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LGBT therapists in Escondido, CA

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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.

Natsuko Jacobson

Natsuko Jacobson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“In general, I am not here to give you advice... We will explore your struggles, histories, strength, expectations and goals together to connect with your inner wisdom.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Renee Brooks

Renee Brooks

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy doesn't have to feel intimidating or overly formal. It should be a space where you can be yourself, feel understood and talk openly.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Jean-Claire Peltier

Jean-Claire Peltier

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work with adults and young adults who are, by most measures, doing fine - but privately feel like they're running on fumes.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Affirming, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Alex Bailey

Alex Bailey

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


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

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

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 14 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Kai Chuang

Dr. Kai Chuang

Psychologist

Virtual • California


I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and high performers—including Division I athletes, professionals, and anyone striving to meet high expectations. In my work, I’ve learned that growth happens at the edge of comfort—where support and challenge meet. My clients often tell me they appreciate my ability to be both direct and deeply compassionate, creating a space where they feel seen, understood, and encouraged to move forward.


Born in Taiwan, raised in Southern California, and trained in San Francisco and New Mexico, I bring a blend of cultural humility, life experience, and professional training into every session. As an Asian American therapist, I value identity, culture, and lived experience as essential pieces of healing. I aim to create a space where you can show up as your real self—without judgment, without masks.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Steven Nelson

Steven Nelson

Therapist

Virtual • California


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

Christine Rivlin

Therapist

Virtual • California


I believe therapy is most effective when you feel genuinely heard, respected, and understood. My approach is compassionate, direct, and solution-focused, with a strong foundation in trauma-informed care. I work collaboratively with clients to understand not only what they're experiencing today, but also how past experiences may be shaping their present. Whether you're navigating grief, trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, addiction, or major life transitions, I strive to create a safe, confidential space where you can explore difficult emotions, develop practical coping skills, and move toward lasting change. My goal is to help you build resilience, gain insight, and leave each session feeling supported, empowered, and hopeful.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Direct, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Wajeeha Khan

Wajeeha Khan

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Ramon, CA


“Healing begins with empathy. At Well Mind Therapy, we embrace your journey with compassion, creating a safe space where you feel truly seen and supported as you grow.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Juline Hobson

Juline Hobson

Therapist

Virtual • Sacramento, CA


“I believe counseling offers healing, growth and clarification for client's as they courageously decide to work with me in a safe, trusting warm and confidential environment.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 17 insurance carriers
Angelique Rochelle

Angelique Rochelle

Therapist

Virtual • San Francisco, CA


I work with all ages and I'm trained in trauma based therapies such as CBT, DBT, and EMDR. I offer individual therapy using attachment based therapies, solution-focused brief therapy, and Gestalt self-compassion techniques. I'm not currently offering couples counseling except through private pay. I have worked with foster youth, caregivers, families, LGBTQ, and veterans. I have found my work to be professionally rewarding by assisting people in reaching their goals. I’m committed to meeting your needs and learning.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Amanda Khezra

Dr. Amanda Khezra

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“All progress is good progress and at the end of our session my hope is we took another step towards reaching your goals.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Stacey Kane

Stacey Kane

Therapist

Virtual • California


I earned my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and have completed training in EMDR, Brainspotting, DBT, trauma‐informed care, and play‐based interventions.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Julia Hamilton

Julia Hamilton

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My practice centers radical tolerance, creating an affirming, compassionate, and culturally responsive safe space.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Deisy Gracia

Deisy Gracia

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that meaningful change happens within a supportive and trusting relationship.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Demetrus Jones

Demetrus Jones

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of nursing experience. I provide thoughtful, personalized care for individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other common mental health concerns. My approach is warm, respectful, and judgment-free — I believe real healing starts with feeling heard and understood. I work closely with each client to create a treatment plan that feels supportive, practical, and tailored to their unique needs.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Leigh Johnson

Leigh Johnson

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Sacramento, CA


You may be seeking support in moving toward a more preferred version of yourself, your life, and your relationships. You may be questioning important facets of your identity, or wondering how to locate and uproot the seeds of painful and complicated emotions. Perhaps you are curious about navigating a different type of relational structure with your loved ones, or you may be feeling stuck with a particular challenge in the way you connect to others. My role as a therapist is to provide support and facilitate insight that will allow you to work toward your personal goals.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Relationship issues
Affirming, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Gary Seguin

Gary Seguin

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have two graduate degrees in the field (Behavioral Medicine/Health Psychology and Professional Counseling) and am a licensed behavioral health clinician in both Texas & California. My experience includes working with individuals and groups with a wide range of mental health, substance use, and basic counseling issues. I believe we all need help at points of our life and, if we are willing to ask for it, the support and guidance can be invaluable.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Jaleesa Banks

Jaleesa Banks

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who is passionate about providing compassionate, supportive, and individualized mental health care. I work with adolescents and adults who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, mood changes, trauma-related concerns, or life stressors.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
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
Beverly Ann Lunar

Beverly Ann Lunar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I firmly believe that effective mental health care requires absolute transparency, active collaboration, and treatments rooted in solid clinical evidence.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Christina Strom

Christina Strom

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a client centered therapist, meaning I want to meet you where you are. Down to earth, gentle, honest, and transparent...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michael Morgan, Lcsw, C-Dbt

Michael Morgan, Lcsw, C-Dbt

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I show up fully present, without judgment, and I believe — without exception — in your capacity to heal and change, even on the days you don't believe it yourself.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Mike Chang

Mike Chang

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I make strong connections with my clients through an authentic presence, well-developed active listening skills, and transparency.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Teru Kanazawa

Teru Kanazawa

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • South Pasadena, CA


“I work as a collaborator with you in an honest, truthful and transparent process to achieving the best you can be.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Participatory
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jarrad Malamed

Jarrad Malamed

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


Making the decision to start therapy is a profound investment of your time, energy, and vulnerability. If you are looking for a blank-slate clinician who simply nods and listens, we might not be the best fit. I offer a highly engaged, malleable, and unflinching partnership.

My approach is rooted in the belief that while the work of untangling our lives is deeply structural, the room itself doesn't always have to feel heavy. I bring a grounded warmth to my practice—which means knowing how to sit quietly in the gravity of a difficult truth, but also knowing when to break the tension, exhale, and find the light in the sheer complexity of being human. I won’t just sit in silence while you do all the heavy lifting; I am an active collaborator who adapts to exactly where you are.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kirsty Kenny

Kirsty Kenny

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have vast experience with a wide variety of clients. My professional history includes children living in abusive environments, teenagers who are struggling to access their education due to mental health concerns, families navigating dysfunction and adults dealing with a variety of life difficulties.

I currently work, primarily, in corrections with inmates struggling to adjust to the custody environment. I offer crisis intervention in addition to ongoing support.

I approach the therapeutic space with compassion and openness. I meet my clients right where they are emotionally and in their healing journey.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, End of life care, Grief or loss
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Melissa Fletcher

Melissa Fletcher

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have a lot of energy! I love helping while providing you the support you need help managing stress anxiety/panic attacks, anger, motivation, self-esteem, improving confidence, past substance use, and/or depressive symptoms.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Energetic
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Abena Amankwa

Abena Amankwa

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My work centers on helping people move through anxiety, depression, and addiction with compassion and practical tools tailored to who they are.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 6 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
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
Ruth Clavelo

Ruth Clavelo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Sessions are a calm, welcoming space where you can show up as you are, without pressure or judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Airy Ramirez

Airy Ramirez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Through our collaborative work, clients can expect to gain valuable self-insights, develop practical coping strategies, and build emotional resilience.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Challenging, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Brandy Walker

Brandy Walker

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a firm believer that there are solutions to all of life's problems, and I believe therapy is a gateway to change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Lidia Escobar

Lidia Escobar

Therapist

Virtual • California


Feeling overwhelmed, stuck or needing to focus? I enjoy partnering with my clients on their journeys to improved wellness. In our time together, we will celebrate your strengths and develop goals to maximize your wellness, together. While we can't change our past, we can work together to process our story’s strengths and struggles. We can talk through your current challenges and quiet the noise around you. We can explore the barriers that may get in the way of enjoying life to the fullest. We can identify ways to find joy again. I look forward to meeting with you to plan how to achieve your goals.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Kate Salami

Kate Salami

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide an inclusive, empathetic, and nonjudgmental space that welcomes people of all genders, sexual orientations, and religious backgrounds.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Brandon Evans

Brandon Evans

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I bring a warm, compassionate, and nonjudgmental approach to therapy, creating a safe space where you can feel heard, respected, and understood.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Vivian Ifediora

Vivian Ifediora

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach is warm, collaborative, and personalized. I take time to truly understand each client's story—looking beyond symptoms to the root causes of distress.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Monica Castanon

Monica Castanon

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I consider myself a therapist who leads with empathy, making others feel safe, seen, and genuinely understood.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 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.