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LGBT therapists in La Mesa, CA

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in La Mesa, CA

Find affirming mental health support in La Mesa with 2,450 licensed providers experienced in LGBTQIA+ mental healthcare. Access virtual or in-person sessions with providers who create safe, welcoming spaces for your journey. Headway connects you with warm, open-minded therapists who understand your unique experiences and needs.

Nadia Cano

Nadia Cano

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“My approach to therapy is strength based. I will be using treatment models and interventions that are backed by research and tailored to clients' needs.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Sarah Siebert

Sarah Siebert

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is warm and inclusive, focused on helping you gain insights and tools to live authentically and reduce stress.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Fernando Aguirre

Fernando Aguirre

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am driven to be an ally to everyone's journey in building a strong and stable mental health foundation...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

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
Abby Zimberg

Abby Zimberg

Therapist

Virtual • San Francisco, CA


“I mix several approaches depending on what is needed. Looking at the past and family of origin is important as are exploring thoughts and feelings and targeting behaviors to change.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Family issues
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Claudia Ramirez

Claudia Ramirez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I will provide you with a welcoming, non-judgmental environment in hopes of offering a safe place to share yourself.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 13 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
Claire Morrison

Claire Morrison

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’ve worked as a therapist for the past ten years, helping people untangle their stories and find compassion for the messy, imperfect parts of being human. My own experiences as a client deeply shaped my approach. I bring empathy, warmth, and a genuine understanding of how vulnerable therapy can feel. I work with clients of all ages, from tweens to adults, to build insight, resilience, and self-acceptance. My style is collaborative and grounded in authenticity, humor, and humanity. Above all, I aim to create a space where you can feel understood, supported, and free to explore what healing might look like for you.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Clementine Brown

Clementine Brown

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Francisco, CA


“I use a Liberation Psychology approach which means we often explore how we have internalized society's oppressive systems and how we can get you as free as possible from internalized and external forms of oppression.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dana Campagna

Dana Campagna

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I would describe my therapeutic style as warm and collaborative, growth- and insight-based, attuned and agile.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Inquisitive, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Lukas Dziemidok

Lukas Dziemidok

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive for a warm, non-judgmental presence. Through my experience in the entertainment industry and my own personal journey with immigration, I have learned to appreciate and value diversity...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Calista Anderson

Calista Anderson

Therapist

Virtual • California


Maybe you’re newly sober, or not sure you want to be. Maybe you lost someone and the world kept moving when yours didn’t. Or maybe you’re trying to hold yourself together while everything feels like it’s falling apart. If that resonates with you, you’re in the right place. I've spent the better part of a decade working with individuals, couples, and families in the fields of addiction and grief; in both substance abuse treatment settings and solo as an Advanced Grief Recovery Specialist. I’ve also worked in hospice and I’m experienced in working with people with complex trauma and mental health challenges.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Alissa Young

Alissa Young

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“Clients would describe me as a 'safe space', where clients can feel validated and supported when sharing their challenges and exploring next steps.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Armando León

Dr. Armando León

Psychiatrist

Virtual • Menlo Park, CA


“I have completed over 8,000 hours of work in a psychiatric emergency room setting, where I see patients in highly complex situations.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Men's issues
Affirming, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Pierre Yeremia

Pierre Yeremia

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I'm compassionate, relatable, and a good listener who wants you to feel genuinely understood not rushed or reduced to a diagnosis.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Christina Duffy

Christina Duffy

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I want you to leave each session feeling like you gained something useful—whether that's a new way of looking at a situation, a tool you can use right away, or a clearer plan for moving forward.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Jamila Leander

Jamila Leander

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Vulnerability is not a sign of weakness. It's a sign of strength, resilience and compassion for oneself.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Alex Bailey

Alex Bailey

Therapist

Virtual • La Mesa, 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+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 14 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kerry Deeney

Kerry Deeney

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm warm, real, and collaborative. You can expect open, judgment-free conversations that leave you feeling supported—and challenged in the best way—to grow and make changes that last.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Ritu Esbjorn

Ritu Esbjorn

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have been working with individuals and couples for decades, bringing empathy, kindness, and a wealth of life experience into each encounter.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Sanam Gidanian

Sanam Gidanian

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from California State University, Northridge, where I graduated with distinction. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate challenges such as anxiety, mood disorders, panic, phobias, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. My research background, including presentations on topics like executive functioning of the brain and cognitive processes, deepens my understanding of how our mental and emotional patterns are shaped, helping me provide thoughtful, effective support that fosters lasting change and healthier relationships.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Participatory
Accepts 12 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
Melissa Sipolt

Melissa Sipolt

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a Clinical Trauma Professional, as well as an alumnus of the Harvard University Napa Infant-Parent Fellowship Program, where I trained directly with Daniel Seigel, MD, Bruce Perry, PhD., MD, and the esteemed T. Berry Brazelton, MD.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Eating disorders, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
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
Markos Karayianni

Markos Karayianni

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Identity issues, Relationship issues, Transgender issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Eric Waters

Eric Waters

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Therapy is a journey. You can expect me to be a well-informed and supportive guide as you engage in your own change process and growth.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Creative, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Tiffany Anderson

Tiffany Anderson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood without judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, End of life care
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Phoenix (Sharon) Piwowarski

Phoenix (Sharon) Piwowarski

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Sebastopol, CA


“I aim to empower clients to explore their feelings and experiences in a supportive environment conducive to personal growth and self-actualization.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Peter Getoff

Peter Getoff

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Using warmth, patience, and compassion, I transform our sessions into a safe environment where you can explore your strengths and weaknesses.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sandra Castillo

Sandra Castillo

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Santa Ana, CA


“I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. ...My practice is dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental space where we can address your concerns—whether you are dealing with daily stressors, mood changes, or complex...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Participatory, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 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
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
Norma Munoz-Sedano

Norma Munoz-Sedano

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a bilingual (Spanish and English) Marriage and Family Therapist with over 22 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, parents, and couples.

I hold a psychology degree from the Universidad Autónoma de Baja California since 1991 and earned a master's degree in Marriage, Family, and Child Therapy from the University of Phoenix in 2008.

My work focuses on strengthening relationships and addressing emotional or mental issues such as depression, anxiety, phobias, trauma, psychosocial factors, life challenges, and personal goals.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Leila Zahedi

Dr. Leila Zahedi

Psychologist

Virtual • San Francisco, CA


“I strive to create a space where clients feel supported, understood, and gently challenged as they move toward meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Identity issues
Affirming, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Robert Norgaard

Robert Norgaard

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have been in Private Practice for over 20 years and have worked with an array of individuals from every background. I am a Certified EMDR clinician with a specialty in trauma and traumatic memories. I am empathic yet directive and we will work together to get your the results you are seeking!

Contact Robert at [email protected] OR BOOK A CONSULT through this platform. We can discuss the schedule at that time. My hours are between 8am and 5pm daily.

LGBTQIA+, Men's issues, PTSD, Relationship issues, Stress management
Challenging, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Korbi Biggins

Korbi Biggins

Therapist

Virtual • California


“She provides clients with hope and a safe environment to discuss struggles and explore the areas in life they are ready to work on and change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 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
Andrew Extein

Andrew Extein

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is thoughtful, collaborative, and grounded. I take the work seriously, but not myself—humor is part of the process, when it fits.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, Family issues
Challenging, Creative, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Carla Hammond

Carla Hammond

Psychiatrist

Virtual • California


“I am a practicing MD with extensive experience in treating a diverse range of psychiatric diagnoses.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists located within 20 miles of La Mesa, CA

Number of therapists within 20 miles of La Mesa, CA
There are over 25 therapists in La Mesa, CA accepting new patients.
25+
Average years in practice
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11 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 100%Depression
  • 96%Stress management
  • 96%Anxiety
  • 88%Relationship issues
Insurances accepted
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  • 100%Aetna
  • 80%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 60%Cigna
  • 60%Blue Shield of California
  • 52%Carelon Behavioral Health
Languages spoken
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  • 96%English
  • 24%Spanish
  • 8%French
  • 4%Farsi
  • 4%German
How they see their clients
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  • 96%In-person or online
  • 4%In-person only
Provider gender
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  • 68%Woman
  • 32%Man
License types
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  • 56%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 20%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 12%Clinical Psychologist
  • 8%Nurse Practitioner
  • 4%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 36%Family therapy
  • 24%Couples therapy
  • 20%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.