Skip to main content
Headway

Book LGBT-friendly therapy, covered by insurance

LGBT therapists in Escondido, 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 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.

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
Bentley Oliver

Bentley Oliver

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I consider myself a very direct therapist, I will not ask "how does that make you feel" for years as then I would need therapy!”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Deidre Green

Deidre Green

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of experience across medical and behavioral health settings. I currently serve as a Lead Social Worker at Adventist Health and also work with college students at a community college, providing mental health support, crisis intervention, and care coordination. My background spans hospital, home health, and community settings, and I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, end-of-life care, bipolar disorder, substance use, and chronic health conditions. I provide affirming care for LGBTQIA+ clients. I offer telehealth sessions in the evenings and on weekends throughout California, making care accessible for clients who work during the day.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Natalie Demus

Natalie Demus

Therapist

Virtual • California


If you have been carrying stress, anxiety, or the weight of life's challenges for a long time, you may have wondered whether things can actually change. I believe they can.

I am a licensed clinical social worker in California with over 30 years of clinical experience working with adults, families, and communities. I am bilingual in English and Spanish, and I welcome clients from all cultural backgrounds. My work spans a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, trauma, and substance use recovery.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Isabel Mejia

Isabel Mejia

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm proud to offer an affirming space for LGBTQIA+ clients. Everyone has their own story, and I'd be honored to hear yours with genuine curiosity and zero judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Humorous, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Olivier Djoumessi

Dr. Olivier Djoumessi

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“He believes that collaborative care, where patients actively participate in their treatment plans, yields the best outcomes.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Nathalie Uriarte

Nathalie Uriarte

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I take a collaborative, strengths-based, and culturally responsive approach that considers the whole person and their unique experiences.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
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
Thomas Moore

Thomas Moore

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m Thomas Moore, LPCC, a licensed professional clinical counselor providing therapy for individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, emotional overwhelm, identity development, and complex relational patterns. Many of the people I work with feel stuck in repeating cycles such as overthinking, people pleasing, emotional shutdown, intense reactions, or difficulty maintaining stable relationships even when they logically understand what they should do. My goal is to help you translate insight into real change.

My approach is structured and compassionate. I integrate evidence based methods including cognitive restructuring, emotional regulation training, interpersonal effectiveness skills, and trauma informed therapy. Sessions focus on understanding why your brain reacts the way it does and building practical tools you can actually use outside the therapy room. This is not only about talking through problems but learning how to respond differently when they show up in real life.

I work well with clients who want more than passive support and are ready to build skills, increase self awareness, and interrupt patterns that no longer serve them.

What clients should know before starting

Therapy with me is collaborative and active and you will learn strategies rather than only venting. We will work on understanding both the emotional and neurological side of your reactions. Sessions focus on present day functioning while also addressing past experiences that still affect you. I may gently challenge patterns when it supports growth while maintaining a supportive and respectful space. Progress often comes from small repeated changes rather than sudden breakthroughs.

If you are looking for therapy that combines validation with practical change, we will likely work well together.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Delia Daughtry

Delia Daughtry

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I believe mental health care should feel like a conversation with a trusted friend, not a clinical transaction.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Kianna Romero

Kianna Romero

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I recognize that past experiences can affect how we see ourselves, relate to others, and navigate everyday life.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jay Ferrel

Jay Ferrel

Therapist

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and culturally responsive. I strive to create a space where clients feel safe, understood, and empowered to explore their experiences without judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Maternal mental health, PTSD
Empowering, Energetic, Warm
Accepts 8 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
Kellie Gonzalez

Kellie Gonzalez

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi there and great job on taking that first step in considering if therapy is right for you. I invite you to come with me on a journey of your own choosing where we will walk together in darkness to find the light you’ve been seeking. Whether it’s life’s little annoying stressors or more complex issues, as a trauma survivor myself, I know firsthand what this is like and wouldn’t wish it on anyone. Whether you choose me or another therapist, make the choice to just give it a try. Sometimes all you need is another person to hold the light while you do the work you need to heal.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Amina Mohabbat

Amina Mohabbat

Therapist

Virtual • California


Amina has a Masters in Social Work with a concentration on Direct Practice in Community Mental Health from the University of California, Berkeley. Additional education is a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology, Japanese, and a Pupil Personnel Service Credential specializing on children and families. She has over 18+ years of direct practice mental health experience and is trained in evidence based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Art Therapy, trauma informed care, Gottman's couples Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, somatic therapy, mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Family Systems therapy. Other practices include music/sound therapy, career and academic counseling, life coaching, mind and body connection, specializations in immigrant issues, multicultural issues, gender identity issues, LGTBQI issues, chronic illness and medical issues counseling, blended family issues, intergenerational issues, social justice issues, neurodivergent issue (ADHD, autism, sensory issues).

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
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 8 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 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Juan Maillo

Juan Maillo

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a California-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience providing specialized, confidential telehealth. My practice is built to support ambitious individuals—including busy professionals and dedicated college students—navigating high-pressure environments, life transitions, and relationship challenges.

Because your schedule is already packed with work or demanding coursework, I offer dedicated session times outside standard hours, including early mornings and weekends. Whether you are dealing with academic/professional burnout, family-of-origin issues, or deep emotional blocks, I provide a warm, inclusive space to unburden those patterns. I practice fluidly in English, Spanish, and Spanglish, honoring your unique cultural or bicultural lived experience.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Ismael De Guzman

Ismael De Guzman

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have particular experience supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community, men of color, and survivors of sexual trauma or intimate partner violence.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Stephanie James

Stephanie James

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to helping people feel like themselves again. I provide compassionate, evidence based care for anxiety and depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions.My goal is to create a judgement free space where patients feel heard and receive personalized treatment that fits their lives

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Saby Kirpal

Saby Kirpal

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


I'm Saby Kirpal, a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and 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, schizophrenia/psychosis, 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. As Associate Director of Nursing, I've provided clinical oversight across multiple facilities while maintaining patient care, keeping me grounded in real-world challenges.

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, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Joshua Petty

Joshua Petty

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I have specialized in emotional health for nine years, with experience treating adolescents and adults with various diagnoses.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Travis Brown

Travis Brown

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach centers on a strong therapeutic relationship — a space where you feel heard, respected, and involved in every decision about your treatment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Lisa Paulson

Lisa Paulson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I offer a supportive non-judgmental space where we can work together to move towards healing and growth.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Sherri Crespin

Sherri Crespin

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Beverly Hills, CA


“I make it a priority to learn about your background, your present difficulties, your strengths, your values, any concerns you have about treatment, and your hopes for the future.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Dr. Ryan Ingram

Dr. Ryan Ingram

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I believe meaningful change happens when you feel safe enough to be yourself - not when you're pressured to "fix" or change who you are.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Joanna Joestar

Joanna Joestar

Therapist

Virtual • California


I use she/her pronouns. I am a child of refugees. I have a Master of Social Work and did my Bachelor of Arts in Asian American Studies with a Minor in Global Health. I have worked with many individuals struggling with a range of challenges including but not limited to depression, anxiety, psychosis, alcohol and substance use/abuse, chronic health challenges such as HIV and diabetes, as well as gender affirming care. In my free time, I enjoy playing a variety of video games, going to live shows, grabbing a bite to eat with loved ones, exploring new areas, and riding my motorcycle.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Dr. Darlington Igbokwe

Dr. Darlington Igbokwe

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach to mental health care is centered on building trust and understanding, ensuring that each client feels heard and respected.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Erica Carrington

Erica Carrington

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


Hello, I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, licensed since 2008, with experience working with diverse populations ranging from children to older adults. I provide a warm, safe, and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel supported and understood. I especially enjoy helping individuals navigate life transitions such as starting college, graduating, changing jobs, adjusting to civilian life after the military, or entering retirement. My areas of focus include women’s issues, anxiety, depression, and building self-acceptance. I look forward to supporting you as you move toward growth and balance in your life.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 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, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Challenging, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 15 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
Watercolor illustration of a bookshelf
9 years
Top specialties offered
Watercolor illustration of specialties
  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 94%Depression
  • 90%Stress management
  • 86%Trauma
Insurances accepted
Watercolor illustration of insurance cards
  • 98%Aetna
  • 75%Cigna
  • 75%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 74%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 64%Blue Shield of California
Languages spoken
Watercolor illustration of languages
  • 97%English
  • 16%Spanish
  • 2%Farsi
  • 1%Mandarin
  • 1%French
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 90%Online only
  • 10%In-person or online
Provider gender
Watercolor illustration of gender identity
  • 73%Woman
  • 24%Man
  • 3%Non-binary
License types
Watercolor illustration of license
  • 45%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 29%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 10%Nurse Practitioner
  • 8%Clinical Psychologist
  • 7%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Treatment approaches
Watercolor illustration of treatment approach
  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 40%Family therapy
  • 27%Couples therapy
  • 17%Child or adolescent therapy

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.