Therapy can be helpful for anyone, but as awareness of LGBTQ+ issues increases, so too does the demand for therapists who can serve this demographic. Some challenges LGBTQ+ individuals encounter are exclusive to their identities, while others often experience struggles with anxiety, being stressed, or communicating in a relationship.
LGBTQ couples therapy is becoming more accessible. However, some may still find it challenging to find a therapist that can serve them. To find an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist who works well with a patient, it is essential to understand where to look, the qualities to consider, and important questions to ask.
Will a non- LGBTQ+ affirming therapist be able to offer the same services, and what does this niche of therapy have to offer that is distinctive? All of these considerations are important when searching for qualified professionals who provide culturally competent care.
Why LGBTQ Couples Therapy Matters
The first step when seeking a therapist is to determine who might be a good fit. For those in the LGBTQ+ community, locating the right professional can be challenging, and it may seem easier to go to a therapist who does not focus on these particular difficulties.
However, LGBTQ+ affirming therapists understand the challenges and experiences of the community. They can provide informed guidance that may not be part of a general therapist’s body of knowledge. For this reason, spending extra time to find an affirming therapy professional is worthwhile.
What to Look for in an LGBTQ+ Therapist
LGBTQ+ affirming therapists’ offices may not look much different from a typical therapy space. Still, the experience should reflect a deep knowledge of this rich and diversified community. Things to look for in a therapist (and their workspace) and questions to ask include:
- Inclusive language – Does the office provide intake forms that use inclusive language, such as asking for a person’s pronouns or preferred name? Does office material use gender-neutral terms where possible?
- Prior experience – Has the therapist worked with LGBTQ+ individuals before? Are they part of affirming groups or continuing education on LGBTQ+ specific issues? Do they have any training or certifications relevant to treatment (e.g., participation in WPATH, the World Professional Association for Transgender Health)?
- Openness – Does the therapist openly communicate their willingness to work with LGBTQ+ individuals?
- Adaptability – Does the therapist welcome learning opportunities from the clients (e.g., identities or terminology they have not encountered yet)?
How to Find Qualified Professionals
Locating a therapist to whom a patient can ask the above questions is often the first hurdle LGBTQ+ individuals encounter when seeking help. Be sure to check:
- The WPATH directory search function
- The Inclusive Therapists directory search function
- Psychology Today’s filterable list
- The patient’s insurance portal, which may have a search function with LGBTQ filters
- Local LGBTQ+ organizations, which may have references to therapists in the area
- Nearby college counseling offices, which may maintain a list of LGBTQ therapists
- The Society for the Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity, which may be connected with therapists who participate
- Local LGBTQ+ support groups, within which other members may have found therapist resources already
- The National Coalition for Sexual Freedom, which maintains a list of therapists sensitive to marginalized communities
- A patient’s general practitioner, who has connections with other healthcare providers in the region
While finding an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist can take time, it is important to continue the search until the patient finds a professional with whom they are a good fit. Simply accepting the first therapist who comes along can lead to delayed positive outcomes and a sense of stress or ostracization that can discourage patients from continuing to invest in their own wellness.
Keep in mind, too, that an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist need not themselves be LGBTQ+. Many straight, cis individuals are powerful allies for those who are marginalized and have pursued continuing education to serve this population. They may have friends or family members who are part of the community. It is always worth speaking to them to see if they may be a good fit!
Get the LGBTQ Couples Therapy Support You Need
An LGBTQ+ affirming therapist can make a substantial difference in how a patient copes with the exclusive challenges they encounter and the difficulties that shape their approach to life. By asking smart questions and conducting thorough research in advance, patients can increase the likelihood of finding a therapist who is an ideal fit.
The team at Village Counseling is always happy to welcome our LGBTQ+ patients! Contact Village Counseling today to learn more about our LGBTQ+ affirming therapists and schedule a session, whether for individual therapy, LGBTQ+ couples therapy, or something else!