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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.

Dr. Cristina Antonucci

Dr. Cristina Antonucci

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • San Diego, CA


“I offer a trauma-informed, attachment centered approach, grounded in curiosity, authenticity and genuine human connection.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Funmi Igbinigie

Funmi Igbinigie

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard, respected, and empowered throughout your mental health journey.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 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 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Saeromi Kim

Dr. Saeromi Kim

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I see my greatest strength as my ability to easily connect with many different kinds of people, develop trust and rapport, and upon this foundation, build positive working relationships that promote healing.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Brian Campany

Brian Campany

Therapist

Virtual • California


I truly believe we are all connected in some way. Systemically, there are many ways to improve the way we relate to our own self, and with others. My philosophy is when I improve, everyone else around me improves. My own experiences have informed the way I approach problems and seek solutions, with the goal of being happier and performing better. Throughout my life, I’ve been in the service of others. I am a US Army Veteran and have many years experience training/development of others.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Marcus Davis

Marcus Davis

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe every person—and every couple—has inherent resilience and untapped resources, even in the midst of overwhelming challenges.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Brannon La Force

Brannon La Force

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have been a counselor for more than 30 years. I remain passionate about making a difference in the lives of others and believe that genuine caring is an essential element to an effective counseling relationship. Over the years I have worked with clients with significant trauma and loss. I consider it a privilege to stand with another individual as he or she resolves great pain. I specialize in treating clients with trauma, relationship issues, and borderline personality disorder.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Family issues, Grief or loss
Creative, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Antonio Shallowhorn

Antonio Shallowhorn

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is warm, direct, and collaborative. I will integrate CBT and other evidence-based strategies to explore the patterns, experiences, and beliefs that shape how you relate to yourself and others.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Lauren Hanson

Lauren Hanson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Using evidence-based tools like Narrative and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, along with creative Art Therapy interventions, I help you disrupt old thought patterns and reclaim your narrative.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, End of life care, Family issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Stacy Heiser

Stacy Heiser

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in working with individuals navigating ADHD, shame, stigma, and transgenerational trauma.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Identity issues
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Desiree De Leon

Desiree De Leon

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and identity exploration, with a deep commitment to supporting women's experiences, including infertility, pregnancy, and postpartum.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Natalie Demus

Natalie Demus

Therapist

Virtual • California


If you have been carrying stress, anxiety, or the weight of life's challenges for a long time, you may have wondered whether things can actually change. I believe they can.

I am a licensed clinical social worker in California with over 30 years of clinical experience working with adults, families, and communities. I am bilingual in English and Spanish, and I welcome clients from all cultural backgrounds. My work spans a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, trauma, and substance use recovery.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sonya Adams

Sonya Adams

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that a strong therapeutic alliance between a client and their therapist is key to success in therapy.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Sofia Alonso Baez

Sofia Alonso Baez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I bring both professionalism and authenticity to my work and feel deeply honored to walk alongside clients through periods of transition, healing, and growth.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Zoot Sax

Zoot Sax

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Clients often describe me as someone who helps them feel genuinely accepted, free to show up as their full selves, whoever that may be.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Alex Honigman

Alex Honigman

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I want clients I work with to feel empowered, grounded and have a greater understanding of themselves and the healthy pathways that lead to a meaningful life aligned to their value set.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Andrea Gomar Padilla

Andrea Gomar Padilla

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to provide a supportive space where both children and caregivers feel understood, empowered, and equipped with tools to create meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Renee EB-Walton

Renee EB-Walton

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My training enables me to facilitate personal growth and self-discovery, helping individuals access their inner resources to overcome challenges and reduce suffering.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Inquisitive, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Steffan Weiner

Steffan Weiner

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach is integrative, trauma-informed, and tailored to the individual — shaped by the understanding that no two people experience the same condition in exactly the same way.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Stuart Brugman

Stuart Brugman

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello there. Thanks for checking out my profile.

I don't know what brings you to this tiny nook of the internet, on this particular day, but I am grateful and very curious to hear.

As a therapist, I've worked with adolescents and adults for over a decade; sharing in their challenges, connecting in laughter and kindness.

It would be my joy to learn your story and meet you with warmth, humor, and sincerity.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jose Carranza

Jose Carranza

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi there, my name is Jose Carranza, LFMT, maneuvering through life and work with thoughtful intention and an open heart. I have approximately a decade of experience working in the mental health field and about 5 years practicing as a therapist. I'm certified in Trauma-Focused CBT and have lengthy experience working with mood, behavioral, and developmental disorders.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Jacquelyn Rabouin

Dr. Jacquelyn Rabouin

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in supporting diverse populations through depression, anxiety, sexual and historical trauma, and chronic pain.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Alex Bailey

Alex Bailey

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, 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+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Chioma Ahaiwe

Dr. Chioma Ahaiwe

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Riverside, CA


“We listen, empathize and acknowledge your concerns. We utilize biopsychosocial model in all our assessments, evaluations and evidence-based practice for a better patient outcome.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Patricia Riley

Patricia Riley

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe in each individual's right to self determination. Life can have multiple challenges, but with a thoughtful approaches it can reduce the power over us the challenges can have.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Candice Jeffers

Candice Jeffers

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Oakland, CA


I'm Candice Jeffers, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an unusual background—I spent nearly a decade in cardiovascular critical care before dedicating myself to mental health. That ICU experience taught me something crucial: psychiatric crises deserve the same urgency, expertise, and unwavering support as any cardiac emergency.

For nine years at Ascension Seton Medical Center's Cardiovascular ICU, I supervised teams through impossible situations. I learned to stay steady when everything felt uncertain, to read the subtle signs others might miss, and to offer hope when families needed it most. Those years shaped how I practice psychiatry today—with precision, presence, and profound respect for what you're facing.

I completed my Master of Science in Nursing at University of South Alabama in 2024, immersing myself in over 600 clinical hours spanning outpatient clinics, inpatient psychiatry, and crisis intervention. My pediatric nursing background adds another layer—I understand how early experiences shape us and how differently mental health shows up across ages.

My practice centers on thorough psychiatric evaluations, personalized medication management, and crisis intervention for all ages. I specialize in suicide risk assessment, trauma-informed approaches, and evidence-based treatments that actually fit into real lives. I'm MOUD-trained and licensed for telehealth in Texas, California, Arizona, and Florida.

Here's what matters most: I approach mental health as someone who's held space for both miracles and heartbreak. I know seeking help requires tremendous courage. I know healing rarely follows a straight line. And I know you need a provider who won't flinch, no matter what you share. My work blends critical care decisiveness with deep compassion—because you deserve both.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Scott Ivey

Dr. Scott Ivey

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“During sessions, I prioritize listening to you approximately 80% of the time and provide feedback on the remaining 20%.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Men's issues
Affirming, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Kai Chuang

Dr. Kai Chuang

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“As an Asian American therapist, I value identity, culture, and lived experience as essential pieces of healing.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Alexander Graham

Alexander Graham

Therapist

Virtual • San Francisco, CA


I specialize in supporting people who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, trauma, life transitions and much more. I have extensive experience working with high acuity teens, and I also work with adults of all ages who are navigating imbalance, self-acceptance uncertainty, or emotional overload. I support parents who need guidance in understanding their child’s needs or simply a calm place to process their own feelings. No matter your age or background, if you are struggling to find balance and peace in life, I am here to help.

My approach begins with the belief that life poses great challenges for all of us. Through these challenges, we develop adaptive patterns that may help us survive but can also bring disharmony. I aim to help you bring awareness to these patterns, loosen their grip, and reshape them so you can find greater balance and harmony in your relationship with yourself, others, and the world.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Christina Stelly

Christina Stelly

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bakersfield, CA


IMPORTANT: For current availability, visit https://mentalhealthpractitioners.com/ or call or text us anytime at 415-968-6515—we make it super easy! Intake forms are required before your first appointment and will be emailed to you when you book online. You can text us your info or email us at [email protected]. Please be sure to send us a picture of your insurance information and photo ID!

Hi! I'm Christina Stelly, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC — a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Martinez, CA. With over 15 years of clinical experience across inpatient psychiatry, maternal health, and advanced practice, I am deeply committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to every person I serve.

I specialize in treating schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, anxiety, etc.

My academic background includes a Post-Certificate DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Illinois Chicago, a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Texas Tech University, and a Master of Science in Nursing from Touro University. I also completed an intensive NP residency focused on advanced psychiatric care, crisis stabilization, and forensic psychiatry, which further strengthened my clinical expertise.

Earlier in my career, I specialized in maternal mental health, serving as a Patient Care Director for high-risk obstetric populations and contributing to perinatal mental health policy at the state and national levels. This background gives me a uniquely broad, whole-person perspective on psychiatric care across the lifespan.

My approach is grounded in trauma-informed, individualized care. I take time to fully understand your history, concerns, and goals before collaboratively building a treatment plan tailored to you. I have also served on health policy committees and presented at national nursing conferences, reflecting my commitment to psychiatric care.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Holly Shannon

Holly Shannon

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Oakland, CA


“I'm particularly skilled at understanding how trauma shapes mental health, how personality patterns develop as coping mechanisms, and how conditions like OCD can complicate other presentations.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Robert Kilgore

Robert Kilgore

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Understanding, listening, and proving feedback on one's perspectives that hinders their happiness can open unforeseen possibilities for fulfillment.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
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 4 insurance carriers
Dr. Alex Lapinski

Dr. Alex Lapinski

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in supporting adults navigating challenges with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, particularly those whose self-worth has been impacted by emotionally immature, mentally ill, or personality-disordered parents and family.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Zohal Parsa

Zohal Parsa

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide a warm, structured, and down-to-earth approach that's both compassionate and results-oriented.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Dr. Michelle Stevens

Dr. Michelle Stevens

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“My greatest gift as a therapist is optimism. No matter how bad things may currently seem, I know my clients can overcome obstacles, process pain, and move on to happier, healthier, more purposeful lives.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
William Hernandez

William Hernandez

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“Working together is a reflective and collaborative process that attends to both symptoms and the deeper patterns that shape your emotional life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Creative, Holistic
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. KC Uwakwe

Dr. KC Uwakwe

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Francisco, CA


“I am dedicated to holistic care by fostering trust through active listening, open communication, and empathy.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Matthew Paden

Matthew Paden

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Matthew is also an end-of-life doula and a Certified HeartMath® trainer, integrating mindfulness, emotional regulation, and compassionate presence into his work.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Direct, Humorous, 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

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, CA

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.

Find a provider - your way

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