Skip to main content
Headway

Book LGBT-friendly therapy, covered by insurance

LGBT therapists in Lake Forest, 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 Lake Forest, CA

Finding affirming mental health care in Lake Forest is now accessible through Headway's diverse network of open-minded providers. Whether you're exploring identity, managing relationships, or addressing life transitions, our providers offer evidence-based therapy and medication management with authentic support. Sessions are flexible, covered by insurance, and available within two weeks.

Melody Claiborne

Melody Claiborne

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


I'm Melody Claiborne, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Washington and California. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, and depression, offering thorough diagnostic evaluations and personalized medication management for adults. I believe in care that sees the whole person — not just a diagnosis. Having witnessed patients go unheard during their most vulnerable moments, I built my practice around genuine advocacy and connection. I work at your pace, in a safe and supportive environment where your concerns are fully heard and your goals guide your treatment.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Amy Shefftz

Amy Shefftz

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Concord, CA


“My approach combines evidence-based psychiatric interventions with respect for your lived experience and personal values.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Jasmine Maniti

Jasmine Maniti

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Irvine, CA


“My approach emphasizes collaboration—I believe the best outcomes happen when we work together as partners in your care.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Gladis Rendon

Gladis Rendon

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is for my clients to experience an increase in their emotional well-being by learning skills that help them create more open and connected relationships with themselves, their partners, and others.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Dr. Johannah Walton

Dr. Johannah Walton

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I strive to develop an authentic relationship with my clients, as that has been shown to be most important factor for achieving lasting change.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, End of life care, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Humorous, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Amanda Long

Amanda Long

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fresno, CA


Hello! I'm Amanda Long, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to serving families through compassionate, culturally sensitive mental health care. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and have been practicing as a PMHNP since 2019, with over a decade of nursing experience beginning in 2011. My educational foundation also includes a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Illinois in Springfield, which broadened my understanding of human behavior and community dynamics. My journey in mental health has taken me through diverse settings that have shaped my comprehensive approach to care. I've worked in psychiatric emergency services at a major hospital, 23-hour crisis stabilization units, outpatient clinics, correctional facilities, and forensic mental health centers, including fitness-to-stand-trial evaluations. This varied experience has equipped me to understand mental health from multiple perspectives and meet people wherever they are in their journey, whether they're facing an acute crisis or seeking ongoing support. I specialize in medication management for individuals across the lifespan—from children and adolescents to adults and older adults. My treatment areas include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma-related conditions, psychotic disorders, and other mental health concerns. I'm experienced in both telehealth and in-person care, making quality psychiatric services accessible and convenient for your lifestyle. What drives me is the belief that everyone deserves competent, caring mental health support that honors their unique background and circumstances. I'm committed to improving the communities I serve, one individual and family at a time, through evidence-based practice combined with genuine human connection. My approach centers on partnership and creating a safe environment for healing. I look forward to supporting you and your family's wellness journey.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 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
Jennifer Griffith

Jennifer Griffith

Therapist

Virtual • Laguna Beach, CA


“My approach is warm, direct, collaborative, creative, and appropriately funny. You won't need to mask, perform, or spend half the session convincing me that your experience is real.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Adriana Benamor

Adriana Benamor

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that we are equals in this work we will do together, and I look forward to being your gentle accountability partner.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Amanda Long

Amanda Long

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Sacramento, CA


“I see our relationship as a true partnership. While I bring clinical knowledge and evidence-based treatment approaches, you bring the most important element—intimate knowledge of your own experience, strengths, and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Lacresha Collins

Lacresha Collins

Therapist

Virtual • California


Life can feel overwhelming when you’re dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges. You may feel stuck in patterns that are hard to break or unsure how to move forward. Therapy can be a space where you begin to understand what’s been holding you back and start creating meaningful change.

I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist with experience supporting individuals, couples, and families through a wide range of emotional and relational challenges. My work focuses on helping you build emotional awareness, improve communication, and develop healthier patterns so you can feel more balanced and fulfilled in your life. Clients should expect to feel heard and supported throughout our time together. I want my clients to feel safe and empowered during their time with me, and I feel privileged to help my clients achieve their goals and improve their lives.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Maida Ferraes

Maida Ferraes

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am enthusiastic, energetic, self-motivated, compassionate, and patient. We carry many judgments from the world and ourselves, we do not need any additional pressure.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
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
Elaine Bobadilla-Fischer

Elaine Bobadilla-Fischer

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with extensive experience in child welfare and supporting individuals through life’s most challenging moments. My focus is working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. My goal is to provide you with the coping skills, practical tools, and supportive guidance needed to navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence, resilience, and emotional well-being while empowering you to create meaningful, lasting change.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Monica Nunez

Monica Nunez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is direct, transparent, open to feedback. I help by brainstorming different options in your life that are in your best interest.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Shannon Oliveira

Shannon Oliveira

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I like to meet clients where they are at emotionally, and provide support so they feel comfortable to open up...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Clint Nacar

Clint Nacar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I strive to provide a supportive, respectful space where you feel heard, understood, and actively involved in your care.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Saby Kirpal

Saby Kirpal

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“Mental health treatment should never feel like something done to you, but rather something we navigate together.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Olivia White

Olivia White

Therapist

Virtual • California


I specialize in supporting women and queer folk heal from complex trauma, anxiety, and depression. I believe meaningful healing involves more than understanding our experiences intellectually—it also involves reconnecting with the body and helping the nervous system develop a greater sense of safety. In our work together, I can help you move beyond insight alone and develop practical tools and embodied practices to better understand and respond to the patterns underlying your struggles.

I am trained in Somatic Experiencing, EMDR and Brainspotting, evidence-informed somatic approaches that can support healing from trauma and C-PTSD. I am currently completing my training in EMDR. I love helping people reconnect with their bodies, access and integrate the full range of their emotions, and develop a deeper sense of aliveness, authenticity, and connection with themselves and others.

I have experience working with neurodivergent individuals, highly sensitive people, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and people who embrace alternative relationship and lifestyle structures, including consensual non-monogamy. I strive to create a space where you can show up as your whole self—without judgment—and feel genuinely seen, understood, and supported.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Bijan Amirshahi

Bijan Amirshahi

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My practice emphasizes on helping clients resolve immediate situations, while healing from difficult life experiences and developing strong personal and intimate relationships.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 6 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
Clair Figueroa

Clair Figueroa

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide a nonjudgmental, safe space to discuss your fears with a focus on your goals and dreams as a motivation for change.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Zachary Arnold

Zachary Arnold

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I use a person-centered lens, meaning I see you as the expert of your life and view our therapeutic relationship as a key part of the healing process.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Nicole Santos

Nicole Santos

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I have over 15+ years experience as a nurse working in various departments, working hands on with patients, as well as leadership and management roles.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Amanda Cheyenne Weston

Amanda Cheyenne Weston

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Amanda Cheyenne believes that self actualization comes from committed compassion to our present felt experience paired with responsible (and often playful) action.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Yadira Nieto

Yadira Nieto

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and supportive. I see therapy as a partnership where you can show up as yourself and feel truly heard.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Maria Liu

Maria Liu

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My focus is to help you gain greater clarity and confidence in addressing the challenges you're facing, while providing thoughtful guidance in a safe, non-judgmental environment that is collaborative and empowering.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ashley Martinez

Ashley Martinez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have over 15 years experience working with culturally diverse backgrounds, people in the entertainment industry, and the LGBTQIA community in SF.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Funmi Igbinigie

Funmi Igbinigie

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My goal is to create a warm, compassionate, and judgment-free space where you feel heard, respected, and supported.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lauren Bittner

Lauren Bittner

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Jose, CA


“I work with adolescents and adults navigating childhood and/or sexual trauma, identity, and the complex terrain of relationships and life transitions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tamra Smith

Tamra Smith

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello, my name is Tamra Smith. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Sacramento, CA. I have over 20 years of experience in the field of Mental Health Services, especially providing therapy and consultation. My practice name is Path to Wellbeing Therapy Services, and I truly lead each person on a path to their own emotional health and wellbeing.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Samantha Sanchez-Franco

Samantha Sanchez-Franco

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm here to help you actually make the changes you've been wanting to make and have struggled to do so.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Holistic
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Amy Trimble

Amy Trimble

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a systems thinker, so I am very inquisitive and I like to get a really detailed family history.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Challenging, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jena Montenegro

Jena Montenegro

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a trauma expert with experience in a wide variety of populations including LGBTQ, African-American, Latino, Indigenous, and Asian peoples.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kimberly Ignacio

Kimberly Ignacio

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My hope in sessions is to help my clients understand "blindspots", begin to trust themselves, develop self-control, improve insight, self-validation, and self-reliance.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Denise Alfaro

Denise Alfaro

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Walnut Creek, CA


“I focus on giving you concrete, real-world tools that lead to noticeable changes in your everyday life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Digna Guerrero

Digna Guerrero

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m Digna, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to creating a supportive and safe space where clients will feel heard and understood. I work with adolescents and adults of all ages in navigating anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, and emotional overwhelm. I also have vast experience working with individuals who have co-occuring disorders, developmental disabilities and cognitive delays servicing mild to moderate clients.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Kathryn Benton

Kathryn Benton

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have been working in private practice for a few years and before that I worked in non-profits with a variety of individuals and groups. I am the parent of two adult sons and have three grandchildren that I thoroughly enjoy spending time with. I have an educational background in the study of philosophy, spirituality and counseling psychology. I have experience with helping people with histories of trauma, severe mental illness, as well as, symptoms of anxiety and depression. I also have experience and some expertise with clients struggling with substance use.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shanna Holladay

Shanna Holladay

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm a deeply affirming therapist for LGBTQIAS2+ clients and have extensive experience supporting transgender folks navigating transition, identity, and the mental health weight that often comes with it.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Humorous, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Alejandro Bulnes-Mendizabal

Alejandro Bulnes-Mendizabal

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who provides therapy in both Spanish and English, from colloquial to professional levels. My work has included supporting individuals facing HIV/AIDS-related challenges, domestic violence, substance use, loneliness, suicidal thoughts, dual diagnosis, sexuality-related concerns, aging-related issues, and the broader impact these experiences can have on families and support systems. Across community, academic, and clinical settings in Mexico and the U.S., I’ve built a strong foundation in helping people navigate both personal suffering and societal distress.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists located within 20 miles of Lake Forest, CA

Number of therapists within 20 miles of Lake Forest, CA
There are over 25 therapists in Lake Forest, CA accepting new patients.
25+
Average years in practice
Watercolor illustration of a bookshelf
9 years
Top specialties offered
Watercolor illustration of specialties
  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 100%Anxiety
  • 96%PTSD
  • 96%Depression
  • 92%Stress management
Insurances accepted
Watercolor illustration of insurance cards
  • 96%Aetna
  • 76%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 68%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 60%Cigna
  • 52%Curative
Languages spoken
Watercolor illustration of languages
  • 100%English
  • 28%Spanish
  • 4%Farsi
  • 4%Hindi
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 100%In-person or online
Provider gender
Watercolor illustration of gender identity
  • 84%Woman
  • 16%Man
License types
Watercolor illustration of license
  • 44%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 20%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 16%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
  • 12%Clinical Psychologist
  • 8%Nurse Practitioner
Treatment approaches
Watercolor illustration of treatment approach
  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 52%Couples therapy
  • 52%Family therapy
  • 24%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.