Skip to main content
Headway

Book LGBT-friendly therapy, covered by insurance

LGBT therapists in El Cajon, CA

Therapist and patient in a therapy session
Calculator Illustration
Get a cost estimate
People with insurance pay as low as $0 per session through Headway

Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in El Cajon, CA

Headway connects LGBTQIA individuals in El Cajon with 2,451 licensed providers who offer affirming, open-minded care tailored to your unique needs. Access talk therapy and medication management virtually or in-person, with sessions often available as soon as the next day. Our network supports your journey with flexible scheduling and insurance coverage to help you focus on your wellbeing.

Dr. Kathryn Star Gutierrez

Dr. Kathryn Star Gutierrez

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“Your inner world is a living masterpiece—layered, intricate, and quietly waiting to be gently explored.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Creative, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 12 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Lynelle Tyler

Dr. Lynelle Tyler

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“My therapeutic approach is solution-focused and strength based. We use your strengths to bolster other aspects of your life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, End of life care
Creative, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Kassandra Margetis

Kassandra Margetis

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I approach all my therapeutic relationships with openness and curiosity. I am empathic and patient...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
McKenna Belgarde

McKenna Belgarde

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I seek to support clients in identifying a desired outcome and explore how to build upon their strengths and examples of success to address their emotional, social and psychological wellbeing.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Maureen Seifert

Maureen Seifert

Therapist

Virtual • Redding, CA


“I believe therapy is most powerful when you feel genuinely seen, understood, and supported while also being challenged to grow.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Challenging, Direct, Empowering, Energetic, Holistic, Humorous, Open-minded, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jen Leland

Jen Leland

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Berkeley, CA


“I especially love working with young adults, organizers, health care workers, creatives, and outsiders who carry a lot for others, feel deeply, and courageously seek support.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Holistic, Participatory
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Julie Afighom

Julie Afighom

Therapist

Virtual • California


Prior to starting my private practice, I practiced for several years at a mental health agency. I accumulated experience working with children, adolescents, and adults while using individual therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy in an effort to meet each client's needs and allow for maximum growth and overall well-being. I’ve always wanted to help individuals around me evolve and overcome difficult situations that life puts people in and felt that marriage and family therapy was the field that encompassed most of the practices I wanted to expand on. I am certified in several evidence-based practices (EBP), which is the concept that occupational practices ought to be based on scientific evidence for maximal progress and successful outcomes. I am certified in the following EBPs: Cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, positive parenting, and managing and adapting practices.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Johannah Walton

Dr. Johannah Walton

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I strive to develop an authentic relationship with my clients, as that has been shown to be most important factor for achieving lasting change.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, End of life care, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Humorous, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Lori Richeson

Lori Richeson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I utilize Cognitive Behavioral methods, and Communication model. I am certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapy.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Snehalkumar Patel

Dr. Snehalkumar Patel

Psychiatrist

Virtual • California


“I believe that mental health care should be collaborative. I take the time to understand your concerns in depth, explain treatment options clearly, and work with you to create a plan that aligns with your goals and values.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Nazare Magaz

Dr. Nazare Magaz

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Pasadena, CA


“My approach is collaborative, warm and creative, whereby we work together to understand you better and at a deeper level.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Joncannon Eiden

Joncannon Eiden

Therapist

Virtual • 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
Cindy Nguman

Cindy Nguman

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy works best when it feels like a warm, supportive conversation rather than a rigid clinical interrogation.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Dr. Thai Le

Dr. Thai Le

Psychologist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


I have a passion for helping people navigate life's challenges. Seeking help can feel like a big step, but it is also a powerful one. I offer a collaborative and nonjudgemental space for discovering strengths and with helping you feel empowered.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cheryl Moss

Cheryl Moss

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Woodland Hills, CA


I'm a licensed psychotherapist with 34 years of experience. I do my best to meet you "where you are" and to offer compassionate presence as you progress through your personal process of self-discovery, self-identification, and evolution.

I'm honored to be part of your journey of transformation. I approach sessions in collaboration, as you learn to free yourself from judgment, criticism, and pain; to change negative perceptions that do not serve; and to experience more ease and peace in life.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Family issues
Empowering, Holistic, Inquisitive
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mabel Aiello

Mabel Aiello

Therapist

Virtual • California


“In my 10+ years of experience, I have found that my talents as a therapist are highlighted with high-functioning individuals who are navigating relationship issues (family, friends, romantic), trauma, depression, and anxiety.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Jilleen Ward

Jilleen Ward

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that the client is the expert in their own life, and my job is to help you uncover your own innate power, strengths, wisdom, and self-insight.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Chioma Igwiloh

Dr. Chioma Igwiloh

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“My style is calm, respectful, and practical, focusing on measurable progress and long-term stability.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Belinda Reser

Belinda Reser

Therapist

Virtual • California


I offer a supportive, affirming space where clients can show up authentically. I guide individuals in rediscovering themselves and taking meaningful steps toward a more purposeful and aligned life.

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Fernando Aguirre

Fernando Aguirre

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am driven to be an ally to everyone's journey in building a strong and stable mental health foundation...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Pavlo OConnor

Pavlo OConnor

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work primarily with gay and queer men, and the people who love them, navigating identity, self-worth, relationships, and life transitions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Fritzie Fernandez-Craft

Fritzie Fernandez-Craft

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is warm, active, and entirely collaborative, meaning we work as a team to break old patterns and build lasting relief.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Airy Ramirez

Airy Ramirez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Through our collaborative work, clients can expect to gain valuable self-insights, develop practical coping strategies, and build emotional resilience.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Challenging, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Edwin Bai

Edwin Bai

Therapist

Virtual • Tustin, CA


“Building trust and a strong therapeutic relationship so individuals can grow and heal brings me deep joy.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Holistic, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dorene Fanning

Dorene Fanning

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm passionate about creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel truly heard and supported on their journey toward healing.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Inquisitive, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jacob MacMaster

Jacob MacMaster

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


I've built my career working in adult medicine, with a deep focus on addiction and medication assisted treatment. Anxiety and depression are areas where I find this work especially rewarding. Regardless of what brings you here, I come to every session with genuine curiosity and a commitment to building real rapport. I see clients virtually, and I keep afternoon and evening hours on weekdays so scheduling can work around your life. Strong patient retention has always been a hallmark of how I practice, and I look forward to building that same kind of relationship with you.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Danielle Petrucci

Danielle Petrucci

Therapist

Virtual • Laguna Beach, CA


“I ask that you are ready to make a commitment, to yourself, first. I consider this the first step of the journey...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Young Tae Lee

Young Tae Lee

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Gold River, CA


“I don't believe in one-size-fits-all treatment — your story matters, and your care plan should reflect that.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Mubvakure Mubvakure

Mubvakure Mubvakure

Therapist

Virtual • Rialto, CA


“My belief relies on the client's ability to do a bit of work and have a genuine desire to feel better.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Amanda Long

Amanda Long

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Sacramento, CA


“I'm Amanda, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I bring specialized expertise in complex mental health conditions while maintaining an unwavering belief in your capacity for healing and growth.”
LGBTQIA+, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Sharon Atwood

Sharon Atwood

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Jose, CA


“I specialize in working with adults aged 18 and older, helping to uncover root causes and develop plans for genuine growth.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Shara Ally

Shara Ally

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“I practice compassionate psychiatry: care that is clinically thorough yet attentive to your emotions and story. ... You’ll always be a partner in your care.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Stuart Brugman

Stuart Brugman

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello there. Thanks for checking out my profile.

I don't know what brings you to this tiny nook of the internet, on this particular day, but I am grateful and very curious to hear.

As a therapist, I've worked with adolescents and adults for over a decade; sharing in their challenges, connecting in laughter and kindness.

It would be my joy to learn your story and meet you with warmth, humor, and sincerity.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Helen Mettu

Helen Mettu

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fresno, CA


“Every session is patient-centered and specific so as to create a warm and relaxing environment for my patients.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Evelyn Ciampa

Evelyn Ciampa

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“I believe everyone deserves to feel heard and empowered in their healing process. ... I've learned the importance of meeting patients exactly where they are, without judgment and with genuine care.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Candice Jeffers

Candice Jeffers

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Jose, CA


“I'm Candice Jeffers, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an unusual background—I spent nearly a decade in cardiovascular critical care before dedicating myself to mental health.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Samantha Sanchez-Franco

Samantha Sanchez-Franco

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm here to help you actually make the changes you've been wanting to make and have struggled to do so.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Holistic
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Ian Fetterolf

Dr. Ian Fetterolf

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to cultivate therapeutic relationships that are equally as effective as they are authentic and meaningful.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Challenging, Direct, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Katy Waldorf

Katy Waldorf

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I specialize in treating ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, and depression with a focus on individualized medication management and holistic well-being.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

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

Number of therapists within 20 miles of El Cajon, CA
There are over 29 therapists in El Cajon, CA accepting new patients.
29+
Average years in practice
Watercolor illustration of a bookshelf
10 years
Top specialties offered
Watercolor illustration of specialties
  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 100%Depression
  • 97%Anxiety
  • 90%Stress management
  • 90%Relationship issues
Insurances accepted
Watercolor illustration of insurance cards
  • 97%Aetna
  • 83%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 66%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 55%Curative
  • 52%Cigna
Languages spoken
Watercolor illustration of languages
  • 86%English
  • 28%Spanish
  • 7%French
  • 3%Farsi
  • 3%German
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 90%In-person or online
  • 10%In-person only
Provider gender
Watercolor illustration of gender identity
  • 66%Woman
  • 34%Man
License types
Watercolor illustration of license
  • 48%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 17%Clinical Psychologist
  • 17%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 10%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
  • 7%Nurse Practitioner
Treatment approaches
Watercolor illustration of treatment approach
  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 41%Family therapy
  • 24%Couples therapy
  • 21%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

Therapy Chair

Happy patient looking away

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.

Find a provider - your way

Use left and right arrow keys to switch tabs. Press Shift+Tab to return to the tab list from links in the selected tab.

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