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.
As a member of this community (as with the other communities I serve) I have lived experience of the microaggressions and struggles faced by the LGBTQIA+ or SAGA community when attempting to access mental health care. I provide a sex positive and affirming space to explore all aspects of sexuality, gender, and relationship, but also understand the ways in which simply belonging to this community impacts other aspects of a person's life.
— Farrah Bonnot, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denton, TXI've been fortunate to have two terrific children, one gay and one bisexual. They (along with PFLAG) taught me so much about minority stress, resilience and advocacy. It was more than a decade ago but it mobilized me to learn how to be an effective political advocate for marriage equality in Maryland. I learned so much. Now the trans/nonbinary community is under an organized political attack and needs our support. I hope I can help.
— Daniel McCarthy, Psychologist in Columbia, MDI've been working with LGBTQ+ folks since the start of my career. I have significant training and experience. I value the opportunity to work with my community.
— Meg Higgins, Clinical Social Worker in ,Amy has worked with queer/LGBT+ individuals for the last 15 years from ages 10-90 on issues such as exploring your identity, coming out, transitioning, processing and over coming religious trauma, setting boundaries with family members, accommodations in the work place, identifying community support, socializing and dating, and aging. In addition, Amy frequently works with family members or partners learning acceptance and processes perception/expectations they had for their loved ones life.
— Amy Studer, Licensed Professional Counselor in , MOIn graduate school (2012-2013) I was a Graduate Assistant for the LGBTQ+ counseling program. In that role, I facilitated and created trainings for the campus community including Trans and LGB Ally trainings. I also created and implemented trainings to help students navigate the holidays knowing their families might not be a safe place. After college, I continue to be an active advocate and ally and do my best to stay informed and educated. I attend local trainings and consultation.
— Integrated Counseling and Wellness, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Fort Collins, COI have worked for many years with the LGBTQ+ community, helping people with coming out, family issues, relationship issues, HIV/AIDS, aging, self-esteem, sexual issues, sexual compulsivity and addiction. I am sex positive and BDSM/kink friendly.
— Rick Isenberg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ridgway, COI have been queer & trans* all my life, and I have encountered a plethora of LGBTQ individuals & their similar yet unique experiences. I majored in Women's and Gender studies in college to gain more foundational understanding of sexuality & gender. I have clinically worked with LGBTQ folks in several settlings & different environments from a private practice office to a park bench. I enjoy connecting to LGBTQ individuals in professional & personal spaces - my lived experience is key.
— Cleo Oubre, Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, CAAs a part of the queer community myself, I am well-versed in some of the struggles that we face.
— Eliot Altschul, Psychologist in Arcata, CAWe employ gender expansive staff members to support people experiencing dysmorphia, transition, bullying, and other issues related to the LGBTQIA community.
— Barefoot and Balanced Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clackamas, ORAs a member of the LGBTQ community, I have lived experience that helps me relate to my clients and assist them in navigating their own identity. I have experience helping clients who are questioning, exploring, or working on coming out.
— Peter Lachman, Social Worker in Chicago, ILAs a lesbian therapist, I understand the issues that can come along with being out in the south. I am a member of the Charlotte Transgender Healthcare Group and am interested in bridging the gaps of services for folks across the gender spectrum. I also provide letters of support for HRT and need documentation for their insurance or medical provider.
— Aimee Whaley, Counselor in , NCAs a queer person, I know it's crucial to have a therapist who sees and supports every part of your identity. I have substantial experience working with queer folks, both in and outside of the therapeutic relationship. I also know no one is a monolith for an entire community, and I strive to continue educating myself and to approach each individual with curiosity and openness.
— Lauren Green, Mental Health Counselor in Knoxville, TNI support folks: looking at the intersection of sexual orientation and/or gender identity and coming out; pondering gender identity development; exploring expressions of alternative sexuality, including negotiating polyamorous relationships; building strong LGBTQQ relationships; struggling with queer aging.
— Shelley Samuels, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Oakland, CAAs lesbian and parent, I bring my own experiences and sensitivity to the task of providing members of our community the support they need to tackle the challenges of life. I provide couples counseling and ongoing psychotherapy.
— Amy Hecht, Clinical Psychologist in Charlotte, NCShannon provides a safe, affirming space for LGBTQIA+ clients to explore their identities, address discrimination, and navigate challenges related to self-acceptance and relationships. She helps clients process trauma, build resilience, and develop coping strategies to live authentically while fostering a sense of empowerment and self-worth.
— Shannon Murphy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, COIn addition to working with all sexual orientations, I also work with the transgender community to provide safe, non-judgmental care. I work with clients around any number of issues, but can also focus work on gender identity and transition-related care. I receive specialized training when available around best practices, and follow WPATH Standard of Care guidelines in my practice.
— Mike Lysaght, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CABeing queer, I have some insight into the dynamics in queer relationships and have worked with lots of LGBTQ individuals and couples. Historically, therapists don't disclose things like this about ourselves, but I think it is important that LGBTQ clients can find a counselor and know they won't have to explain or defend their sexuality or relationships.
— PK Foss, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, ORWe will examine the roots of shame, guilt, and other challenging emotions that may be tied to societal expectations, family dynamics, or past relationships. By uncovering these underlying patterns and the impact they have on your sense of self, we can work toward reducing the weight of these emotions. Together, we will foster greater self-acceptance, build resilience, and empower you to live authentically and with confidence.
— Michael Pollet, Student Therapist in Portland, ORI 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