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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.

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
Dr. Stella Dennett

Dr. Stella Dennett

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I place great value on equipping you with the social and psychological resources and skills necessary to thrive.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, Family issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Yadira Nieto

Yadira Nieto

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and supportive. I see therapy as a partnership where you can show up as yourself and feel truly heard.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
David Culver

David Culver

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe the stories we tell ourselves about our past, future, and present influence the way we feel and behave.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Creative, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Kelsey Fitzgerald

Dr. Kelsey Fitzgerald

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I practice from a place of genuine partnership: therapy with me is active, practical, and focused on real forward movement, not just processing.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Kristyne McPhail

Kristyne McPhail

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is collaborative, allowing you to take an active role in identifying what you would like to work on and what meaningful change looks like for you.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Creative, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jordan Bunting

Jordan Bunting

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a compassion focused and evidence-based clinician specializing in treating clients with ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Consuelo Gomez

Consuelo Gomez

Therapist

Virtual • California


Sometimes the hardest part is not what happened. It is finding someone you can finally say it to. I offer therapy in both English and Spanish, and I work with people across all stages of life, from children and teenagers to adults and seniors. I specialize in supporting people navigating trauma, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, and the unique challenges that come with new and expecting parenthood. Wherever you are in your story, you do not have to carry it alone.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Saby Kirpal

Saby Kirpal

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Westlake Village, CA


I'm Saby Kirpal, a 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, 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.

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, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Eli Elias

Eli Elias

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m passionate about helping others recognize their strengths and step into their full potential. Whether through collaboration, mentorship, or encouragement, I aim to create spaces where people feel valued, capable, and inspired to act.

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Belinda Reser

Belinda Reser

Therapist

Virtual • California


I offer a supportive, affirming space where clients can show up authentically. I guide individuals in rediscovering themselves and taking meaningful steps toward a more purposeful and aligned life.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Lanz Banes

Dr. Lanz Banes

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe change begins with a strong therapeutic relationship. I prioritize creating an environment where clients can feel comfortable showing up as they are.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Talia Guppy

Talia Guppy

Therapist

Virtual • California


Welcome! I am currently accepting client and I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ adolescents and young adults, providing affirming care through a solution‐focused and client‐centered approach. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns, supporting effective and meaningful change. I also incorporate Narrative Therapy and Trauma‐Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to address trauma and promote healing when appropriate.

Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming, especially when you are navigating the challenges you are facing. Many of my clients come to therapy wanting a space where they feel safe, accepted, and truly understood. I strive to provide this so we can work collaboratively to move toward greater clarity, resilience, and well‐being.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 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
Lidia Escobar

Lidia Escobar

Therapist

Virtual • California


Feeling overwhelmed, stuck or needing to focus? I enjoy partnering with my clients on their journeys to improved wellness. In our time together, we will celebrate your strengths and develop goals to maximize your wellness, together. While we can't change our past, we can work together to process our story’s strengths and struggles. We can talk through your current challenges and quiet the noise around you. We can explore the barriers that may get in the way of enjoying life to the fullest. We can identify ways to find joy again. I look forward to meeting with you to plan how to achieve your goals.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Airy Ramirez

Airy Ramirez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Through our collaborative work, clients can expect to gain valuable self-insights, develop practical coping strategies, and build emotional resilience.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Challenging, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Maria Denardo

Maria Denardo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Drawing on both evidenced-based practices and a deeply intuitive approach to healing, I gently guide my clients in moving beyond overwhelming feelings and "stuckness," toward renewed self-worth, connection, and joy.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Vanessa Davis

Vanessa Davis

Therapist

Virtual • California


I work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions! I am also experienced in supporting individuals facing relationship challenges, identity development, and difficulties with emotional regulation. As a Queer therapist, I'm passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ population. I am drawn to this work because I value the depth and resilience within each person’s story. My approach is grounded in attachment-based theory and informed by evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Elaine Pritchard

Elaine Pritchard

Therapist

Virtual • Pleasanton, CA


“I'm easy-going, empathetic, and look at things a little differently outside the box to find new paths to fulfillment.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 16 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Joy Berkheimer

Dr. Joy Berkheimer

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Dr. Joy's goal is to support clients in reconnecting with their inner clarity and capacity for pleasure, agency, and authentic connection.”
LGBTQIA+, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues, Relationship issues, Stress management
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jaime Haasch

Jaime Haasch

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am warm, welcoming, and direct in my approach with clients. I include mindfulness, gratitude, compassion, and acceptance in my work with clients.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Charles Bewley

Charles Bewley

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Burbank, CA


More that fifteen years of teaching English and drama at a Los Angeles public high school taught me many things - primarily, it taught me how often people's barriers to achievement are not due to any lack of skill or ability, but rather from emotional barriers stemming from stress, adversity and trauma. So, I went back to graduate school to pursue a new career as a therapist so that I could help in a different way. My training and experience has focused on treating anxiety disorders, PTSD (including Complex-PTSD) and also couples - helping them to navigate challenges and triggers so that they can reset and reconnect.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Identity issues
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Dr. Melissa Bagwell

Dr. Melissa Bagwell

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • Apple Valley, CA


“Clients often describe my style as warm, supportive, and infused with humor, which helps create a safe space for exploration and growth.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Brandi Halsted

Brandi Halsted

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Psychodynamic therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 18 years of experience in offering a deep, insight-oriented approach to healing. My practice is built on the belief that understanding our past is the key to transforming our future. I specialize in helping individuals uncover the underlying patterns and unconscious processes that shape their current lives.

My therapy style is both empathetic and analytical, tailored specifically to your unique history. Together, we will explore the "why" behind your experiences, fostering profound self-awareness and lasting emotional growth in a secure, supportive space. Whether you are navigating trauma, relationship issues, or major life transitions, I am here to help you move toward long-term resolution and authenticity.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Edith Mercado-Jimenez

Edith Mercado-Jimenez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where you feel genuinely heard and understood, right from the very first conversation.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kimberly Porter-Leite

Kimberly Porter-Leite

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have a deep belief in the healing power of relationship and draw from a range of trauma-informed, somatic, depth and behavioral approaches in my work.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Grief or loss
Holistic, Open-minded, Participatory
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 1 insurance carrier
Dr. Roxanne Cherry

Dr. Roxanne Cherry

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Mission Viejo, CA


“I am especially effective with kids/teens, helping families implement clear boundaries and age appropriate responsibilities & privileges.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Katharine Jamison

Katharine Jamison

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work 1:1 with capable, overwhelmed adults who want their lives under control so they can finally relax.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Diabetes
Direct, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Navvab Tadjvar

Navvab Tadjvar

Psychologist

Virtual • Beverly Hills, CA


“My background in psychology and philosophy shapes how I approach therapy, not just as a way to relieve symptoms, but as a process of exploring deeper patterns, uncovering meaning, and creating lasting change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Direct, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Brianna Armour

Brianna Armour

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I enjoy working collaboratively with clients by building a strong therapeutic relationship using empathy, compassion, and personal and professional knowledge.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Samantha Segall

Samantha Segall

Therapist

Virtual • Smartsville, CA


“I identify as a holistic therapist which means that I seek to strengthen the relationships between your mind, body and heart.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Lori Richeson

Lori Richeson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I utilize Cognitive Behavioral methods, and Communication model. I am certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapy.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Giselle Folgar

Giselle Folgar

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


I've been a therapist for over 7 years. My Bachelor's in Psychology and Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy gave me a foundation working with people across the lifespan — children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I'm trained in evidence-based practices, but I always keep in mind that everyone is different and what works for one person may not work for another.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Aaron Martin

Aaron Martin

Therapist

Virtual • California


To simplify scheduling, book consultations through my website, not Headway: AaronMartinTherapy.com

As a mixed-race, Queer therapist, I support other LGBTQ folks, providing a safe space to simply be. I believe our varying identities impact the way the world interacts with us, and how our mental health symptoms present. I view my therapeutic role as balancing support and action to nudge you into new patterns that better support you.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Grief or loss, Identity issues, Men's issues
Affirming, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jaime Collins

Jaime Collins

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi there, I'm Jaime - a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience supporting all ages in crisis settings involving anxiety, depression, and trauma.

I use a trauma informed approach that blends CBT, mindfulness, and other evidence-based practices and strive to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and understood while building tools to navigate life’s challenges. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs and goals.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Anthony Morice

Anthony Morice

Psychologist

Virtual • San Francisco, CA


“I take an integrative and client-centered approach to therapy. My style blends contemporary evidence-based approaches along with psychodynamic and psychoanalytic perspectives...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
America Islas

America Islas

Therapist

Virtual • California


Tired of feeling like you have to educate your therapist before you can actually begin? You deserve a therapist who actively celebrates who you are. I specialize in LGBTQI2-S affirmative care and work with individuals, couples, and families navigating identity, relationships, and the lifelong work of becoming more fully yourself. With over 8 years training mental health professionals in gender-affirming practices, you won't spend our sessions explaining the basics. You can just show up, exactly as you are.

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Allison Trujillo

Allison Trujillo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I use a mix of DBT, EMDR, and IFS to help people explore the deeper layers of their story—especially around trauma, identity, and body image.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 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.