Photo of Sarah Phillips, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Fairfield County, CT
Sarah Phillips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CT 06851  (Online Only)
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, school issues, bipolar disorder, grief, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, school issues, bipolar disorder, grief, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
(860) 898-9216 View (860) 898-9216
Photo of Dr. Hamilton Gaiani, Psychiatrist in Fairfield County, CT
Dr. Hamilton Gaiani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830  (Online Only)
As a Yale trained Board-Certified Adult & Addiction Psychiatrist, I provide only the highest quality and evidence-based mental health treatment. I work with all mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, OCD, etc. I also specialize in helping with alcohol/drug issues, ADHD, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I have an extensive knowledge of the latest research and treatments and am a strong advocate for the patients I work with. Treatment includes medication management and an optional therapy component. You may also request comprehensive evaluations, and if appropriate, addiction med management including suboxone.
As a Yale trained Board-Certified Adult & Addiction Psychiatrist, I provide only the highest quality and evidence-based mental health treatment. I work with all mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, OCD, etc. I also specialize in helping with alcohol/drug issues, ADHD, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I have an extensive knowledge of the latest research and treatments and am a strong advocate for the patients I work with. Treatment includes medication management and an optional therapy component. You may also request comprehensive evaluations, and if appropriate, addiction med management including suboxone.
(475) 263-3189 View (475) 263-3189
Photo of Tarique Perera Contemporary Care, Psychiatrist in Fairfield County, CT
Tarique Perera Contemporary Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810
Struggling with depression, anxiety, or debilitating symptoms? Traditional treatments might not always work. I offer advanced options: psychopharmacology, TMS therapy, ketamine infusions, and the latest Spravato esketamine treatments, combined with psychotherapy. Trained at Harvard, with a residency at New York Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, I am recognized as one of America's Top Psychiatrists. My approach focuses on full symptom remission, treating you as a whole. Welcome to a new chapter in your mental health journey at my practice.
Struggling with depression, anxiety, or debilitating symptoms? Traditional treatments might not always work. I offer advanced options: psychopharmacology, TMS therapy, ketamine infusions, and the latest Spravato esketamine treatments, combined with psychotherapy. Trained at Harvard, with a residency at New York Psychiatric Institute and Columbia University, I am recognized as one of America's Top Psychiatrists. My approach focuses on full symptom remission, treating you as a whole. Welcome to a new chapter in your mental health journey at my practice.
(203) 403-6235 View (203) 403-6235
Photo of Eric B Nicholson, Psychiatrist in Fairfield County, CT
Eric B Nicholson
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CT 06850
Board-Certified in Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Addiction Psychiatry, for over 20 years Dr. Eric Nicholson has specialized in treating neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals with trauma-related disorders (PTSD) and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder/OCD-Spectrum Disorders including Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (trichotillomania, skin picking) with Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Exposure/Response Prevention therapy with Inhibitory Learning, Habit Reversal Training and medicine as needed. He also expertly treats all Addictions and Depressive & Anxiety Disorders (Social Anxiety, Panic disorders).
Board-Certified in Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Addiction Psychiatry, for over 20 years Dr. Eric Nicholson has specialized in treating neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals with trauma-related disorders (PTSD) and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder/OCD-Spectrum Disorders including Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (trichotillomania, skin picking) with Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Exposure/Response Prevention therapy with Inhibitory Learning, Habit Reversal Training and medicine as needed. He also expertly treats all Addictions and Depressive & Anxiety Disorders (Social Anxiety, Panic disorders).
(203) 838-8168 View (203) 838-8168
Photo of Susan Daly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Fairfield County, CT
Susan Daly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgefield, CT 06879
…. Diagnostic evaluation and psychopharmacology (medication evaluation and management) for adolescents, adults and seniors. As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, Susan incorporates the most up to date evidence-based research into treatment plans. Continuing education is of paramount importance in selecting the best options for clients. Although specializing in psychopharmacology, Susan believes in incorporating a mind, body approach. Her background includes years of experience in a trauma level ER which gives her a unique perspective to her client’s needs.
…. Diagnostic evaluation and psychopharmacology (medication evaluation and management) for adolescents, adults and seniors. As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, Susan incorporates the most up to date evidence-based research into treatment plans. Continuing education is of paramount importance in selecting the best options for clients. Although specializing in psychopharmacology, Susan believes in incorporating a mind, body approach. Her background includes years of experience in a trauma level ER which gives her a unique perspective to her client’s needs.
(475) 234-2548 View (475) 234-2548
Photo of Tara Kerner, Psychiatrist in Fairfield County, CT
Tara Kerner
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06825  (Online Only)
I am an adult psychiatrist practicing in Fairfield, CT. I work with a variety of patients; from people having difficulties adjusting to new life situations to those suffering with depression and anxiety. With my patients, we decide together what kind of therapy would best suit their individual needs. Sometimes it's weekly therapy and sometimes I may recommend medication. The overall goal is always the same: to help you gain an understanding of the problem at hand, to support you in the process of recovery, and to complete treatment with a healthier and happier frame of mind and body.
I am an adult psychiatrist practicing in Fairfield, CT. I work with a variety of patients; from people having difficulties adjusting to new life situations to those suffering with depression and anxiety. With my patients, we decide together what kind of therapy would best suit their individual needs. Sometimes it's weekly therapy and sometimes I may recommend medication. The overall goal is always the same: to help you gain an understanding of the problem at hand, to support you in the process of recovery, and to complete treatment with a healthier and happier frame of mind and body.
(917) 446-7014 View (917) 446-7014
Photo of Jill Ahluwalia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Fairfield County, CT
Jill Ahluwalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, MPH
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06831  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified, Columbia University-trained psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP) specializing in psychiatric evaluation, medication management, psychotherapy, and alternative treatments to improve mental health. My holistic approach combines personalized medicine with my passion for listening deeply to your experience. By going beyond the symptoms that bring you into treatment, I will partner with you to help you achieve more joy and fulfillment in your life.
I am a board-certified, Columbia University-trained psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP) specializing in psychiatric evaluation, medication management, psychotherapy, and alternative treatments to improve mental health. My holistic approach combines personalized medicine with my passion for listening deeply to your experience. By going beyond the symptoms that bring you into treatment, I will partner with you to help you achieve more joy and fulfillment in your life.
(718) 690-7460 View (718) 690-7460
Photo of Randi Cohen, Psychiatrist in Fairfield County, CT
Randi Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with anxiety, negativity, or a sense of worthlessness? Do you find yourself cut off from feelings or going in circles in your current relationship? Do you have trouble focusing and staying organized? Is it hard for you to get past things that bother you? I am extensively trained in cognitive, behavioral, mindfulness-based, and somatic awareness techniques to help you feel comfortable in your skin. I also offer an option for medications. I work with individuals or with couples. I specialize in addressing OCD, PTSD, Asperger's, ADHD, depression, anxiety, life issues, and relationship stressors.
Do you struggle with anxiety, negativity, or a sense of worthlessness? Do you find yourself cut off from feelings or going in circles in your current relationship? Do you have trouble focusing and staying organized? Is it hard for you to get past things that bother you? I am extensively trained in cognitive, behavioral, mindfulness-based, and somatic awareness techniques to help you feel comfortable in your skin. I also offer an option for medications. I work with individuals or with couples. I specialize in addressing OCD, PTSD, Asperger's, ADHD, depression, anxiety, life issues, and relationship stressors.
(203) 490-4503 View (203) 490-4503
Photo of Limore Maron, Psychiatrist in Fairfield County, CT
Limore Maron
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06824
Welcome to My Better Place LLC ! I, Dr. Limore Maron, am looking forward to starting our journey together. I provide patient centered care through Psychopharmacology ( medication management ), Natural supplements, and Supportive Therapy. Each patient deserves a tailored approach and we will work together to get you to a better place. I have been in clinical practice for over 14 years and treat ages 16-64 with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD , PTSD , OCD, I have held various academic appointments throughout my career at University of Miami Miller School of Medicine & University of Vermont School of Medicine.
Welcome to My Better Place LLC ! I, Dr. Limore Maron, am looking forward to starting our journey together. I provide patient centered care through Psychopharmacology ( medication management ), Natural supplements, and Supportive Therapy. Each patient deserves a tailored approach and we will work together to get you to a better place. I have been in clinical practice for over 14 years and treat ages 16-64 with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD , PTSD , OCD, I have held various academic appointments throughout my career at University of Miami Miller School of Medicine & University of Vermont School of Medicine.
(203) 212-8855 View (203) 212-8855
Photo of Timothy C. Van Deusen, Psychiatrist in Fairfield County, CT
Timothy C. Van Deusen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06825
I'm board certified in both general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry focusing on the complex issues of adolescents and young adults ages 13-29. These years of development can be complicated and confusing, and the time for the emergence of many psychiatric disorders. My areas of interests include anxiety, depression, and the transitioning to college. I also help college students return back to school when they have had to take a break due to stress leading to poor grades, family issues, relationship conflicts, or other emotional hardships.. I provide weekly psychotherapy and prescribe medications when indicated.
I'm board certified in both general psychiatry and child and adolescent psychiatry focusing on the complex issues of adolescents and young adults ages 13-29. These years of development can be complicated and confusing, and the time for the emergence of many psychiatric disorders. My areas of interests include anxiety, depression, and the transitioning to college. I also help college students return back to school when they have had to take a break due to stress leading to poor grades, family issues, relationship conflicts, or other emotional hardships.. I provide weekly psychotherapy and prescribe medications when indicated.
(203) 779-6313 View (203) 779-6313
Photo of Christopher Allen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Fairfield County, CT
Christopher Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Southport, CT 06890
I am a Yale trained board certified psychiatric clinical specialist nurse practitioner practicing in Southport Connecticut. My practice is small, intimate, individual and holistic. I provide a wide range of services from medication management to individual and couples therapy. As I am dually certified in adult medicine and psychiatry, I have an integrative approach to psychiatric and physical wellness. This includes nutritional and alternative medicine, labs and genetic testing. I have a humanistic approach to treating clients that is caring and compassionate. Please contact me directly at 203-838-1878. For appointme.
I am a Yale trained board certified psychiatric clinical specialist nurse practitioner practicing in Southport Connecticut. My practice is small, intimate, individual and holistic. I provide a wide range of services from medication management to individual and couples therapy. As I am dually certified in adult medicine and psychiatry, I have an integrative approach to psychiatric and physical wellness. This includes nutritional and alternative medicine, labs and genetic testing. I have a humanistic approach to treating clients that is caring and compassionate. Please contact me directly at 203-838-1878. For appointme.
(203) 838-1678 View (203) 838-1678
Photo of Jill Ahluwalia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Fairfield County, CT
Jill Ahluwalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, MPH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greenwich, CT 06831  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified, Columbia University trained, psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP) specializing in medication management, psychotherapy, and alternative treatments to improve mental health. My holistic approach combines personalized medicine with my passion for listening deeply to your experience. By going beyond the symptoms that bring you into treatment, I will partner with you to help you achieve more joy and fulfillment in your life.
I am a board-certified, Columbia University trained, psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP) specializing in medication management, psychotherapy, and alternative treatments to improve mental health. My holistic approach combines personalized medicine with my passion for listening deeply to your experience. By going beyond the symptoms that bring you into treatment, I will partner with you to help you achieve more joy and fulfillment in your life.
(929) 244-2945 View (929) 244-2945
Photo of Dr. David L. Lopez / Cornell Affiliated, Psychiatrist in Fairfield County, CT
Dr. David L. Lopez / Cornell Affiliated
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP, Cornell, Faculty
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
Cornell and Columbia trained, Dr. Lopez does not believe in one-size-fits-all treatments. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the national Child and Adolescent Psychiatry society (AACAP) and believes in down-to-earth approaches that really make sense. Dr. Lopez is also an adult psychotherapist with years of training in the most in-depth psychotherapies. He provides interventions that have clear results. A Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), he has taught at Cornell and Columbia specialized programs for more than 15 years. He now brings to Philadelphia the latest knowledge to help kids, parents, and adult patients.
Cornell and Columbia trained, Dr. Lopez does not believe in one-size-fits-all treatments. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the national Child and Adolescent Psychiatry society (AACAP) and believes in down-to-earth approaches that really make sense. Dr. Lopez is also an adult psychotherapist with years of training in the most in-depth psychotherapies. He provides interventions that have clear results. A Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), he has taught at Cornell and Columbia specialized programs for more than 15 years. He now brings to Philadelphia the latest knowledge to help kids, parents, and adult patients.
(203) 869-5509 View (203) 869-5509
Photo of Dr. Simbiat (Dr. Sim) Oladiran-Adighije, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Fairfield County, CT
Dr. Simbiat (Dr. Sim) Oladiran-Adighije
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stamford, CT 06905  (Online Only)
Introducing Dr. Sim: Your Partner in Mental Health and Well-being! Looking for expert guidance and support on your mental health journey? Meet Dr. Simbiat Oladiran-Adighije, affectionately known as Dr. Sim! With over 15 years of experience, she's your go-to professional specializing in Adult ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Mood Disorders (Depressive disorders & Bipolar disorders), Perinatal psychiatry, and comorbid mental disorders. Dr. Sim is not your average clinician—she's a trailblazer! Graduating Summa Cum Laude from Rutgers University with her Bachelors of Science and Masters of Science degrees in Nursing,
Introducing Dr. Sim: Your Partner in Mental Health and Well-being! Looking for expert guidance and support on your mental health journey? Meet Dr. Simbiat Oladiran-Adighije, affectionately known as Dr. Sim! With over 15 years of experience, she's your go-to professional specializing in Adult ADHD, Anxiety disorders, Mood Disorders (Depressive disorders & Bipolar disorders), Perinatal psychiatry, and comorbid mental disorders. Dr. Sim is not your average clinician—she's a trailblazer! Graduating Summa Cum Laude from Rutgers University with her Bachelors of Science and Masters of Science degrees in Nursing,
(877) 803-5342 View (877) 803-5342
Photo of Sound Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatrist in Fairfield County, CT
Sound Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Darien, CT 06820
Hello. I am a Yale-trained board-certified adult psychiatrist offering combined psychotherapy with/without medication management and medication management alone in my private practice. I am also a clinical faculty member within Yale School of Medicine's Department of Psychiatry. My practice focuses on women's mental health, reproductive psychiatry, and psychodynamic psychotherapy. This type of insight-oriented psychotherapy promotes curiosity and self-awareness about how individuals' past experiences (including childhood dynamics) influence their present-day thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Such insights promote emotional relief.
Hello. I am a Yale-trained board-certified adult psychiatrist offering combined psychotherapy with/without medication management and medication management alone in my private practice. I am also a clinical faculty member within Yale School of Medicine's Department of Psychiatry. My practice focuses on women's mental health, reproductive psychiatry, and psychodynamic psychotherapy. This type of insight-oriented psychotherapy promotes curiosity and self-awareness about how individuals' past experiences (including childhood dynamics) influence their present-day thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Such insights promote emotional relief.
(203) 896-8903 View (203) 896-8903
Photo of Michael B Garland, Psychiatrist in Fairfield County, CT
Michael B Garland
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Welcome, I'm a therapist and psychiatrist with expertise in working with young children, adolescents, and their parents. I completed my medical training at the University of Chicago and the Yale Child Study Center. With your consent, I work collaboratively with the child, parents, schools, and other professionals to personalize a treatment that focuses on your goals, values, strengths, and needs. By integrating what works from up-to-date evidence-based treatments with neuroscience and psychoanalytic ways of understanding a mind's development, I seek to empower my patients to suffer less and live with more authenticity, creativity, and freedom.
Welcome, I'm a therapist and psychiatrist with expertise in working with young children, adolescents, and their parents. I completed my medical training at the University of Chicago and the Yale Child Study Center. With your consent, I work collaboratively with the child, parents, schools, and other professionals to personalize a treatment that focuses on your goals, values, strengths, and needs. By integrating what works from up-to-date evidence-based treatments with neuroscience and psychoanalytic ways of understanding a mind's development, I seek to empower my patients to suffer less and live with more authenticity, creativity, and freedom.
(203) 664-5850 View (203) 664-5850
Photo of Douglas Zelisko, Psychiatrist in Fairfield County, CT
Douglas Zelisko
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06430
Making the decision to seek help with your challenges can feel both empowering and vulnerable. I offer a safe and compassionate, non-judgmental space for us to start the process and talk. I strive to help adults with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, focus, and physical ailments among others. I provide both medication management, as well as individual psychotherapy. I primarily practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, however am trained in other modalities to best help you through the emotional challenges you face and allow a greater understanding of yourself.
Making the decision to seek help with your challenges can feel both empowering and vulnerable. I offer a safe and compassionate, non-judgmental space for us to start the process and talk. I strive to help adults with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, focus, and physical ailments among others. I provide both medication management, as well as individual psychotherapy. I primarily practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, however am trained in other modalities to best help you through the emotional challenges you face and allow a greater understanding of yourself.
(860) 854-7338 View (860) 854-7338
Photo of One Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Fairfield County, CT
One Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
(201) 969-5923 View (201) 969-5923
Photo of Christina L Persaud, Psychiatrist in Fairfield County, CT
Christina L Persaud
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stamford, CT 06902  (Online Only)
My goal is to help you improve your quality of life through the right combination of medications and therapy. My therapy style combines elements of psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and supportive therapy…along with the appropriate doses of sensitivity, empathy and humor.
My goal is to help you improve your quality of life through the right combination of medications and therapy. My therapy style combines elements of psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and supportive therapy…along with the appropriate doses of sensitivity, empathy and humor.
(646) 956-5955 View (646) 956-5955
Photo of Navjot Khinda, Psychiatrist in Fairfield County, CT
Navjot Khinda
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenwich, CT 06830
The decision to engage in therapy, initiate or discontinue medications may be difficult and anxiety provoking. Dr. Khinda’s warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental treatment approach assists in providing patient centered care in a safe and supportive environment. Dr. Khinda will work to specifically tailor treatment to the unique strengths and values of each individual, whether that means medication management, therapy, or a novel approach. Dr. Khinda is a double board-certified psychiatrist in Child & Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. She has trained at large, reputable healthcare systems.
The decision to engage in therapy, initiate or discontinue medications may be difficult and anxiety provoking. Dr. Khinda’s warm, collaborative, and non-judgmental treatment approach assists in providing patient centered care in a safe and supportive environment. Dr. Khinda will work to specifically tailor treatment to the unique strengths and values of each individual, whether that means medication management, therapy, or a novel approach. Dr. Khinda is a double board-certified psychiatrist in Child & Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. She has trained at large, reputable healthcare systems.
(646) 760-3159 View (646) 760-3159

See more therapy options for Fairfield County

Transgender Psychiatrists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.