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LGBT therapists in Oakland, CA

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Oakland, CA

Oakland's diverse and affirming mental health landscape welcomes LGBTQIA+ individuals seeking support. Headway connects you with 60K+ licensed providers nationwide who bring open-minded, warm approaches to care. Sessions are available virtually or in-person, with many providers offering free consultations and availability within days.

Christina Strom

Christina Strom

Therapist

Virtual • California


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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jessica Zavala

Jessica Zavala

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach to therapy is warm, direct, and collaborative. I believe therapy should be a space where clients feel genuinely understood and supported while also being challenged to grow.”
LGBTQIA+, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders, Family issues
Challenging, Direct, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ruben Martinez

Ruben Martinez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I blend compassion with directness, reflection with practical tools, and evidence-based care with respect for your strengths, pace, and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Brooke Serrano

Brooke Serrano

Therapist

Virtual • California


“By using a client-centered approach, I focus on your individual goals and exactly what you want from therapy.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Energetic, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Nazar Flome

Nazar Flome

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Victorville, CA


“Integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and trauma-focused care, our work will go beyond temporary relief.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Sarina Grant

Sarina Grant

Therapist

Virtual • California


“By integrating Attachment Theory with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I help clients uncover the deeper patterns shaping their experiences, while also providing practical tools for day to day relief and growth.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Ava Martinez

Ava Martinez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal, as your therapist, is to work with you to create the roadmap to achieving a better quality of life.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Andrea James

Andrea James

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Montrose, CA


My expertise is in child and adolescent anxiety reduction, OCD, autism and ADHD. My goal is to provide education to kids and their parents about anxiety and related and co-occurring conditions. I also frequently treat phobias, separation anxiety, emotion regulation issues, school refusal, learning disabilities, trauma, giftedness and 2e.

I am also experienced in helping adults and children navigate issues related to divorce including coparenting, custody planning, divorce navigation from considering separation (discernment) through divorce mediation/proceedings to post judgment. I also have expertise in helping adults navigate post separation abuse, domestic violence and coercive control.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Jodi Tompkins

Dr. Jodi Tompkins

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • La Jolla, CA


“I provide a unique combination of psychotherapy and coaching that builds on individual strengths to improve personal, relational, professional, and family lives.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Matthew Bensadigh

Matthew Bensadigh

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“My approach to therapy includes working on cognition, beliefs, behaviors, sensory acuity, and knowledge to help get you to where you want to be.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Todd Ignat

Todd Ignat

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“Emotions are the basis of life, and I'm committed to helping my patients star in their own life, and letting their most cherished values take center stage, once again.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Energetic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Jonathan Villicana

Dr. Jonathan Villicana

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I firmly believe that every human being has an inner strength and an innate drive for personal growth and healing.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Andrew Vandernoot

Dr. Andrew Vandernoot

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“My training is from a psychodynamic perspective, offering insight-oriented therapy for adolescents, young adults, and adults seeking help beyond short-term solutions.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Rachel Jenkins Stevens

Rachel Jenkins Stevens

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm listening for feelings, themes, patterns, and especially experiences that haven't been articulated or spoken out loud yet.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Candy Taylor-Ceballos

Candy Taylor-Ceballos

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a Bilingual/Bicultural Latiné LCSW with over 12 years of experience working with adolescents, adults and families.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Danny Meza

Dr. Danny Meza

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I work to build an empowering and welcoming rapport with my patients, while also providing evidence-based psychotherapeutic interventions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Theresa Rodriguez

Theresa Rodriguez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My therapeutic approach is marked by compassion and directness, creating a non-judgmental and supportive environment that embraces individuals as they are.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 19 insurance carriers
Shara Ally

Shara Ally

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Luis Obispo, CA


“My clinical approach combines precision with partnership. I use measurement-based care, structured symptom tracking that guides our treatment adjustments and minimizes trial-and-error.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Nazare Magaz

Dr. Nazare Magaz

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Pasadena, CA


“My approach is collaborative, warm and creative, whereby we work together to understand you better and at a deeper level.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Michele Danao

Michele Danao

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a California-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist actively working in the field since 2019. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from San Jose State University and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Palo Alto University. I work with a wide range of Clients and diagnoses dealing with topics around coping with life changes, anxiety/stress, depression, mood, relationships, sex, trauma, anger, and harm (to name a few).

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Ben Savelli

Ben Savelli

Therapist

Virtual • Sacramento, CA


“I'm a late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD (AuDHD) man — I received my diagnosis in my 30s from a psychologist who is also self-disclosed autistic.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Christopher Schell

Christopher Schell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work with adult individuals who are ready to gain insight into their struggles and cultivate the confidence to create fulfilling, authentic lives through healthier relationships—with themselves and others.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Jennifer H Harris

Dr. Jennifer H Harris

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Solvang, CA


“My approach is real. I want to get to know you. I can't and won't start offering input until I get a bit of an understanding of who you are.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Grief or loss
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Sarina Sandoval

Sarina Sandoval

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to offer a steady, grounded, and completely pressure-free space where you don't have to censor your feelings, put on a brave face, or figure it all out on your own.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Kimmy Hunkle

Kimmy Hunkle

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Huntington Beach, CA


“I don't believe therapy should consist of spending years talking in circles while your life stays the same.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Jamie Plaxco

Jamie Plaxco

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Oakland, CA


Hi, I'm Jamie Plaxco, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for helping individuals find healing and balance in their mental health journey. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University, graduating summa cum laude, and have dedicated my career to providing compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care.

My areas of expertise include treating OCD, eating disorders, depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders. This breadth of experience has taught me to meet people where they are and tailor treatment to their unique needs.

Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with individuals facing serious mental illness, those in crisis situations, and people seeking preventive care and wellness optimization. My training at UCLA's Department of Neurology and Riverside County Department of Mental Health provided me with a strong foundation in both the neurological and psychological aspects of mental health. I understand that mental health challenges often have complex origins, and I explore all aspects of your wellbeing.

I believe in treating the whole person, not just symptoms, and I value building therapeutic relationships with my clients. I work with clients across the lifespan and take pride in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where we can collaborate on your path to wellness. My approach combines traditional psychiatric medication management with innovative, integrative treatments. Whether you're struggling with a long-standing condition, navigating a difficult transition, or facing new challenges, I'm here to support you with expertise, empathy, and evidence-based solutions. I stay current with the latest research and treatment modalities to provide you with the highest quality care. My practice is grounded in mutual respect and shared decision-making, ensuring your voice remains central throughout treatment. Together, we'll work toward lasting wellness.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Erin Costello

Erin Costello

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a space where clients can show up as their whole selves without feeling the need to mask, minimize, or explain away important parts of who they are.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Nicole Rose

Nicole Rose

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is direct yet compassionate. I use evidence-based practices like CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care while honoring each person's unique story.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Amy Shefftz

Amy Shefftz

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Oakland, CA


IMPORTANT: All clients must complete our intake form and sign our policies before their appointment. Please complete these documents at https://intakeq.com/new/6oakjo/lusjbb or contact us at 602-800-4699 (call or text). Please also email or text us a copy of your photo ID/driver's license at [email protected]

Hi, I'm Amy! As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide comprehensive, individualized care for complex mental health challenges. My expertise includes ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD and trauma, schizophrenia and psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, mood disorders, and bipolar conditions.

What sets my practice apart is my commitment to seeing each person as a unique individual with their own strengths, challenges, and goals. Whether you're seeking your first diagnosis, managing multiple conditions, or looking for a fresh perspective, I bring both clinical expertise and genuine empathy to every interaction. I work to address not just symptoms, but the whole person behind them.

I believe in collaborative care, where your voice and preferences guide our treatment decisions. My approach combines evidence-based psychiatric interventions with respect for your lived experience and personal values. I take time to listen, ask thoughtful questions, and ensure you feel heard and understood. Whether we're exploring medication options, developing coping strategies, or working through diagnostic questions, you'll always be an active partner in your care.

My goal is to help you thrive in daily life. Together, we'll work toward building resilience, improving functioning, and creating the meaningful life you deserve. I'm here to support you every step of the way. I create a safe, judgment-free environment where healing and growth are possible. Ready to begin? I'm currently accepting new patients.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Claudia Floros

Claudia Floros

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Diego, CA


“As a Latina attachment based therapist, I hold space for those navigating the complexity of identity, belonging, and connection.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Creative, Inquisitive
Accepts 4 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
Dr. Bella Weininger

Dr. Bella Weininger

Psychologist

Virtual • California


I'm a licensed psychologist who works with people who generally are holding it together in life, but feel stuck in certain areas. I believe that shame- this thing we all have- is what keeps us small, separate from others, and disconnected from our true selves.

What I bring to the room is warmth, directness and a true desire to understand all of you. I'm honest, not easily shocked, and I don't judge. I take your potential seriously, and I truly believe in the innate goodness and potential of all human beings- no matter where we have been or what we're holding on to.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Vincent Feitosa

Vincent Feitosa

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“In our sessions, you can expect a warm and non-judgmental space where we explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Dimas Moncada

Dimas Moncada

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I've developed the skills to help you (a) explore and identify the causes of your challenges and (b) develop an individualized plan that leads to measurable progress, the progress you seek.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Holistic, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lawrence Leung

Lawrence Leung

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in supporting immigrant/POC and LGBTQ+ teens and young adults dealing with depression and anxiety, relationship issues, and identity exploration.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 7 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
Kyle Tretter

Kyle Tretter

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“I have specialized training in providing culturally sensitive care for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
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
Elaine Godoy

Elaine Godoy

Therapist

Virtual • Orange, CA


“I take a down to earth and welcoming approach with all my clients. More than anything, I want all clients to feel safe and comfortable during their time with me.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Family issues, Grief or loss, Infertility
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

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

Number of therapists within 20 miles of Oakland, CA
There are over 28 therapists in Oakland, CA accepting new patients.
28+
Average years in practice
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12 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 100%Anxiety
  • 96%Stress management
  • 93%Depression
  • 89%Relationship issues
Insurances accepted
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  • 96%Aetna
  • 64%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 50%Providence Health Plan
  • 43%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 36%Curative
Languages spoken
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  • 93%English
  • 11%Spanish
  • 7%French
  • 4%German
  • 4%Hindi
How they see their clients
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  • 89%In-person or online
  • 11%In-person only
Provider gender
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  • 89%Woman
  • 7%Non-binary
  • 4%Man
License types
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  • 64%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 14%Clinical Psychologist
  • 14%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 4%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
  • 4%Nurse Practitioner
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 43%Child or adolescent therapy
  • 29%Family therapy
  • 18%Couples 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.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an LGBTQIA+ Therapist in Oakland

Finding LGBTQIA+ therapists in Oakland starts with looking for identity-affirming care that fits your needs. Many people search for support related to identity, relationships, family dynamics, anxiety, depression, trauma, or gender exploration. As you compare therapists, look for bios that mention affirmative therapy, gender-diverse experience, World Professional Association for Transgender Health training, or work with LGBTQIA+ communities. These details can help you find a therapist whose background matches the kind of support you want.

Oakland has a strong mental health care community, but the right fit may depend on more than location. You may want a therapist with an office near transit, a therapist who offers virtual sessions, or someone with evening availability. Virtual care can also expand access to affirming therapists across the Bay Area, including gender therapists, gay therapists near San Francisco, and therapists of color in the Bay Area. Before booking, read each profile for signals about communication style, listed specialties, availability, and whether a free phone consultation is offered.

Therapy in Oakland can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and make ongoing care easier to plan for. Headway helps you compare LGBTQIA+-affirming therapists who are accepting new patients, review estimated out-of-pocket costs before booking, and choose between in-person and virtual appointments. You can browse therapist bios, check insurance fit, and book directly when you’re ready.

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