively with you, I will facilitate a safe space for you to reflect, process and grow.
Jamie Rudden
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
People come to therapy at all different points in their life. Whether you're returning to better understand a new situation or coming for the first time to explore opportunities for growth, I am here to meet you where you're at. In my experience, people seek change when they are not fully aligned with the person they want to be. Our work together will be to identify these misalignments, to learn how to empathize with how they came to be, and to find strategies for letting go of things that that no longer serve in order to find a sense of self we can feel proud of.
People come to therapy at all different points in their life. Whether you're returning to better understand a new situation or coming for the first time to explore opportunities for growth, I am here to meet you where you're at. In my experience, people seek change when they are not fully aligned with the person they want to be. Our work together will be to identify these misalignments, to learn how to empathize with how they came to be, and to find strategies for letting go of things that that no longer serve in order to find a sense of self we can feel proud of.
Dr. Joseph Lancaster
Psychologist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
You are feeling like life is full of chaos and no matter what you do, you can’t seem to get a handle on what is happening. Your relationships are broken, or strained and not only is it affecting you, but others are pulling away. You feel lost as if you have no purpose in life. You are tired of the spinning wheel. Depression, anxiety, anger, relationship challenges and much more keep you stuck and unable to grow. ENOUGH! You're ready for answers to start a new Holistic, healthy journey and become that whole person you were meant to be - Mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually - whole!
You are feeling like life is full of chaos and no matter what you do, you can’t seem to get a handle on what is happening. Your relationships are broken, or strained and not only is it affecting you, but others are pulling away. You feel lost as if you have no purpose in life. You are tired of the spinning wheel. Depression, anxiety, anger, relationship challenges and much more keep you stuck and unable to grow. ENOUGH! You're ready for answers to start a new Holistic, healthy journey and become that whole person you were meant to be - Mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually - whole!
J. Lancaster
Psychologist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Generally, I treat groups, couples, and individuals--21 years of age or older. I am best suited to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, alcohol/drug issues, personality disorders, anger, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorders, grief/loss, employment difficulties, military/veterans, spiritual issues, and relationship problems.
Generally, I treat groups, couples, and individuals--21 years of age or older. I am best suited to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, alcohol/drug issues, personality disorders, anger, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorders, grief/loss, employment difficulties, military/veterans, spiritual issues, and relationship problems.
Daniel L Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ERYT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I have an MA in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in depth psychology, a psychodynamic process which engages the natural healing power of the psyche through symbolic experience, fantasy and dream work. My tool box includes Depth Psychotherapy, Soul work, Positive Self Psychology, Mind Body integration and awareness through Somatic Experiencing. I incorporate Yoga Psychology and philosophy, Buddhist perspective & mindfulness meditation, foundation work in trauma and addiction, as well as neurobiology and brain plasticity. I'm particularly interested in the overlap between eastern thought, spirituality and western psychology in the search for individual meaning and purpose.
I have an MA in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in depth psychology, a psychodynamic process which engages the natural healing power of the psyche through symbolic experience, fantasy and dream work. My tool box includes Depth Psychotherapy, Soul work, Positive Self Psychology, Mind Body integration and awareness through Somatic Experiencing. I incorporate Yoga Psychology and philosophy, Buddhist perspective & mindfulness meditation, foundation work in trauma and addiction, as well as neurobiology and brain plasticity. I'm particularly interested in the overlap between eastern thought, spirituality and western psychology in the search for individual meaning and purpose.
See more therapy options for 90403
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.