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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 2,460 providers available, many offering free intake calls and next-day or two-week availability options.

Glenda Love

Glenda Love

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over twenty years experience. I have a Master's Degree in Social Work with focus on Children and Families, a Master's Degree in Sociology with a Certificate in Criminology and Corrections, and a PhD in Social Work (all but dissertation) with focus on trauma, sexual abuse and assault, and domestic violence. I was the Director of a private, non-profit Foster Care and Adoption Agency, I worked in a women's shelter for domestic violence and sexual assault. I worked in a Level 4 men's prison, and I worked as a Supervisor for mental health therapists serving school systems. I have always had a private practice as well. I have worked in teletherapy for approximately 8 years.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Esther Kang

Esther Kang

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe in guiding individuals towards their authentic selves and empowering them to live fulfilling lives.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Lovinder Johal

Lovinder Johal

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Many of the individuals I work with struggle with anxiety, overthinking, people pleasing, relationship stress, and life transitions. Some also navigate cultural expectations, immigrant family dynamics, and the challenges of honoring family values...”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Ryan Ingram

Dr. Ryan Ingram

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I believe meaningful change happens when you feel safe enough to be yourself - not when you're pressured to "fix" or change who you are.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Dr. Quintin Bailey

Dr. Quintin Bailey

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“The ultimate goal of our work is to help you build a deep, unshakeable sense of self-esteem, self-efficacy, and genuine confidence from the inside out.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues, Grief or loss
Creative, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Emine Hreno

Emine Hreno

Therapist

Virtual • California


I believe meaningful change happens when we work together as equals. My path to becoming a therapist wasn't a straight line; transitioning from the corporate world to clinical care allows me to blend evidence-based theories with practical, real-world application.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Creative, Participatory
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Alex Bailey

Alex Bailey

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


I have found my own personal healing to be intimately connected to nature, and it is here that I believe that we can all begin to rediscover our intrinsic humanity and let go of those things that distract us from our higher selves. In my spare time, I work as an outdoor educator and manage my own private practice and guide Outdoor Retreats

I believe it is helpful and important to translate what is discussed in session and in telehealth meetings into lived experience and real change.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 14 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Amanda Peterson

Amanda Peterson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I utilize a combination of person centered and cognitive behavioral therapy as my primary treatment methods, strongly believing each person is capable of getting through life with support and compassion.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Luis Moreno

Luis Moreno

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am committed to creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their concerns.”
LGBTQIA+, Cultural & ethnic issues, Eating disorders, End of life care, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Dr. Lucinda Schoenick

Dr. Lucinda Schoenick

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Rancho Cucamonga, CA


“My approach is warm, direct, and solution-focused. I combine evidence-based medication management with supportive therapy, helping clients understand their symptoms and feel empowered in their treatment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Amina Mohabbat

Amina Mohabbat

Therapist

Virtual • California


Amina has a Masters in Social Work with a concentration on Direct Practice in Community Mental Health from the University of California, Berkeley. Additional education is a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology, Japanese, and a Pupil Personnel Service Credential specializing on children and families. She has over 18+ years of direct practice mental health experience and is trained in evidence based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Art Therapy, trauma informed care, Gottman's couples Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, somatic therapy, mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Family Systems therapy. Other practices include music/sound therapy, career and academic counseling, life coaching, mind and body connection, specializations in immigrant issues, multicultural issues, gender identity issues, LGTBQI issues, chronic illness and medical issues counseling, blended family issues, intergenerational issues, social justice issues, neurodivergent issue (ADHD, autism, sensory issues).

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Akira Olsen

Dr. Akira Olsen

Psychologist

Virtual • Burlingame, CA


“Her therapeutic approach is rooted in psychodynamic principles, while also integrating evidence-based practices.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Sossity Nico

Sossity Nico

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Being a therapist and a part of the neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ communities has given me great empathy, compassion, and an in-depth feeling of connectedness to the human experience.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Ekta Kumar

Dr. Ekta Kumar

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I work with adults and couples, especially professionals, students, and creatives in high-pressure environments — who want more than just coping skills.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Rebecca Scandell

Rebecca Scandell

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have 26 years of experience dealing with individuals, couples, families in therapy. We will work together to develop plans that are unique and right for you.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Joshua Petty

Joshua Petty

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My name is Joshua Rashon Petty, and I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner. ... I have specialized in emotional health for nine years, with experience treating adolescents and adults with various diagnoses.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Shannon Powell

Shannon Powell

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing trauma-informed, holistic care for individuals seeking meaningful change.

I view therapy as a bridge — helping you move from the past to your desired future.

Using evidence-based approaches, I help you uncover and release patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that no longer serve you. Instead of changing these patterns through force, we clear away the distortions to reveal the clarity underneath.

My goal is to walk alongside you on this leg of your healing journey, as you align your mind, body, spirit and actions.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Amanda Smith

Amanda Smith

Therapist

Virtual • California


“There are times when a person feels emotionally "stuck" and feel there is no way to undo it. I know this view well myself!”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 14 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Thomas Spence

Thomas Spence

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Diego, CA


“Starting therapy can feel vulnerable, especially when you have been carrying so much on your own. You do not have to sort through it alone.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Emily Hurley

Emily Hurley

Therapist

Virtual • California


My name is Emily and I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of California. I have 6 years of professional experience as an individual therapist, parent counselor, family therapist and clinical case care coordinator. I have a school counseling credential and experience working with pre-k through 12th grade students, in both public and non public schools. My expertise is in helping clients with anxiety, life transitions, stress, depression, family conflict, parenting issues, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, ADHD and Autism.

I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment to meet your unique and specific needs. I am goal oriented, creating measurable action steps for clients to work on towards achieving their set goals. Goals will be created in a collaborative manner between therapist and client.

It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and healthier life and to take the first steps towards change. My goal is to support and empower you in that journey. I utilize a creative and collaborative approach, and I'm here to meet you where you're at.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Michelle Myers

Michelle Myers

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide a healing and safe environment for my clients. My approach is one of flexibility and sensitivity to each individual.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Jarrad Malamed

Jarrad Malamed

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


Making the decision to start therapy is a profound investment of your time, energy, and vulnerability. If you are looking for a blank-slate clinician who simply nods and listens, we might not be the best fit. I offer a highly engaged, malleable, and unflinching partnership.

My approach is rooted in the belief that while the work of untangling our lives is deeply structural, the room itself doesn't always have to feel heavy. I bring a grounded warmth to my practice—which means knowing how to sit quietly in the gravity of a difficult truth, but also knowing when to break the tension, exhale, and find the light in the sheer complexity of being human. I won’t just sit in silence while you do all the heavy lifting; I am an active collaborator who adapts to exactly where you are.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ashley Decena

Ashley Decena

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I hold space with compassion, warmth, and curiosity. I will explore your experiences with you collaboratively to foster growth, change, and greater awareness that align with your values and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Bentley Oliver

Bentley Oliver

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I consider myself a very direct therapist, I will not ask "how does that make you feel" for years as then I would need therapy!”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Patricia Gutierrez

Patricia Gutierrez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My practice centers on trauma and PTSD, identity and gender affirming care, and the lived experiences of women and LGBTQIA+ individuals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Jorge Belloso-Curiel

Jorge Belloso-Curiel

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello! Thank you for considering me as a potential therapist. I have worked in social services related occupations for over thirty years. I am humbled daily and appreciate working with people wherever stage they are in their life.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Deidre Green

Deidre Green

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of experience across medical and behavioral health settings. I currently serve as a Lead Social Worker at Adventist Health and also work with college students at a community college, providing mental health support, crisis intervention, and care coordination. My background spans hospital, home health, and community settings, and I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, end-of-life care, bipolar disorder, substance use, and chronic health conditions. I provide affirming care for LGBTQIA+ clients. I offer telehealth sessions in the evenings and on weekends throughout California, making care accessible for clients who work during the day.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Erica Carrington

Erica Carrington

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


Hello, I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, licensed since 2008, with experience working with diverse populations ranging from children to older adults. I provide a warm, safe, and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel supported and understood. I especially enjoy helping individuals navigate life transitions such as starting college, graduating, changing jobs, adjusting to civilian life after the military, or entering retirement. My areas of focus include women’s issues, anxiety, depression, and building self-acceptance. I look forward to supporting you as you move toward growth and balance in your life.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Natalie Demus

Natalie Demus

Therapist

Virtual • California


If you have been carrying stress, anxiety, or the weight of life's challenges for a long time, you may have wondered whether things can actually change. I believe they can.

I am a licensed clinical social worker in California with over 30 years of clinical experience working with adults, families, and communities. I am bilingual in English and Spanish, and I welcome clients from all cultural backgrounds. My work spans a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, trauma, and substance use recovery.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Natasha Houston

Natasha Houston

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach with my clients is open and honest communication while offering a non-judgmental approach.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Christina Billings

Christina Billings

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work from the belief that healing occurs when clients feel safe, understood, and empowered, especially those navigating complex or high-acuity mental health concerns.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Energetic
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Jessica Agunnamani

Jessica Agunnamani

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I'm a warm, open-minded, and holistic Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who focuses on helping clients feel genuinely understood and supported.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Eriam Nnamaliri

Eriam Nnamaliri

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My goal is not simply to manage symptoms, but to help you feel more like yourself, build confidence in your ability to cope, and move toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Deisy Gracia

Deisy Gracia

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that meaningful change happens within a supportive and trusting relationship.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Urania Acevedo

Dr. Urania Acevedo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy should be both compassionate and productive, and that genuine emotional growth flourishes when we balance evidence-based practices with a deeply authentic human connection.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Humorous, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Carrie Poulson

Carrie Poulson

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am non-judgmental, open-minded and solution focused. I have a trauma history of my own and I get it. I can shine a light on the path out of there. I will meet you where you are at and walk with you to a place that is happier and healthier. I am an art therapist, and believe in past life-times that have had an effect on who we have become. I was born into a conservative religion and escaped. I specialize in helping people leave organized religion.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Demetrus Jones

Demetrus Jones

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of nursing experience. I provide thoughtful, personalized care for individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other common mental health concerns. My approach is warm, respectful, and judgment-free — I believe real healing starts with feeling heard and understood. I work closely with each client to create a treatment plan that feels supportive, practical, and tailored to their unique needs.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Audrey Ponce

Audrey Ponce

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that every person deserves a space where they can feel heard, understood, and supported without judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Energetic
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Emily Jarrell

Emily Jarrell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Therapy with me is not about trying to "fix" you. Instead, the focus is on deepening your understanding...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Karachi Igwe

Dr. Karachi Igwe

Psychiatrist

Virtual • California


Great to meet you!


I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist and have been practicing psychiatry since 2017. I work with adults from diverse backgrounds, including professionals, students, parents, women, men, and LGBTQ+ clients, who may be navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma/PTSD, insomnia, OCD, perinatal mental health, stress, or major life transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, evidence-based, culturally sensitive, and trauma-informed. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, telehealth, and second opinions, with a focus on helping you feel heard, understood, and supported as we work toward meaningful change.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 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 58 therapists in Downey, CA accepting new patients.
58+
Average years in practice
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10 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 97%Anxiety
  • 93%Relationship issues
  • 93%Depression
  • 90%Stress management
Insurances accepted
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  • 100%Aetna
  • 62%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 52%Cigna
  • 43%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 40%Curative
Languages spoken
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  • 97%English
  • 17%Spanish
  • 3%Tagalog
  • 2%Farsi
  • 2%French
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 100%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 57%Woman
  • 34%Man
  • 9%Non-binary
License types
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  • 55%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 19%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 12%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
  • 10%Clinical Psychologist
  • 3%Nurse Practitioner
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 38%Family therapy
  • 33%Couples therapy
  • 22%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.

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