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LGBT therapists in San Mateo, CA

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

Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in San Mateo, CA

Finding an LGBTQIA+-affirming therapist in San Mateo is easier with Headway. Our diverse provider network includes specialists experienced in supporting gender identity, sexual orientation, and related mental health concerns. Sessions are flexible, affordable with insurance, and providers often have immediate availability.

Dr. Ryan Stevenson

Dr. Ryan Stevenson

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I view my role as helping support the inner wisdom and innate healing abilities of those I work with.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Sabrina Shammas

Sabrina Shammas

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Chula Vista, CA


“My belief is that the client is the expert on their lives, working collaboratively as their co-pilot when approaching mental health.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Challenging, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sisi Yu

Sisi Yu

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • San Diego, CA


“Many of my clients are high-achieving teens and adults who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, burnout, or patterns around alcohol or substance use.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Inquisitive
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Theresa Sandoval

Theresa Sandoval

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that with a little support, adults and children alike can discover within them the strengths and gifts they carry to lead healthy lives.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Art Gutierrez

Art Gutierrez

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a compassionate, collaborative, and judgment-free environment where clients feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their treatment journey.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Tracy Toussaint

Tracy Toussaint

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I believe mental health care is more than symptom management it's about understanding the full picture of a person's life.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ashley Decena

Ashley Decena

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I hold space with compassion, warmth, and curiosity. I will explore your experiences with you collaboratively to foster growth, change, and greater awareness that align with your values and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Rita Phetmixay

Rita Phetmixay

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm deeply honored to support folks from the Southeast Asian diaspora, children of refugees and immigrants, QTBIPOC communities, survivors of sexual trauma and gender-based violence, and those doing the hard work of organizing and fighting for...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Trung Ngo

Trung Ngo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm especially passionate about working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and strive to provide inclusive, affirming care to every client, regardless of their identity or orientation!”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Emily Lopez

Emily Lopez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I bring a warm, affirming, and strengths-based style, and I welcome clients of all identities and backgrounds.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Challenging, Empowering
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Patricia Jones

Patricia Jones

Therapist

Virtual • California


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.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Jennifer Pritchard

Jennifer Pritchard

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy is a collaborative, dynamic process... so that they can live a full, authentic, and fulfilling life.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Angela Canestraro

Angela Canestraro

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am an LMFT with more than 15 years of experience in trauma, relationships, and family systems.

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

Annliese Erebholo

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello, I am glad you are here. My goal is to offer a safe welcoming space where you can be yourself without fear of judgement. I believe everyone deserves to be heard with kindness, respect, and compassion. Together, we'll move at a pace that feels right for you as we work toward the life you want to create.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Kristin Allen

Kristin Allen

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“My therapeutic orientation is eclectic, largely influenced by psychodynamic and humanistic theories.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Gabriel Ramirez Penaranda

Gabriel Ramirez Penaranda

Therapist

Virtual • California


I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 14 year experience in the mental health field. I specialize in supporting individuals who are committed to their emotional healing. I have experience in working with age groups ranging from children to adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, trauma survivors, and those who seek to live their best lives. In order to support the individuals I work with, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strength-Based, and Person-Centered approaches.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Carmon Williams

Carmon Williams

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, and welcome! Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or grief. You may feel stuck, stressed, or unsure how to move forward. My goal is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can explore your concerns, feel understood, and start building the tools to regain control and find peace.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Julianne Sobel

Dr. Julianne Sobel

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I use a combination of psychodynamic therapy and cognitive behavioral techniques to teach clients coping skills to manage emotional distress and disruptive thoughts.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Sarina Sandoval

Sarina Sandoval

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I recognize that opening up during pregnancy or postpartum can feel especially vulnerable, particularly when there's fear of being judged or not feeling like the parent you "should" be.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Brittany Griggs

Brittany Griggs

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in working with adults with ADHD, parents of neurodivergent children, and young professionals who are ready to stop fighting their brains and start building a life that actually fits them.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Thomas Moore

Thomas Moore

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m Thomas Moore, LPCC, a licensed professional clinical counselor providing therapy for individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, emotional overwhelm, identity development, and complex relational patterns. Many of the people I work with feel stuck in repeating cycles such as overthinking, people pleasing, emotional shutdown, intense reactions, or difficulty maintaining stable relationships even when they logically understand what they should do. My goal is to help you translate insight into real change.

My approach is structured and compassionate. I integrate evidence based methods including cognitive restructuring, emotional regulation training, interpersonal effectiveness skills, and trauma informed therapy. Sessions focus on understanding why your brain reacts the way it does and building practical tools you can actually use outside the therapy room. This is not only about talking through problems but learning how to respond differently when they show up in real life.

I work well with clients who want more than passive support and are ready to build skills, increase self awareness, and interrupt patterns that no longer serve them.

What clients should know before starting

Therapy with me is collaborative and active and you will learn strategies rather than only venting. We will work on understanding both the emotional and neurological side of your reactions. Sessions focus on present day functioning while also addressing past experiences that still affect you. I may gently challenge patterns when it supports growth while maintaining a supportive and respectful space. Progress often comes from small repeated changes rather than sudden breakthroughs.

If you are looking for therapy that combines validation with practical change, we will likely work well together.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Nadine Mejia

Nadine Mejia

Therapist

Virtual • California


My goal with therapy is to provide a safe and open space to process and prioritize a growth mindset. I tailor my therapeutic approach to best match the needs of the client and truly believe in promoting acceptance. Some modalities I have experience with and may incorporate into therapy are Acceptance Compassion Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, Client-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Here-and-now Counseling, Trauma-Informed, and Holistic. I have a passion for working with individuals who are looking to unpack complex emotions and experiences that have shaped their understanding of the world.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Nhat Ngo

Nhat Ngo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe a therapist's role is not to "fix" someone's problem(s) but rather to empower the individual to make changes that are best for him/her...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Robert Ryan

Robert Ryan

Therapist

Virtual • Agoura Hills, CA


I veiw the path of a human life span, as each of us interact and peerceives the environment around us in our own unique way. My goal is to help clients look at their options, evaluate choices towarda healthier outcome. My work has involved in helping clients toward building better communication between couples, family members, and individual relationships. It is my belief that counseling / psychotherapy can provide a safe place where personal challenges can be processed, and finding choices toward enhancing the quality of life and improve relationships.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Fritzie Fernandez-Craft

Fritzie Fernandez-Craft

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is warm, active, and entirely collaborative, meaning we work as a team to break old patterns and build lasting relief.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Alejandro Bulnes-Mendizabal

Alejandro Bulnes-Mendizabal

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who provides therapy in both Spanish and English, from colloquial to professional levels. My work has included supporting individuals facing HIV/AIDS-related challenges, domestic violence, substance use, loneliness, suicidal thoughts, dual diagnosis, sexuality-related concerns, aging-related issues, and the broader impact these experiences can have on families and support systems. Across community, academic, and clinical settings in Mexico and the U.S., I’ve built a strong foundation in helping people navigate both personal suffering and societal distress.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Scott Whelan

Scott Whelan

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Pasadena, CA


“I am passionate about working with creative professionals, highly sensitive & neurodivergent people navigating identity issues, trauma, anxiety, self doubt and burn out.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Serge' Nelson

Dr. Serge' Nelson

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I am committed to delivering personalized, high-quality care in a respectful, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered in their treatment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Inquisitive, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
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
Bruce Rays

Bruce Rays

Psychologist

Virtual • California


Be content you have an opportunity to express yourself in a session consisting of unconditional positive regard for you regardless of who you are and what situations you are facing. With 32- years of exceedingly broad experience I can no doubt relate and assist you in raising your awareness and level of functioning. I thank you in advance for meeting with me and allowing me to be of service to you.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Gurleen Hans

Gurleen Hans

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Santa Ana, CA


Hello! I'm Gurleen Hans, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to supporting individuals on their mental health journey. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University and have five years of nursing experience working with diverse populations and cultures. My passion for mental health care stems from a genuine love of caring for others and witnessing the transformative power of compassionate, evidence-based treatment.

I specialize in medication management for adults and adolescents experiencing a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and co-occurring substance use disorders. My experience spans both partial hospitalization programs and community-based outpatient settings, allowing me to understand the full spectrum of mental health needs—from acute crisis stabilization to ongoing maintenance care.

I have provided psychiatric services in various behavioral health settings, including work with interdisciplinary teams to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care. I have particular expertise in serving individuals with severe and persistent mental illness (SPMI), and I'm committed to meeting clients where they are in their recovery journey.

My approach integrates holistic wellness principles with pharmacological interventions, recognizing that effective treatment addresses the whole person. I stay current with emerging research through ongoing professional development, ensuring you receive evidence-based care.

I prioritize open communication and actively involve you in treatment decisions. Whether you're seeking support for the first time or looking for medication optimization, I bring clinical expertise combined with cultural sensitivity and an understanding that each person's mental health story is unique. I'm honored to support you on your path toward wellness, and lasting hope.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Tabitha Scott

Tabitha Scott

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I view these periods of transition as opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and learning to thrive as we step into a new chapter of our lives.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 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 6 insurance carriers
Sonja Fisher-Carrington

Sonja Fisher-Carrington

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach to therapy is we are working as a team toward a goal you have indicated you want to work towards.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Yvette Hinojosa

Yvette Hinojosa

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I support people in creating meaningful change by cultivating mindful awareness of thought and speech patterns that influence growth, joy, and satisfaction.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Humorous, Inquisitive, Participatory
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Chanelle Catuogno

Chanelle Catuogno

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“I specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and values-based interventions; DBT, MI, and CBT.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cristina Bonilla

Cristina Bonilla

Therapist

Virtual • Yucca Valley, CA


“We use a client-centered, trauma focused approach in our treatment modalities, utilizing evidence-based practices such as EMDR...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Warm

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Edward Garren

Edward Garren

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“The purpose of therapy is to remove blocks to truth; to help you abandon any patterns of belief that no longer serve you in a productive way; to implement self-forgiveness.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Vivian Ifediora

Vivian Ifediora

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach is warm, collaborative, and personalized. I take time to truly understand each client's story—looking beyond symptoms to the root causes of distress.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Ashley Yen

Ashley Yen

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that therapy is personal and each person is different, which is why my approach to therapy is client-led and meant to empower you.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 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.

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