Do I have to be out to start therapy?

No. You decide what to share and when. Therapy is confidential, with a few narrow legal exceptions your therapist will explain at the outset, and you can take the time you need.

How do I know a therapist is really affirming?

You can ask directly about their experience with LGBTQ+ clients, and you should leave the first session feeling respected and heard. If something does not feel right, tell us what you are looking for and we will do our best to connect you with the right therapist.

Can I explore gender identity or sexual orientation if I am not sure what I am looking for?

Yes. Exploring questions is a good reason to start, and you do not need an answer, a label, or a plan. Your therapist can help you sort through what you are noticing at your own pace.

Can my partner and I come together?

Yes. Couples of every shape are welcome, and our page on therapy for couples describes how those sessions work.

who we help

Therapy for LGBTQ+ clients

Affirming therapy where you don't have to explain or defend who you are before the real work can start.

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Four people on a mustard sofa in conversation, one speaking with open hands while the others listen, for LGBTQ+ clients

We understand

What you're carrying as a queer or trans person

LGBTQ+ individuals may seek therapy for a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, family dynamics, identity exploration, and self-esteem. For some, navigating questions around sexual orientation or gender identity can bring additional emotional complexities, particularly when balancing personal experiences with family, relationships, or social expectations. Therapy offers a supportive, nonjudgmental space to explore these experiences, better understand yourself, strengthen relationships, and develop healthier ways of coping. Working with a therapist who understands LGBTQ+ experiences can help foster a sense of safety, trust, and openness throughout the therapeutic process.

What LGBTQ+ clients bring to therapy

People bring all the usual reasons for therapy, such as anxiety, depression, relationships, and work, along with questions that are part of their identity: coming out, exploring gender identity or sexual orientation, dating and partnership, and family that is not fully accepting. You decide what to bring and in what order.

Relationships of every shape are welcome. Our relationship problems page says we embrace diversity in all relationship forms and styles, including LGBTQIA+ people and those in non-monogamous, polyamorous, or non-traditional relationships.

How we work

Affirming care means your identity is a given, not something you have to defend. Many of our clinicians list LGBTQ+ affirming among the communities they serve on their profiles, and some name gender identity or sexual orientation among their areas of focus.

The work is collaborative: you set the direction, and your therapist chooses methods to fit it, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, or mindfulness-based therapy. When a concern needs closer attention, we connect it to support for anxiety, depression, or trauma.

select your therapist

Clinicians who work with LGBTQ+

Licensed Psychologist, Founder

Jessica January Behr, Psy.D.