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LGBT therapists in Lake Forest, CA

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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.

Chidinma Onuigbo

Chidinma Onuigbo

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hi, I'm Chidinma! I am a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) and Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I bring over 14 years of diverse clinical experience, including more than 9 years practicing independently as an advanced practice nurse.

My background spans complex healthcare settings—including the VA Healthcare System, Primary care, Urgent care, and Correctional medicine—where I have proudly delivered comprehensive care across the lifespan.

I firmly believe that physical health and mental well-being are deeply intertwined. By combining my extensive primary care and psychiatric expertise, I provide thorough, comprehensive evaluations for individuals of all ages, ensuring you receive safe, well-rounded care that honors your unique background.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Chartia Byrdsong-Flowers

Chartia Byrdsong-Flowers

Therapist

Virtual • California


Welcome, and thank you for considering me as a partner in your wellness journey! My therapeutic style is warm, gentle, and supportive, while also being direct and accountability focused. I believe meaningful change happens when compassion and honesty work together. In our time together, we will explore what’s getting in the way of your well-being and identify practical, sustainable ways to improve your daily functioning and overall quality of life.

With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I bring a grounded, steady presence to the therapeutic space. I support clients through life transitions, emotional challenges, and periods of feeling stuck, always meeting you where you are while helping you move toward where you want to be. Therapy with me is collaborative, intentional, and centered on your goals, your values, and your lived experience. Together, we’ll work toward clarity, resilience, and growth at a pace that feels both supportive and empowering.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, PTSD
Affirming, Direct, Inquisitive
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
James Witmer

James Witmer

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I approach our time together with openness, humility, acceptance, and free of pre-conceived judgement.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Charles Codner

Charles Codner

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello, I’m Charles, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) dedicated to helping adults build healthier, more fulfilling lives. I work with individuals and couples facing anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, grief, relationship difficulties, self-esteem concerns, and major life transitions. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in trauma-informed care. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can openly explore your experiences, gain insight into patterns that may be holding you back, and develop the tools needed to heal, grow, and move forward with confidence.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Energetic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tara Ryan

Tara Ryan

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a multi-state licensed therapist across California, Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, and Texas, specializing in helping adults navigate deep-seated mental health challenges alongside intense personal and professional transitions.

With vast clinical experience, I have served as a university career counselor, a specialist for healthcare professionals, and a dedicated clinician within both the US Navy Family Advocacy Program and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

My practice provides a highly supportive, practical space for college students, working adults at all career stages, healthcare workers, service members, Veterans, and the LGBTQIA+ community.

I blend empathetic listening with deep clinical insight to help you manage and heal from:

Core Mental Health & Neurodivergence:

Anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, and identity exploration.

Trauma & Life Impact:

Complex trauma, PTSD, grief, loss, and managing chronic medical conditions.

Daily Survival:

Severe career burnout, relationship problems, and navigating life's overlapping pressures.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Dr. Emily Dalton

Dr. Emily Dalton

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy can have many shapes and forms. Sometimes, it is simply a place where you are seen and heard.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Candice Campbell

Candice Campbell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide a warm, collaborative and balanced approach using cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness to help clients embrace their authentic selves and improve their quality of life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Creative, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Maryann Reuter

Dr. Maryann Reuter

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I balance my care and compassion for you with asking deep and direct questions to support you seeing things differently than you have before.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Sharon Teruya

Dr. Sharon Teruya

Psychologist

Virtual • California


I am known for working well with individuals who are shy and who may be fearful of entering therapy. I have a specialization in the diagnosis/assessment and treatment of AD/HD and learning disorders such as dyslexia. My therapeutic approach is primarily based on cognitive behavioral and Dialectic Behavior theories . Pragmatism describes my approach to treatment. Management of chronic mental illness, and adjustment issues relating to ethnic/cultural/generational and religious issues are also areas which I specialize in.

I believe that at times addressing questions pertaining to meaning in life can be as important as changing behavioral patterns and emotions. Specific treatment modalities I use are ultimately dependent upon the needs of each individual and the established efficac of a particular therapeutic intervention. Socratic questioning is often used to help individuals gain personal insight. I will be happy to work in conjunction with a psychiatrist or other physician.

My ethnic background is Chinese, Okinawan, and Japanese. I grew up in Hawaii and have interned at clinics specializing in Asian/Pacific Islander clients.

Currently I work as Learning Disabilities Specialist at Santa Monica College. I have assisted students in receiving testing accommodations on the SAT, GRE, GMAT, LSAT, Bar Exam, MCAT, medical Step exams and medical licensure exams, and DAT. I have worked as a LD Specialist at UCL, the University of Hawaii, and UC Berkeley. I was a Psychology Professor for over 12 years in my earlier career.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jessica Saucedo

Jessica Saucedo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I utilize a person-centered approach. It is important for the person I am working with to feel heard.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Amber Robison

Amber Robison

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I also have vast experience working with children, teens and adults experiencing difficulties and life transitions including depression, anxiety and I have specialized training in supporting transgender individuals.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Tanaya Reid

Tanaya Reid

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I like to create a comforting and welcoming environment where it feels safe to talk about and try difficult things.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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 5 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
Annliese Erebholo

Annliese Erebholo

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello, I am glad you are here. My goal is to offer a safe welcoming space where you can be yourself without fear of judgement. I believe everyone deserves to be heard with kindness, respect, and compassion. Together, we'll move at a pace that feels right for you as we work toward the life you want to create.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
April Madden

April Madden

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Paso Robles, CA


I’m April Madden, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and the owner of Twisted Oaks Family Therapy.

If you are interested in services, please reach out to clerical at (805)721-6112 or visit our website at twisitedoakstherapy.com

As the owner of Twisted Oaks Family Therapy, I’ve also built a team of clinicians with diverse specialties so that clients can be matched with a therapist who best fits their individual needs. Our goal is to provide a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where clients can feel comfortable doing difficult work while knowing they do not have to navigate it alone.

I hold a master’s degree in clinical psychology and have more than 20 years of experience in the helping profession, working with individuals and families facing a wide range of emotional, behavioral, relational, and life challenges.

My approach to therapy is compassionate, trauma-informed, and direct. I believe therapy should be a space where you feel heard and supported, but also a place where meaningful growth happens. I work collaboratively with my clients to identify patterns, build healthier coping skills, strengthen relationships, and create lasting change.

I have experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families, with particular focus on trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship and family concerns, life transitions, addiction and recovery, communication difficulties, self-esteem, and rebuilding trust and connection. I am also a Certified Substance Use Disorder Counselor IV (SUDCC-IV), which provides me with specialized experience in substance use, addiction, and recovery.

Whether you are seeking support for yourself, your relationship, or your family, our goal is to meet you where you are and help you move toward greater understanding, healing, and meaningful change.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jamie Sweigert

Jamie Sweigert

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have a gentle, authentic, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive approach blended with validation and constructive feedback that ideally allows space for you to safely explore emotions, develop new insights, and feel empowered to create desired...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Patricia Chan

Dr. Patricia Chan

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, addiction, relationships, and co-occurring disorders using a evidence-based approach that bridges psychological and physical wellness.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Rickey Bates

Rickey Bates

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience in trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and long-term psychotherapy. I work primarily with adults navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, identity concerns, and the lasting impact of trauma.

My professional background includes service in military and veteran-support settings, as well as work in community mental health, medical and hospital-based environments, and outpatient therapy. This breadth of experience allows me to support clients across a wide range of life circumstances—from acute stress and major transitions to deeper, long-term personal growth.

My practice is grounded in a collaborative, nonjudgmental approach that integrates evidence-based and relational therapies. I believe therapy works best when clients feel supported, understood, and appropriately challenged, with the goal of not just symptom relief, but meaningful, lasting change in how clients relate to themselves and others.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Lonnie Ferguson

Lonnie Ferguson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Therapy is a courageous act of self love and it requires a collaborative approach to establish a sense of trust and safety.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Heather Waddle

Heather Waddle

Therapist

Virtual • California


With over 15 years of experience, I have helped countless individuals navigate the challenges they face and find peace within themselves. Together, we can work towards culminating a healthier and more fulfilling future.

When I am not working I enjoy spending time with my dogs, hiking with friends, cooking, and making flower arrangements. I also enjoy spending time doing artsy activities or attending local events.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Nicolas Valles

Nicolas Valles

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hey there! You being here is huge, and I am honored to partner with you on your journey toward wellness. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and U.S. Navy veteran, having earned both my BA and Master of Social Welfare from UCLA. My professional background includes extensive experience with the Department of Veterans Affairs and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, specializing in helping individuals navigate complex psychosocial needs, trauma, and substance use. Ultimately, I am deeply committed to helping you break down life's barriers, adapt to major transitions, and successfully reclaim your stability

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Amanda Smith

Amanda Smith

Therapist

Virtual • California


“There are times when a person feels emotionally "stuck" and feel there is no way to undo it. I know this view well myself!”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jessica Agunnamani

Jessica Agunnamani

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I'm a warm, open-minded, and holistic Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who focuses on helping clients feel genuinely understood and supported.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Tatiana Molinar

Dr. Tatiana Molinar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My personal journey overcoming complex trauma fuels my passion for guiding others towards healing and joy.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Fritzie Fernandez-Craft

Fritzie Fernandez-Craft

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is warm, active, and entirely collaborative, meaning we work as a team to break old patterns and build lasting relief.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jahi Jamil Corbin

Jahi Jamil Corbin

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Most of my clinical training happened in demanding settings... That work taught me not to flinch at difficult material and not to rush people through it.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 6 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 13 insurance carriers
Yanina Lambert

Yanina Lambert

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m so glad you’re here. I’m Nina, a licensed therapist who is passionate about helping people feel better and live more fulfilling lives. I’ve worked with individuals from diverse backgrounds and offer services in both English and Spanish. My goal is to support your well-being by helping you build skills, navigate challenges, and create healthier, more meaningful relationships.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Gema Martir

Gema Martir

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Diego, CA


“Direct, Warm, Inquisitive and Critical questions that are focused on identity development in the family individual or couple system.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Maria Maguire

Maria Maguire

Therapist

Virtual • Santa Rosa, CA


I’m grateful to have a career that allows me to be authentically myself and spend my days talking deeply about things that matter. I love working with motivated, bright people who know they have a lot to offer, but feel a bit blocked. I find great joy in helping people unblock to find ease and authenticity in their own lives.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Maureen Riley

Maureen Riley

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that every person has the capacity to heal and grow, even when life feels overwhelming or uncertain.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cristina Bonilla

Cristina Bonilla

Therapist

Virtual • Yucca Valley, CA


“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
Shanna Rayyan

Shanna Rayyan

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I consider myself an approachable, down-to-earth person who provides therapy in a judgment-free and safe environment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Bill Benson

Bill Benson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Clients often tell me they appreciate that I am direct without being harsh, compassionate without being vague, and practical without reducing therapy to bumper-sticker wisdom.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Richard Lautenbacher

Dr. Richard Lautenbacher

Psychologist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“Dr. Lautenbacher focuses on compassionately building rapport and adapting to your unique needs and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Melanie Harriss

Melanie Harriss

Therapist

Virtual • Riverside, CA


Let’s work together to address the challenges in your life. Finding a therapist that fits your needs is essential, if I am not the therapist for you, I'll help you find one who is. Prior to becoming a therapist, I was a Registered Nurse for over 15yrs. I understand the interplay between our mental and physical health, and how one effects the other.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Direct, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Lane McConnell

Lane McConnell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe successful therapy works best when there is a positive empathetic working relationship between the client & therapist.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Dr. Carmen Cuevas

Dr. Carmen Cuevas

Therapist

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“My goal is to provide a supportive, culturally responsive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to build on their strengths and create meaningful, lasting change.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 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
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9 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 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
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  • 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
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  • 84%Woman
  • 16%Man
License types
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  • 44%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 20%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 16%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
  • 12%Clinical Psychologist
  • 8%Nurse Practitioner
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 52%Couples therapy
  • 52%Family therapy
  • 24%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

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