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LGBT therapists in Hayward, CA

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Hayward, CA

Finding an open-minded therapist in Hayward who celebrates your identity matters. Headway's network includes providers experienced in gender and sexual identity affirming care, with many offering free consultations and sessions available as soon as the next day to support your wellbeing.

Jennie Beltz

Jennie Beltz

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in many advanced somatic and body-oriented therapeutic techniques... to help people overcome their life struggles with the most evidence of long-lasting success.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Holistic, Open-minded
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
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
Nicole Chittum

Nicole Chittum

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I take the time to understand each client's unique experiences, strengths, and challenges before developing a treatment plan.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Johanna Louie

Johanna Louie

Therapist

Virtual • California


It’s natural to feel unsure of who you are and where you want to be as you move into adulthood. Therapy is an opportunity to learn about yourself and how to navigate through new challenges of life. I have over 10+ years of experience empowering young adults to gain coping skills, discover ways to balance life stressors, and communicate effectively to build healthy relationships. Whatever your goals are, my role is to work with you to get closer to living the life you envision.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Marina Sabia

Marina Sabia

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide clients with a safe and supportive space where they feel comfortable sharing their challenges and personal experiences.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Men's issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Maritza Rhodas

Maritza Rhodas

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is grounded in identifying your natural strengths and helping you develop healthy, sustainable coping strategies.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Morgan Taylor

Morgan Taylor

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Marin County, California. My education and training have been centered on being trauma-informed and working with individuals, couples, and families.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Stephanie Straeter

Dr. Stephanie Straeter

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“Specifically, you will learn how and when to use strategies to manage stress, emotions, self-destructive behaviors, impulses and habits.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Dr. Robin Hilliard Albertson

Dr. Robin Hilliard Albertson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Everyone is worthy and deserving of respect, kindness, compassion, and consideration. That's at the core of how I approach care...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues, Identity issues
Empowering, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Lynn Northrop

Dr. Lynn Northrop

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“My core values include authenticity, kindness, humility, & celebrating the unique beauty & worth of every human.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Creative, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Betel Christy Ruschmeyer

Betel Christy Ruschmeyer

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


My name is Betel, and I am a California Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in my 6th year of practice. I received my MA from the California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco, where I trained in a process-oriented, humanistic-existential style of clinical work. My background also includes coaching in ketamine-assisted care settings, and I am psychedelics-informed and educated.

At the foundation of my work is the belief that human being is an organic unfolding, in which mindful awareness plays an enduring and creative role. I therefore tend to work especially well with artists, young adults, the LGBTQ+ community, and anyone navigating major life transitions or places of in-between in their sense of who they are.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Esther Kang

Esther Kang

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe in guiding individuals towards their authentic selves and empowering them to live fulfilling lives.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
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
Juan Quintanilla

Juan Quintanilla

Therapist

Virtual • Fresno, CA


“My ultimate goal is to empower you, fostering self-acceptance, self-awareness, self- kindness and self-compassion...”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Marilyn Foley

Dr. Marilyn Foley

Psychologist

Virtual • California


I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California with 27 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. I offer tele-health only sessions from the comfort of your home, making care accessible no matter where you are in California. I accept Anthem and Magellan insurance. My practice is intentionally small — I keep a limited caseload so every client receives my full attention and care. I am warm, experienced, and deeply committed to showing up for the people I work with.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, PTSD
Creative, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Bryan Strycula

Bryan Strycula

Therapist

Virtual • Rancho Cucamonga, CA


“My therapeutic approach is client centered, collaborative, and eclectic consisting of a wide array of theoretical orientations and modalities to suit your needs.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 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
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
Brittany Griggs

Brittany Griggs

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in working with adults with ADHD, parents of neurodivergent children, and young professionals who are ready to stop fighting their brains and start building a life that actually fits them.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Diego Valencia

Diego Valencia

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I focus on understanding the deeper patterns and relational dynamics that contribute to emotional distress, rather than treating symptoms alone.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Energetic, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Hannah Weigel

Hannah Weigel

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I take a collaborative stance, allowing clients to create their own goals and feel as though they are in control of their own therapeutic journey.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Tiffany Manning

Tiffany Manning

Therapist

Virtual • California


My goal is to create a warm, affirming space where you can be yourself while gaining practical skills to navigate life's challenges. We'll work together to build on your strengths, better understand what's getting in your way, and help you feel more confident and in control of your life.

I'm Tiffany Manning, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience supporting adults through anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, identity concerns, and major life transitions. I especially enjoy working with clients who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from themselves and are ready to make meaningful changes.

My approach is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and the belief that you have the ability to create a life that feels more fulfilling and aligned with who you are.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Urania Acevedo

Dr. Urania Acevedo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy should be both compassionate and productive, and that genuine emotional growth flourishes when we balance evidence-based practices with a deeply authentic human connection.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Humorous, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Bryan Hamilton

Bryan Hamilton

Therapist

Virtual • California


Have you been overwhelmed with trying to navigate through the ways you show up in your relationships with others, making you question your own self-identity? The goal is to help you navigate through these feelings/emotions with self-curiosity and compassion. I want to help hold space for my clients to explore these new tools through self-discovery.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Anjana Kathuria

Anjana Kathuria

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California since 2008. My work is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and respect for each client’s unique life story.

I support clients navigating anxiety, depression, stress, health issues, and interpersonal relationship challenges, trauma, grief, aging, and end-of-life concerns. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore challenges, build resilience, and reconnect with their strengths while moving toward greater clarity, healing, and emotional balance.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Rachel Benjamin

Rachel Benjamin

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m Rachel Benjamin, and I help individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges to build more authentic, connected, and empowered lives. Together, we’ll identify the patterns and barriers that have been holding you back and work toward lasting change around your strengths and values. If you are thinking about starting therapy, or returning after some time away, but feeling unsure, you’re not alone. Taking that first step can bring up a mix of emotions. If you’re wondering whether now is the right time, it likely means you’re ready to begin exploring meaningful change.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Zaryn Avaren

Zaryn Avaren

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe meaningful change begins when we meet ourselves with curiosity instead of judgment, in a steady and safe space.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues
Holistic, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Nina Alpert

Dr. Nina Alpert

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I help individuals and couples gain insight into the unconscious patterns that shape their emotional life.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Humorous, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Jeongmi Moon

Dr. Jeongmi Moon

Psychologist

Virtual • San Diego, CA


Clients : Creative field, writers, screen writers, actors, films makers.


I’m a bilingual (English/Korean) licensed clinical psychologist with over 13+ years of experience helping adults (20 and older) navigate anxiety, ADHD, relationship and family concerns, identity questions, and major life transitions.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in both evidence-based techniques and a deep respect for the human spirit. I integrate therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based methods with holistic tools drawn from meditation, Eastern/Western philosophy, and positive psychology. This allows me to support you not just in coping with challenges—but in creating a more meaningful, centered life.

I especially enjoy working with creatives, professionals, and individuals exploring cultural or gender identity. Whether you’re dealing with racing thoughts, emotional exhaustion, shifting roles, or inner conflict, we’ll work together to clarify what matters most to you and how to move forward with intention. Therapy doesn’t have to be cold or clinical—it can be a dynamic, reflective process that helps you reconnect with your values and sense of possibility.

Taking the first step can feel uncertain, but if you’re ready to talk, I’m here to listen. You deserve support that aligns with both your inner world and everyday life. Feel free to reach out with any questions or to schedule a consultation. I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues
Creative, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Patricia Navarro

Patricia Navarro

Therapist

Virtual • Chula Vista, CA


“I have faced many struggles of my own, which I believe give me a deeper understanding of human nature.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Ariel Escobedo

Ariel Escobedo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy works best when you feel genuinely heard, respected, and comfortable being yourself.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Barri Aji

Barri Aji

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My background as both a parent and a former school professional gives me a deep understanding of the complexities of parenting, the transitions and struggles of adulthood, and the challenges of adolescence.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Diana Pena

Diana Pena

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • El Segundo, CA


“What sets my practice apart is my genuine comfort with diagnostic complexity and co-occurring conditions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Michael Morgan

Michael Morgan

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am not interested in just being a soundboard for you. At a minimum, I will be a journal that talks back...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Creative, Empowering
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Lindsay Fisher

Lindsay Fisher

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Stevenson Ranch, CA


“When we work together, you'll never wonder why I'm recommending a particular medication or what to expect from your treatment plan.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Ani Kamajian

Ani Kamajian

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I bring a grounded, client-centered approach that supports stabilization, insight building, and long-term behavioral change, particularly for clients navigating co-occurring mental health and addiction challenges.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Erika Kyte

Erika Kyte

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a longtime yoga enthusiast and certified instructor, I enjoy incorporating breathwork and mindfulness as techniques for clients to create a pause, access heartfelt intentions, and start living more intentionally.”
LGBTQIA+, Depression, End of life care, Family issues, Grief or loss
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 15 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cristina Bonilla

Cristina Bonilla

Therapist

Virtual • California


“We use a client-centered, trauma focused approach in our treatment modalities, utilizing evidence-based practices such as EMDR...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Denisse Smith

Denisse Smith

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I myself identify as a bisexual cisgender woman (she/her) with ADHD, am a mother of two great kids...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists in Hayward, CA

Number of therapists serving Hayward, CA
There are over 2,450 therapists in Hayward, CA accepting new patients.
2,450+
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
  • 87%Trauma
Insurances accepted
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  • 98%Aetna
  • 77%Cigna
  • 74%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 68%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 64%Blue Shield of California
Languages spoken
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  • 97%English
  • 15%Spanish
  • 2%Farsi
  • 1%French
  • 1%Mandarin
How they see their clients
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  • 91%Online only
  • 9%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 73%Woman
  • 24%Man
  • 3%Non-binary
License types
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  • 44%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 28%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 11%Nurse Practitioner
  • 8%Clinical Psychologist
  • 8%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Treatment approaches
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  • 98%Individual therapy
  • 40%Family therapy
  • 28%Couples therapy
  • 18%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.

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