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LGBT therapists in El Cajon, CA

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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 2,550 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.

Sheida Kalantari

Sheida Kalantari

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I don't believe in a formula — I pay close attention to what's actually showing up for you and adjust as we go.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Charles Bewley

Charles Bewley

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Burbank, CA


After graduating from New York University with a BFA in drama, I moved to Los Angeles and taught drama and English literature at an L.A. public high school for nearly 20 years. My experience working with teenagers and their families taught me that, all too often, kids' barriers to learning are not academic in nature, but rather emotional challenges stemming from adversity and trauma. I became more and more interested in learning how to help teenagers and adults alike navigate these obstacles and come out stronger in the long run. So, I went back to graduate school to pursue a new career as a therapist so that I could help in a different way. My training and experience has focused on treating anxiety disorders (including OCD), PTSD and Complex-PTSD, and also couples - helping them to navigate challenges and triggers so that they can reset and reconnect.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Identity issues
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Hannah Bernstein

Hannah Bernstein

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Los Angeles, CA


“I'm warm, direct, and a little bit stubborn about hope. I'll listen closely and I'll tell you the truth as I see it.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Steven Nelson

Steven Nelson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that meaningful change is possible through a compassionate, collaborative, and evidence-based therapeutic approach.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Digna Guerrero

Digna Guerrero

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m Digna, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to creating a supportive and safe space where clients will feel heard and understood. I work with adolescents and adults of all ages in navigating anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, and emotional overwhelm. I also have vast experience working with individuals who have co-occuring disorders, developmental disabilities and cognitive delays servicing mild to moderate clients.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 6 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
Samir Hamed

Samir Hamed

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach to providing care is client-centered and holistic. I work collaboratively with clients to understand their unique needs and create personalized treatment plans.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Micaela Pericone-Kapp

Micaela Pericone-Kapp

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Jose, CA


“I'm here to listen deeply, think critically about what's happening for you specifically, and create treatment plans that actually work in your real life—not just in theory.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 9 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
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 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ashley Perkins

Ashley Perkins

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work especially well with adults navigating medical trauma, healthcare burnout, caregiving stress, anxiety, life transitions, grief, and chronic illness.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Family issues
Direct, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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 9 insurance carriers
Steven Cospewicz

Steven Cospewicz

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that active listening and a warm, inquisitive, and non judgmental approach allows you to feel safe and heard.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 6 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
Julie Hall-Sweaza

Julie Hall-Sweaza

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m Julie. I have been a therapist for almost 20 years. I have experience with individuals and families who are living with mental health issues, and I also have extensive experience helping those with substance use problems. If you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward, therapy can offer a supportive place to feel understood, begin to recover, and reconnect with yourself.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Alex Bailey

Alex Bailey

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


I have found my own personal healing to be intimately connected to nature, and it is here that I believe that we can all begin to rediscover our intrinsic humanity and let go of those things that distract us from our higher selves. In my spare time, I work as an outdoor educator and manage my own private practice and guide Outdoor Retreats

I believe it is helpful and important to translate what is discussed in session and in telehealth meetings into lived experience and real change.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Maximillian Macias

Dr. Maximillian Macias

Psychologist

Virtual • La Habra, CA


“I am passionate about increasing access to care and providing affirming and culturally responsive treatment for all of my clients.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Candice Campbell

Candice Campbell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide a warm, collaborative and balanced approach using cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness to help clients embrace their authentic selves and improve their quality of life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Creative, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Maddie Asghari

Maddie Asghari

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fresno, CA


“I specialize in complex presentations because mental health exists within your entire life experience, relationships, cultural background, and personal history.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
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 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 9 insurance carriers
Alec Bustos

Alec Bustos

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in working with children, teens, adults, and families, especially those navigating trauma, emotional dysregulation, neurodivergence, adoption/foster care, and identity exploration.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Jonathan Gevorkian

Dr. Jonathan Gevorkian

Psychiatrist

Virtual • California


“I believe you should understand the reasoning behind your treatment, including the potential benefits, limitations, and alternatives to medication.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Gretchen Genato

Gretchen Genato

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My hope is that each session leaves clients feeling understood, supported, and empowered with tools to manage challenges and build lasting wellness.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Alina Halonen

Alina Halonen

Therapist

Virtual • West Hollywood, CA


“Having navigated my own recovery and healing journey, I know that insight alone doesn't always create change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
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 10 insurance carriers
Maria Herrera

Maria Herrera

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I see therapy as a collaboration between the therapist and the client. You are the expert in your life.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
William Hernandez

William Hernandez

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“Working together is a reflective and collaborative process that attends to both symptoms and the deeper patterns that shape your emotional life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Creative, Holistic
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Robert Basque

Robert Basque

Therapist

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“I specialize in working with gay men who are navigating serious health challenges, along with the emotional and relational impact that often comes with them.”
LGBTQIA+, End of life care, Grief or loss, Physical health issues
Affirming, Direct, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Nancy Picunko

Nancy Picunko

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I understand that life can be messy, change isn't always straightforward, and sometimes you just need someone who gets it and will be real with you.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Erin Spittal

Erin Spittal

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Therapy with me is part understanding yourself, part learning new skills, and part finally talking about the things you've been carrying around in your head.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Creative, Energetic, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Terence Ford

Dr. Terence Ford

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Los Angeles, CA


“My work is grounded in psychoanalytic theory and technique, which means we'll look beyond surface symptoms to understand what's shaping your inner experience and patterns in relationships.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Jessica Hamilton

Jessica Hamilton

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I help women heal from the wounds that often shape how they see themselves, love others, and navigate relationships.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Richard Lautenbacher

Dr. Richard Lautenbacher

Psychologist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“Dr. Lautenbacher focuses on compassionately building rapport and adapting to your unique needs and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Seong Yeop (Sam) Lee

Seong Yeop (Sam) Lee

Therapist

Virtual • California


“In my practice, you are in the driver seat while I support and empower the journey we embark together.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Challenging, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mallory Thysell

Mallory Thysell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I meet each client exactly where they are in their healing journey, offering a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for growth.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Creative, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
David Trejo

David Trejo

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Pasadena, CA


“There is no ideal client: My purpose as your therapist is meet you where you are at in life and move forward with you on your journey.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Tatiana Molinar

Dr. Tatiana Molinar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My personal journey overcoming complex trauma fuels my passion for guiding others towards healing and joy.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 9 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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1 Cost may vary based on your location, age, and insurance coverage.