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LGBT therapists in El Cajon, CA

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

Headway connects LGBTQIA individuals in El Cajon with 2,559 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.

Bernadette Johnson

Bernadette Johnson

Therapist

Virtual • Crescent City, CA


I have 10 years of experience working with children, individuals, couples and families to using a strength-based, systems approach. For couple’s I utilize Gottman-based approaches.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Nicko Jaeger

Dr. Nicko Jaeger

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hello,

I am Dr. Jaeger and I welcome you to my practice. I look forward to sitting with you, hearing your story, and developing a plan to help you with your concerns and needs.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Christy Owens

Christy Owens

Therapist

Virtual • California


I offer a warm, inquisitive, and direct approach for couples and individuals ready for meaningful change. Whether you’re navigating a major life transition, preparing for a baby, adjusting to life with young children, or adapting to the ever-changing demands of life, our work together can help you move through this season with greater ease, clarity, and connection.

Becoming a parent was one of the most meaningful and challenging experiences of my own life. It gave me a deep appreciation for the extraordinary demands that parenthood can place on individuals and couples. I have a special place in my heart for partners and individuals navigating the many stages of family building—from preparing for a baby to adjusting to life with young children and beyond.

At the same time, I work with folx dealing with life's many challenges, and I will meet you wherever you are. Together, we’ll create space to better understand what’s happening, strengthen your relationships, and move toward the changes you’re hoping to make.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Inquisitive, Participatory
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Leslie Wenzell

Leslie Wenzell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that we all have gifts and strengths that can be cultivated through the therapeutic process and through a client-centered approach.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Carilla Clements

Carilla Clements

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Sessions are a welcoming space where you can be honest, take a breath, and feel heard without judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Aubrey Koel

Aubrey Koel

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is relaxed, warm, and refreshingly candid. We'll use a mix of humor, honest feedback, and genuine connection to cut through the noise and get to the heart of what's holding you back.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Carolina Morales

Carolina Morales

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with ten years of experience working with children, teens, adults, and older adults struggling with ADHD, anxiety, and depression.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 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
Amy Trimble

Amy Trimble

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a systems thinker, so I am very inquisitive and I like to get a really detailed family history.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Challenging, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Federico Rolandi

Federico Rolandi

Therapist

Virtual • California


I specialize in supporting high-functioning adults navigating ADHD, burnout, addiction, and emotional overwhelm. My approach is direct, compassionate, and focused on helping you understand how your mind works—while building practical tools that create real, lasting change.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Energetic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Shanna Holladay

Shanna Holladay

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm a deeply affirming therapist for LGBTQIAS2+ clients and have extensive experience supporting transgender folks navigating transition, identity, and the mental health weight that often comes with it.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Humorous, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jennifer Gonzalez

Jennifer Gonzalez

Therapist

Virtual • Newport Beach, CA


“I specialize in the treatment of trauma, OCD, and relationship challenges, using evidence-based, results-driven methods.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ebie Okonkwo-Anwasi PhD

Ebie Okonkwo-Anwasi PhD

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I am goal-oriented, and together, we will map out a plan tailored to get you the best result possible.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Anastasia Burton

Anastasia Burton

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is collaborative and skills-based - I want clients to leave sessions with tools they can actually use.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Rebecca Hardt

Rebecca Hardt

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I wholeheartedly believe it's my role as a therapist to assist you in realizing, cultivating, and accessing the internal and external resources that you already possess.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Direct, Empowering
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Heather Peebles

Heather Peebles

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“I specialize in CBT, trauma informed therapy, motivational interviewing, and strength based interventions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Maisha Robinson

Maisha Robinson

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of experience helping people get unstuck. I specialize in supporting adolescents, men, and women navigating anxiety, depression, anger, grief, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and substance abuse. If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious about your career, or eager to improve but lacking the tools to make it a reality, you are in the right place. Armed with a Doctorate in Social Work, my goal is to help you identify the root causes of your challenges and empower you to build a more balanced, fulfilling life.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
M. Veronica Cardenas

M. Veronica Cardenas

Therapist

Virtual • Visalia, CA


I've been doing this work for 18 years, and the thing I hear most from new clients is some version of: "I wasn't sure therapy would work for me." I get it. Finding the right fit matters — and I think fit has a lot to do with feeling like your therapist actually understands where you're coming from. I offer therapy in both English and Spanish, and I bring a genuinely culturally informed perspective to the work. I see adults navigating anxiety, trauma, grief, depression, family conflict, ADHD, identity questions, and relationship stress — across communities that are often underrepresented in mental health care. I'm direct when that's useful, patient when it's needed, and warm throughout.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Eli Elias

Eli Elias

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m passionate about helping others recognize their strengths and step into their full potential. Whether through collaboration, mentorship, or encouragement, I aim to create spaces where people feel valued, capable, and inspired to act.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Calista Ezeokoye

Calista Ezeokoye

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“Dr. Calista is both a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Direct, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Andrea Gomar Padilla

Andrea Gomar Padilla

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to provide a supportive space where both children and caregivers feel understood, empowered, and equipped with tools to create meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Maida Ferraes

Maida Ferraes

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am enthusiastic, energetic, self-motivated, compassionate, and patient. We carry many judgments from the world and ourselves, we do not need any additional pressure.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Chanel Halimi

Chanel Halimi

Therapist

Virtual • California


Are you feeling dissatisfied in your daily life? Things are okay, but something doesn’t feel quite right. You’re employed, maybe in a relationship, and can socialize with friends, but you wonder if you’re truly happy. I would love to speak with you to see if therapy with me can help you better understand yourself and improve your life.

I am a dedicated therapist specializing in emerging adults (ages 18–25), adults in their 20s and 30s, and career, passion, and purpose. I love what I do and am here to serve.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Creative, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Nhat Ngo

Nhat Ngo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe a therapist's role is not to "fix" someone's problem(s) but rather to empower the individual to make changes that are best for him/her...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jolene Jensen

Jolene Jensen

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I see life challenges as tools to learn, grow, evolve and find new purpose, empathy, depth and meaning.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ashley Damo

Ashley Damo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I leverage evidence-based psychological approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy and strengths-based therapy to provide supportive, direct, and compassionate clinical care to my clients.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Brittaney Latta

Brittaney Latta

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I use techniques from several practices such as mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, Bowen family systems, person-centered, solution-focused, and Gottman in order to better help you to reach your goals in therapy.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Natalie Trzeciak-Hardwick

Natalie Trzeciak-Hardwick

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe the beauty of the therapeutic space is that there is safety to explore and own the story that has shaped who you are.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Diana Fajardo

Diana Fajardo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My philosophy is: we are shaped by our thoughts, emotions and behaviors therefore with time and effort change is always possible.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Christina Strom

Christina Strom

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a client centered therapist, meaning I want to meet you where you are. Down to earth, gentle, honest, and transparent...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kaitlyn McNulty

Kaitlyn McNulty

Therapist

Virtual • California


“We all thrive when we are listened to and feel understood so I hope to create a space where you feel welcomed and safe.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Danae Sowell

Danae Sowell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that therapy should be a healthy and restorative process where you feel safe and understood.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Catherine Stansell

Catherine Stansell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I view therapy as a collaboration between client and therapist. As a team, we explore and work towards your therapy goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Marilyn Foley

Dr. Marilyn Foley

Psychologist

Virtual • California


I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California with 27 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. I offer tele-health only sessions from the comfort of your home, making care accessible no matter where you are in California. I accept Anthem and Magellan insurance. My practice is intentionally small — I keep a limited caseload so every client receives my full attention and care. I am warm, experienced, and deeply committed to showing up for the people I work with.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, PTSD
Creative, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Dr. Stephen Gutknecht

Dr. Stephen Gutknecht

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I help people see their problems in a different light and support them as they make their desired changes.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Carrie Anderson

Carrie Anderson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to help my clients achieve a greater self-awareness, self-acceptance, and be able to find ways to develop personal growth.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Michelle Dazalla

Michelle Dazalla

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My philosophy is "Aim Small to Hit Big", which means to be present in the moment and set small attainable goals for yourself to build upon your successes and celebrate accomplishments one goal at a time.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Jeanette Perez

Jeanette Perez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I want you to feel safe, heard, and genuinely understood. You don't have to make your story sound better, worse, or more put-together than it is.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Helma Jafari

Helma Jafari

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am deeply committed to supporting individuals in reconnecting with themselves, healing, and growing in meaningful ways.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Uzoma Obi

Uzoma Obi

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I am compassionate and empathic in my interaction with my clients and I try to create a safe and supportive environment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 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 26 therapists in El Cajon, CA accepting new patients.
26+
Average years in practice
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10 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 100%Depression
  • 96%Anxiety
  • 92%Stress management
  • 88%Relationship issues
Insurances accepted
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  • 100%Aetna
  • 69%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 69%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 46%Cigna
  • 46%Providence Health Plan
Languages spoken
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  • 85%English
  • 31%Spanish
  • 8%French
  • 4%Farsi
  • 4%German
How they see their clients
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  • 92%In-person or online
  • 8%In-person only
Provider gender
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  • 62%Woman
  • 38%Man
License types
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  • 54%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 23%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 15%Clinical Psychologist
  • 4%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
  • 4%Nurse Practitioner
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 38%Family therapy
  • 27%Child or adolescent therapy
  • 19%Couples therapy

Frequently asked questions

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