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LGBT therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in San Luis Obispo, CA

Headway connects LGBTQIA individuals in San Luis Obispo with 2,474 licensed providers who offer affirming, open-minded mental health support. Our network includes empowering therapists experienced in gender identity, sexual orientation, and relationship concerns. Sessions are available virtually or in-person, with many providers offering free consultations to help you find the right fit.

Timothy Malone

Timothy Malone

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • <1 mi away • San Luis Obispo, CA


“I am told I have a calming presence by my clients, which allows me to challenge them and be direct, without being intimidating.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Hannah Morrison

Hannah Morrison

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • <1 mi away • 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 • <1 mi away • 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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Paterese Reynolds

Paterese Reynolds

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 13 mi away • Atascadero, CA


“I provide a safe and confidential space for you to explore your worries, wants and needs, and more importantly, identify the barriers to change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 15 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Misty Steffen

Misty Steffen

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Rafael, CA


“I believe in treating each person as a whole, drawing on both conventional and holistic lenses to build a collaborative path that honors your unique story and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
DeRoy Obilor

DeRoy Obilor

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach is founded on holistic and patient-centered concepts, resulting in a collaborative alliance that values trust and open communication.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Shara Ally

Shara Ally

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Luis Obispo, CA


“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
Funmi Igbinigie

Funmi Igbinigie

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My goal is to create a warm, compassionate, and judgment-free space where you feel heard, respected, and supported.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Nicole Santos

Nicole Santos

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I have over 15+ years experience as a nurse working in various departments, working hands on with patients, as well as leadership and management roles.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Holly Shannon

Holly Shannon

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“My goal isn't to "fix" you—you're not broken. Instead, I'm here to help you understand your conditions, develop effective coping strategies, and build the fulfilling life you deserve.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Jennifer Eastman

Jennifer Eastman

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“I provide comprehensive care for the full spectrum of complex psychiatric conditions, including ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, OCD, personality disorders, PTSD and trauma, schizophrenia and psychosis disorders, substance use disorders, depression,...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Chioma Igwiloh

Dr. Chioma Igwiloh

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“My style is calm, respectful, and practical, focusing on measurable progress and long-term stability.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Kai Chuang

Dr. Kai Chuang

Psychologist

Virtual • California


I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and high performers—including Division I athletes, professionals, and anyone striving to meet high expectations. In my work, I’ve learned that growth happens at the edge of comfort—where support and challenge meet. My clients often tell me they appreciate my ability to be both direct and deeply compassionate, creating a space where they feel seen, understood, and encouraged to move forward.


Born in Taiwan, raised in Southern California, and trained in San Francisco and New Mexico, I bring a blend of cultural humility, life experience, and professional training into every session. As an Asian American therapist, I value identity, culture, and lived experience as essential pieces of healing. I aim to create a space where you can show up as your real self—without judgment, without masks.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
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
Gretchen Genato

Gretchen Genato

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My hope is that each session leaves clients feeling understood, supported, and empowered with tools to manage challenges and build lasting wellness.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Margarita Batten

Margarita Batten

Therapist

Virtual • California


Welcome! As a bilingual licensed therapist, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges by providing emotional support and personalized coping tools. Whether you’re taking your first step into therapy or continuing a journey you’ve been on before, I’m committed to creating a safe space where all of your feelings and life experiences are welcome.

I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and work with the Spanish-speaking and LGBTQ community as well.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sherri Crespin

Sherri Crespin

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Beverly Hills, CA


“I make it a priority to learn about your background, your present difficulties, your strengths, your values, any concerns you have about treatment, and your hopes for the future.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Saby Kirpal

Saby Kirpal

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


I'm Saby Kirpal, a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. I hold Master's degrees from Chamberlain University and Walden University, graduating with Presidential Honors, reflecting my commitment to clinical excellence. My diverse professional background spans inpatient psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment centers, and outpatient clinics, giving me insight into mental health treatment at every level of care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorders, eating disorders, schizophrenia/psychosis, and substance use disorders across age groups. My experience includes working with children as young as eight through adults in crisis stabilization, residential treatment, and ongoing medication management. As Associate Director of Nursing, I've provided clinical oversight across multiple facilities while maintaining patient care, keeping me grounded in real-world challenges.

What makes my practice unique is the integration of my nursing background with psychiatric expertise. I understand how physical health, medications, lifestyle factors, and mental health interconnect. Being trilingual in English, Hindi, and Punjabi, with conversational Spanish, allows me to serve diverse communities and appreciate how culture shapes mental health experiences.

I've worked from UCSF Health to community clinics, teaching me that excellent care isn't about the setting—it's about the relationship. Whether you're seeking help for the first time, between providers, or managing ongoing conditions, I'm here to partner with you. My approach centers on listening first, explaining clearly, and making decisions together. Mental health treatment should never feel like something done to you, but rather something we navigate together. I'm committed to creating a space where you feel respected, understood, and genuinely supported.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Shara Ally

Shara Ally

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“She uses measurement-based care—structured symptom tracking—to guide adjustments and reduce trial-and-error.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Loc Vu

Loc Vu

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is collaborative and practical. We'll work on two tracks at the same time: (1) immediate tools to reduce distress and improve day-to-day functioning (stress, mood, sleep, boundaries, communication), and (2) deeper pattern work so the...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Identity issues
Empowering, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Amanda Doty

Amanda Doty

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Carmichael, CA


I offer individual psychotherapy for adults healing from trauma, and working to

have a different relationship with others, themselves, their bodies, and food.

Located in Sacramento, California, I offer a combination of individual and group

sessions in addition to telehealth throughout California. My work is person-

centered, grounded in warmth, curiosity, and respect for everyone’s unique

story. Whether you are navigating eating disorder recovery, body image distress,

trauma, or identity exploration, therapy can be a place to gently make sense of

what feels overwhelming.

As a trauma-informed and trauma-trained therapist, I believe healing happens

not only through insight, but through felt experience. Together, I will support

you in learning how safety, connection, and regulation can live in the body again.

I specialize in working with adults and queer individuals navigating trauma,

eating disorder recovery, and body image distress.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Eating disorders, Identity issues, PTSD
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ray Tse

Ray Tse

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I place a strong emphasis on creating a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel comfortable discussing their concerns while also working toward practical and meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Young Tae Lee

Young Tae Lee

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bakersfield, CA


“My passion for mental health care ignited while working with the homeless population in Durham, North Carolina.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Akira Olsen

Dr. Akira Olsen

Psychologist

Virtual • Burlingame, CA


“Her therapeutic approach is rooted in psychodynamic principles, while also integrating evidence-based practices.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
C. Eric Erlenbush

C. Eric Erlenbush

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I use practical, evidence-based tools to help reduce anxiety and stress through structured, collaborative work rather than talk alone.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Pierre Yeremia

Pierre Yeremia

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I'm compassionate, relatable, and a good listener who wants you to feel genuinely understood not rushed or reduced to a diagnosis.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Luis Moreno

Luis Moreno

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am committed to creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their concerns.”
LGBTQIA+, Cultural & ethnic issues, Eating disorders, End of life care, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Len Ray

Len Ray

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will encourage and support our dialog and treatment plan(s) to meet your unique and specific needs.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Grief or loss
Direct, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sarai Velasquez

Sarai Velasquez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a supportive, collaborative space where you can feel heard and empowered to make meaningful changes.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Holly Shannon

Holly Shannon

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • East Palo Alto, CA


“My work taught me that women's mental health—especially during pregnancy, postpartum, and hormonal transitions—requires specialized understanding and individualized care.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Jennifer Eastman

Jennifer Eastman

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bakersfield, CA


“I see you as a complete individual rather than a set of symptoms. My care pairs medical knowledge with sincere compassion and deep respect for the path you are on.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Carolina Morales

Carolina Morales

Therapist

Virtual • Victorville, CA


“I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with ten years of experience working with children, teens, adults, and older adults struggling with ADHD, anxiety, and depression.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Rhonda Sloan

Rhonda Sloan

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is collaborative, strength-based and rooted in the belief that you already carry the resources you need - sometimes we just need to uncover them together.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Erica Sandoval

Erica Sandoval

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have over 7 years of experience working with depression and anxiety disorders, trauma, couples, and other severe mental health concerns. My goal is to create a comfortable, safe space where you can begin your therapeutic journey with confidence and without judgment. Together, we can openly explore what you want in—and out of—life. If you don't know what that looks like yet, that's okay. We can figure it out together. Your goals may also change along the way, and therapy should have the flexibility to change with you.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Bailey Borup

Bailey Borup

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm a compassionate, client-centered therapist who believes therapy should be a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and accepted.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Soraya Behbehani

Soraya Behbehani

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Diego, CA


“I create a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your inner world and reconnect with your natural capacity for healing.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Participatory
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Dean Wright

Dean Wright

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I come with an existentialist approach to the therapeutic room which means I am trying to help my clients find meaning in the change they seek.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Challenging, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Leanna Robinson

Leanna Robinson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My hope is that therapy can be a space where you can truly take care of yourself, build confidence, become the truest version of yourself, and reach your goals on your terms.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Richard Gottschalk

Richard Gottschalk

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I meet clients where they are at without judgment, listen and understand their truth, and collaborate with them on problem solving and goals that they want to work on.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Maddie Asghari

Maddie Asghari

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Fresno, CA


“I specialize in complex presentations because mental health exists within your entire life experience, relationships, cultural background, and personal history.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA

Number of therapists serving San Luis Obispo, CA
There are over 2,488 therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA accepting new patients.
2,488+
Average years in practice
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9 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 94%Depression
  • 90%Stress management
  • 86%Trauma
Insurances accepted
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  • 98%Aetna
  • 75%Cigna
  • 75%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 74%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 64%Blue Shield of California
Languages spoken
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  • 97%English
  • 16%Spanish
  • 2%Farsi
  • 1%Mandarin
  • 1%French
How they see their clients
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  • 90%Online only
  • 10%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 73%Woman
  • 24%Man
  • 3%Non-binary
License types
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  • 45%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 29%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 10%Nurse Practitioner
  • 8%Clinical Psychologist
  • 7%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 40%Family therapy
  • 27%Couples therapy
  • 17%Child or adolescent 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.

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