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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 2,630 providers available, many offering free intake calls and next-day or two-week availability options.

Zachary Arnold

Zachary Arnold

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I use a person-centered lens, meaning I see you as the expert of your life and view our therapeutic relationship as a key part of the healing process.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Holly Shannon

Holly Shannon

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • East Palo Alto, CA


“My work taught me that women's mental health—especially during pregnancy, postpartum, and hormonal transitions—requires specialized understanding and individualized care.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Evelyn Ramirez

Evelyn Ramirez

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


I am a dual board-certified psychiatric mental health and family nurse practitioner providing medication management and supportive therapy for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and women’s mental health.

I have specialized training in perinatal and postpartum mood disorders through Postpartum Support International (PSI) and take a holistic, integrative approach to care.

Soy enfermera con doble certificación en salud mental psiquiátrica y medicina familiar. Ofrezco **manejo de medicamentos y terapia de apoyo

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Laraib Ali

Laraib Ali

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Therapy begins with creating a safe, collaborative, and trusting space where you feel heard and understood.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Noelle Neglia

Noelle Neglia

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have a diverse toolkit to offer. From CBT, to DBT, to action oriented methods like Expressive Arts Therapies and Mindfulness...”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Clair Figueroa

Clair Figueroa

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide a nonjudgmental, safe space to discuss your fears with a focus on your goals and dreams as a motivation for change.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Andrea Lapinski

Andrea Lapinski

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


I have over 30 years of clinical, counseling and administrative experience working with individuals and couples, addressing the unique issues related to their unique life experiences. I have extensive professional and personal experience with military families and veterans. I understand first-hand the struggles of grief and medical conditions that impact all aspects of life. I have supported chronically and terminally ill patients, individuals living with cancer or chronic medical diagnoses, as well as parents experiencing infertility, peripartum, and postpartum depression. Whether dealing with life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, or divorce, or simply seeking to express yourself and feel more confident, I am here to walk with you, provide insights, and support you toward lasting change.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Open-minded, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cintia Ctibor

Cintia Ctibor

Therapist

Virtual • California


“In a world where trauma, and anxiety often drown out our inner voices, I know that beneath the spoken words, lies a heart's true narrative.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Stella Dennett

Dr. Stella Dennett

Therapist

Virtual • Beverly Hills, CA


“I place great value on equipping you with the social and psychological resources and skills necessary to thrive.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, Family issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Christina Stelly

Christina Stelly

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bakersfield, CA


IMPORTANT: For current availability, visit https://mentalhealthpractitioners.com/ or call or text us anytime at 415-968-6515—we make it super easy! Intake forms are required before your first appointment and will be emailed to you when you book online. You can text us your info or email us at [email protected]. Please be sure to send us a picture of your insurance information and photo ID!

Hi! I'm Christina Stelly, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC — a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Martinez, CA. With over 15 years of clinical experience across inpatient psychiatry, maternal health, and advanced practice, I am deeply committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to every person I serve.

I specialize in treating schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, anxiety, etc.

My academic background includes a Post-Certificate DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Illinois Chicago, a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Texas Tech University, and a Master of Science in Nursing from Touro University. I also completed an intensive NP residency focused on advanced psychiatric care, crisis stabilization, and forensic psychiatry, which further strengthened my clinical expertise.

Earlier in my career, I specialized in maternal mental health, serving as a Patient Care Director for high-risk obstetric populations and contributing to perinatal mental health policy at the state and national levels. This background gives me a uniquely broad, whole-person perspective on psychiatric care across the lifespan.

My approach is grounded in trauma-informed, individualized care. I take time to fully understand your history, concerns, and goals before collaboratively building a treatment plan tailored to you. I have also served on health policy committees and presented at national nursing conferences, reflecting my commitment to psychiatric care.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Tiffany Spearman

Tiffany Spearman

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bellflower, CA


“My goal is to provide authentic and non-judgmental care, while keeping your best interest at the forefront.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Antonio Shallowhorn

Antonio Shallowhorn

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative. I will integrate CBT and other evidence-based strategies to explore the patterns, experiences, and beliefs that shape how you relate to yourself and others.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Julieta Serrato

Julieta Serrato

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m Julieta a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence. I’ve been working in the mental health field since 2016 and bring both clinical experience and real-life perspective into my work. I create a supportive and collaborative space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. My approach blends cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior skills, and person-centered care to help clients build emotional resilience and healthier relationships. I specialize in working with anxiety, stress, life transitions, and trauma.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Daniel Kruse

Daniel Kruse

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that each person is the expert of their own life, and my role is to create a supportive and nurturing environment where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts and emotions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Chika Agulanna

Chika Agulanna

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Fresno, CA


“Chika's treatment approach is rooted in evidence based practice utilizing medication and psychotherapy.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Shara Ally

Shara Ally

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Luis Obispo, CA


“I use measurement-based care, structured symptom tracking that guides our treatment adjustments and minimizes trial-and-error.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jamie Plaxco

Jamie Plaxco

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fresno, CA


IMPORTANT: All clients must complete our intake form and sign our policies before their appointment. Please complete these documents at https://intakeq.com/new/6oakjo/lusjbb or contact us at 602-800-4699 (call or text). Please also email or text us a copy of your photo ID/driver's license at [email protected]

For the most current schedule and openings, please book directly on our website at https://mentalhealthpractitioners.com/book-appointment/ or call us at 415-968-6515.

As a PMHNP-BC who specializes in autism, complex cases, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD/trauma, schizophrenia/psychosis disorders, and substance use, I've built my practice around understanding that every person's mental health journey is unique—especially when multiple conditions interact or when traditional approaches haven't worked.

I also provide comprehensive treatment for depression, anxiety, panic disorders, mood disorders, and bipolar disorder, always with an understanding that these conditions often overlap and influence each other in complex ways. What I want you to know is this: your experiences are valid, your struggles make sense in the context of your life, and there's no such thing as being "too much" for treatment.

Whether you're masking autistic traits, battling compulsive behaviors, managing intense emotions, processing trauma, questioning reality, or struggling with substances, I meet you exactly where you are without trying to force you into a predetermined mold. My approach combines evidence-based treatments with deep respect for your individual needs and experiences.

You deserve a provider who doesn't see complexity as a problem to solve, but as a roadmap to understanding how to best support your unique path to wellness.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Dr. Alexander Lapinski

Dr. Alexander Lapinski

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in supporting adults navigating challenges with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, particularly those whose self-worth has been impacted by emotionally immature, mentally ill, or personality-disordered parents and family.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jennifer Griffith

Jennifer Griffith

Therapist

Virtual • Laguna Beach, CA


“My approach is warm, direct, collaborative, creative, and appropriately funny. You won't need to mask, perform, or spend half the session convincing me that your experience is real.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Conrad Larkin

Conrad Larkin

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Santa Rosa, CA


“During my more than 30 years as a therapist I have found that once an unworkable pattern is revealed and the emotions connected to that are expressed, your authentic self is more available.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 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
Sue Brekka

Sue Brekka

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“I offer a safe environment of compassion and respect. Working pyschodynamically, from an object relations perspective, integrating parts work (IFS)...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Chartia Byrdsong-Flowers

Chartia Byrdsong-Flowers

Therapist

Virtual • California


Welcome, and thank you for considering me as a partner in your wellness journey! My therapeutic style is warm, gentle, and supportive, while also being direct and accountability focused. I believe meaningful change happens when compassion and honesty work together. In our time together, we will explore what’s getting in the way of your well-being and identify practical, sustainable ways to improve your daily functioning and overall quality of life.

With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I bring a grounded, steady presence to the therapeutic space. I support clients through life transitions, emotional challenges, and periods of feeling stuck, always meeting you where you are while helping you move toward where you want to be. Therapy with me is collaborative, intentional, and centered on your goals, your values, and your lived experience. Together, we’ll work toward clarity, resilience, and growth at a pace that feels both supportive and empowering.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, PTSD
Affirming, Direct, Inquisitive
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Brandy Jaramillo

Brandy Jaramillo

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m a licensed clinical social worker specializing in supporting adults navigating the complex emotional landscape of chronic illness, burnout, caregiver stress, and life transitions.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
David Khalatyan

David Khalatyan

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Clients can expect to leave their sessions with a clearer understanding of the issues that were talked about and a plan of action on how to tackle current issues.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Michael Guichet

Michael Guichet

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work to challenge those beliefs by creating a safe, open space where honest conversations can happen and new patterns can emerge.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Diep Dinh

Diep Dinh

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach to patient care is characterized by compassion and a strong commitment to providing comprehensive support.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Michael Herrera

Michael Herrera

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am warm, friendly, and passionate about my work. I am creative in techniques and I use humor to facilitate the exploration of concerns.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Hsiu-Lan Cheng

Dr. Hsiu-Lan Cheng

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I provide strength-based and collaborative therapy to guide you through your thoughts and emotions towards healing and personal/relational empowerment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Lonnie Ferguson

Lonnie Ferguson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Therapy is a courageous act of self love and it requires a collaborative approach to establish a sense of trust and safety.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Fernando Huerta-Perez

Fernando Huerta-Perez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm straightforward, warm, and passionate about helping people overcome life's challenges and recognize their potential.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Noah Peter

Noah Peter

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Long Beach, CA


“My practice has a nonjudgmental environment where your feelings and experiences are respected and validated.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Dr. Julie Cohen

Dr. Julie Cohen

Psychologist

Virtual • California


avigating emotional distress or long-standing conflict can feel like being fractured, but healing often begins with finding a reliable and experienced partner. I am Dr. Julie Cohen, a Clinical Psychologist with over 45 years of experience. I have spent my career helping individuals, couples, and families resolve conflict—whether it’s occurring in the living room or the workplace. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and stress, particularly for those who are ready to dive into their inner experience to improve how they feel about themselves and their relationships. I feel privileged to help my clients achieve their goals and improve their lives by providing the expert, seasoned care necessary to handle even the most complex challenges with precision and kindness.

I believe that the foundation of our work is a relationship of absolute trust and safety. My extensive training allows me to look at your life through a wide lens, understanding how your past experiences and upbringing shape your current personality and challenges. I encourage an honest and direct dialogue, as that is where true mutual understanding begins. When I am not working with clients, I value the perspective that comes from a long career dedicated to human behavior, often finding restoration in the very principles of balance and growth that I share in my sessions. I want my clients to feel safe and empowered during their time with me, knowing they have a safety net of four decades of clinical expertise behind them.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Zaryn Avaren

Zaryn Avaren

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe meaningful change begins when we meet ourselves with curiosity instead of judgment, in a steady and safe space.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues
Holistic, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Erika Nguyen

Erika Nguyen

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe healing is not about "fixing" yourself, but about learning how to understand, accept, and integrate all parts of who you are.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Holistic
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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