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LGBT therapists in Encinitas, CA

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Encinitas, CA

Encinitas residents seeking LGBTQIA+ mental health support can access 2,629 empowering providers through Headway. Sessions are available virtually or in-person, with many therapists providing free consultations and offering creative, holistic approaches to your wellness.

Sarah Siebert

Sarah Siebert

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is warm and inclusive, focused on helping you gain insights and tools to live authentically and reduce stress.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Diana Pena

Diana Pena

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • El Segundo, CA


“I've dedicated my practice to supporting those who may have struggled to find providers comfortable with their complexity.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Amanda Long

Amanda Long

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fresno, CA


Hello! I'm Amanda Long, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to serving families through compassionate, culturally sensitive mental health care. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and have been practicing as a PMHNP since 2019, with over a decade of nursing experience beginning in 2011. My educational foundation also includes a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Illinois in Springfield, which broadened my understanding of human behavior and community dynamics. My journey in mental health has taken me through diverse settings that have shaped my comprehensive approach to care. I've worked in psychiatric emergency services at a major hospital, 23-hour crisis stabilization units, outpatient clinics, correctional facilities, and forensic mental health centers, including fitness-to-stand-trial evaluations. This varied experience has equipped me to understand mental health from multiple perspectives and meet people wherever they are in their journey, whether they're facing an acute crisis or seeking ongoing support. I specialize in medication management for individuals across the lifespan—from children and adolescents to adults and older adults. My treatment areas include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma-related conditions, psychotic disorders, and other mental health concerns. I'm experienced in both telehealth and in-person care, making quality psychiatric services accessible and convenient for your lifestyle. What drives me is the belief that everyone deserves competent, caring mental health support that honors their unique background and circumstances. I'm committed to improving the communities I serve, one individual and family at a time, through evidence-based practice combined with genuine human connection. My approach centers on partnership and creating a safe environment for healing. I look forward to supporting you and your family's wellness journey.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Clint Nacar

Clint Nacar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I strive to provide a supportive, respectful space where you feel heard, understood, and actively involved in your care.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Rocio Vaca

Rocio Vaca

Therapist

Virtual • Brea, CA


Ready to feel more connected, confident, and in control of your life? Whether you’re facing relationship struggles, overwhelming emotions, or challenges around identity, you deserve a space where you feel truly seen and supported.

I’m Rocio Vaca, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 17+ years of experience helping couples, individuals, children, and teens create meaningful, lasting change.

For couples, I help turn conflict and disconnection into stronger communication, deeper friendship, and emotional intimacy.

I provide an affirming, judgment-free space for those exploring identity, preparing to come out, building self-acceptance, or navigating gender-affirming care. Together, we can strengthen resilience and address anxiety, depression, and stress.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Ashley Saldana

Ashley Saldana

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that healing begins with feeling truly heard and accepted, so I focus on building a safe, trusting connection from the start.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 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
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 8 insurance carriers
Laura Cina

Laura Cina

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have a special interest in working with neurodivergent clients and helping them navigate the challenges they face.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Gurleen Hans

Gurleen Hans

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Santa Ana, CA


Hello! I'm Gurleen Hans, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to supporting individuals on their mental health journey. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and have five years of nursing experience working with diverse populations and cultures. My passion for mental health care stems from a genuine love of caring for others and witnessing the transformative power of compassionate, evidence-based treatment.

I specialize in medication management for adults and adolescents experiencing a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and co-occurring substance use disorders. My experience spans both partial hospitalization programs and community-based outpatient settings, allowing me to understand the full spectrum of mental health needs—from acute crisis stabilization to ongoing maintenance care.

I have provided psychiatric services in various behavioral health settings, including work with interdisciplinary teams to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care. I have particular expertise in serving individuals with severe and persistent mental illness (SPMI), and I'm committed to meeting clients where they are in their recovery journey.

My approach integrates holistic wellness principles with pharmacological interventions, recognizing that effective treatment addresses the whole person. I stay current with emerging research through ongoing professional development, ensuring you receive evidence-based care.

I prioritize open communication and actively involve you in treatment decisions. Whether you're seeking support for the first time or looking for medication optimization, I bring clinical expertise combined with cultural sensitivity and an understanding that each person's mental health story is unique. I'm honored to support you on your path toward wellness, and lasting hope.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Christina Stelly

Christina Stelly

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bakersfield, CA


IMPORTANT: For current availability, visit https://mentalhealthpractitioners.com/ or call or text us anytime at 415-968-6515—we make it super easy! Intake forms are required before your first appointment and will be emailed to you when you book online. You can text us your info or email us at [email protected]. Please be sure to send us a picture of your insurance information and photo ID!

Hi! I'm Christina Stelly, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC — a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Martinez, CA. With over 15 years of clinical experience across inpatient psychiatry, maternal health, and advanced practice, I am deeply committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to every person I serve.

I specialize in treating schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, anxiety, etc.

My academic background includes a Post-Certificate DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Illinois Chicago, a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Texas Tech University, and a Master of Science in Nursing from Touro University. I also completed an intensive NP residency focused on advanced psychiatric care, crisis stabilization, and forensic psychiatry, which further strengthened my clinical expertise.

Earlier in my career, I specialized in maternal mental health, serving as a Patient Care Director for high-risk obstetric populations and contributing to perinatal mental health policy at the state and national levels. This background gives me a uniquely broad, whole-person perspective on psychiatric care across the lifespan.

My approach is grounded in trauma-informed, individualized care. I take time to fully understand your history, concerns, and goals before collaboratively building a treatment plan tailored to you. I have also served on health policy committees and presented at national nursing conferences, reflecting my commitment to psychiatric care.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Linda Fong

Linda Fong

Therapist

Virtual • Emeryville, CA


“I am guided by my values of Compassion, Wisdom, Healing and Empowerment. My focus is helping people THRIVE in healthy lifestyle and wellbeing.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Saby Kirpal

Saby Kirpal

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Westlake Village, CA


I'm Saby Kirpal, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. I hold Master's degrees from Chamberlain University and Walden University, graduating with Presidential Honors, reflecting my commitment to clinical excellence. My diverse professional background spans inpatient psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment centers, and outpatient clinics, giving me insight into mental health treatment at every level of care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorders, eating disorders, and substance use disorders across age groups. My experience includes working with children as young as eight through adults in crisis stabilization, residential treatment, and ongoing medication management.

What makes my practice unique is the integration of my nursing background with psychiatric expertise. I understand how physical health, medications, lifestyle factors, and mental health interconnect. Being trilingual in English, Hindi, and Punjabi, with conversational Spanish, allows me to serve diverse communities and appreciate how culture shapes mental health experiences.

I've worked from UCSF Health to community clinics, teaching me that excellent care isn't about the setting—it's about the relationship. Whether you're seeking help for the first time, between providers, or managing ongoing conditions, I'm here to partner with you. My approach centers on listening first, explaining clearly, and making decisions together. Mental health treatment should never feel like something done to you, but rather something we navigate together. I'm committed to creating a space where you feel respected, understood, and genuinely supported.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Minh Tran

Dr. Minh Tran

Therapist

Virtual • California


Xin chào! I am a relationally-oriented Jungian depth psychotherapist with degrees from Pacifica Graduate Institute. I enjoy working with creatives, students of psychotherapy, and those dedicated to a life oriented toward meaningfulness.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Creative, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Shara Ally

Shara Ally

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“I translate complex research into clear, practical care plans that help my patients feel informed and supported.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Noelle Sladon

Noelle Sladon

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is warm, direct, and collaborative. I ask good questions, I listen more than I talk, and I help you build concrete skills between sessions — not just insight in the room.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
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 6 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
Emily Martinez

Emily Martinez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“You deserve relationships that feel intentional, values-aligned, and genuinely fulfilling—not just in theory, but in practice.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
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
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
Sarai Velasquez

Sarai Velasquez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a supportive, collaborative space where you can feel heard and empowered to make meaningful changes.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Robert Black

Robert Black

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is deeply empathic and collaborative — I believe real progress starts with real trust, so I focus on building a warm, non-judgmental relationship from our very first session.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Participatory, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
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 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mary-Louise Henson

Mary-Louise Henson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I bring over 25 years of experience as a psychotherapist, along with a wide range of personal and professional life experience, into my work with clients.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Energetic, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Steffan Weiner

Steffan Weiner

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach is integrative, trauma-informed, and tailored to the individual — shaped by the understanding that no two people experience the same condition in exactly the same way.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jose Alejo

Jose Alejo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I understand that every client has their own goals and needs that will influence the type of therapy I provide.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Holistic, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Victoria Omeri

Victoria Omeri

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“I am a holistic provider and try to help my patients see the bigger picture and improve their mental health, not only with medication management but with using a naturopathic approach as well.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Kayla Hunter

Kayla Hunter

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am passionate about guiding you through these challenges and empowering you on your journey to self-awareness and understanding.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Lisa Bove

Lisa Bove

Therapist

Virtual • Encino, CA


Hi, I’m Lisa Bove, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and also a non-judgmental Christian minister based in Southern California. With nearly three decades of experience, I’m here to support individuals from all walks of life, including those in the LGBTQI+ community, as they navigate the challenges of grief, anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship struggles. I also specialize in end of life issues. I know how difficult it can be to reach out, but I’m committed to creating a safe, welcoming space where you can feel truly heard and supported.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 15 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Leah Zachter

Leah Zachter

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy is a collaborative process built on trust, compassion, and curiosity, where clients can feel safe exploring their experiences without judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Samantha Keiser

Samantha Keiser

Therapist

Virtual • California


From the outside, it looks like you've got it handled: the job, the responsibilities, the reputation for being reliable. Underneath, your mind rarely slows down: replaying conversations, second-guessing decisions you've already made, feeling guilty when you try to rest.

I work with young adults with anxiety, perfectionism, and self-imposed pressure. A lot of my clients are exhausted by overthinking and frustrated that doing everything "right" hasn't actually brought them any peace.

Together, we'll figure out what's keeping that cycle going and build real tools for managing anxiety and pressure Not just insight, but things you can actually use. My style is direct, down-to-earth, and LGBTQ+ affirming.

Most people start out feeling like they're carrying more than they can hold. Over time, that tends to get lighter, more confidence in your own decisions, less dread before hard conversations, and a life that feels as good on the inside as it looks from the outside.

If you're ready to stop carrying this alone, I'd be glad to connect.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Identity issues, Panic disorders
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shelly Calhoun

Shelly Calhoun

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Torrance, CA


“I combine medication management with proven therapeutic techniques to help you better understand your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while developing practical strategies for lasting change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Rebecca Morris

Rebecca Morris

Therapist

Virtual • California


You don't have to arrive here put together. Whatever you're carrying right now belongs in this space: anxiety, grief, relationship stress, a shifting sense of who you are, or something you haven't quite found words for yet. I work with adults and older adults navigating the full range of what life brings, with a particular passion for supporting BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities and people who are questioning or deconstructing their faith. My work spans trauma, identity, women's issues, OCD, depression, and the anger or sadness that accumulates when you've been holding too much for too long.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
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. Inez Garzaniti

Dr. Inez Garzaniti

Psychiatrist

Virtual • California


I’m a psychiatrist who practices from a psychodynamic perspective, with attention to emotional depth, meaning, and the ways our histories shape how we experience ourselves and others. My work focuses on understanding symptoms in context — as expressions of what is happening within your mind, your relationships, and our society.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Phillip Cleaver

Phillip Cleaver

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Los Alamitos, CA


I have an M.A. in Spiritual Psychology from the University of Santa Monica as well as an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University. I work with individuals, couples, families, and children and am LGBTQ+ affirmative. One of my specialties is using EMDR for the treatment of trauma, anxiety and depression.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Trauma
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shauntis Bussey

Shauntis Bussey

Therapist

Virtual • California


“You need someone who will get to the heart of things quickly, challenge you when it matters, and give you something you might not have right now: a soft place to land.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Marina V Araiza

Marina V Araiza

Therapist

Virtual • California


I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, understood, and genuinely supported. My approach is warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental, and I strive to create a space where you can be yourself. People often describe me as easy to talk to, and I believe that compassion—and even a little humor when appropriate—can make the healing process feel more comfortable. We'll work together to build on your strengths and help you create meaningful, lasting change.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists in Encinitas, CA

Number of therapists serving Encinitas, CA
There are over 2,619 therapists in Encinitas, CA accepting new patients.
2,619+
Average years in practice
Watercolor illustration of a bookshelf
9 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 94%Depression
  • 89%Stress management
  • 86%Relationship issues
Insurances accepted
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  • 98%Aetna
  • 79%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 75%Cigna
  • 73%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 64%Blue Shield of California
Languages spoken
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  • 97%English
  • 15%Spanish
  • 1%Farsi
  • 1%Mandarin
  • 1%Assamese
How they see their clients
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  • 89%Online only
  • 11%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 74%Woman
  • 23%Man
  • 3%Non-binary
License types
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  • 46%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 29%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 9%Nurse Practitioner
  • 8%Clinical Psychologist
  • 7%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 40%Family therapy
  • 27%Couples therapy
  • 17%Child or adolescent 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.