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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 2,550 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.

Maureen Riley

Maureen Riley

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that every person has the capacity to heal and grow, even when life feels overwhelming or uncertain.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shannon Oliveira

Shannon Oliveira

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I like to meet clients where they are at emotionally, and provide support so they feel comfortable to open up...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Sarah Kimmons

Sarah Kimmons

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I bring an easygoing approach that fosters trust and understanding, ensuring you feel heard and supported throughout the process.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Jaime Haasch

Jaime Haasch

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am warm, welcoming, and direct in my approach with clients. I include mindfulness, gratitude, compassion, and acceptance in my work with clients.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Wendy Barajas

Wendy Barajas

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a first-gen Latina, I understand the struggle to balance bicultural identify and generational trauma.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Cindi Lane-Pompa

Cindi Lane-Pompa

Therapist

Virtual • California


I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults (ADHD, autism), LGBTQIA individuals, and those navigating chronic illness, burnout, and perimenopause or menopause. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or like nothing they’ve tried has worked.

You might feel like you’re constantly “too much” and “not enough” at the same time, or like simple things take more energy than they should. That’s not a personal failure—it’s a sign that your brain and body need different kinds of support.

With over twelve years of experience, I offer therapy that is warm, affirming, and practical. I help clients reduce overwhelm, build coping tools that actually work, and better understand how their brain and body function.

My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and supported as you build a life that works for you.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Darian McCrackin

Darian McCrackin

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I want you to internalize the process so you don't need me forever. Come in, get what you need, and get back to living—return if life opens a new chapter.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Rachel Jenkins Stevens

Rachel Jenkins Stevens

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm listening for feelings, themes, patterns, and especially experiences that haven't been articulated or spoken out loud yet.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Zoot Sax

Zoot Sax

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Clients often describe me as someone who helps them feel genuinely accepted, free to show up as their full selves, whoever that may be.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Matthew Paden

Matthew Paden

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Matthew is also an end-of-life doula and a Certified HeartMath® trainer, integrating mindfulness, emotional regulation, and compassionate presence into his work.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Janine Doolan

Janine Doolan

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My priority is to provide a judgement free space where you can come as you are and feel validated and seen.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Daniel Perez

Daniel Perez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My experience includes substance abuse counseling, court referrals, dual diagnoses, and assisting veterans and their families with readjustment from military life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Direct, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tone Va'i

Tone Va'i

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm direct, relational, and reflective in how I work. I started in early childhood mental health, which shaped how I understand people.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Direct, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Carla Hammond

Carla Hammond

Psychiatrist

Virtual • California


“I am a practicing MD with extensive experience in treating a diverse range of psychiatric diagnoses.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Marlene Blanco

Marlene Blanco

Therapist

Virtual • Onyx, CA


“I provide a supportive, non judgmental space for you to work on reconnecting with yourself and making the changes that you want.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Reina Foxworthy

Reina Foxworthy

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been in practice for over ten years. I help Gen Zers and Millennials to manage the overwhelming anxiety and stress that the fast-paced world of today causes. Whether the ever-evolving world is making it difficult for you to navigate the challenges of anxiety, depression, parenthood, work pressures, romantic partnerships, emotional trauma, or interpersonal relationships, I am prepared to aid in rebuilding your confidence and developing a powerful toolkit for combatting mental health blocks.

As a proud Mexican woman, it’s important to me to provide a space for marginalized groups to feel understood and validated. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and deeply passionate about supporting the queer community with compassion and empathy. I am also sex-positive and have helped many of my clients overcome barriers and concerns regarding sex and physical intimacy.

I graduated from California State University Dominguez Hills with a Master’s Degree in Marital and Family Therapy in 2016. I began seeing clients in 2014, and in the years since, I have worked in substance abuse programs, behavioral health hospitals, intensive outpatient programs, and numerous group practices. Today, I enjoy managing my own practice and seeing my clients thrive as they tackle treatment goals. I am located in Los Angeles and am exclusively offering virtual therapy at this time, making it convenient for you to meet for your sessions in the comfort of your chosen space.

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jeff J Garcia

Jeff J Garcia

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space in both English and Spanish where you can feel truly heard and empowered.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Jonathan Goelz

Jonathan Goelz

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Howard Cohen

Howard Cohen

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I approach each client with an open mind and with the idea that I can help them through challenging and difficult situations with ease and kindness.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Dr. Melissa Bagwell

Dr. Melissa Bagwell

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Apple Valley, CA


“Clients often describe my style as warm, supportive, and infused with humor, which helps create a safe space for exploration and growth.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Jose Carranza

Jose Carranza

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi there, my name is Jose Carranza, LFMT, maneuvering through life and work with thoughtful intention and an open heart. I have approximately a decade of experience working in the mental health field and about 5 years practicing as a therapist. I'm certified in Trauma-Focused CBT and have lengthy experience working with mood, behavioral, and developmental disorders.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jena Montenegro

Jena Montenegro

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a trauma expert with experience in a wide variety of populations including LGBTQ, African-American, Latino, Indigenous, and Asian peoples.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Hilary Malloy

Hilary Malloy

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


I have a Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work, and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), working in private practice as a Psychotherapist. I live in Los Angeles, and work in-person or hybrid, with adults, teens, couples and the aging population. I specialize in anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, work stress/dissatisfaction, career goals, sleep disorders, substance use, trauma (ptsd/complex/acute), obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD/OCPD), attention deficit disorders (ADD/ADHD). In addition I deal with grief, isolation, and breaking creative blocks.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jose Banuelos

Jose Banuelos

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Temecula, CA


“I provide warm, culturally responsive, and LGBTQIA+-affirming care for children, teens, adults, and older adults.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Michelle Stevens

Dr. Michelle Stevens

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“My greatest gift as a therapist is optimism. No matter how bad things may currently seem, I know my clients can overcome obstacles, process pain, and move on to happier, healthier, more purposeful lives.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Jeff Wilfong

Jeff Wilfong

Therapist

Virtual • Sacramento, CA


Therapy reduces suffering and creates possibility for healthy changes. It is one of the best investments that you can make as you gain awareness and learn about problematic patterns. Everyone is at their own change-readiness level and I will support you where you are at. I am familiar with most psychological issues or relationship concerns, as I have worked in numerous settings and generally I have said "Yes!" to everyone along the way.

Qualities:

  • 18+ years of experience
  • Good listener and attentive
  • Direct and honest
  • Calm and grounded
  • Engaged and active during the session
  • Utilize mindfulness-based interventions
  • Easy-going
  • Good boundaries
  • Non-judgmental
  • Solution-focused
  • Experience working with people from many cultures and backgrounds, political affiliations, religions and more.
  • LGBTQ+ friendly

Please reach out via email or text. I return all messages in a prompt manner.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Yanina Lambert

Yanina Lambert

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m so glad you’re here. I’m Nina, a licensed therapist who is passionate about helping people feel better and live more fulfilling lives. I’ve worked with individuals from diverse backgrounds and offer services in both English and Spanish. My goal is to support your well-being by helping you build skills, navigate challenges, and create healthier, more meaningful relationships.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Sharon Teruya

Dr. Sharon Teruya

Psychologist

Virtual • California


I am known for working well with individuals who are shy and who may be fearful of entering therapy. I have a specialization in the diagnosis/assessment and treatment of AD/HD and learning disorders such as dyslexia. My therapeutic approach is primarily based on cognitive behavioral and Dialectic Behavior theories . Pragmatism describes my approach to treatment. Management of chronic mental illness, and adjustment issues relating to ethnic/cultural/generational and religious issues are also areas which I specialize in.

I believe that at times addressing questions pertaining to meaning in life can be as important as changing behavioral patterns and emotions. Specific treatment modalities I use are ultimately dependent upon the needs of each individual and the established efficac of a particular therapeutic intervention. Socratic questioning is often used to help individuals gain personal insight. I will be happy to work in conjunction with a psychiatrist or other physician.

My ethnic background is Chinese, Okinawan, and Japanese. I grew up in Hawaii and have interned at clinics specializing in Asian/Pacific Islander clients.

Currently I work as Learning Disabilities Specialist at Santa Monica College. I have assisted students in receiving testing accommodations on the SAT, GRE, GMAT, LSAT, Bar Exam, MCAT, medical Step exams and medical licensure exams, and DAT. I have worked as a LD Specialist at UCL, the University of Hawaii, and UC Berkeley. I was a Psychology Professor for over 12 years in my earlier career.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Shanna Rayyan

Shanna Rayyan

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I consider myself an approachable, down-to-earth person who provides therapy in a judgment-free and safe environment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Domonick Wegesin

Dr. Domonick Wegesin

Psychologist

Virtual • Oakland, CA


I’m a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in stress and anxiety disorders, mood concerns, and LGBT-issues.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tammie Makely

Tammie Makely

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My role isn't to fix you -- it's to work alongside you to quiet the noise, get curious about what's underneath, and help you reconnect with yourself and the people who matter most to YOU.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Amanda Khezra

Dr. Amanda Khezra

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“All progress is good progress and at the end of our session my hope is we took another step towards reaching your goals.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Funmi Igbinigie

Funmi Igbinigie

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My goal is to create a warm, compassionate, and judgment-free space where you feel heard, respected, and supported.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kirsty Kenny

Kirsty Kenny

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have vast experience with a wide variety of clients. My professional history includes children living in abusive environments, teenagers who are struggling to access their education due to mental health concerns, families navigating dysfunction and adults dealing with a variety of life difficulties.

I currently work, primarily, in corrections with inmates struggling to adjust to the custody environment. I offer crisis intervention in addition to ongoing support.

I approach the therapeutic space with compassion and openness. I meet my clients right where they are emotionally and in their healing journey.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, End of life care, Grief or loss
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michael They

Michael They

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Modesto, CA


“I will listen intently and ask questions to learn more about you so I can determine what type of care is most appropriate.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Richard Flores

Richard Flores

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I create a safe, welcoming space where every individual feels seen and respected.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Meagan Pruden

Meagan Pruden

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I value genuine connection and believe healing happens best in a safe, respectful space where you feel truly heard.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Sherri Crespin

Sherri Crespin

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Beverly Hills, CA


“I'm experienced in managing complex medication regimens and other specialized treatments that require careful monitoring and expertise.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Jamie Plaxco

Jamie Plaxco

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fresno, CA


“I believe in treating the whole person, not just symptoms, and I value building therapeutic relationships with my clients.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Teresa Avila

Teresa Avila

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a bilingual, trauma‐informed Latina clinician, I specialize in working with teens and adults (13+) navigating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, immigration‐related stress, and women's issues.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Diabetes, End of life care
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 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 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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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.

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