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LGBT therapists in Escondido, CA

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Escondido, CA

Headway connects LGBTQIA+ individuals in Escondido with 2,475 licensed providers who offer affirming, open-minded care. Access virtual or in-person therapy sessions with providers experienced in supporting gender and sexual identity concerns, with many sessions covered by insurance.

Angie Gunn

Angie Gunn

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hey you, I'm Angie, an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and supervisor, with more than 15 years experience in the sexuality field, supporting sexuality communities, and teaching others to break the sex and gender boxes we were given. In addition to my professional roles, my own journey towards breaking those boxes uniquely prepared me to sit with you, wherever you are, on this journey.

Have you struggled to find a therapist who you can be completely transparent with in regards to your sexuality or gender? Hidden your identities, desires, and challenges, for fear of judgment, shame or rejection? Sexuality is a challenging topic, one that most therapists don't receive much training around. As a result, even therapists can be afraid to broach sensitive topics, which makes it even harder for you when your mental health, relationship challenges, and overall well-being is so interrelated to your sexual health.

This can include healing sexual trauma or harm, exploring early childhood development and shame, permission giving to different identities, expressions and desires, and creating pathways to your fullest most expansive self.

Topics I'm passionate about include closing orgasm gap, healing sexual trauma, queer love, healing homophobia, gender expansive exploration, non-monogamy and open relating, kink/ BDSM/ fetish exploration, distress of sex workers (whorephobia and stigma) and those who've experienced trafficking, and finding pleasure after religious/ cult repression. I share many of these identities, and always seek to learn how your unique experience informs the distress.

We work together to create a safe container for your diverse and erotic self, learning how to integrate those selves into your relationships and your life. Pleasure is key to mental health and well-being.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Creative, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Nhat Ngo

Nhat Ngo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe a therapist's role is not to "fix" someone's problem(s) but rather to empower the individual to make changes that are best for him/her...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jennifer Eastman

Jennifer Eastman

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“I provide comprehensive care for the full spectrum of complex psychiatric conditions, including ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD and trauma, schizophrenia and psychosis disorders, substance use disorders, depression,...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Chioma Igwiloh

Dr. Chioma Igwiloh

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“My style is calm, respectful, and practical, focusing on measurable progress and long-term stability.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 5 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 12 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cindy Nguman

Cindy Nguman

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy works best when it feels like a warm, supportive conversation rather than a rigid clinical interrogation.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Jasmine Maniti

Jasmine Maniti

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“With a Master of Science in Nursing from West Coast University and over six years of emergency and psychiatric nursing experience, I bring both clinical expertise and a deep understanding of mental health crises to my practice.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jamie Plaxco

Jamie Plaxco

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Gold River, CA


“My goal isn't to "fix" you—you're not broken. I'm here to help you understand your conditions, develop coping strategies, and build on your strengths.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Kara McCafferty

Kara McCafferty

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy is most successful when a client feels: respected, free to express their experience without fear of judgement, supported, and appropriately challenged.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Nicole Farmer

Nicole Farmer

Therapist

Virtual • California


“It makes me excited help people using DBT (Dialectial Behavior Therapy), including mindfulness with EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to address past trauma.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, PTSD
Affirming, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ashley Lakely

Ashley Lakely

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Here, you can expect a warm, conversational, and welcoming environment where openness and safety are at the forefront.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Maria Thompson

Maria Thompson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a first generation Mexican American woman with more than 10 years of experience in mental health and geriatric care...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Danny Torres

Danny Torres

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide LGBTQ+ affirming, culturally responsive, and sex-positive therapy. I welcome clients of all sexual orientations, gender identities, relationship structures, and expressions of sexuality.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Dr. Ekta Kumar

Dr. Ekta Kumar

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I work with adults and couples, especially professionals, students, and creatives in high-pressure environments — who want more than just coping skills.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Linda Fong

Linda Fong

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Emeryville, CA


Are you in life transition or coping with anxiety and stress ? Are you searching for deeper meaning to feel more joy and peace? Are you going through life’s uncertainty due to factors of life transition, illness, aging, identity crisis, retirement, loss of loved ones, financial stress, women’s hormonal changes? Do you want more Meaningful positive experiences and becoming your Best Authentic Self?

I am here to provide you with compassionate care, kindness and psychological and emotional support. You deserve to experience peace of mind and wellness. Life invites growth through transitions which require us to change and make tough decisions. am here to support you to THRIVE in times of change.

About Me:

I am guided by my values of Compassion, Wisdom, Healing and Empowerment. My focus is helping people THRIVE in healthy lifestyle and wellbeing.


I practice Ayurveda, a holistic lifestyle system from India that promotes balance of mind, body, and spirit through daily habits, nutrition, and self-care.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Wendy Vazquez

Wendy Vazquez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive to provde you with a warm and caring environment where you can feel supported and comfortable sharing the things that are important to you.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Daniel Kruse

Daniel Kruse

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that each person is the expert of their own life, and my role is to create a supportive and nurturing environment where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts and emotions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Serge' Nelson

Dr. Serge' Nelson

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I am committed to delivering personalized, high-quality care in a respectful, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered in their treatment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Inquisitive, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 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 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
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
Nadine Mejia

Nadine Mejia

Therapist

Virtual • California


My goal with therapy is to provide a safe and open space to process and prioritize a growth mindset. I tailor my therapeutic approach to best match the needs of the client and truly believe in promoting acceptance. Some modalities I have experience with and may incorporate into therapy are Acceptance Compassion Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, Client-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Here-and-now Counseling, Trauma-Informed, and Holistic. I have a passion for working with individuals who are looking to unpack complex emotions and experiences that have shaped their understanding of the world.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cylystina Nevel

Cylystina Nevel

Therapist

Virtual • California


Some seasons of life ask more of you than you ever expected, and somewhere along the way you stopped feeling like yourself. I work with teens, parents, and adults who are moving through anxiety, depression, grief, relationship strain, and the heavy stretches that come with big life transitions. I care deeply about supporting LGBTQIA+ and transgender clients, and families who want to understand and show up for one another a little better. So much of this work is simply remembering that you do not have to carry any of it alone.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Carrie Poulson

Carrie Poulson

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am non-judgmental, open-minded and solution focused. I have a trauma history of my own and I get it. I can shine a light on the path out of there. I will meet you where you are at and walk with you to a place that is happier and healthier. I am an art therapist, and believe in past life-times that have had an effect on who we have become. I was born into a conservative religion and escaped. I specialize in helping people leave organized religion.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Natalie Trzeciak-Hardwick

Natalie Trzeciak-Hardwick

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe the beauty of the therapeutic space is that there is safety to explore and own the story that has shaped who you are.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 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
Jamie Plaxco

Jamie Plaxco

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fresno, CA


“I never hurry through visits or define anyone by a diagnosis. Instead, I take time to learn about you, including your history, the challenges you are facing right now, your strengths, and your goals for feeling better.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Ashley Damo

Ashley Damo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I leverage evidence-based psychological approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy and strengths-based therapy to provide supportive, direct, and compassionate clinical care to my clients.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michelle Bahy

Michelle Bahy

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Our relationship will be a process in which you will learn to identify patterns and gently redirect your behavior and attitudes to make healthy choices conducive to a happy life journey.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Eating disorders
Empowering, Humorous, 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
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
Christopher Brown

Christopher Brown

Therapist

Virtual • California


“A trauma-informed therapist is a compassionate mental health professional who prioritizes safety, trust, and empowerment...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Sean Richards

Sean Richards

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I will challenge you in a warm yet effective environment. My clients have described me as the love and support they need.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Diabetes
Direct, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
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 13 insurance carriers
Fernando Macias

Fernando Macias

Therapist

Virtual • California


Greetings, my name is Fernando Macias, LMFT. I welcome you to take the opportunity to heal and find helpful solutions to your day to day issues, and to the most complex of situations. Life is not easy, however it can be a very exciting ride.



LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Reina Foxworthy

Reina Foxworthy

Therapist

Virtual • California


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, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tonya Washington Hendricks

Tonya Washington Hendricks

Therapist

Virtual • California


“With encouragement and a bit of humor, I provide safe space for my clients to change their internal dialogues.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Erica Sandoval

Erica Sandoval

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have over 7 years of experience working with depression and anxiety disorders, trauma, couples, and other severe mental health concerns. My goal is to create a comfortable, safe space where you can begin your therapeutic journey with confidence and without judgment. Together, we can openly explore what you want in—and out of—life. If you don't know what that looks like yet, that's okay. We can figure it out together. Your goals may also change along the way, and therapy should have the flexibility to change with you.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists in Escondido, CA

Number of therapists serving Escondido, CA
There are over 2,492 therapists in Escondido, CA accepting new patients.
2,492+
Average years in practice
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9 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 94%Depression
  • 90%Stress management
  • 86%Trauma
Insurances accepted
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  • 98%Aetna
  • 75%Cigna
  • 75%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 74%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 64%Blue Shield of California
Languages spoken
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  • 97%English
  • 16%Spanish
  • 2%Farsi
  • 1%Mandarin
  • 1%French
How they see their clients
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  • 90%Online only
  • 10%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 73%Woman
  • 24%Man
  • 3%Non-binary
License types
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  • 45%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 29%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 10%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.