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LGBT therapists in San Francisco, CA


Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA
Find affirming mental health support in San Francisco with 2,636 licensed providers who understand LGBTQIA+ experiences. Access therapy virtually or in-person, with many sessions covered by insurance at reduced costs.
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.
My patients can expect me to be warm, empathetic, and genuinely interested in their story. I take time to understand not just current struggles, but also personal history and experiences that have shaped who they are. I believe that mental health is deeply connected to overall health, and treating psychiatric conditions can positively impact all areas of life. I work with all patients and conditions, and I always meet people where they are. If someone isn’t ready for medications, I fully support their choice and will be there to provide guidance, education, and care until the time feels right for them. Above all, I listen, I value each person’s perspective, and I aim to create a safe space where patients feel truly heard.
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.
I work with all ages and I'm trained in trauma based therapies such as CBT, DBT, and EMDR. I offer individual therapy using attachment based therapies, solution-focused brief therapy, and Gestalt self-compassion techniques. I'm not currently offering couples counseling except through private pay. I have worked with foster youth, caregivers, families, LGBTQ, and veterans. I have found my work to be professionally rewarding by assisting people in reaching their goals. I’m committed to meeting your needs and learning.
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.
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.
Hello! I'm Amanda Long, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to serving families through compassionate, culturally sensitive mental health care. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and have been practicing as a PMHNP since 2019, with over a decade of nursing experience beginning in 2011. My educational foundation also includes a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Illinois in Springfield, which broadened my understanding of human behavior and community dynamics. My journey in mental health has taken me through diverse settings that have shaped my comprehensive approach to care. I've worked in psychiatric emergency services at a major hospital, 23-hour crisis stabilization units, outpatient clinics, correctional facilities, and forensic mental health centers, including fitness-to-stand-trial evaluations. This varied experience has equipped me to understand mental health from multiple perspectives and meet people wherever they are in their journey, whether they're facing an acute crisis or seeking ongoing support. I specialize in medication management for individuals across the lifespan—from children and adolescents to adults and older adults. My treatment areas include depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, trauma-related conditions, psychotic disorders, and other mental health concerns. I'm experienced in both telehealth and in-person care, making quality psychiatric services accessible and convenient for your lifestyle. What drives me is the belief that everyone deserves competent, caring mental health support that honors their unique background and circumstances. I'm committed to improving the communities I serve, one individual and family at a time, through evidence-based practice combined with genuine human connection. My approach centers on partnership and creating a safe environment for healing. I look forward to supporting you and your family's wellness journey.
Dr. Clancy Cavnar is a licensed psychologist with specializations in addictions and psychedelic therapy. She has worked with a wide variety of people and with a broad range of diagnoses and life situations that therapy can help with. She offers a comprehensive assessment and treatment focused on a client’s individual needs. Dr. Cavnar is empathic and compassionate, and therapy with her is an exchange of ideas, with deep listening and non-judgmental acceptance.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by anxiety, depression, self-doubt, or past experiences? Moving forward can feel difficult when emotional pain, relationship struggles, or life stress leave you feeling trapped or uncertain.You do not have to face these challenges alone. I provide a compassionate, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where we can work together to help you heal, grow, and regain confidence. I believe your worth is not defined by your past or your struggles. Together, we will explore practical tools and strategies to help you create meaningful change and move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists located within 20 miles of San Francisco, CA



- 100%LGBTQIA+
- 100%Anxiety
- 96%Stress management
- 92%Relationship issues
- 92%Depression

- 96%Aetna
- 67%Anthem Blue Cross California
- 54%Providence Health Plan
- 38%Carelon Behavioral Health
- 33%United Healthcare

- 96%English
- 8%French
- 8%Spanish
- 4%German
- 4%Romanian

- 88%In-person or online
- 13%In-person only

- 88%Woman
- 8%Non-binary
- 4%Man

- 63%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
- 17%Clinical Psychologist
- 13%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
- 4%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
- 4%Nurse Practitioner

- 100%Individual therapy
- 46%Child or adolescent therapy
- 29%Family therapy
- 21%Couples therapy
Frequently asked questions


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 San Francisco
Looking for LGBTQIA therapists in San Francisco starts with finding care that is identity-affirming and aligned with your needs. Many people search for support related to identity, relationships, family conflict, anxiety, depression, or life changes. As you compare therapists, look for profiles that mention LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy, affirmative therapy, gender-diverse experience, or World Professional Association for Transgender Health training. This can help you find someone with relevant experience, not just general familiarity.
San Francisco has many therapists across neighborhoods like the Castro, Mission, SoMa, and the Richmond, which can make it harder to narrow your options. In-person care may work well if you want an office near work, home, or public transit. Virtual sessions can expand your search across California, especially if you want a therapist with specific experience in bisexual therapy, lesbian therapy, LGBTQIA+ couples therapy, or gender-affirming support. Read therapist bios before booking to see how they describe their approach, who they work with, and whether they offer a free phone consultation.
Therapy in San Francisco 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 search for LGBTQIA+ therapists who are accepting new patients, compare availability, review detailed profiles, and see your estimated out-of-pocket cost before booking. You can browse therapists, check fit, and book directly when you’re ready.
If you're experiencing or worried about violence, threats, or coercion in your relationship, couples therapy isn't usually the right starting point — individual support is safer. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233, or text START to 88788\) can help you think through next steps.
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