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LGBT therapists in Downey, CA

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Downey, CA

Headway empowers Downey's LGBTQIA+ community with access to affirming mental health providers who celebrate authenticity. Sessions cover talk therapy and medication management with 2,631 providers available, many offering free intake calls and next-day or two-week availability options.

Alejandro Bulnes-Mendizabal

Alejandro Bulnes-Mendizabal

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who provides therapy in both Spanish and English, from colloquial to professional levels. My work has included supporting individuals facing HIV/AIDS-related challenges, domestic violence, substance use, loneliness, suicidal thoughts, dual diagnosis, sexuality-related concerns, aging-related issues, and the broader impact these experiences can have on families and support systems. Across community, academic, and clinical settings in Mexico and the U.S., I’ve built a strong foundation in helping people navigate both personal suffering and societal distress.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Yadira Nieto

Yadira Nieto

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and supportive. I see therapy as a partnership where you can show up as yourself and feel truly heard.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sridevi Banka

Sridevi Banka

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Dublin, CA


“I specialize in affirming, evidence-based care for adolescents ages 12+, LGBTQ+ individuals, and new mothers navigating pregnancy, postpartum adjustment, and early parenthood.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Stacy Heiser

Stacy Heiser

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in working with individuals navigating ADHD, shame, stigma, and transgenerational trauma.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Identity issues
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Darian McCrackin

Darian McCrackin

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I want you to internalize the process so you don't need me forever. Come in, get what you need, and get back to living—return if life opens a new chapter.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Be Staub

Be Staub

Therapist

Virtual • Long Beach, CA


My work centers queer and transgender preteens, teens, and adults, as well as individuals with current or past foster care involvement. My clients may be feeling overwhelmed, questioning their identity, or don't know where to start with therapy. I can support you by helping you notice patterns and build trust in your own process.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Creative, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Shane George

Shane George

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Healing doesn't come through re-writing who you are, it comes from deep grounded understanding of your mind, nervous system, and history.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Art Gutierrez

Art Gutierrez

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a compassionate, collaborative, and judgment-free environment where clients feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their treatment journey.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Lisa Friedman

Lisa Friedman

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that you already have information as to what will help you in your journey. It is my job to help you get to the answers...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Open-minded, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Tammie Makely

Tammie Makely

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My role isn't to fix you -- it's to work alongside you to quiet the noise, get curious about what's underneath, and help you reconnect with yourself and the people who matter most to YOU.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Yanira Chavez

Yanira Chavez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a first-generation Latina living with chronic illnesses, I understand the unique hardships, cultural expectations, and barriers that can impact mental health and well-being.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kayla Hunter

Kayla Hunter

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am passionate about guiding you through these challenges and empowering you on your journey to self-awareness and understanding.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Katelyn Franza

Katelyn Franza

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy is a partnership, where we work together to identify your goals, navigate challenges, and create meaningful change in your life.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Challenging, Direct, Humorous
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Phoenix (Sharon) Piwowarski

Phoenix (Sharon) Piwowarski

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Sebastopol, CA


“I aim to empower clients to explore their feelings and experiences in a supportive environment conducive to personal growth and self-actualization.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Juliana Malaveci

Juliana Malaveci

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a firm believer in human resilience and an individual's ability to thrive, persevere, and navigate life's deepest challenges, especially when offered a non-judgmental, caring, empathic environment, which is what I aim to offer to all of my...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Denise Alfaro

Denise Alfaro

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Walnut Creek, CA


“I focus on giving you concrete, real-world tools that lead to noticeable changes in your everyday life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cherish Samuel

Cherish Samuel

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Dr. Saeromi Kim

Dr. Saeromi Kim

Psychologist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“I see my greatest strength as my ability to easily connect with many different kinds of people, develop trust and rapport, and upon this foundation, build positive working relationships that promote healing.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
William Huntley

William Huntley

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • California


“You are the expert in your story. I want you to be able to trust and correct me if I make a mistake.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Martha Cervantes

Martha Cervantes

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is affirming and empowering, while also being direct. I'll help you feel heard and understood, and I'll also gently challenge patterns that may be keeping you stuck.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tony Gunn

Tony Gunn

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am Tony Gunn, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am also a Substance Abuse Professional and a board certified transgender care therapist. I value connection, trust, and respect.

I work with adults, teens, families, and couples. My focus areas include LGBTQIA+ clients, gender nonconforming clients, transgender care, sexual health concerns, trauma, grief, mood concerns, and major life transitions.

You receive care grounded in empathy, cultural awareness, and collaboration. Sessions center on clear goals, practical skills, and meaningful insight. I create a space where you feel heard, supported, and understood without judgment.

I provide services through in-person and telehealth settings. My approach blends evidence-based practice with care shaped around your needs, values, and lived experience. My goal centers on supporting clarity, stability, and long-term well-being through an affirming therapeutic relationship.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Identity issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Rachel Howard

Rachel Howard

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello! I am Registered Yoga Teacher, Clinical Supervisor & Consultant, as well as a Certified Focusing-Oriented Expressive Arts Practitioner.

I have almost a decade of experience working with children, adults, couples, and families in a therapeutic capacity. I specialize in trauma and family work. I am an integrative psychotherapist – integrating art therapy, play therapy, sand tray, mindfulness, astrology, spirituality, and more into therapy.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michael They

Michael They

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Modesto, CA


“I will listen intently and ask questions to learn more about you so I can determine what type of care is most appropriate.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Micaela Pericone-Kapp

Micaela Pericone-Kapp

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“My treatment philosophy centers on understanding you as a complete person, not just a collection of symptoms.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Amy Shefftz

Amy Shefftz

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Concord, CA


“My expertise includes ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD and trauma, schizophrenia and psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, mood disorders, and bipolar conditions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Diana Pena

Diana Pena

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • El Segundo, CA


“I've dedicated my practice to supporting those who may have struggled to find providers comfortable with their complexity.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Saby Kirpal

Saby Kirpal

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Westlake Village, CA


I'm Saby Kirpal, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. I hold Master's degrees from Chamberlain University and Walden University, graduating with Presidential Honors, reflecting my commitment to clinical excellence. My diverse professional background spans inpatient psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment centers, and outpatient clinics, giving me insight into mental health treatment at every level of care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorders, eating disorders, and substance use disorders across age groups. My experience includes working with children as young as eight through adults in crisis stabilization, residential treatment, and ongoing medication management.

What makes my practice unique is the integration of my nursing background with psychiatric expertise. I understand how physical health, medications, lifestyle factors, and mental health interconnect. Being trilingual in English, Hindi, and Punjabi, with conversational Spanish, allows me to serve diverse communities and appreciate how culture shapes mental health experiences.

I've worked from UCSF Health to community clinics, teaching me that excellent care isn't about the setting—it's about the relationship. Whether you're seeking help for the first time, between providers, or managing ongoing conditions, I'm here to partner with you. My approach centers on listening first, explaining clearly, and making decisions together. Mental health treatment should never feel like something done to you, but rather something we navigate together. I'm committed to creating a space where you feel respected, understood, and genuinely supported.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Joanna Joestar

Joanna Joestar

Therapist

Virtual • California


I use she/her pronouns. I am a child of refugees. I have a Master of Social Work and did my Bachelor of Arts in Asian American Studies with a Minor in Global Health. I have worked with many individuals struggling with a range of challenges including but not limited to depression, anxiety, psychosis, alcohol and substance use/abuse, chronic health challenges such as HIV and diabetes, as well as gender affirming care. In my free time, I enjoy playing a variety of video games, going to live shows, grabbing a bite to eat with loved ones, exploring new areas, and riding my motorcycle.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Funmi Igbinigie

Funmi Igbinigie

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My goal is to create a warm, compassionate, and judgment-free space where you feel heard, respected, and supported.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Clint Nacar

Clint Nacar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I strive to provide a supportive, respectful space where you feel heard, understood, and actively involved in your care.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Jamie Plaxco

Jamie Plaxco

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Gold River, CA


“My expertise includes autism spectrum disorders, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD and trauma, schizophrenia and psychosis disorders, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, mood disorders, and bipolar conditions.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Stephanie Patrick-Calvillo

Stephanie Patrick-Calvillo

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fresno, CA


“I specialize in treating adults and adolescents dealing with serious mental illness, including mood disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety, psychotic disorders, ADHD, personality disorders, eating disorders, substance use disorders, and geriatric...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Amanda Doty

Amanda Doty

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Carmichael, CA


I offer individual psychotherapy for adults healing from trauma, and working to

have a different relationship with others, themselves, their bodies, and food.

Located in Sacramento, California, I offer a combination of individual and group

sessions in addition to telehealth throughout California. My work is person-

centered, grounded in warmth, curiosity, and respect for everyone’s unique

story. Whether you are navigating eating disorder recovery, body image distress,

trauma, or identity exploration, therapy can be a place to gently make sense of

what feels overwhelming.

As a trauma-informed and trauma-trained therapist, I believe healing happens

not only through insight, but through felt experience. Together, I will support

you in learning how safety, connection, and regulation can live in the body again.

I specialize in working with adults and queer individuals navigating trauma,

eating disorder recovery, and body image distress.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Eating disorders, Identity issues, PTSD
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Brandon Evans

Brandon Evans

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I bring a warm, compassionate, and nonjudgmental approach to therapy, creating a safe space where you can feel heard, respected, and understood.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Nealy Moeckler

Nealy Moeckler

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm a neurodivergent therapist dedicated to creating a space where you feel truly understood and supported on your journey.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Creative, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Kaylyn Gatto

Dr. Kaylyn Gatto

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a space where clients feel safe showing up exactly as they are while also feeling supported to grow and make meaningful changes.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Mitchica Smith

Mitchica Smith

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is direct and solution-oriented, blending clinical expertise with the profound life lessons that have shaped my perspective on resilience.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Joncannon Eiden

Joncannon Eiden

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Vista, CA


“My goal is to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where clients feel understood, challenged when appropriate, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Adriana Benamor

Adriana Benamor

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that we are equals in this work we will do together, and I look forward to being your gentle accountability partner.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Amanda Long

Amanda Long

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fresno, CA


Hello! I'm Amanda Long, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to serving families through compassionate, culturally sensitive mental health care. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and have been practicing as a PMHNP since 2019, with over a decade of nursing experience beginning in 2011. My educational foundation also includes a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Illinois in Springfield, which broadened my understanding of human behavior and community dynamics. My journey in mental health has taken me through diverse settings that have shaped my comprehensive approach to care. I've worked in psychiatric emergency services at a major hospital, 23-hour crisis stabilization units, outpatient clinics, correctional facilities, and forensic mental health centers, including fitness-to-stand-trial evaluations. This varied experience has equipped me to understand mental health from multiple perspectives and meet people wherever they are in their journey, whether they're facing an acute crisis or seeking ongoing support. I specialize in medication management for individuals across the lifespan—from children and adolescents to adults and older adults. My treatment areas include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma-related conditions, psychotic disorders, and other mental health concerns. I'm experienced in both telehealth and in-person care, making quality psychiatric services accessible and convenient for your lifestyle. What drives me is the belief that everyone deserves competent, caring mental health support that honors their unique background and circumstances. I'm committed to improving the communities I serve, one individual and family at a time, through evidence-based practice combined with genuine human connection. My approach centers on partnership and creating a safe environment for healing. I look forward to supporting you and your family's wellness journey.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists located within 20 miles of Downey, CA

Number of therapists within 20 miles of Downey, CA
There are over 62 therapists in Downey, CA accepting new patients.
62+
Average years in practice
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10 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Relationship issues
  • 97%Anxiety
  • 92%Depression
  • 87%Stress management
Insurances accepted
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  • 100%Aetna
  • 71%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 65%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 52%Cigna
  • 47%Providence Health Plan
Languages spoken
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  • 97%English
  • 11%Spanish
  • 3%American Sign Language
  • 3%Armenian
  • 2%Hebrew
How they see their clients
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  • 100%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 53%Woman
  • 42%Man
  • 5%Non-binary
License types
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  • 58%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 24%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 8%Clinical Psychologist
  • 8%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
  • 2%Nurse Practitioner
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 44%Family therapy
  • 34%Couples therapy
  • 24%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

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Find the right LGBTQ-friendly therapy provider for you

Headway makes it easier to connect with affirming therapists who understand your identity — from finding the right therapist, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.

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1 Cost may vary based on your location, age, and insurance coverage.