For the LGBTQIA+ community, online therapy should be accessible and affirming, providing a space where individuals feel safe and seen. To determine the best online therapy options for LGBTQIA+ individuals in 2024, our editorial team rigorously evaluated over 52 platforms, considering factors like inclusivity, therapist credentials, cost, insurance coverage, and overall credibility. Here are our top choices for the best LGBTQIA+ online therapy services.
Best LGBTQ+ Online Therapy Options at a Glance
Best Overall LGBTQ+ Online Therapy
BetterHelp
Visit BetterHelpWhy We Chose Them
Personal Experience
"BetterHelp fosters an inclusive and collaborative relationship between patient and therapist."
Best With Insurance
Talkiatry
Visit TalkiatryWhy We Chose Them
Personal Experience
"If you’re in-network – something Talkiatry confirms – your out-of-pocket cost could be as low as $30."
Best Access to LGBTQ+ Therapists
Gay Therapy Center
Visit Gay Therapy CenterWhy We Chose Them
Personal Experience
"It’s a tremendous in-person resource for those living in CA, NY, and D.C., and their LGBTQ+ therapists are available to anyone."
Most Affordable LGBT Therapy
Open Path Collective
Visit Open Path CollectiveWhy We Chose Them
Personal Experience
"Open Path’s straightforward fees make it a great option for anyone who is uninsured/underinsured and needs more affordable care."
Best For LGBT+ Couples Counseling
ReGain
Visit ReGainWhy We Chose Them
Personal Experience
"I appreciate their intake form, which includes options to select gender and sexual identity."
Best For BIPOC
The National Queer & Trans Therapists of Color Network
Visit NQTTCNWhy We Chose Them
Personal Experience
"As a nonprofit, NQTTCN is focused solely on making it easier to connect with queer and/or trans therapists of color."
Best For Intersectional Identities
Inclusive Therapists
Visit Inclusive TherapistsWhy We Chose Them
Personal Experience
"Their search filters might feel overwhelming, but it is worth the effort to find a therapist who is aligned with your identity."
Best For Family Dynamics
LGBTQ Therapy Space
Visit LGBTQ Therapy SpaceWhy We Chose Them
Personal Experience
"LGBTQ Therapy Space has a relatively easy signup process; it was great to self-select your own therapist."
Best Trauma-Informed Care
Expansive Therapy
Visit Expansive TherapyWhy We Chose Them
Personal Experience
"All therapists collaborated with Dr. Bessel Van Der Kolk, author of The Body Keeps the Score and global leader in trauma treatment."
Best For Peer Support
Therapy Tribe
Visit Therapy TribeWhy We Chose Them
Personal Experience
"These free, online support groups offer an affordable area of support and connection in addition to therapy."
Best For Holistic Care
Calmerry
Visit CalmerryWhy We Chose Them
Personal Experience
"Calmerry uses an evidence-based, holistic approach, leaning into societal issues, like discrimination and stigma."
Best For LGBTQ+ Christian Community
The Christian Closet
Visit The Christian ClosetWhy We Chose Them
Personal Experience
" Christian Closet provides a space where LGBTQ+ people who want to stay connected to religion don’t have to sacrifice faith or identity."
Our Picks for Best LGBTQ Online Therapy Options
- Best Overall – BetterHelp
- Best With Insurance – Talkiatry
- Best Access to LGBTQ+ Therapists – Gay Therapy Center
- Most Affordable- Open Path Collective
- Best For LGBTQ+ Couples Counseling – Regain
- Best For BIPOC – National Queer & Trans Therapists of Color Network
- Best For Intersectional Identities – Inclusive Therapists
- Best For Family Dynamics – LGBTQ Therapy Space
- Best Trauma-Informed Care– Expansive Therapy
- Best For Peer Support – Therapy Tribe
- Best For Holistic Care – Calmerry
- Best For LGBTQ+ Christian Community – The Christian Closet
Detailed Reviews of the Best LGBTQ+ Online Therapy Options
- Price: $260 – $360 monthly
- Insurance accepted? No
- Service location: US & about 200 countries worldwide
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
BetterHelp is our pick for Best Overall LGBTQ+ Online Therapy. Despite the closure of its subsidiaries Pride Counseling and Faithful Counseling — formerly dedicated to LGBTQ+ and religious communities, respectively — BetterHelp integrated these services and providers into its main platform.
While it may not accept insurance, BetterHelp’s comprehensive approach to therapy – including access to 30k licensed therapists, therapist-led group therapy sessions, and a built-in journal function – make it a formidable contender in the online mental health space.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Can request an LGBTQ+ therapist
- Over 30k licensed therapists
- Possibility of same-day appointments
- Most therapists offer chat, phone, & video sessions
Cons - Doesn’t accept insurance
- Doesn't prescribe medications
- Doesn’t offer couples counseling
- Price depends on location
Cost
BetterHelp is a subscription-based online therapy platform with monthly costs ranging from $260 – $360 (advertised as $65 to $90 per week). This covers four 30- to 45-minute therapy sessions per month, which can be conducted via chat, video, or phone. It also includes access to BetterHelp’s resources and one weekly group webinar.
BetterHelp does not accept insurance; however, financial aid is available, potentially reducing the cost by 10% to 40% for those who qualify. You can also use Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) or Health Savings Accounts (HSA) for payment. BetterHelp also provides a superbill for out-of-network insurance reimbursement.
Overview
With its comprehensive approach to therapy and strong support for diverse communities, BetterHelp stands out as a leading choice for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking online mental health support. Its counselors are all licensed professionals with advanced degrees and at least three years of experience in their fields.
BetterHelp’s questionnaire for selecting a therapist includes questions about demographics and identity. The platform also features a built-in journal and therapist-led group webinars for additional support and community engagement. Available 24/7, BetterHelp can be accessed via smartphone, tablet, or computer.
For an in-depth look, read our comprehensive BetterHelp review.
In Our Experience
BetterHelp fosters an inclusive and collaborative relationship between patient and therapist. It feels personalized, unlike other platforms where treatment can feel recycled from person to person. Services are vast and far-reaching, and users have 24/7 access, which led to it functioning as a safety net and safe place to land for users.
- Price: ~ $20 – $50 per session
- Insurance accepted? > 60 insurance partners
- Service location: 43 US states
- Prescribe Medication? Yes
Why We Chose It
We selected Talkiatry as Best for Insurance because they provide virtual, in-network psychiatric care with over 60 insurance partners and 300 providers, many of whom are LGBTQ+ or provide LGBTQ-affirming care.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Widespread insurance acceptance
- Nationwide services
- Extensive directory of therapists
Cons - Only accepts in-network patients
- Appointment fees vary based on location/coverage
- Customer service can be difficulty to contact
Cost
Depending on plan and provider, copays range from $20 – $50 per session.
Talkiatry doesn’t have a set appointment fee or subscription service and does not accept cash pay at all. It only accepts clients with an in-network provider (60+ insurance partners), and does not offer options for cash-pay or ongoing subscription. While this can be restrictive for those without insurance, it means the out-of-pocket costs for eligible patients could be significantly decreased.
Overview
Talkiatry primarily focuses on medication management and does not position itself as a therapy provider. However, it does have therapists on staff who can work with established psychiatry patients if therapy is recommended as part of their treatment plan. Through Talkiatry, you can consult with psychiatric providers or therapists via live video sessions. In between appointments, you can message from via the HIPPA-compliant Healow app.
The company emphasizes delivering high-quality care, encouraging providers to spend ample time with each patient. Talkiatry offers treatment for a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and LGBTQ+ issues such as gender-affirming care and perinatal mental health.
For more, read our full Talkiatry review.
In Our Experience
If you’re in-network – something Talkiatry confirms before scheduling an appointment – your out-of-pocket cost could be as low as $20. However, if you don’t have insurance, this may not be the right choice for you.
- Price: $185 per session
- Insurance accepted? No
- Service location: Online worldwide
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
Gay Therapy Center, which only has LGBTQIA+ therapists, is best for folks in the queer community who want a therapist whose identity is aligned with their own.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Only LGBTQIA+ therapists
- Online or in-person sessions
- Free 15-minute consultation & pre-session call
Cons - In-person only available in CA, NY, or D.C.
- Insurance isn’t accepted
- Can be expensive
- Not a lot of racial diversity among therapists
Cost
Costs range from $185 – $250 per 50-minute session and vary depending on your therapist.
If you live in California you might be able to work with an associate therapist:
- $125 for individual sessions
- $150 for a couples session
Insurance is not accepted; however, the Center provides superbills and typically accepts FSA/HSA for psychotherapy. Services are reimbursable by most “out-of-network” insurance plans. Contact your carrier to determine what percentage they will pay. Depending on the provider, the rate of reimbursement ranges from 50% – 85% of the cost of individual therapy/couples counseling.
Overview
Gay Therapy Center is a multi-state, private psychotherapy practice with 45 LGBTQIA+ therapists who serve primarily LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples in California, New York, and Washington, D.C. Although it has offices in those states, the Center also offers online therapy for anyone on a per-session basis.
In Our Experience
I believe Gay Therapy Center is a tremendous in-person resource for those living in CA, NY, and D.C., and their nearly 50 LGBTQ+ therapists are available to anyone online.
- Price: $30 – $70 per session
- Accepts Insurance? No
- Service Location: US & Canada
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
Open Path Collective, our choice for Most Affordable LGBTQ+ Therapy Online, is a unique nonprofit therapist directory with a social justice mission to increase mental health care access for all.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Cost based on income
- You can switch therapists
- In-office and online
Cons - User handles scheduling
- One-time membership fee
- Doesn’t accept insurance
Cost
A one-time lifetime membership to the nonprofit costs $65. Insurance is not accepted.
Session fees are:
- $40 to $70 for individual counseling ($30 for student intern sessions)
- $40 to $80 for couples and family counseling.
*The exact amount is decided with your therapist. Payments can be made using HSA and FSA funds.
Overview
Serving clients in financial need, Open Path connects middle and lower-income individuals with affordable in-person and online therapy through its network of over 26,000 licensed therapists across the US and Canada.
The organization provides discounted services to those who cannot afford market rates, are uninsured, or underinsured, or with an annual household income below $100,000. Open Path therapists are specially trained to help clients navigate the unique hardships of the LGBTQ+ community and other intersectional challenges, including family or cultural conflict.
To learn how Open Path Collective works, check out our comprehensive Open Path Collective review.
In Our Experience
Open Path’s is successfully bypassing the insurance industry. Their straightforward fees make it a great option for anyone who is uninsured/underinsured or needs more affordable care.
- Price: $260 – $360 monthly
- Insurance accepted? No
- Service location: US & internationally
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
We selected Regain as Best for LGBTQ+ Couples Counseling. Its platform is designed for ALL couples, regardless of orientation, where you can choose and change therapists with ease.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Financial aid available
- Parties can participate from different places
- Ability to message your therapist 24/7
Cons - Automatically matches patients with therapists
- Doesn’t accept insurance
- Cost depends on location
Cost
A subscription for Regain couples therapy costs between $260 – $360 monthly ($65 – $90 per week) depending on your location and therapist. This price gives you and your partner(s) a weekly session with a therapist, one webinar per week per couple, and access to all the other features of the app, including a shared journal space.
More about Regain couples therapy pricing:
- For those who qualify, financial aid can lower the price by 10% – 40%
- You can use FSA or HSA to pay for Regain
- Insurance is not accepted
Overview
Regain couples therapy – owned by BetterHelp – is an online couples therapy platform that connects you and your partner(s) with a licensed therapist or counselor. With Regain, you and your partner can attend weekly, 45-minute video, phone, or live texting sessions with a thoroughly vetted couples or family therapist.
Regain also has extra features like a journal space and group webinars. Although you are matched automatically with a therapist, they initially ask a series of questions regarding your demographics and identity to help with the matching process.
For more information on whether Regain is a good fit for you, read our detailed Regain review.
In Our Experience
I appreciate Regain’s inclusive intake form, which includes options for gender and sexual identity. They also work with partners in open or polyamorous relationships.
- Price: Provider-Specific
- Insurance accepted? Yes
- Service location: US
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
NQTTCN is in a league of its own in terms of vetting BIPOC therapists who have lived experience as queer and/or trans. If you’re looking for a gay therapist online who is also a person of color, NQTTCN is the place to search.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Nonprofit dedicated to providing access for queer and trans clients
- Free, user-friendly directory
- Wide range of services, depending on provider
Cons - No matching algorithm
- Costs depend on provider
- Preferred provider may not have in-person services
Cost
NQTTCN’s directory is free to use. They accept insurance and therapy costs are provided-based/priced per-session.
Overview
NQTTCN is a nonprofit organization focused on providing access to queer and trans clients of color to find therapists who share their intersectional experiences of sexuality, gender, and race. NQTTCN is a therapist directory, not an online therapy platform. Therapists must apply to and be approved by NQTTCN before their profile is listed.
Because the directory does not have a matching algorithm, it requires you to review individual therapist profiles to identify who you feel might be a good fit based on cost, coverage, services, etc., and reach out to set up a consultation.
In Our Experience
Since the NQTTCN is a nonprofit organization, it doesn’t have a profit motive, which is refreshing. It is focused solely on making it easier to connect with queer and/or trans therapists of color.
- Price: Provider-Specific
- Insurance accepted? Provider-Specific
- Service location: US
- Prescribe Medication? Yes
Why We Chose It
Our pick as Best For Intersectional Identities, Inclusive Therapists, is one of the most match-driven directories out there, including match navigation support from their team.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Choose your own therapist
- MAT services available
- Therapists are all highly vetted
Cons - Costs depend on the provider
- Insurance acceptance depends on provider
- Requires upfront work from user
Cost
Because it is a directory, the cost of Inclusive Therapists varies based on the therapist you choose. Individual sessions can range from $100 – $200. Some providers accept insurance and/or offer sliding scale therapy, which you can filter your provider search by.
Overview
Inclusive Therapists is a therapist directory focused on easing the process of finding a therapist, particularly for traditionally oppressed communities, including LGBTQIA+ and people of color. Operated by its sibling non-profit, Mental Health Liberation, it is one of the most match-driven directories out there, including match navigation support from their team.
Their directory is free to search and includes multiple different search filters, including:
- Insurance coverage
- Sliding scale rates (e.g., $0-$25, $25-50)
- Identity
- Language
- Cultural knowledge
- And more!
As it’s a directory, it requires the user to research individual profiles, reach out, and compare costs and offerings; however, highly detailed search filters make the process more manageable.
To learn more about everything Inclusive Therapists offers, please read our full Inclusive Therapists review.
In Our Experience
Inclusive Therapists’ search filters are extensive and can feel a bit overwhelming, but it is worth the effort to find a therapist who is aligned with your intersectional identity and values.
- Price: $155 – $185
- Insurance accepted? No
- Service location: 18 US States
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
We named LGBTQ Therapy Space Best For Family Dynamics because it matches people to licensed LGBTQ+ providers who understand what it’s to want peace or closure in the context of their family.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Choose your own therapist or be matched automatically
- Couples counseling available
- Free 10-minute consultation
Cons - Insurance not accepted
- Not available in all US states
- No MAT services
Cost
LGBTQ Therapy Space costs $155 per individual therapy session and $185 per couples session. Fees are out-of-pocket. All sessions with LGBTQ Therapy Space are 50 minutes. It does not accept insurance; however, in some cases, you may be eligible to use out-of-network insurance benefits.
You will be responsible for paying for each session in full at the time of appointment, and your provider will then provide a superbill that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. If you have out-of-network benefits, they typically will reimburse you for 60-80% of the cost of each session, sometimes after meeting a deductible.
Overview
LGBTQ Therapy Space offers a specialized platform for connecting the LGBTQ+ community with licensed gay therapists across multiple states. Their HIPAA-compliant online platform facilitates therapy services from the comfort of your home, managing everything from scheduling to billing for both clients and therapists. They cater to a diverse network of therapists, including those who are transgender, non-binary, gender nonconforming, bisexual, lesbian, and gay.
Their services cover a wide range of states including CA, CO, DC, FL, GA, IN, MD, MA, MN, NJ, NV, NY, NC, PA, SC, TX, UT, and VA. LGBTQ Therapy Space also provides support for family dynamics and offers a user-friendly process for finding a therapist. By exploring their therapist directory, you can request a free 10-minute consultation, complete an intake questionnaire, and view available therapist profiles in your state. You can choose your preferences or let their team match you with a suitable therapist within 1-3 days.
In Our Experience
I like that their licensed therapists, who are LGBTQ+ themselves, provide specialized online and in-person therapy for issues like navigating coming out, feeling isolated, and struggling with relationships issues.
- Price: $75 – $250 per session
- Insurance accepted? PPO & POS
- Service location: CA & NY
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
Trauma-informed therapy is a practice-wide focus for Expansive Therapy, which is why we are confident calling it Best For Trauma-Informed Care.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Allows users to switch therapist
- Free 20-minute consultation
Cons - Only available in CA and NY
- Doesn’t offer sliding scale
Cost
Expansive Therapy costs vary based on the therapist. Typically, out-of-pocket costs are between $75 – $250 per session. They do not offer a sliding scale, but accept most insurance plans with out-of-network benefits (PPO and POS plans).
Overview
Expansive Therapy is a dual-state, session-based private therapy practice founded and operated by LGBTQIA+ clinicians, focused on serving LGBTQIA+ clients. They have offices in New York City, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, and they offer individual, couples, and group therapy via video and phone to people in CA and NY.
There is no matching algorithm; instead, you speak for free with a human to discuss what you’re looking for. All therapists have a different approach, but in general, the entire practice is trauma-informed.
In Our Experience
Expansive Therapy is unique for its multi-state practice, its focus on LGBTQIA+ therapists, its focus on LGBTQIA+ clients, and its focus on trauma. All of its staff therapists receive individual clinical supervision from Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, the author of The Body Keeps the Score and a global leader in trauma treatment.
- Price: $100 – $200 per session
- Insurance accepted? Provider-Specific
- Service location: US
- Prescribe Medication? Provider-Specific
Why We Chose It
Therapy Tribe is ideal for those who value an LGBTQIA+-affirming online peer-support community focused on issues such as addiction, anxiety, and depression.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Available in all US States
- Expansive therapist directory
- Great community of support groups
Cons - Cost and insurance are provider-dependent
- Limited search filters in the directory
- Ability to prescribe provider-dependent
Cost
Typical fees range from $100 – $200 for individual, 45-minute sessions, but they range considerably as every therapist sets their own rates and session lengths. Insurance is also provider-based. All online support groups are free.
Overview
Therapy Tribe is a session-based, global therapist directory that is free for clients to search. Their search functionality makes it easy to filter for online LGBT therapy with therapists licensed to practice in your state or country.
Therapy Tribe offers “safe, convenient, easy-to-navigate tribes,” focused on bringing together communities of individuals. It is one of the largest and most user-friendly global directories for therapists. One of their free, online peer-support communities is the LGBTribe, which is a good resource in addition to therapy. Members have access to a specific activity stream, forum, and chat room. They also have access to wellness challenges and inspirational tools like a wellness track and mood mapping.
In Our Experience
When it comes to Therapy Tribe, I believe these free, online support groups offer an affordable area of support and connection in addition to traditional therapy.
- Price: $228 – $360 monthly
- Insurance accepted? No
- Service location: Anywhere
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
Calmerry is our choice for Best For Holistic care because it takes a whole-person approach, addressing not only mental health but also societal issues affecting the LGBT+ community.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Quick matching & scheduling process
- Text-based and video therapy
- Ability to switch therapist
Cons - Doesn’t accept insurance
- Unable to choose your therapist
- Doesn’t offer couples, group, or family therapy
Cost
Calmerry costs between $228 – $360 monthly (advertised as $57 – $90 per week) with a discounted first month of service.
Choose from four subscription plans:
- Messaging + 4 Live Videos ($90.00 per week): Four 30-minute live sessions per month; licensed counselor responds 5 days/week; unlimited text messaging
- Messaging + 2 Live Videos ($77.50 per week): Two 30-minute live sessions per month; licensed counselor respond 5 days/week; unlimited text messaging
- 4 Live Videos ($62.50 per week): Four 30-minute live sessions per month
- Messaging ($57.00 per week): Unlimited text messaging; licensed counselor responds 5 days/week
All plans include a personalized therapy plan, counselor switching, mood tracker, guided journaling, and extensive library of resources. Calmerry does not accept insurance; however, the costs of their subscription plans are more affordable than traditional in-person therapy and you may be able to use a coupon code or FSA/HSA benefits.
Overview
Calmerry is a subscription-based online therapy platform for individuals 18+, offering live video sessions and text-based therapy. Upon joining, you are matched with a licensed therapist based on an initial questionnaire, with an hour-long matching process. With a network of over 1,000 licensed therapists, Calmerry provides a diverse range of therapeutic approaches without a standard treatment model.
For more information, read our comprehensive Calmerry review.
In Our Experience
Calmerry uses an evidence-based, holistic approach, leaning into societal issues, like codependency, self-esteem, bullying, rejection, discrimination, and stigma.
- Price: $165 – $185 per session
- Insurance accepted? No
- Service location: Anywhere
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
We chose The Christian Closet as Best For LGBTQ+ Christian Community because all their counselors are LGBTQ-identified and rooted in the Christian faith.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Free 15-minute consultation
- Scholarships available
- Can change therapist any time
Cons - Doesn’t accept insurance
- Only about 15 therapists
- Pricing can be unclear
Cost
Rates vary but start at $165 per session. The average cost per session is $185. They don’t take insurance but do offer sliding scale spots when available. People can also apply to receive a scholarship, which pays for sessions for the duration of 3 months.
Overview
The Christian Closet is an online therapeutic resource for individuals navigating LGBTQ+sexual or gender identity within a Christian context. All their counselors identify as LGBTQ+ and come from a Christian faith background.
They offer virtual therapy to people worldwide, including LGBTQ+ online counseling for individuals of faith, couples therapy, and premarital counseling. Additionally, they provide coaching, support groups, public speaking seminars, and sessions for straight family members, church leaders, and friends who seek to offer better support.
In Our Experience
It’s great that Christian Closet provides a space where LGBTQ+ people who want to stay connected to their religion don’t have to sacrifice anything – faith, identity, or understanding.
Compare the Best LGBTQ+ Online Therapy Options in 2024
| Price | $260 – $360 monthly | $20 - $50 per session | $185 per session | $30 - $70 per session | $260 – $360 monthly | Provided-Based | Provided-Based | $155 - $185 per session | $75 - $250 per session | $100 - $200 | Provider-based | $165 - $185 per session |
| Insurance |  | > 60 insurance partners |  |  |  |  | Provider-based |  | PPO & POS | Provider-based |  |  |
| Service Location | US & about 200 countries worldwide | 43 US states | Online worldwide | US & Canada | US & internationally | US | US | 18 US States | CA & NY | US | Anywhere | Anywhere |
| Prescribe Medication |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | Provider-based |  |  |
| Price | |||||||||||
| $260 – $360 monthly | $20 - $50 per session | $185 per session | $30 - $70 per session | $260 – $360 monthly | Provided-Based | Provided-Based | $155 - $185 per session | $75 - $250 per session | $100 - $200 | Provider-based | $165 - $185 per session |
| Insurance | |||||||||||
 | > 60 insurance partners |  |  |  |  | Provider-based |  | PPO & POS | Provider-based |  |  |
| Service Location | |||||||||||
| US & about 200 countries worldwide | 43 US states | Online worldwide | US & Canada | US & internationally | US | US | 18 US States | CA & NY | US | Anywhere | Anywhere |
| Prescribe Medication | |||||||||||
 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | Provider-based |  |  |
Final Verdict
“When evaluating the best online therapy options for the LGBTQ+ community, we prioritized platforms that cater specifically to their unique needs. We selected BetterHelp as the Best Overall choice due to its inclusivity and extensive network of licensed therapists. You can request a therapist specializing in LGBTQ+ related issues and be matched quickly, sometimes even securing a same-day appointment.
For those with insurance, we recommend Talkiatry, which partners with over 60 insurance providers and offers access to 300 clinicians, many of whom specialize in LGBTQ+ care. For the Best Access to LGBTQ+ therapists, the Gay Therapy Center stands out, with Inclusive Therapists also being an excellent option. If affordability is a key concern, Open Path Collective is the top choice. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to expanding access to mental health care, and their therapists are specially trained to support LGBTQ+ clients.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Online Therapy?
Online therapy is psychotherapy delivered by a licensed mental health professional in your state, using the same modalities and techniques as traditional in-person therapy. Instead of in-person office visits, online therapy is conducted through internet or telephone communications. Most commonly, it involves video chats and phone calls, but it can also include text messaging or a combination of these communication methods.
Read our list of the best online therapy platforms for more options.
How Does Online Therapy Benefit LGBTQIA+ Individuals?
Online therapy allows you to find psychotherapists who identify as and/or specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ clients throughout your whole state rather than just the local area where you live, and many of these online therapy options take insurance.
Depending on the platform, the different matching systems and directories can help you filter for LGBTQIA+ therapists as a baseline, while also refining for preferences for things like other characteristics of the therapist, areas of expertise, and therapeutic modalities that you feel would best suit you.
When Is Online Therapy the Wrong Fit?
If you have an unreliable internet or telephone connection or if you don’t have privacy where you intend to do your online therapy, in-person therapy may be a better fit.
Similarly, if you struggle with limited attention and can be easily distracted by the myriad alerts that pop up on your computer or phone, you might feel more focused in an in-person context. Finally, if you are court-mandated to seek therapy and get a diagnosis and treatment plan, know that some online therapy platforms will refer you out to other providers.
What Is LGBTQIA+ Affirming Therapy?
LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy is a therapeutic approach specifically designed to support and validate the identities and experiences of individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Here are the key elements of this type of therapy:
- Affirmation: The therapist actively affirms and validates the client’s sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. This creates a safe space where clients can freely explore and express their true selves without fear of judgment.
- Cultural Competence: LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists have a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community, including issues related to coming out, navigating relationships, and dealing with societal stigma and discrimination.
- Support for Minority Stress: This therapy acknowledges the additional stressors LGBTQIA+ individuals often face due to prejudice and marginalization. Therapists help clients develop coping strategies to manage minority stress.,
- Intersectional Approach: Affirming therapists recognize that clients may experience multiple, intersecting identities (e.g., race, ethnicity, religion, and disability) that influence their experiences and mental health. They take these factors into account to provide comprehensive care.
- Empowerment and Advocacy: This therapeutic approach emphasizes empowering clients to advocate for themselves and their needs.
- Inclusive Language and Practices: Affirming therapists use inclusive language and practices, such as asking for and respecting clients’ pronouns and chosen names. They strive to create an environment where all aspects of a client’s identity are respected.
- Holistic Care: LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy often involves addressing a wide range of issues, including mental health, physical health, social support, and community connection. Therapists may also provide resources and referrals to LGBTQIA+ friendly healthcare providers, support groups, and community organizations.
How Do I Find an LGBTQ Therapist Online?
Finding an LGBTQ therapist online involves several steps to ensure you receive the appropriate support:
Here are strategies to help you in your search:
- Search Directories: Use online directories that filter for LGBTQ+ affirming therapists, like The Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA)
- Check Local Organizations: Reach out to local LGBTQ+ community centers, advocacy groups, or support organizations for a list of recommended therapists.
- Ask for Recommendations: Talk to friends, family, or acquaintances within the LGBTQ+ community who may have had positive experiences with therapists.
- Verify Credentials and Experience: Ensure the therapist is licensed and has specific training or experience in working with LGBTQ+ clients. Look for credentials, certifications, or continuing education.
- Read Reviews and Testimonials: Look for reviews or testimonials from other clients to get a sense of the therapist’s approach and effectiveness. This can provide insights into their understanding and support of LGBTQ+ issues.
- Consult Professional Associations: Organizations such as the American Psychological Association (APA) or the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) often have resources and referrals for LGBTQ+ affirming therapists.
- Consult With Potential Therapists: Before committing to a therapist, schedule an initial consultation to discuss your needs. Many organizations offer a free consultation. Ask about their experience, training, and how they ensure a supportive environment.
What Should I Consider When Looking For LGBTQ+ Therapy Online?
When looking for LGBTQ therapy online, there are several key factors to consider:
- LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapists: Seek out counselors who specialize in or have significant experience with LGBTQ+ issues. Affirmative therapists are trained to understand and validate your experiences, helping you navigate the unique challenges you may face.
- Cultural Competence: Ensure the therapist demonstrates cultural competence and sensitivity. They should have a deep understanding of the systemic issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community and provide an inclusive and supportive environment.
- Specialized Training: Look for therapists who have undergone specialized training in LGBTQ+ mental health. This ensures they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to address specific concerns such as identity exploration, coming out, and dealing with discrimination.
- Inclusive Policies: Choose LGBTQ online counseling that explicitly states its commitment to inclusivity and non-discrimination. This can provide assurance that the platform values and respects LGBTQ+ identities.
- Personal Recommendations: Consider seeking recommendations from other LGBTQ+ individuals or community organizations. Personal experiences provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of a therapist or counselor.
- Confidentiality: Make sure the LGBTQ+ online counseling platform guarantees confidentiality and secure communication.
