Synthesizing hundreds of hours of research and testing from our team, I identified the top online therapy recommendations for LGBTQIA+ individuals. The best services stand out for their commitment to inclusivity and identify-affirming care. Each platform on this list meets these criteria, with many also providing benefits like insurance coverage, medication management, lower-cost options, and couples therapy.
Our Top Picks
- Most LGBTQ+ Therapists - Gay Therapy Center | Read review
- Best Therapist Availability - BetterHelp | Read review
- Best For Insurance - Talkiatry | Read review
- Most Affordable - Open Path Collective | Read review
- Most Inclusive - LGBTQ+ Therapy Space | Read review
- Best For Couples - Regain | Read review
- Best Trauma-Informed Care - Inclusive Therapists | Read review
- Best For LGBTQ+ Christians - The Christian Closet | Read review
Our Favorite LGBTQ+ Online Therapy Options
-
LGBTQIA+ therapists -
Free 15-minute consultation
-
Insurance not accepted -
Doesn't prescribe medication
-
Can request an LGBTQ+ therapist -
Offers couples therapy
-
Doesn’t accept insurance -
Can't prescribe medication
-
Accepts most insurance -
Can prescribe controlled substances
-
No cash-pay option -
No therapy-only option
-
Income-based cost -
Choose your own therapist
-
Upfront $65 membership fee -
Doesn't prescribe medication
-
Choose therapist or be matched -
Free 10-min. consultation
-
Insurance not accepted -
Not available in all US States
-
Financial aid available -
Couples can participate in two locations
-
Automatic therapist matching -
Cost depends on location
-
Highly vetted therapists -
Choose your own
-
Lengthy intake process -
Cost/coverage depend on provider
-
All therapists are LGBTQ & Christian -
Offer sliding scale
-
Doesn't accept insurance -
Doesn't prescribe medication
Detailed Reviews
Here are our top picks for best LGBTQ+ therapy.
- Price: $185 – $250 per session
- Insurance Accepted: No
- Location: 42 US States
- Prescribe Medication: No
Because the Gay Therapy Center only employs LGBTQIA+ psychologists and psychotherapists, each with an average of 15 years experience, we believe it’s best for anyone in the queer community who wants a therapist whose identity is aligned with their own. Free consultations help you connect with a provider who is right for you in all the ways that matter — identity, personality, approach, and price.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Only LGBTQIA+ therapists
- On average, therapists have 15 years experience
- Free 15-minute consultation
Cons - In-person only in CA, NY, or D.C.
- Insurance not accepted
- Doesn't prescribe medication
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
At the Gay Therapy Center, you’ll find therapists who specialize in supporting diverse needs, whether you’re navigating relationships as a couple, exploring kink, addressing multicultural issues, embracing open relationships or polyamory, or affirming your gender identity. Many of the therapists you’ll work with have advanced training in evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR, the Gottman Method, hypnotherapy, sex therapy, and more.
- Price: $260 – $360 monthly
- Insurance Accepted: No
- Location: US & International
- Medication: No
BetterHelp connects you with the right support quickly and conveniently. Their detailed questionnaire considers demographics and identity, ensuring you’re matched with a therapist who understands your unique experiences. With a network of over 30,000 licensed professionals, each with at least three years of experience, you can feel confident in the quality of care you’ll receive. Their extensive provider base also means same-day appointments are often available.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Can request an LGBTQ+ therapist
- Over 30k licensed therapists
- Same-day appointments available
- Financial aid available
Cons - Doesn’t accept insurance
- Doesn't prescribe medications
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, you can apply for financial aid, 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.
For an in-depth look, read our comprehensive BetterHelp review.
Overview
If you’re seeking accessible, inclusive online mental health support, BetterHelp is a great choice. The platform offers more than just one-on-one therapy sessions—it also includes a built-in journal to track your thoughts and therapist-led group webinars for additional guidance and community engagement. BetterHelp is available 24/7 and designed to fit seamlessly into your life, whether you prefer using your smartphone, tablet, or computer. It’s ideal if you value convenience and a supportive, diverse therapy experience.
Read our BetterHelp review for more information.
- Price: ~$20 – $50 per session
- Insurance Accepted: Yes
- Location: 43 US states
- Medication: Yes
Talkiatry only accepts patients using their insurance. While exact costs vary depending on your insurance plan and provider, copays often range from $20 – $50 per session. With over 300 providers—many of whom are LGBTQ+ or offer LGBTQ-affirming care—you’ll have access to professionals who understand your needs and can prescribe and manage medications for conditions like anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD. Talkiatry combines expertise in psychiatric care with inclusivity, making sure you receive personalized and affirming treatment.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Accepts insurance
- Can prescribe controlled medication
- Extensive directory of therapists
Cons - No cash-pay option
- Therapy only available to existing patients
Cost
If you’re in-network – something Talkiatry confirms before scheduling an appointment – your out-of-pocket cost could be as low as $20. 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.
For additional information on cost, check out our Talkiatry review.
Overview
If medication is a component of your mental health journey, Talkiatry offers expert medication management with the option to integrate therapy into your treatment plan. Talkiatry primarily focuses on psychiatric care, offering live video consultations with providers who can prescribe and manage your medications. While it’s not positioned as a therapy-first platform, therapists are available to work with you if therapy is recommended as part of your care.
Between appointments, you can conveniently message your provider through the HIPAA-compliant Healow app, ensuring ongoing support and communication.
For more, read our full Talkiatry review.
- Price: $30 – $70 per session
- Insurance Accepted: No
- Location: US & Canada
- Medication: No
This nonprofit therapist directory is driven by a social justice mission to make mental health care accessible for everyone. By bypassing the insurance industry, Open Path keeps things simple with straightforward fees, making it a vital platform if you’re uninsured, underinsured, or need more affordable care.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Cost based on income
- You can switch therapists
- Individual, couples, & family therapy
Cons - One-time membership fee
- Doesn’t accept insurance
- Doesn't prescribe medication
Cost
A one-time lifetime membership to the nonprofit costs $65. Insurance is not accepted.
Session fees are:
- $40 – $70 for individual counseling ($30 for student intern sessions)
- $40 – $80 for couples and family counseling.
*The exact amount is decided with your therapist. Payments can be made using HSA and FSA funds.
Overview
If you can’t afford market rates, are uninsured, underinsured, or have an annual household income below $100,000, Open Path can connect you with affordable in-person and online therapy via its network of over 26,000 licensed therapists across the US and Canada. Open Path therapists are specially trained to help people navigate the unique hardships faced by the LGBTQ+ community, including family or cultural conflict.
For more information, read our Open Path review.
- Price: $155 – $185 per session
- Insurance Accepted: No
- Location: 18 US States
- Medication: No
LGBTQ+ Therapy Space provides identity-affirming care, particularly for BIPOC and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. As a directory, it is dedicated to social justice, providing a safer, simpler way for people to find therapists, counselors, or coaches who value liberation and healing.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Choose therapist or be matched
- Free 10-min. consultation
- Offers couples therapy
Cons - Insurance not accepted
- Not available in all US States
Cost
Sessions cost $155 per 50-minute session for individuals and $185 per session for couples. While they LGBTQ+ Therapy Space doesn’t accept insurance, you may use out-of-network benefits to get reimbursed for 60-80% of the session cost. Payments are due at the time of appointment, and you’ll receive a superbill to submit to your insurance for reimbursement.
Overview
LGBTQ Therapy Space connects you with licensed LGBTQ+ therapists across multiple states through a HIPAA-compliant online platform. Request a free 10-minute consultation and be matched with a provider (within 1-3 days) who understands the unique challenges of LGBTQ+ people.
- Price: $260 – $360 monthly
- Insurance Accepted: No
- Location: US & International
- Medication: No
Regain, powered by BetterHelp, is an excellent option for LGBTQ+ couples counseling. Designed for all couples, regardless of orientation or identity, it connects you and your partner(s) with a licensed therapist or counselor who can support your relationship. If the fit isn’t right, you can easily switch therapists, ensuring you find the right match for your needs.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Financial aid available
- Parties can participate from different places
- 24/7 messaging with therapist
Cons - Automatic therapist matching
- Doesn’t accept insurance
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
Read our Regain review to learn more.
Overview
With Regain, you can attend weekly, 45-minute video, phone, or live texting sessions with a licensed and vetted couples or family therapist. The platform also offers extra features like a journal space and group webinars. While you’re automatically matched with a therapist, Regain takes the time to ask questions about your demographics and identity to make the best possible match. We appreciate their inclusive intake form, which includes options for gender and sexual identity. They also support partners in open or polyamorous relationships.
For more information, read our detailed Regain review.
- Price: $100 – $200 per session
- Insurance Accepted: Provider-Specific
- Location: US
- Medication: Yes
Inclusive Therapists makes finding the right therapist easier, especially for traditionally oppressed communities, including LGBTQIA+ individuals and people of color. With one of the most match-driven systems out there, you’ll receive support navigating therapist options to ensure a good fit.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Free directory to choose a therapist
- Also has free matching service
- Highly vetted therapists
Cons - Lengthy intake process
- Cost/coverage depend on provider
Cost
Using the directory is free. The cost of sessions varies by therapist, typically ranging from $100 – $200, and some providers accept insurance or offer sliding scale therapy, which you can filter for in your search.
Overview
Operated by the nonprofit Mental Health Liberation, the directory is free to search and offers detailed filters, including insurance coverage, identity, language, cultural knowledge, and more. There’s also an option to participate in their free matching service. All you need to do is fill in your information and preferences. They hand-match you with up to three mental health professionals who will reach out to you.
- Price: $165 – $185 per session
- Insurance Accepted: No
- Location: US
- Medication: No
Christian Closet offers a supportive space where you can reconcile your faith identity with your gender and sexual identities, ensuring you don’t have to sacrifice any part of who you are. All of their therapists and counselors are LGBTQ-identified and comfortable with the Christian faith, providing care that respects both your spiritual beliefs and your authentic self. This allows you to navigate the intersection of faith and identity in a compassionate environment.
Pros & Cons
Pros - Free 15-minute consultation
- Scholarships available
- Can change therapist any time
Cons - Doesn’t accept insurance
- Only about 15 therapists
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 designed to help you navigate your LGBTQ+ sexual or gender identity within a Christian context. All of their counselors identify as LGBTQ+ and have a background in the Christian faith, offering a unique and affirming perspective. They provide virtual therapy across the US, including individual LGBTQ+ counseling for people of faith, couples therapy, and premarital counseling. Additionally, they offer coaching, support groups, public speaking seminars, and sessions for straight family members, church leaders, and friends who want to better support you in your journey.
Compare the Best LGBTQ+ Online Therapy Options in 2024
| Price | $185 per session | $260 – $360 monthly | $20 - $50 per session | $30 - $70 per session | $155 - $185 per session | $260 – $360 monthly | Provider-specific | $165 - $185 per session |
| Insurance |  |  |  |  |  |  | Provider-specific |  |
| Location | 42 US States | US & International | 43 US States | US & Canada | 18 US States | US & International | US | US |
| Medication |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
| Price | |||||||
| $185 per session | $260 – $360 monthly | $20 - $50 per session | $30 - $70 per session | $155 - $185 per session | $260 – $360 monthly | Provider-specific | $165 - $185 per session |
| Insurance | |||||||
 |  |  |  |  |  | Provider-specific |  |
| Location | |||||||
| 42 US States | US & International | 43 US States | US & Canada | 18 US States | US & International | US | US |
| Medication | |||||||
 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Final Verdict
“When evaluating the best online therapy options for the LGBTQ+ community, we prioritized platforms that cater to specific needs, such as diverse therapists, inclusivity, and gender- and identity-affirming care. We recognized Gay Therapy Center as having the Most LGBTQ+ Therapists, Regain as Best for LGBTQ+ Couples, and Talkiatry as Best For Insurance. The latter gives you access to 300 clinicians, many of whom specialize in LGBTQ+ care.
If you need convenience and want to pick between an even wider variety of therapists, go with BetterHelp. If affordability is a priority for you, Open Path Collective is the top choice. This nonprofit organization is committed to expanding access to mental health care, and their therapists are specifically trained to support LGBTQ+ clients. As a clinical psychologist, I do believe there is something for everyone on this list.”
More Online Therapy For LGTQ+ People
The above list represents top picks for the best online therapy for LGBTQ+ people. During our research, we reviewed many platforms, including some great options that didn’t make the final cut. While these platforms didn’t end up on our list of favorites, they still deserve an honorable mention.
Price: Provider-Specific
Services: Therapist directory
Learn MoreShow less
As a nonprofit, NQTTCN operates without a profit motive. Its sole focus is on making it easier for you to connect with queer and/or trans therapists of color who can offer culturally competent and affirming care. It is in a league of its own regarding its rigorous vetting process, ensuring that BIPOC therapists have lived experience as queer and/or trans, offering you an informed and empathetic approach to therapy. They accept insurance and therapy costs are provider-specific.
Price: $100 – $200 per session
Services Offered: Directory & free peer support
Learn MoreShow less
Therapy Tribe is a session-based global therapist directory that makes it easy for you to find LGBTQIA+-affirming therapy. Fees range from $100 – $200 for individual, 45-minute sessions, although rates vary as each therapist determines fees, insurance coverage, and session length.
In addition to therapy, Therapy Tribe hosts free online peer support groups (e.g., LGBTribe), providing “safe, convenient, easy-to-navigate tribes” that bring together communities with shared experiences. This resource offers a specific activity stream, forum, and chat room, as well as wellness challenges and tools like wellness tracking and mood mapping, enhancing your support alongside therapy.
Price: $228 – $360 monthly
Services Offered: Therapy
Learn MoreShow less
Calmerry was designed to offer holistic, evidence-based therapy to adults. Among other things, they address issues impacting the LGBTQ+ community, such as codependency, self-esteem, bullying, rejection, discrimination, and stigma. Upon joining, you’ll be matched with a licensed therapist through a brief, one-hour matching process.
With over 1,000 licensed therapists, Calmerry offers a variety of therapeutic approaches. Their subscription plans, ranging from $228 – $360 monthly, include options for live video sessions, unlimited text messaging, and features like mood tracking, guided journaling, and a library of resources.
For more information, read our Calmerry review.
Price: $75 – $250 per session
Services Offered: Individual, Couples, & Group Therapy
Learn MoreShow less
We considered including Expansive Therapy in our primary list, but since they are only available in California and New York, we wanted to highlight them separately. This unique practice focuses on offering trauma-informed care to individuals and couples. Therapists receive supervision from Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, a leader in trauma treatment. Session costs typically range from $75 – $250, and they accept most insurance plans with out-of-network benefits (PPO and POS).
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
-
Church, Matthew. (Aug. 2024). “BetterHelp Review 2024: Cost, Pros & Cons, & My Experience.” https://www.choosingtherapy.com/betterhelp-review/
-
Church, Matthew. (Oct. 2024). “Talkiatry Review 2024: Pros & Cons, Cost, & My Experience.” https://www.choosingtherapy.com/talkiatry-review/
-
Church, Matthew. (Aug. 2024). “Open Path Collective Review 2024: Cost, Pros & Cons, & Is It Right for Your Practice?” https://www.choosingtherapy.com/open-path-collective-review/
-
Church, Matthew. (Aug. 2024). “Regain Therapy Review 2024: Pros & Cons, Cost, & My Experience.” https://www.choosingtherapy.com/regain-counseling-review/
We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.
Author: Melissa Boudin, PsyD. (New Author)
Medical Reviewer: Kristen Fuller, MD (No Change)
Primary Changes: Removed platforms (Calmerry, Therapy Tribe, NQTTCN, & Expansive Therapy) and added them to Other Companies to Consider; made the Gay Therapy Center the primary pick for Most LGBTQ+ Therapists; added awards for Most Inclusive (LGBTQ Therapy Space) and Most Trauma-informed (Inclusive Therapists); re-evaluated to include the most helpful information for our audience.
Author: Emily Laubham, B.A. (New Author)
Medical Reviewer: Kristen Fuller, MD (New Medical Reviewer)
Primary Changes: Added six new platforms (BetterHelp, Talkiatry, Open Path Collective, Regain, Calmerry, and Christian Closet) and removed six platforms (Teladoc, Pride Counseling, My Wellbeing, ZocDoc, Psychology Today, and Therapy Den). Fact-checked and edited entire article for improved readability and clarity. New content written by Emily Laubham, B.A. and medically reviewed by Kristen Fuller, M.D.
Author: No Change
Medical Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Complete revamp of overall style; updated logos for all companies.
Primary Change: Ayana is no longer an active online therapy platform.
Author: Brian Ackerman, LMSW
Medical Reviewer: Dena Westphalen, PharmD
Your Voice Matters
Leave your own reviews!
Have you used an online therapy company? Have you tried an online psychiatry service? Do you use a meditation or mindfulness app? We’d love to hear about your experience!
We want to hear about the companies you love and the companies you wish you never used.
Leave your feedback for our editors.
Share your feedback on this article with ChoosingTherapy.com’s editors. If there’s something we missed or something we could improve on, we’d love to hear it.
Our writers and editors love compliments, too. :)
