Skip to main content
Headway

Book LGBT-friendly therapy, covered by insurance

LGBT therapists in Encinitas, CA

Therapist and patient in a therapy session
Calculator Illustration
Get a cost estimate
People with insurance pay as low as $0 per session through Headway

Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Encinitas, CA

Encinitas residents seeking LGBTQIA+ mental health support can access 2,472 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.

Steven Frank

Steven Frank

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in trauma work and am certified in EMDR, and I also help adults and older adults who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or worn down by patterns that no longer serve them.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Creative, Participatory
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Patricia Gutierrez

Patricia Gutierrez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My practice centers on trauma and PTSD, identity and gender affirming care, and the lived experiences of women and LGBTQIA+ individuals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Demetria Seawood

Demetria Seawood

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is warm, supportive, and direct—creating a space where you can feel heard, understood, and challenged toward meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
M. Watson

M. Watson

Therapist

Virtual • California


I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Long Beach, California, and I work with individual adults navigating life transitions, everyday stress, and everything in between. My background in older adult services means I bring a deep understanding of how health, identity, and relationships shift over time — and I love meeting clients where they actually are, not where they "should" be. I see clients via telehealth, which makes it easy to fit therapy into a busy schedule.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, End of life care, PTSD, Stress management
Affirming, Creative, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I bring over 30 years of healthcare experience, including more than 25 years in the emergency department, where I've worked with individuals in high-stress and crisis situations.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Raquel Buchanan

Raquel Buchanan

Therapist

Virtual • Pacifica, CA


“The best compliment I have ever received was that my therapeutic approach "was like talking to a friend."”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
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 10 insurance carriers
Shelzea Zamora

Shelzea Zamora

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a mental health clinician who takes a solution‐focused and empowering approach to therapy. I believe healing happens at your pace, and I strive to meet you exactly where you are. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood as we work together to explore challenges, build on your strengths, and move toward meaningful change.

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Nicole Santos

Nicole Santos

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I have over 15+ years experience as a nurse working in various departments, working hands on with patients, as well as leadership and management roles.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Britanny Wilson

Britanny Wilson

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Beverly Hills, CA


“With over 15 years of experience in mental health care—including my time at UCLA Neuropsychiatric Hospital—I bring a compassionate, client-centered approach to every session.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 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
Thanh Mai

Thanh Mai

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and personalized — I believe treatment works best when clients feel comfortable, respected, and involved in their care.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Laura Quinonez

Laura Quinonez

Therapist

Virtual • Fort Bragg, CA


“Clients often describe me as warm but direct, someone who asks the questions they didn't know they needed.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Creative, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Maranda Garnett

Maranda Garnett

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide a gender affirming, person centered, and trauma informed approach to create a safe space for you to be vulnerable...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Samir Hamed

Samir Hamed

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Irvine, CA


“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
Luis Contreras

Luis Contreras

Therapist

Virtual • San Diego, CA


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 25 years of experience providing mental health services in behavioral health, crisis intervention, community mental health, and medical settings. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, family conflict, and other emotional challenges.

My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and trauma-informed. I believe healing happens when clients feel safe, understood, and empowered. I work alongside clients to build on their strengths, develop practical coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment.

Throughout my career, I have provided therapy and clinical support in outpatient, community-based, hospital, college mental health, and correctional settings. In my private practice, I provide bilingual psychotherapy to individuals and families experiencing trauma, stress, relationship challenges, parenting concerns, and behavioral health issues. I also have extensive experience supporting foster, adoptive, and biological families caring for children impacted by trauma and attachment-related difficulties.

My professional background includes crisis stabilization, risk assessment, treatment planning, wraparound services, and multidisciplinary care coordination for youth and families with complex needs. I am also a part-time lecturer in the School of Social Work at San Diego State University, where I teach and mentor future social workers.

I am passionate about culturally responsive care, equity in mental health services, and helping clients feel empowered throughout their healing journey. I provide services in both English and Spanish and welcome clients from all backgrounds.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Ashley Griffin

Ashley Griffin

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Newport Beach, CA


I know how heavy life can feel when you’re carrying pain, uncertainty, or self-doubt. But I believe, as a wise old wizard once said, “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of places, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” My role is to help you find that light again. I work with Gen Z and Millennial adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more. Through integrative, culturally responsive care, I combine evidence-based psychiatry with holistic strategies to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered to create a life that aligns with your true self.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 6 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 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mitchell Coutu

Mitchell Coutu

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hi, I'm Mitch — a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Vanderbilt University. San Diego has been home since 2020, when the Navy first brought me here.

My background includes pediatrics at Children’s Hospital in St. Paul, inpatient psychiatry in Nashville and San Diego, crisis stabilization, and outpatient mental health care. I’ve worked with veterans, college students, LGBTQ+ individuals, people experiencing homelessness, and patients navigating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma, substance use, and severe mental illness.

I primarily provide psychiatric evaluation and medication management while integrating supportive therapy, psychoeducation, and practical coping strategies into visits. My approach is collaborative, direct, and grounded in helping people improve day-to-day functioning and quality of life.

I look forward to getting to know you.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Micaela Pericone-Kapp

Micaela Pericone-Kapp

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“My treatment philosophy centers on understanding you as a complete person, not just a collection of symptoms.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Katy Waldorf

Katy Waldorf

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I specialize in treating ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, and depression with a focus on individualized medication management and holistic well-being.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
“My communication style is empathetic, warm, and direct. I offer a safe space where you can speak freely, without fear of judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Diabetes
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Cristina LaFarre

Cristina LaFarre

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • San Francisco, CA


“Seeking help for your mental health is a sign of strength, and I am proud of people who advocate for their well-being.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Jennifer Eastman

Jennifer Eastman

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“My approach combines evidence-based treatments with genuine empathy and respect for your unique journey.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Wendy Escobar

Wendy Escobar

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Upland, CA


“My goal is to provide a safe space for you to discuss your concerns to change your life for the better.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Baleska Alfaro

Baleska Alfaro

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy is most effective when it is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to your unique experiences and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Thai Le

Dr. Thai Le

Psychologist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


I have a passion for helping people navigate life's challenges. Seeking help can feel like a big step, but it's also a powerful one. I offer a collaborative and nonjudgemental space for discovering strengths and with helping you feel empowered.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jordanna Herrell

Jordanna Herrell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My counseling style is one of acceptance, genuineness, and positive regard. I aim to empower you to work through challenging situations with fortitude and resilience.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Andrea Lapinski

Andrea Lapinski

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


I have over 30 years of clinical, counseling and administrative experience working with individuals and couples, addressing the unique issues related to their unique life experiences. I have extensive professional and personal experience with military families and veterans. I understand first-hand the struggles of grief and medical conditions that impact all aspects of life. I have supported chronically and terminally ill patients, individuals living with cancer or chronic medical diagnoses, as well as parents experiencing infertility, peripartum, and postpartum depression. Whether dealing with life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, or divorce, or simply seeking to express yourself and feel more confident, I am here to walk with you, provide insights, and support you toward lasting change.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Open-minded, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Alyssa Rodriguez

Alyssa Rodriguez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe in a genuine, collaborative relationship with my clients and value the courage it takes to open up.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kristyne McPhail

Kristyne McPhail

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is collaborative, allowing you to take an active role in identifying what you would like to work on and what meaningful change looks like for you.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Creative, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Baharan Rahimi

Baharan Rahimi

Therapist

Virtual • Laguna Niguel, CA


“My approach is humanistic, compassionate, and collaborative. I believe therapy works best when you feel safe, understood, and genuinely supported.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
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 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Joshua Villagomez

Joshua Villagomez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Clients can expect a non-biased approach where they can be their honest selves while being gently challenged to increase insight and awareness into unhealthy patterns that may no longer serve them.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Julia Kamp

Julia Kamp

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work with both civilians and military-connected clients — veterans, active duty service members, first responders, and their partners.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Amanda Peterson

Amanda Peterson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I utilize a combination of person centered and cognitive behavioral therapy as my primary treatment methods, strongly believing each person is capable of getting through life with support and compassion.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Christopher Mckillop

Christopher Mckillop

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their challenges and develop meaningful coping skills.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Roger Schwartz

Roger Schwartz

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Before I approach you through a clinical lens, I strive to meet you first as a fellow human being—with deep respect for your unique story.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Energetic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Heather Paxton

Heather Paxton

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I approach each client with unconditional positive regard and maintain empathetic listening and compassionate services.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Gina Feletar

Gina Feletar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Chula Vista, CA


I am Gina Feletar, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 27 years of nursing experience, and a dedicated companion on your journey toward well-being. I am serving clients in both Arizona and California.

Healing begins when we see the whole person, not just the symptoms. My practice blends evidence-based care with a holistic perspective, creating space for healing that also honors your uniqueness. Beyond managing mental health conditions, my mission is to help you reclaim your strength, and rediscover hope rooted in wellness and purpose.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Frequently asked questions

Therapy Chair

Happy patient looking away

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.

Find a provider - your way

Use left and right arrow keys to switch tabs. Press Shift+Tab to return to the tab list from links in the selected tab.

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