LGBTQ Issues

Just like any other group, the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQ) community faces mental health issues and unique challenges. However, LGBTQ individuals are almost 3 times more likely than others to experience a mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety. Additionally, more than half of individuals who identify as transgender experience depression or anxiety. The LGBTQ community is also at a higher risk for suicide. Young people are even more at risk, as they may experience a lack of support at home and fear, hatred or prejudice in school. If you are a member of the LGBTQ community and are facing mental health challenges, you don’t have to suffer in silence. Reach out to one of TherapyDen’s LGBTQ experts and get help today.

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Many queer individuals haven't had the privilege of enjoying a life of acceptance. Instead, many have endured a toxic self-shame from a young age. A therapist who really understands you, your culture and your experience is a must. Explaining your fear of making the right choice over and over again with someone that doesn’t get it can be frustrating. If you’re trying to process and live your life, who’s got the time to explain the difference between a twink and a bear?

— Gavin Cross, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in West Hollywood, CA

There are many unique beautiful parts of being LGBTQAI+, as well as unique challenges and stressors. If you’re looking for an individual or couples therapist that understands that part of you, I’m excited to support you. Whether you’re looking to explore things around your sexual/gender identity, or you are wanting to focus on other things entirely with someone that has similar lived experiences, I’m here for you.

— Courageous Couples Counseling, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
 

Living in a heteronormative world is hard for any member of the LGBTQIA+ community. Despite the world accepting us more nowadays, prejudice and discrimination are still prevalent on top of our already stressful lives. As a member of the community, I like to create a safe environment for clients facing LGBTQ-related issues. Together, we can learn to separate outside influences and focus on what improves our situation.

— Yifan Jin, Mental Health Counselor in New York, NY

As a queer lesbian therapist, I am committed to serving my community. We deserve to thrive.

— Adrian Kunemund, Psychologist in Decatur, GA
 

I’m passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community and proving gender affirming care to trans and non-binary adolescents and adults. I can provide you a safe, compassionate space you need to explore your thoughts and feelings, feel empowered to embrace your strengths and step into your truth, and ultimately thrive in your identity!

— Hall Birdsong, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in 4244 Central Ave N, FL

Being queer is about celebrating being exactly who you are. Being queer is not a choice or a phase. Being queer is about accepting the fluid nature of your sexuality. At My Healing Haven, I respect all sexual and gender identities. I will not try to “talk you out of it”; I will help you navigate the difficult waters that are often a mirror image of transition itself. You will be safe, and you will be helped.

— Nichole Venable, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sterling, VA
 

I identify as queer, and work with clients of all gender identities and sexual orientations. I work with people who are questioning their sexual orientation, and who have a more fluid understanding of their attractions as well.

— Laurie Ebbe-Wheeler, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA

Our current social climate can be very stressful and overwhelming for members of our community. I am here to provide a safe space to be your most authentic self and to help you best navigate your identity in today's world. As a member of the community myself, I strive to be knowledgeable and accepting of cultural norms in our community while still recognizing my own privilege of being cisgender and White. I do not want my sessions to be a place where you have to code switch.

— Dillon Dostal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
 

As a queer person in a straight-passing relationship, I recognize the privilege I bring to the therapy room. I work to continuously develop my knowledge base about both queer issues as well expansive relationships by engaging in continuing education, consultation, & clinical work. I see a large number of LGBTQ folx and and strive to use my privileges to fight against oppressive sociopolitical dynamics.

— Olivia Carollo, Clinical Psychologist in Chicago, IL

Throughout her undergraduate and graduate career Courtney focused a portion of her studies on Human Sexuality and Education, including a graduate level study aboard of LGBTQ Health Promotion in the Netherlands.

— Courtney Garner, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
 

I have experience working with queer-identifying clients who want to work on understanding their sexual and gender identities more, become comfortable with their identities, and work through queer relationships. I have also written referral letters for my TGNC clients who were seeking gender-affirming medical care.

— Anju Okamura, Licensed Master of Social Work in Brooklyn, NY

As a compassionate and affirming MFT, Emilie provides specialized support for LGBTQ+ individuals and families. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, Emilie creates a safe and inclusive space where clients can explore their identities, experiences, and relationships without fear of judgment. Through a collaborative and affirming approach, Emilie helps clients navigate issues such as coming out, family acceptance and dynamics, and mental health concerns.

— Emilie Mellal, Marriage & Family Therapist
 

I have extensive experience working with people who identify as LGBTQ and their allies. During my career I have worked with many clients who are seeking support around some facet of their sexual orientation, as well as clients who are not looking for support with their sexuality specifically, but who want a therapist that "gets them."

— Megan McDavid, Sex Therapist in , OR

LGBTQ+ issues related to coming out, trans, curious, relationships, coping with prejudice, family issues, and trauma.

— Carla Edwards-Burke, Psychologist in Kansas City, MO
 

I have worked with a wide variety of LGBTQIA clients over many years, and work to be an active learner in this role.

— Meghan FitzPatrick, Psychologist in New York, NY

As a member of these communities I combine lived experience with education and clinical knowledge to provide support to the LGBTQIA+, ethical non-monogamous, and Kink communities. I am inclusive of all non-traditional relationship styles and actively support Power Exchange dynamics in my practice.

— Farrah Bonnot, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denton, TX
 

I provide LGBTQ affirming therapy, am a member of the LGBTQ community, and can help you navigate any challenges related to this in your life.

— Erica Christmas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gilbert, AZ

Since 2013, I have practiced psychotherapy supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Mostly, guiding Gay Men through life transitions, healing trauma, and accepting themself. I help Gay Men who want to feel liberated to be authentic but feel an inner battle to live their truth with themself, in relationships, and in society. I help Gay Men who are struggling with their sexual orientation, living in/out of the closet, living with HIV, relationship conflict, and much more. To learn more, Let’s Talk.

— Raymond Castilleja Jr., Licensed Clinical Social Worker
 

Having safe, accessible, and reliable healthcare for the LGBTQ and especially the trans community is something I value greatly. I have experience with providing documentation for gender affirming surgery (be sure to check with your insurance company on these requirements, I am not doctoral level).

— Deanna Villagran, Counselor in Flourtown, PA