LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in San Antonio, TX

Photo of Pam Hansen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pam Hansen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78256  (Online Only)
My diverse background and down to earth nature is a key element in my counseling style. I believe that for counseling to be most effective it must be done in an environment that is comfortable to my clients. If I can find a "medium" that they can relax in, they are more open about sharing their experiences with me". My counseling expertise is working with clients of domestic violence, sexual assault, recovery, PTSD, anxiety disorders, foster families/children, adjustment disorders and LGBT community. I am trained in EMDR, Brain Spotting and Experiential modes of therapy which I combine with other traditional modes of therapy.
My diverse background and down to earth nature is a key element in my counseling style. I believe that for counseling to be most effective it must be done in an environment that is comfortable to my clients. If I can find a "medium" that they can relax in, they are more open about sharing their experiences with me". My counseling expertise is working with clients of domestic violence, sexual assault, recovery, PTSD, anxiety disorders, foster families/children, adjustment disorders and LGBT community. I am trained in EMDR, Brain Spotting and Experiential modes of therapy which I combine with other traditional modes of therapy.
(830) 376-2888 View (830) 376-2888
Photo of Lauren DeReese Garcia, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren DeReese Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client doesn’t have a defined age and gender is merely a construct. I welcome couples and individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community as well as allies as well as the complex issues that come with these identities. My favorite things to help people with are the deep thoughts, anxieties, and changes associated with BIG life transitions, balancing work and life, and managing ADHD. I love talking about things that range from the mundane and temporary to deep spiritual and philosophical questions.
My ideal client doesn’t have a defined age and gender is merely a construct. I welcome couples and individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community as well as allies as well as the complex issues that come with these identities. My favorite things to help people with are the deep thoughts, anxieties, and changes associated with BIG life transitions, balancing work and life, and managing ADHD. I love talking about things that range from the mundane and temporary to deep spiritual and philosophical questions.
(210) 934-7765 View (210) 934-7765
Photo of Ione Rodriguez, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ione Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
Specific issues I work with are trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, self esteem, and the unique challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals may face.
Hello, I’m Ione! I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who brings authenticity, compassion, and a dash of dorkiness. My experience includes working with individuals, families, couples, and teens. With individuals, we’ll focus on building self love and discovering how past trauma can affect the relationships we have with ourselves and others. With couples and families, we’ll work towards undoing those patterns we get stuck in through building communication, developing trust, and understanding emotions.
Specific issues I work with are trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, self esteem, and the unique challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals may face.
Hello, I’m Ione! I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who brings authenticity, compassion, and a dash of dorkiness. My experience includes working with individuals, families, couples, and teens. With individuals, we’ll focus on building self love and discovering how past trauma can affect the relationships we have with ourselves and others. With couples and families, we’ll work towards undoing those patterns we get stuck in through building communication, developing trust, and understanding emotions.
(726) 227-2587 View (726) 227-2587
Photo of Elizabeth A Owens, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth A Owens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and also people identified as Gifted/Talented - "gifted, geeky, and queer." I have experience counseling people though all stages of gender questioning, discovery, and transition. I counsel people with gender and/or sexuality issues (such as coming out, family issues, relationship problems, HRT support), and I am sex positive and knowledgable in polyamory, ethical nonmonogamy, kink, and alternative lifestyles. I work with adolescents, teens, young adults, and adults. Sensitive, intuitive and empathetic, and open to special and unique gifts. We can talk about whatever!
I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and also people identified as Gifted/Talented - "gifted, geeky, and queer." I have experience counseling people though all stages of gender questioning, discovery, and transition. I counsel people with gender and/or sexuality issues (such as coming out, family issues, relationship problems, HRT support), and I am sex positive and knowledgable in polyamory, ethical nonmonogamy, kink, and alternative lifestyles. I work with adolescents, teens, young adults, and adults. Sensitive, intuitive and empathetic, and open to special and unique gifts. We can talk about whatever!
(210) 871-1572 View (210) 871-1572
Photo of Andy Thornton, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andy Thornton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
I am part of the LGBTQIA+ community, practicing EMDR, CBT and person-centered therapy, and I have a sensitivity to people adjusting to change in their lives and in the world.
Everything in your life is relevant, and the freedom to speak truthfully about all the parts of your experience is a key component to your recovery. I've worked with people who have experienced trauma, domestic violence and broken families, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. When sitting with these issues in non-judgmental observation, we can begin the process of change.
I am part of the LGBTQIA+ community, practicing EMDR, CBT and person-centered therapy, and I have a sensitivity to people adjusting to change in their lives and in the world.
Everything in your life is relevant, and the freedom to speak truthfully about all the parts of your experience is a key component to your recovery. I've worked with people who have experienced trauma, domestic violence and broken families, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. When sitting with these issues in non-judgmental observation, we can begin the process of change.
(726) 215-8181 View (726) 215-8181
Photo of Kimberly Watts Hoggatt, JD, MA, LPC-S, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Watts Hoggatt
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, MA, LPC-S, LMHC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
I have also worked extensively with LGBTQ clients as individuals, couples, and in group settings on topics such as gender and sexual identity development, healthy relationships, and career development.
Are you a weary weirdo? Are you a high-achieving adult or teen who struggles with relationships, self-esteem, or burnout? Are you someone who is seeking answers to difficult questions? Do you appreciate a warm and friendly but direct approach when handling challenges? If so, I may be the counselor for you. I take a person-centered and existential approach to counseling - aspiring to help clients find meaning and direction in their lives and relationships. With 15 years of experience in career development and higher education, I have significant expertise in assisting adolescents and adults with college and career decision-making.
I have also worked extensively with LGBTQ clients as individuals, couples, and in group settings on topics such as gender and sexual identity development, healthy relationships, and career development.
Are you a weary weirdo? Are you a high-achieving adult or teen who struggles with relationships, self-esteem, or burnout? Are you someone who is seeking answers to difficult questions? Do you appreciate a warm and friendly but direct approach when handling challenges? If so, I may be the counselor for you. I take a person-centered and existential approach to counseling - aspiring to help clients find meaning and direction in their lives and relationships. With 15 years of experience in career development and higher education, I have significant expertise in assisting adolescents and adults with college and career decision-making.
(210) 598-5013 View (210) 598-5013
Photo of Anna Billingsley, LCSW-S, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Billingsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, C-DBT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78231  (Online Only)
My intent within my practice is create a safe space for all of your experiences. I have extensive training and experience in cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical-behavioral therapy, stage-based trauma therapy, LGBTQIA-affirmative therapy, and couples and family therapy. I provide an integrative theoretical approach and I believe in utilizing creative modalities for my clients. For those in the San Antonio area, I do offer walk and talk in person sessions. This is a movement-based therapy and a good fit for those interested in an innovative and creative approach.
My intent within my practice is create a safe space for all of your experiences. I have extensive training and experience in cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical-behavioral therapy, stage-based trauma therapy, LGBTQIA-affirmative therapy, and couples and family therapy. I provide an integrative theoretical approach and I believe in utilizing creative modalities for my clients. For those in the San Antonio area, I do offer walk and talk in person sessions. This is a movement-based therapy and a good fit for those interested in an innovative and creative approach.
(210) 864-7275 View (210) 864-7275
Photo of Valerie Ryse, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valerie Ryse
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217  (Online Only)
I am committed to honoring diversity and inclusivity, with experience working with clients from a variety of racial backgrounds and a dedicated focus on supporting the LGBTQIA+ community.
Maybe you are struggling feeling lonely and misunderstood in your relationship. You're tired that the same argument keeps happening over and over again. You feel like you don't know how to get through to your partner. If only your partner would turn towards you more often, you could go back to feeling like a team. Or maybe you're exhausted of feeling like you can never do anything right in your relationship. You've tried different approaches and it seems to just make things worse. You're frustrated and scared, not knowing where to start or what questions to ask. I have worked with many couples struggling with issues just like these.
I am committed to honoring diversity and inclusivity, with experience working with clients from a variety of racial backgrounds and a dedicated focus on supporting the LGBTQIA+ community.
Maybe you are struggling feeling lonely and misunderstood in your relationship. You're tired that the same argument keeps happening over and over again. You feel like you don't know how to get through to your partner. If only your partner would turn towards you more often, you could go back to feeling like a team. Or maybe you're exhausted of feeling like you can never do anything right in your relationship. You've tried different approaches and it seems to just make things worse. You're frustrated and scared, not knowing where to start or what questions to ask. I have worked with many couples struggling with issues just like these.
(726) 201-0715 View (726) 201-0715
Photo of Mal Diaz, MS, NCC, LPC
Mal Diaz
MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My practice helps neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, gender diverse folks navigate depression and anxiety by providing a warm therapeutic space where you can show up as your most authentic self, as well as learn healthy coping skills, distress tolerance skills, and increase your general life satisfaction.
Hi Folks! Book with me now by clicking on my website! :) My name is Mal, I'm deeply passionate about healthcare access, with my life's work centered around bridging the gap to accessible and dignified health care for all. With a strong background in promoting equity and inclusivity, I strive to create a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking guidance. My approach to counseling integrated empathy, deep curiosity, and evidence-based techniques, empowering clients to navigate life's challenges and foster personal growth. Send me a message and we can get that ball rolling!
My practice helps neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, gender diverse folks navigate depression and anxiety by providing a warm therapeutic space where you can show up as your most authentic self, as well as learn healthy coping skills, distress tolerance skills, and increase your general life satisfaction.
Hi Folks! Book with me now by clicking on my website! :) My name is Mal, I'm deeply passionate about healthcare access, with my life's work centered around bridging the gap to accessible and dignified health care for all. With a strong background in promoting equity and inclusivity, I strive to create a safe and supportive space for individuals seeking guidance. My approach to counseling integrated empathy, deep curiosity, and evidence-based techniques, empowering clients to navigate life's challenges and foster personal growth. Send me a message and we can get that ball rolling!
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Photo of Amanda Dee Montoya-Cuellar, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Dee Montoya-Cuellar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78210  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQ+ individuals as I am part of the queer community myself.
Life ain't always beautiful but it's a beautiful ride. During the most difficult times of life, you don't have to be alone. As a human, its okay to to not be okay and allow yourself the support you need. We each have a story, and your story is important to me. My goal for all my clients is leave with a sense of clarity, confidence and progression within themselves. I am here for you. Let me be your therapist and lets take this ride together.
I offer a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQ+ individuals as I am part of the queer community myself.
Life ain't always beautiful but it's a beautiful ride. During the most difficult times of life, you don't have to be alone. As a human, its okay to to not be okay and allow yourself the support you need. We each have a story, and your story is important to me. My goal for all my clients is leave with a sense of clarity, confidence and progression within themselves. I am here for you. Let me be your therapist and lets take this ride together.
(210) 934-1276 View (210) 934-1276
Photo of Maya Ontiveros - Papaya Counseling by Maya Ontiveros, MA, LPC Intern
Papaya Counseling by Maya Ontiveros
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a therapist who specializes in treating eating disorders in teens and young adults? What about someone who has worked extensively in treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, and more? Through evidence-based techniques, I help clients unlock their emotions, face their fears, build confidence, and renew their sense of identity. Together, we will discover your motivation and strength to effect real, long-term change.
Are you looking for a therapist who specializes in treating eating disorders in teens and young adults? What about someone who has worked extensively in treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, and more? Through evidence-based techniques, I help clients unlock their emotions, face their fears, build confidence, and renew their sense of identity. Together, we will discover your motivation and strength to effect real, long-term change.
(210) 864-1605 View (210) 864-1605
Photo of Juan Arreche, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Juan Arreche
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Going through difficult times in life does not have to be done alone. Change does not happen overnight. Sometimes, when we bring our concerns to others, they might be minimized and it can be hard to find someone to talk to. Having a safe space to openly communicate about our problems, learn about them, and overcome them can help. I am here to help you learn about you, what your needs are, what you want in your life, and empower you on your journey. I specialize in LGBTQIA+ issues, couples/relationships, depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, and others.
Going through difficult times in life does not have to be done alone. Change does not happen overnight. Sometimes, when we bring our concerns to others, they might be minimized and it can be hard to find someone to talk to. Having a safe space to openly communicate about our problems, learn about them, and overcome them can help. I am here to help you learn about you, what your needs are, what you want in your life, and empower you on your journey. I specialize in LGBTQIA+ issues, couples/relationships, depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, and others.
(210) 985-8457 View (210) 985-8457
Photo of Joseph M. Montaldi, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph M. Montaldi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
Not accepting new clients
A significant focus of my practice involves working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Selecting the right therapist is a highly personal decision, one that’s often made in times of duress. With so many options, I encourage you to take the time you deserve to make an informed decision. During my career I have passionately worked with my clients to help them make positive changes, to develop their strengths, to be effective reaching personal and professional goals, and to feel happier overall.
A significant focus of my practice involves working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Selecting the right therapist is a highly personal decision, one that’s often made in times of duress. With so many options, I encourage you to take the time you deserve to make an informed decision. During my career I have passionately worked with my clients to help them make positive changes, to develop their strengths, to be effective reaching personal and professional goals, and to feel happier overall.
(210) 981-3620 View (210) 981-3620
Photo of Brandon Roberts, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brandon Roberts
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78254
I have spent over a decade gaining experience in the human service field, working with trauma survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, suicidal ideation/behaviors, elderly, veterans, people faced with turning points, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, and LGBTQIA+ populations.
Everyone has a unique story with varied challenges, trauma, and coping strategies. I adapt my practice to meet clients where they are and work with them to improve distress tolerance skills, interpersonal relationships, and emotion regulation. My practice is client-centered, strength-based, and focused on building resilience while we progress toward positive change.
I have spent over a decade gaining experience in the human service field, working with trauma survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, suicidal ideation/behaviors, elderly, veterans, people faced with turning points, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, and LGBTQIA+ populations.
Everyone has a unique story with varied challenges, trauma, and coping strategies. I adapt my practice to meet clients where they are and work with them to improve distress tolerance skills, interpersonal relationships, and emotion regulation. My practice is client-centered, strength-based, and focused on building resilience while we progress toward positive change.
(210) 985-9587 View (210) 985-9587
Photo of Lindsay Minarovic, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Minarovic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78228
Waitlist for new clients
For the past 10 years, Lindsay has worked in the areas of mental illness, substance abuse, grief, terminal illness, displacement, homelessness, cognitive impairments, physical disabilities, learning disabilities, domestic violence, teen pregnancy and parenthood, LGBTQIA++ issues, and extensive life traumas.
Lindsay is a Texas Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that everyone can benefit from working with a therapist, and would like the opportunity to work with you to provide support and guidance toward your goals. Lindsay enjoys facilitating therapy groups, educating individuals about financial empowerment, and doing individual therapy.
For the past 10 years, Lindsay has worked in the areas of mental illness, substance abuse, grief, terminal illness, displacement, homelessness, cognitive impairments, physical disabilities, learning disabilities, domestic violence, teen pregnancy and parenthood, LGBTQIA++ issues, and extensive life traumas.
Lindsay is a Texas Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that everyone can benefit from working with a therapist, and would like the opportunity to work with you to provide support and guidance toward your goals. Lindsay enjoys facilitating therapy groups, educating individuals about financial empowerment, and doing individual therapy.
(210) 702-2828 View (210) 702-2828
Photo of Rene 'rj' Ornes, MA, LPC-A, NCC
Rene 'rj' Ornes
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78256  (Online Only)
My speciality is in queer-identity work. The Queer Experience often comes with some growing pains, and subsequent wounds. Most of my clients are people who first healed these wounds through overachievement & overcompensation, but overlooked the limitations that came with these coping mechanisms. Let's break the patterns and confront the void. You deserve peace.
My speciality is in queer-identity work. The Queer Experience often comes with some growing pains, and subsequent wounds. Most of my clients are people who first healed these wounds through overachievement & overcompensation, but overlooked the limitations that came with these coping mechanisms. Let's break the patterns and confront the void. You deserve peace.
(210) 817-5520 View (210) 817-5520
Photo of Lori Haas, MSFT, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lori Haas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSFT, LCMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78255  (Online Only)
Are you transgender or wondering about your gender identity? You worry about the uncertainty of transitioning. questions. Could I lose my family? Will my friends support me? What about my job? What a relief it would be if others could see you like you see yourself. Some days the stress just feels like too much. You may have questions about what to do next, who to tell, where to get hormone therapy, or how to find your support. Most of all you just want to feel some relief and know that things can get better.
Are you transgender or wondering about your gender identity? You worry about the uncertainty of transitioning. questions. Could I lose my family? Will my friends support me? What about my job? What a relief it would be if others could see you like you see yourself. Some days the stress just feels like too much. You may have questions about what to do next, who to tell, where to get hormone therapy, or how to find your support. Most of all you just want to feel some relief and know that things can get better.
(316) 302-4453 View (316) 302-4453
Photo of Brittani Hailey, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittani Hailey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78244  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, life-changing moments, substance abuse, disordered eating behaviors, codependency, grief/loss, difficulty with shame, perfectionism, and a wide range of LGBTQ+ specific concerns.
Hello! My name is Brittani Hailey. I have been working as a counselor for several years within individual and group counseling experiences (with various ages), college setting areas, couple counseling, family therapy, and substance abuse treatment centers.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, life-changing moments, substance abuse, disordered eating behaviors, codependency, grief/loss, difficulty with shame, perfectionism, and a wide range of LGBTQ+ specific concerns.
Hello! My name is Brittani Hailey. I have been working as a counselor for several years within individual and group counseling experiences (with various ages), college setting areas, couple counseling, family therapy, and substance abuse treatment centers.
(210) 899-6233 View (210) 899-6233
Photo of Jeffrey Cabral, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeffrey Cabral
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78204  (Online Only)
As a Hispanic, Bilingual, Queer-identifying therapist in San Antonio, I am capable of navigating you towards success.
You may be experiencing symptoms and signs of depression that are weighing you down. Are you finding more triggers for anxiety that are impacting your ability to get through your day, such as the worldwide Covid pandemic or current social and political issues? Is your goal to develop healthy relationship boundaries with your significant other? Are you in search of LGBT affirming therapy? If the answer is Yes, this is where I step in. You need a professional support system and advocate to provide you a safe space where you can dig deep into those challenging emotions and begin to work on becoming your most authentic self.
As a Hispanic, Bilingual, Queer-identifying therapist in San Antonio, I am capable of navigating you towards success.
You may be experiencing symptoms and signs of depression that are weighing you down. Are you finding more triggers for anxiety that are impacting your ability to get through your day, such as the worldwide Covid pandemic or current social and political issues? Is your goal to develop healthy relationship boundaries with your significant other? Are you in search of LGBT affirming therapy? If the answer is Yes, this is where I step in. You need a professional support system and advocate to provide you a safe space where you can dig deep into those challenging emotions and begin to work on becoming your most authentic self.
(210) 361-3730 View (210) 361-3730
Photo of Lilia Montes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lilia Montes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78244  (Online Only)
I have a passion for supporting my community of color, LGBTQIA+, and ADHD/neurodivergent.
Hello and thank you for taking a chance on therapy, reaching out is one of the hardest parts and you are taking the first step. Finding a fitting therapist is a big part of your success in therapy, so if it does not initially work out, remember you can find a suitable option. Our initial meeting will be a 15-minute consultation to ensure we are compatible for each other to maximize your therapeutic experience. Reach out to me via phone or email to set up the consult and I can provide next step information.
I have a passion for supporting my community of color, LGBTQIA+, and ADHD/neurodivergent.
Hello and thank you for taking a chance on therapy, reaching out is one of the hardest parts and you are taking the first step. Finding a fitting therapist is a big part of your success in therapy, so if it does not initially work out, remember you can find a suitable option. Our initial meeting will be a 15-minute consultation to ensure we are compatible for each other to maximize your therapeutic experience. Reach out to me via phone or email to set up the consult and I can provide next step information.
(210) 761-6272 View (210) 761-6272
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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.