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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 2,451 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.

Lorraine Watkins

Lorraine Watkins

Therapist

Virtual • California


Stuck? In pain? Contemplating a life change, or just had one thrust upon you? Let's explore your options and make things easier.

I have 20+ years of experience helping demoralized adults back to high functionality. I specialize in helping develop motivational skills in those are dealing with depression, anxiety and adjustment issues (including relational and gender identity issues).

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Christen Camp

Christen Camp

Therapist

Virtual • San Francisco, CA


Oh look, this one is wearing a hat! It can be hard to choose one of us, right? My style is warm, collaborative, experiential, and very human. I’m interested in that space between knowing something intellectually and actually experiencing something differently—how past experiences shape our expectations, how the mind and nervous system respond in the present, and what becomes possible when we slow down enough to notice what’s happening inside.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Melody Brotby

Melody Brotby

Therapist

Virtual • Sonora, CA


“My goal is to facilitate that search, whether the focus is relationships, life direction, grieving, or how to make life rewarding.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Direct, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Gracianna Smith

Gracianna Smith

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to help you build a practical toolbox of skills that strengthens your sense of self, purpose, and efficacy from an integrative trauma-informed lens.”
LGBTQIA+, PTSD, Transgender issues, Trauma, Women's issues
Challenging, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Wisteria Wood

Wisteria Wood

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, I am particularly passionate about working with queer youth and marginalized communities.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
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 4 insurance carriers
Julia Moore

Julia Moore

Therapist

Virtual • Sacramento, CA


I actively participate in helping you get to where you want to go, and I offer insight when clients have a desire and readiness to hear it. I have worked in the mental health field for over ten years as well, so I have heard it all! My office is a no judgement zone first and foremost. I am a sex therapist and look forward to helping you overcome sexual shame and trauma so that you can have all the intimacy and closeness you desire.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Bita Saad Adel

Bita Saad Adel

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-C) providing compassionate, evidence-based care through telehealth. My background includes experience in emergency care and mental health treatment. I work with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma-related conditions, and mood disorders. I take a collaborative and supportive approach and work closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans focused on improving emotional well-being.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Shera Daroga

Shera Daroga

Therapist

Virtual • California


I will be your biggest and loudest supporter and advocate. I use a little bit of humor, mixed in with kindness, and a whole lot of warmth to help you dig deep into your story. Together, we'll challenge the stories you tell yourself about your life, your experience, and society. I have extensive experience working with folks experiencing anxiety/depression, work burnout, life transitions, relationship challenges, and folks exploring their identity (all identities are absolutely welcomed here!)

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Humorous, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Hannah Karolewicz

Dr. Hannah Karolewicz

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is direct, warm, and curious. I believe good sex therapy should feel like a conversation with someone who's genuinely on your side, not an interrogation or a lecture.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Heather Huff

Heather Huff

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am an LGBTQIA+, and kink and poly informed therapist. I am an eclectic therapist, which means I utilize tools from multiple approaches to tailor our work to you and your specific needs.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Monica Basquez

Monica Basquez

Therapist

Virtual • San Francisco, CA


“It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Maternal mental health, OCD
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Cinthya Pages

Cinthya Pages

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in working with high-performing women of color—professionals, creatives, and caregivers—who are often carrying the emotional weight of success, identity, and responsibility.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Michelle Ansell

Michelle Ansell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Healing doesn't happen by becoming someone new—it happens by learning to embrace every part of who you already are.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Sarah Tanaka

Sarah Tanaka

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I place a strong value on holding a safe therapeutic space where we can work together to move towards your goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lauren Klosowski

Lauren Klosowski

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I believe good mental health care starts with taking the time to understand the whole person, not just their symptoms.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Nicole Penick

Dr. Nicole Penick

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“Nicole takes an integrative (humanistic and psychodynamic) approach to tackle the individual desires of each person.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 14 insurance carriers
Katie Champieux

Katie Champieux

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am committed to offering therapy that is inclusive, culturally responsive, and affirming of all forms of diversity.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
DeRoy Obilor

DeRoy Obilor

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach is founded on holistic and patient-centered concepts, resulting in a collaborative alliance that values trust and open communication.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Heather Waddle

Heather Waddle

Therapist

Virtual • California


With over 15 years of experience, I have helped countless individuals navigate the challenges they face and find peace within themselves. Together, we can work towards culminating a healthier and more fulfilling future.

When I am not working I enjoy spending time with my dogs, hiking with friends, cooking, and making flower arrangements. I also enjoy spending time doing artsy activities or attending local events.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dean Wright

Dean Wright

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I come with an existentialist approach to the therapeutic room which means I am trying to help my clients find meaning in the change they seek.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Challenging, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Miyoung Son

Miyoung Son

Therapist

Virtual • California


Reaching out for help can be challenging for many. As psychotherapy aims at positive changes you desire, I am honored to provide a safe place for your self-exploration and reflection in which you can gain your inner peace and change you long for. Being specialized in trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse and domestic violence, I can offer some resolution in your trauma work. Trauma can penetrate not only your emotional well-being but also almost every facet of your life.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Karey Regala

Karey Regala

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you feel truly heard and understood.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Valerie Handlers

Valerie Handlers

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is loving, compassionate and direct. If you just want someone to listen and not give you suggestions on how to improve your life, then I am not the right therapist for you!”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Stress management
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Caitlin Chen

Caitlin Chen

Therapist

Virtual • Palo Alto, CA


“I consider it an honor to navigate life alongside my clients and enjoy creating a therapeutic space that is warm, compassionate, and empowering.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Dr. Marc Steinmetz

Dr. Marc Steinmetz

Psychologist

Virtual • California


I'm a licensed psychologist working with adolescents, adults, and seniors navigating anxiety, depression, grief, significant life changes, or challenges with attention and focus. My goal is to offer a safe, affirming space to explore your life, your story, and what matters most to you — your experiences, your values, and where you hope to go. You are a complex, whole person made up of many parts — and there is room here for all of them.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Leah Dean

Leah Dean

Therapist

Virtual • Lake Forest, CA


“I'm continually driven by the belief that everyone has the potential for positive growth and change.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Energetic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Claudia Diaz

Claudia Diaz

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Manteca, CA


“My approach to therapy is to spend some time in discovering why the client is feeling unhappy, anxious or having relational issues.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
John Rosas

John Rosas

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is warm, direct, and solution focused. I combine CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and coaching to help you understand your patterns and take meaningful action.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lisa De La O

Lisa De La O

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a warm, thoughtful space where clients feel understood, respected, and supported.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jennifer Eastman

Jennifer Eastman

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“My practice rests on a core belief: lasting healing requires both clinical excellence and genuine human connection.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Candy Taylor-Ceballos

Candy Taylor-Ceballos

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a Bilingual/Bicultural Latiné LCSW with over 15 years of experience working with adolescents, adults and families.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Debra Kabrin

Debra Kabrin

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with years of experience, I provide a warm, culturally sensitive, and judgment-free space.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Maria Liu

Maria Liu

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My focus is to help you gain greater clarity and confidence in addressing the challenges you're facing, while providing thoughtful guidance in a safe, non-judgmental environment that is collaborative and empowering.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Chioma Ahaiwe

Dr. Chioma Ahaiwe

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Riverside, CA


“We listen, empathize and acknowledge your concerns. We utilize biopsychosocial model in all our assessments, evaluations and evidence-based practice for a better patient outcome.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Krista Gerdts

Krista Gerdts

Therapist

Virtual • Santa Monica, CA


“My style is warm, engaged, and genuinely curious — if you're ready to stop going through the motions and start actually feeling like yourself again, I'd love to work with you.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lauren Azantian

Lauren Azantian

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm passionate about working with individuals who want to understand themselves on a deeper level, not just manage symptoms but shift the patterns underneath them.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Iris Cruet-Rubio

Iris Cruet-Rubio

Therapist

Virtual • California


Life can feel heavy sometimes—uncertain, overwhelming, and out of balance in ways that are hard to put into words. If you’ve been carrying a lot on your own, it makes sense that reaching out for support might feel difficult, even vulnerable. I want you to know that those feelings are understood, and you are not alone in them.

You don’t have to figure everything out by yourself. I’m here to gently walk alongside you as you begin to take those first steps—at your pace, in your way. Whether you’re feeling stuck, disconnected, or simply tired, this can be a space where you’re allowed to just be, without pressure or judgment.

I approach therapy with warmth, care, and deep respect for your unique story. Together, we’ll create a space where you can feel safe enough to express yourself openly, explore what’s been weighing on your heart, and begin to reconnect with yourself and the relationships that matter most to you.

With extensive experience working with adults, I tailor each session to your needs, honoring where you are while gently supporting where you want to go. Healing doesn’t have to happen all at once—and you don’t have to do it alone.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Michael Nguyen

Michael Nguyen

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Westlake Village, CA


“I'm Michael, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner passionate about providing integrated care for complex mental health challenges, including ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, OCD...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Misty Steffen

Misty Steffen

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Rafael, CA


“I am a triple board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Certified Nurse-Midwife with over 30 years of hands-on patient care across many outpatient settings.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

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
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10 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 100%Depression
  • 97%Anxiety
  • 90%Stress management
  • 90%Relationship issues
Insurances accepted
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  • 97%Aetna
  • 83%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 66%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 55%Curative
  • 52%Cigna
Languages spoken
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  • 86%English
  • 28%Spanish
  • 7%French
  • 3%Farsi
  • 3%German
How they see their clients
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  • 90%In-person or online
  • 10%In-person only
Provider gender
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  • 66%Woman
  • 34%Man
License types
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  • 48%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 17%Clinical Psychologist
  • 17%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 10%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
  • 7%Nurse Practitioner
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 41%Family therapy
  • 24%Couples therapy
  • 21%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

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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.