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LGBT therapists in Pasadena, CA

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People with insurance pay as low as $0 per session through Headway

Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Pasadena, CA

Pasadena's LGBTQIA+ community deserves mental healthcare from providers who understand their unique experiences. Headway offers talk therapy and medication management with 2,628 licensed providers, accepting 70+ insurance plans nationally with copays typically ranging from $0 to moderate amounts.

Katelyn Franza

Katelyn Franza

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy is a partnership, where we work together to identify your goals, navigate challenges, and create meaningful change in your life.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Challenging, Direct, Humorous
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Meghan Holland

Meghan Holland

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide a supportive, compassionate, empathic approach by listening to the client and providing feedback that can help the client improve their quality of life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 12 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
Lauren Bittner

Lauren Bittner

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Jose, CA


“I work with adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, identity, and the complex terrain of relationships and life transitions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 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
Jesse Nova

Jesse Nova

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to not only make you feel well and be well but to help find your inner strength and thrive in all aspects of life.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Patti Dengler

Patti Dengler

Therapist

Virtual • Westlake Village, CA


“I help people find answers to the questions in their lives and grow personally, professionally and in relationships.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sam Zia

Sam Zia

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am an AASECT-trained Sex Therapist. I have an MA in Clinical Psychology, and am a PhD Candidate in Human Sexuality.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Brian Abell

Brian Abell

Therapist

Virtual • Sacramento, CA


“You will take away a variety of insights and skills that will allow you to reduce the frequency, intensity, and duration of the symptoms or struggles you have sought therapy for.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Shanise Lewis

Shanise Lewis

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I aim to collaborate with you through a non-directive approach while being directive based on your need within your session.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. David Shepard

Dr. David Shepard

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“Every session I strive to create a safe space for clients to feel seen, heard, understood, respected and supported.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Hannah Morrison

Hannah Morrison

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Luis Obispo, CA


In addition to my work as a licensed therapist, I have over 15 years of experience supporting children, adults, couples, and families in a variety of mental health and community settings. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with teens, adults, couples, and families navigating trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, and the lasting impact of childhood experiences. My passion is helping cycle breakers heal old wounds, build healthier relationships, and create lives that feel more connected, intentional, and authentic.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kristina Shippey

Kristina Shippey

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Luis Obispo, CA


As a therapist, I am passionate about walking alongside folks as they reveal their truths and vulnerabilities to themselves. I believe, and have witnessed that people are capable of long standing change with knowledge, support, and connection, and that therapy is a great place for that. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, feel safe, gain confidence, and live a more joyful and purposeful life. I use cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, and strength-based techniques, while never ignoring the human element and connection where the real change happens.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Elizabeth Hinojosa

Elizabeth Hinojosa

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Liz's philosophy as a healer and alchemist is to honor each experience entrusted to her by offering a nonjudgemental space filled with empathy, compassion and sense of humor.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Melissa McManis

Melissa McManis

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in both evidence-based practices and deep respect for each client's unique journey.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michleen Mickel

Michleen Mickel

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe you are the expert in your own life and I hope to honor your experience by walking alongside you.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lorrie Herzberg

Lorrie Herzberg

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work as a companion and guide, offering direct, respectful, and non-judgmental support to help clients navigate challenges such as grief, trauma, serious illness, life transitions, and personal growth.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Bonnie Gordon

Bonnie Gordon

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work collaboratively with clients, and firmly believe that clients are the experts on their own lived experience.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Emma Bailey

Emma Bailey

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that people are the experts in their lives and my job is to partner with you in moving towards how you would like to be living.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Paula Rosenfeld

Paula Rosenfeld

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am the the kind of clinician who will utilize real life references and examples of how the interventions work, I am transparent, non judgmental and will share with you the exact intent of my interventions.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Diabetes
Creative, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Tracy Bagatelle-Black

Tracy Bagatelle-Black

Therapist

Virtual • Santa Clarita, CA


“I rely on warmth and a bit of humor to help build trust and make the therapeutic space feel more human and approachable.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Spencer MacDonald

Spencer MacDonald

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm Spencer, a licensed marriage and family therapist who specializes in men's issues, teens, couples and families.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Inquisitive, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 2 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
Jennifer Vosacek

Jennifer Vosacek

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Diego, CA


“I create an environment where you can face your discomfort without judgment. You will be able to work through your deepest fears, biggest traumas, and hardest decisions in my office.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Brett Bauer

Brett Bauer

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe in working together to achieve your goals. In life, you often have people telling you where to go or what to do, but my job is to help you understand where you want to go and what you want to do.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Krista Gerdts

Krista Gerdts

Therapist

Virtual • Santa Monica, CA


“My style is warm, engaged, and genuinely curious — if you're ready to stop going through the motions and start actually feeling like yourself again, I'd love to work with you.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Rachel Howard

Rachel Howard

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello! I am Registered Yoga Teacher, Clinical Supervisor & Consultant, as well as a Certified Focusing-Oriented Expressive Arts Practitioner.

I have almost a decade of experience working with children, adults, couples, and families in a therapeutic capacity. I specialize in trauma and family work. I am an integrative psychotherapist – integrating art therapy, play therapy, sand tray, mindfulness, astrology, spirituality, and more into therapy.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Danielle Williamson

Danielle Williamson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I bring a warm, empathetic, and often humorous style to therapy, and I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative partnership rather than a hierarchy.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Jiaxi (Jessie) Shao

Jiaxi (Jessie) Shao

Therapist

Virtual • California


Welcome and thank you for taking the time to learn more about me. As a licensed therapist practicing in both California and New York, I believe deeply in the inherent resilience and transformative potential within every individual. I earned my Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Teachers College, Columbia University. Throughout my clinical practice, I have supported clients across all life stages in navigating complex emotional challenges, including trauma, anxiety, and depression, while empowering them to cultivate healthy, fulfilling interpersonal relationships.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Bryan Strycula

Bryan Strycula

Therapist

Virtual • Rancho Cucamonga, CA


“My therapeutic approach is client centered, collaborative, and eclectic consisting of a wide array of theoretical orientations and modalities to suit your needs.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Makenzie Gilliam

Makenzie Gilliam

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Through empathy and honesty, I strive to make each session a safe space where my clients have the opportunity to feel heard and to cultivate hope.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Cecilia Hanono

Cecilia Hanono

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and client-centered. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel truly heard and supported.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Danielle Rhinesmith

Danielle Rhinesmith

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello! My name is Danielle, and I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for over 10 years. Too often, we can become overwhelmed by the pressures of life, and that is where therapy can help. It may be time to prioritize your own mental health, and coming here is an important first step. I’m proud of you for taking it.

I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, family issues, LGBTQIA+ concerns, relationship challenges, PTSD, stress, grief and loss, ADHD, anger, substance use, and major life transitions. My focus in treatment is helping you feel supported while we better understand what you are carrying and what you hope will change. Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, your relationship, or your family, I look forward to meeting you and helping you move toward healing and growth.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Carole Cassidy

Carole Cassidy

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I offer a compassionate ear, and a willingness to truly listen in order to understand fully what you are experiencing.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Mariam Esfahani

Dr. Mariam Esfahani

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m Dr. Mariam Esfahani, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a Doctorate in Psychology. With nearly two decades of experience, I have dedicated my career to helping adolescents and adults navigate trauma, anxiety, and life transitions. I also specialize in couples therapy, guiding partners toward healthier communication, connection, and conflict resolution.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Joseph Krimple

Joseph Krimple

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I enjoy taking a holistic and integrative approach to treatment, incorporating different treatment techniques and modalities, and working collaboratively with individuals to develop the most positive outcomes.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Brenda Guadalupe

Brenda Guadalupe

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide therapy in English and Spanish, work with the Latino community, POC and the LGBTQ+ community.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Aviele Bolado

Aviele Bolado

Therapist

Virtual • California


I provide care for all adult individuals who are seeking support in both traditional psychotherapy and sex therapy services. Whether it's anxiety, trauma, or day-to-day stressors, therapy can be a great resource. Ever feel like your experiences have control over you, and not the other way around? You're not alone! I provide a supportive and encouraging session environment that allows clients to regain and create their self-autonomy. I value providing a non-judgmental and respectful environment in each session.

I strongly value how my multicultural identities can further assist my support for clients. I am a Marine wife, mother of two, kink-friendly, and more. I also have experience supporting clients through a range of experiences, from day-to-day stress to significant life transitions. Join now, and let's continue to nurture community, connection, and support!

I strive to ensure the unique support and encouragement each client needs is provided in each session. Open, honest, and collaborative communication is valued between my clients and me. I have strong values around a non-judgmental session structure. Adding a therapist to your team can be very rewarding, supportive, and encouraging.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sabrina Griswold

Sabrina Griswold

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is warm, conversational, and down-to-earth. I'm not the kind of therapist who will sit silently and nod for an hour.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Meredith Banos

Meredith Banos

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal as your therapist is to find a balance between being encouraging, kind and supportive, and challenging you to grow and make the changes necessary to achieve your goals.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Stress management, Women's issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

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

Number of therapists within 20 miles of Pasadena, CA
There are over 51 therapists in Pasadena, CA accepting new patients.
51+
Average years in practice
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10 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 96%Relationship issues
  • 94%Depression
  • 86%Stress management
Insurances accepted
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  • 100%Aetna
  • 71%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 57%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 43%Providence Health Plan
  • 41%Cigna
Languages spoken
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  • 96%English
  • 20%Spanish
  • 4%Armenian
  • 2%Hebrew
  • 2%Portuguese
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 100%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 49%Woman
  • 47%Man
  • 4%Non-binary
License types
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  • 51%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 27%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 10%Clinical Psychologist
  • 8%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
  • 4%Nurse Practitioner
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 43%Family therapy
  • 22%Child or adolescent therapy
  • 22%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 a LGBTQIA+ Therapist in Pasadena

Finding LGBTQIA+ therapists in Pasadena starts with identity-affirming care. Look for a therapist who clearly describes experience with LGBTQIA+ people, including affirmative therapy, gender-diverse care, WPATH training, or related support for identity, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship concerns. A therapist’s listed specialties, training, and approach can help you understand whether their experience matches what you want to discuss in care.

Pasadena is close to larger Los Angeles mental health networks, but affirming therapists with current openings may still be limited in a smaller local market. Virtual appointments can expand your options beyond a nearby office while keeping care accessible from home. As you compare therapists, consider availability, whether they offer free phone consultations, and whether their bio explicitly names LGBTQIA+ populations. Bios can also give you a clearer sense of communication style, therapeutic approach, and what a first session may include.

Therapy in Pasadena can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and understand what you may pay before booking. Headway helps you find LGBTQIA+-affirming therapists who accept a wide range of insurance plans, many of whom are accepting new patients, and offer clear profiles, upfront cost estimates, and direct booking 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.