LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Memphis, TN

Photo of Kristina S Curtiss, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina S Curtiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119
The special focuses of my practice are LGBTQIA+ issues and non-traditional relationships.
As a therapist, I strive to create an environment that affirms who you are as a person. Therapy involves some of our most vulnerable experiences and my practice centers on being supportive so you feel secure while exploring ways to improve your daily life. So much of a positive human experience involves being heard and validated by others, especially in our own homes. I will work with you and your loved ones to learn healthy communication skills to improve your relationships, increase acceptance and understanding in the home, and learn to manage conflict in a healthy manner.
The special focuses of my practice are LGBTQIA+ issues and non-traditional relationships.
As a therapist, I strive to create an environment that affirms who you are as a person. Therapy involves some of our most vulnerable experiences and my practice centers on being supportive so you feel secure while exploring ways to improve your daily life. So much of a positive human experience involves being heard and validated by others, especially in our own homes. I will work with you and your loved ones to learn healthy communication skills to improve your relationships, increase acceptance and understanding in the home, and learn to manage conflict in a healthy manner.
(901) 582-6596 View (901) 582-6596
Photo of Talia H Trigg, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Talia H Trigg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38133
I strive to provide a nonjudgmental and accepting environment for all clients I serve. I have training and special interest in working with the LGBT population, gender identity concerns, anxiety, trauma, depression, life adjustments, stress management, social and interpersonal skills, and relationship struggles. Relying on evidence based approaches, I use a strengths based approach as the foundation in therapy work.
I strive to provide a nonjudgmental and accepting environment for all clients I serve. I have training and special interest in working with the LGBT population, gender identity concerns, anxiety, trauma, depression, life adjustments, stress management, social and interpersonal skills, and relationship struggles. Relying on evidence based approaches, I use a strengths based approach as the foundation in therapy work.
(901) 479-1315 View (901) 479-1315
Photo of Sarah Berger, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Berger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38125  (Online Only)
Embarking on a therapeutic journey can be transformative.
I have worked with people of all ages ranging from children to the elderly, with more focus devoted to those in their late teen s - mid - life stages . I specialize in working with anxiety, anger management, ADHD, stress management, improving relationships and communication, navigating life transitions, and parenting challenges. I have considerable experience supporting LGBTQIA individuals and helping them to navigate the challenges they may encounter with family, friends, or community. I also have worked extensively with parents on navigating challenging childhood behaviors and teenage puberty.
Embarking on a therapeutic journey can be transformative.
I have worked with people of all ages ranging from children to the elderly, with more focus devoted to those in their late teen s - mid - life stages . I specialize in working with anxiety, anger management, ADHD, stress management, improving relationships and communication, navigating life transitions, and parenting challenges. I have considerable experience supporting LGBTQIA individuals and helping them to navigate the challenges they may encounter with family, friends, or community. I also have worked extensively with parents on navigating challenging childhood behaviors and teenage puberty.
(901) 910-0702 View (901) 910-0702
Photo of Leah E. Newman, LPC, MHSP, MEd, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leah E. Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MEd, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 37501  (Online Only)
LGBTQ+. Gender. Sexuality. Alternative Spirituality. Adult ADHD Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Kink. Sex Work. Vegan. Life Coaching. Tarot. Reiki. Virtual. 420 Friendly. Anxiety. Depression. . BPD. Couples. Meditation. I specialize in gender transitions, LGBTQ+ living, alternative spiritualities, and mindfulness. Don't worry, our straight friends are always welcome too! Find out more at www.LeahNewmanCounseling.com
LGBTQ+. Gender. Sexuality. Alternative Spirituality. Adult ADHD Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Kink. Sex Work. Vegan. Life Coaching. Tarot. Reiki. Virtual. 420 Friendly. Anxiety. Depression. . BPD. Couples. Meditation. I specialize in gender transitions, LGBTQ+ living, alternative spiritualities, and mindfulness. Don't worry, our straight friends are always welcome too! Find out more at www.LeahNewmanCounseling.com
(615) 745-3862 View (615) 745-3862
Photo of Katelyn Mase, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katelyn Mase
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38103
I work with individuals and partnerships who are neurodivergent (ASD, ADHD) those in “alternative” relationship structures ( LGBTQIA+, ENM, poly, open, swinging, kink), those who have experienced trauma, struggle with depression or anxiety, are hoping to do some self-exploration (sexual, gender, career, religious, etc.), or are looking for a change. Because every person is unique, your needs and desires will also be unique. I approach my work through a trauma-informed lens, using evidence-based practices that find a balance between thinking and feeling and emphasize the importance of connection, experience and safety.
I work with individuals and partnerships who are neurodivergent (ASD, ADHD) those in “alternative” relationship structures ( LGBTQIA+, ENM, poly, open, swinging, kink), those who have experienced trauma, struggle with depression or anxiety, are hoping to do some self-exploration (sexual, gender, career, religious, etc.), or are looking for a change. Because every person is unique, your needs and desires will also be unique. I approach my work through a trauma-informed lens, using evidence-based practices that find a balance between thinking and feeling and emphasize the importance of connection, experience and safety.
(615) 808-7792 View (615) 808-7792
Photo of Rebecca Delaney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Delaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38108  (Online Only)
I have experience helping individuals living with substance misuse, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ specific issues, negative self-esteem, stress, and life transitions.
Do you feel like you are in a rut? Are you struggling to overcome a habit? Do you want to make improvements but do not know where to start? Are you struggling with negative thoughts about yourself? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping people overcome barriers and achieve goals that are important to them! I provide telehealth therapy for those in the state of TN. I strive to provide a safe and accepting environment for you to overcome barriers and achieve goals that are important to you.
I have experience helping individuals living with substance misuse, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ specific issues, negative self-esteem, stress, and life transitions.
Do you feel like you are in a rut? Are you struggling to overcome a habit? Do you want to make improvements but do not know where to start? Are you struggling with negative thoughts about yourself? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping people overcome barriers and achieve goals that are important to them! I provide telehealth therapy for those in the state of TN. I strive to provide a safe and accepting environment for you to overcome barriers and achieve goals that are important to you.
(865) 345-2968 View (865) 345-2968
Photo of Katherine Brown, LPC, MHSP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38117
My approach is heavily informed by Feminist and Queer theories.
Hi there! I am a counselor who works with clients ages 13+ and am skilled in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, body image, self-esteem, anger management, and transition issues. I also have specialized training and experience working with older adults with dementia and other cognitive and age-related changes. Additionally, I see teenagers and adults of all ages who identify as LGBTQIA+ and am well-versed in helping clients who are questioning their identities, beginning the coming-out process, and/or transitioning. I am included as a recommended specialist for transgender mental health in the local OUTMemphis Resource Guide.
My approach is heavily informed by Feminist and Queer theories.
Hi there! I am a counselor who works with clients ages 13+ and am skilled in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, body image, self-esteem, anger management, and transition issues. I also have specialized training and experience working with older adults with dementia and other cognitive and age-related changes. Additionally, I see teenagers and adults of all ages who identify as LGBTQIA+ and am well-versed in helping clients who are questioning their identities, beginning the coming-out process, and/or transitioning. I am included as a recommended specialist for transgender mental health in the local OUTMemphis Resource Guide.
(901) 668-7624 View (901) 668-7624
Photo of Danielle Tipping, PsyD, Psychologist
Danielle Tipping
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Developing your personal and relational identity is the top focus of the therapy I provide. My goal as your provider is to help you reach your full potential for growth and happiness. I help those who are experiencing gender dysphoria, sexuality concerns, mood disturbance, anxiety issues, behavioral issues, trauma survivors, and those who are self-harming or suicidal reconnect with whom they are essentially. I believe it is imperative to identify and examine systemic, environmental, and community influences that may be thwarting your growth and decrease self-blame for factors outside your control.
I specialize in treating members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Developing your personal and relational identity is the top focus of the therapy I provide. My goal as your provider is to help you reach your full potential for growth and happiness. I help those who are experiencing gender dysphoria, sexuality concerns, mood disturbance, anxiety issues, behavioral issues, trauma survivors, and those who are self-harming or suicidal reconnect with whom they are essentially. I believe it is imperative to identify and examine systemic, environmental, and community influences that may be thwarting your growth and decrease self-blame for factors outside your control.
(901) 472-7870 View (901) 472-7870
Photo of Beth Rushing, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beth Rushing
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38112
My specialties include trauma, co-dependency, relationship issues, women’s issues, survivors of religious trauma, survivors of high control groups, spiritual issues, chronic health related disorders, life transitions, LGBTQ+ support, and addiction.
Rachel Held Evans wrote that "we live inside an unfinished story." Are you lacking clarity about what you want to do with your life? Did you have a difficult or confusing childhood, and now struggle with connection to others? Did you experience a traumatic event or relationship that has been difficult to overcome on your own? Do you struggle in relationships and wonder why you have the same problems time and time again? Do you have a chronic illness and experience the emotional pain, disappointment, and despair it can bring? If any of this resonates with you, I can help you write the rest of your story.
My specialties include trauma, co-dependency, relationship issues, women’s issues, survivors of religious trauma, survivors of high control groups, spiritual issues, chronic health related disorders, life transitions, LGBTQ+ support, and addiction.
Rachel Held Evans wrote that "we live inside an unfinished story." Are you lacking clarity about what you want to do with your life? Did you have a difficult or confusing childhood, and now struggle with connection to others? Did you experience a traumatic event or relationship that has been difficult to overcome on your own? Do you struggle in relationships and wonder why you have the same problems time and time again? Do you have a chronic illness and experience the emotional pain, disappointment, and despair it can bring? If any of this resonates with you, I can help you write the rest of your story.
(901) 209-4795 View (901) 209-4795
Photo of Venisha Freeman, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Venisha Freeman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119
I'm passionate about working with the BIPOC population, LGBTQ+ population, teens, & young adults as they learn how to navigate life’s challenges and transitions.
Have stressful life events left you feeling tired, anxious, or overwhelmed? Have you tried to make changes, but nothing seems to work? Is your child having struggles related to their identity, managing heavy emotions, or expressing their needs? If so, I am here to help.
I'm passionate about working with the BIPOC population, LGBTQ+ population, teens, & young adults as they learn how to navigate life’s challenges and transitions.
Have stressful life events left you feeling tired, anxious, or overwhelmed? Have you tried to make changes, but nothing seems to work? Is your child having struggles related to their identity, managing heavy emotions, or expressing their needs? If so, I am here to help.
(901) 676-8558 View (901) 676-8558
Photo of Lauri Balk (Not Accepting New Patients), PsyD, Psychologist
Lauri Balk (Not Accepting New Patients)
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38104
Other specialities include PTSD, Addiction, and work with the LGBTQIA population.
Do you find yourself "stuck" in old patterns? Are you having difficulty with managing stress, whether it is related to relationships or work? Do you find yourself unable to move past old hurts or pain? Through collaboration, therapy is a wonderful opportunity in which individuals can explore the answers to these questions. Working together helps create a safe and affirming environment in which individuals can learn how to live life more effectively. My therapeutic approach is flexible based on the needs of the patients, but is deeply rooted in the idea that much of one's suffering occurs outside of his or her awareness.
Other specialities include PTSD, Addiction, and work with the LGBTQIA population.
Do you find yourself "stuck" in old patterns? Are you having difficulty with managing stress, whether it is related to relationships or work? Do you find yourself unable to move past old hurts or pain? Through collaboration, therapy is a wonderful opportunity in which individuals can explore the answers to these questions. Working together helps create a safe and affirming environment in which individuals can learn how to live life more effectively. My therapeutic approach is flexible based on the needs of the patients, but is deeply rooted in the idea that much of one's suffering occurs outside of his or her awareness.
(872) 250-4814 View (872) 250-4814
Photo of Maggie Thompson, MA, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maggie Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38117
As a queer therapist, I specialize in working with all people who have experienced trauma of any kind.
I strive to meet every client where they are - regardless of how they got there. Trauma has a way of overwhelming our senses and making us feel out of control in our own bodies. If you have been struggling with managing your emotions, and you feel like some of the smallest things could set you off, then it could be helpful to process those feelings.
As a queer therapist, I specialize in working with all people who have experienced trauma of any kind.
I strive to meet every client where they are - regardless of how they got there. Trauma has a way of overwhelming our senses and making us feel out of control in our own bodies. If you have been struggling with managing your emotions, and you feel like some of the smallest things could set you off, then it could be helpful to process those feelings.
(901) 657-5437 View (901) 657-5437
Photo of Brittany Wood, MSEd, P-LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brittany Wood
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd, P-LPC
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119  (Online Only)
I have an extensive background working with individuals who have depression, OCD, anxiety, LGBTQ+ concerns and needs, low self-esteem, grief, and difficulty with life transitions, as well as the specialized treatment of severe and/or complex trauma and abuse.
I am dedicated to supporting individuals in their journey towards healing and well-being. l strive to provide a compassionate and safe space for individuals to explore their experiences and work towards healing. Drawing upon evidence-based therapeutic approaches, I tailor my counseling sessions to meet the unique needs of each client. I believe in the power of a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where individuals feel empowered and supported as they navigate their healing process. I am trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, IFS, IFT, Motivational Interviewing, and Person-Centered Therapy.
I have an extensive background working with individuals who have depression, OCD, anxiety, LGBTQ+ concerns and needs, low self-esteem, grief, and difficulty with life transitions, as well as the specialized treatment of severe and/or complex trauma and abuse.
I am dedicated to supporting individuals in their journey towards healing and well-being. l strive to provide a compassionate and safe space for individuals to explore their experiences and work towards healing. Drawing upon evidence-based therapeutic approaches, I tailor my counseling sessions to meet the unique needs of each client. I believe in the power of a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where individuals feel empowered and supported as they navigate their healing process. I am trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, IFS, IFT, Motivational Interviewing, and Person-Centered Therapy.
(731) 237-0889 View (731) 237-0889
Photo of Sasha Cory, LMFT, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sasha Cory
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38120  (Online Only)
Systems of oppression affect all of us. As a therapist, my goal is to provide a safe and affirming space to help you learn to navigate these systems. I am a queer person of color and I work with people of all genders and sexualities. The larger systems we interact with impact our daily life and how we relate to others in relationship. If you struggle with the relationships in your life, I am here to help. I provide an affirming space to people from poly, divorced, and blended families. My practice is sex positive. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I am experienced in working with Trans, BIPOC, and Enby identities.
Systems of oppression affect all of us. As a therapist, my goal is to provide a safe and affirming space to help you learn to navigate these systems. I am a queer person of color and I work with people of all genders and sexualities. The larger systems we interact with impact our daily life and how we relate to others in relationship. If you struggle with the relationships in your life, I am here to help. I provide an affirming space to people from poly, divorced, and blended families. My practice is sex positive. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I am experienced in working with Trans, BIPOC, and Enby identities.
(629) 318-0308 View (629) 318-0308
Photo of Lance Faegenburg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lance Faegenburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38111  (Online Only)
I have worked with veterans, domestic violence survivors, survivors of human trafficking, children, adolescents, autistic youth, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Sometimes dark places need flashlights. Early in my education to become a therapist, I learned being allowed to walk with someone during a dark time in their life is an honor. As a therapist it is my intention to earn that honor, to be a flashlight of sorts, and to help remove those emotional filters which often darken our experiences.
I have worked with veterans, domestic violence survivors, survivors of human trafficking, children, adolescents, autistic youth, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Sometimes dark places need flashlights. Early in my education to become a therapist, I learned being allowed to walk with someone during a dark time in their life is an honor. As a therapist it is my intention to earn that honor, to be a flashlight of sorts, and to help remove those emotional filters which often darken our experiences.
(901) 557-8889 View (901) 557-8889
Photo of Joseph L McCray, MA, T-LPC/M, Pre-Licensed Professional
Joseph L McCray
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, T-LPC/M
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38117
I also assess a client's bio-psycho-social development and specialize in LGBTQIA+ issues and chronic mental health struggles.
Common reasons people seek my help experience persistent sadness, worry, and fear which handicap their social and personal functioning. Ideally, I help people manage conflicts within their family structure, but often a person's family is not a source of support. I pay careful attention to ensuring people clinch ideal lifespan development milestones. My community also suffers from chronic stress at work and school. I can help adults, but also children and adolescents who traverse bullying and educational problems. My approach focuses on building healthy self-esteem when people lack confidence and promote their self-worth.
I also assess a client's bio-psycho-social development and specialize in LGBTQIA+ issues and chronic mental health struggles.
Common reasons people seek my help experience persistent sadness, worry, and fear which handicap their social and personal functioning. Ideally, I help people manage conflicts within their family structure, but often a person's family is not a source of support. I pay careful attention to ensuring people clinch ideal lifespan development milestones. My community also suffers from chronic stress at work and school. I can help adults, but also children and adolescents who traverse bullying and educational problems. My approach focuses on building healthy self-esteem when people lack confidence and promote their self-worth.
(901) 660-7444 View (901) 660-7444
Photo of Sara Stemmer Cardenas, MS, LPC, Counselor
Sara Stemmer Cardenas
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38117
Waitlist for new clients
I see adults of all ages for a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, stress management and life transitions.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in Person-Centered therapy in which the relationship between client and clinician is a priority and is based in mutual trust and respect, empathy and congruence. I use integrative techniques in every session to meet the unique needs of each client, such as CBT, trauma-informed therapy and mindfulness-based therapy. I believe that individuals are experts on themselves and because of this I take a collaborative approach in working with clients, utilizing what is known as Feedback Informed Treatment (FIT) to get client input in evaluating progress and clients’ needs.
I see adults of all ages for a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, stress management and life transitions.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in Person-Centered therapy in which the relationship between client and clinician is a priority and is based in mutual trust and respect, empathy and congruence. I use integrative techniques in every session to meet the unique needs of each client, such as CBT, trauma-informed therapy and mindfulness-based therapy. I believe that individuals are experts on themselves and because of this I take a collaborative approach in working with clients, utilizing what is known as Feedback Informed Treatment (FIT) to get client input in evaluating progress and clients’ needs.
(662) 262-9224 View (662) 262-9224
Photo of Trina B Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trina B Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Trina Davis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience in the human services field. She received a BS in Psychology and Master in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. Trina is the owner and founder of Notoriety Counseling Services. She specializes in trauma therapy, depression, grief, anxiety, stress-management, self-esteem building, women issues, military and families, collegiate/ pro-athletes, corrections, whole health, and gay/ lesbian issues.
Trina Davis is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience in the human services field. She received a BS in Psychology and Master in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. Trina is the owner and founder of Notoriety Counseling Services. She specializes in trauma therapy, depression, grief, anxiety, stress-management, self-esteem building, women issues, military and families, collegiate/ pro-athletes, corrections, whole health, and gay/ lesbian issues.
(804) 552-5108 View (804) 552-5108
Photo of Sara Ross, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38120
I utilize trauma-informed, evidence based practices and work from a culturally considerate, LGBTQIA+ affirming perspective.
Hello and welcome! I believe everyone has the capacity for change and is able to benefit from the power of therapy. Whether its everyday stressors, more serious conditions, or anything in between, it feels good to have someone walking with you. If you are looking for someone to listen, ready to be challenged, and have the desire to take charge of your life, I would be honored to help.
I utilize trauma-informed, evidence based practices and work from a culturally considerate, LGBTQIA+ affirming perspective.
Hello and welcome! I believe everyone has the capacity for change and is able to benefit from the power of therapy. Whether its everyday stressors, more serious conditions, or anything in between, it feels good to have someone walking with you. If you are looking for someone to listen, ready to be challenged, and have the desire to take charge of your life, I would be honored to help.
(901) 582-8827 View (901) 582-8827
Photo of Francine Owens - Owens Family Counseling, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Owens Family Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 37501  (Online Only)
I'm committed to maintaining a diverse, equitable, and inclusive practice which serves as a safe harbor for the LGBTQ community and those who are non-binary or gender queer as well.
My goal is to assist you in therapy to help discover your true self, and lead you to a life worth celebrating. While no one can change difficult situations or experiences of the past, you and I can work together to better understand and resolve the challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapeutic approaches and techniques, I will help you change long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I'm committed to maintaining a diverse, equitable, and inclusive practice which serves as a safe harbor for the LGBTQ community and those who are non-binary or gender queer as well.
My goal is to assist you in therapy to help discover your true self, and lead you to a life worth celebrating. While no one can change difficult situations or experiences of the past, you and I can work together to better understand and resolve the challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapeutic approaches and techniques, I will help you change long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(731) 257-2420 View (731) 257-2420

Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Memphis

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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.