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LGBT therapists in Santa Ana, CA

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Santa Ana, CA

Santa Ana's LGBTQIA community deserves mental health support from providers who get it. Headway offers 2,523 licensed therapists trained in gender and sexual identity affirming care, with free consultations to find your fit. Virtual and in-person options available with insurance coverage accepted.

Dr. Alia Harlan Kaneaiakala

Dr. Alia Harlan Kaneaiakala

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello! I am an Attachment based therapist and I find it an honor to be on the journey to self discovery with my clients. Walking along side someone (figuratively) while they create a better understanding to their self and how to live this thing we call life is what motivates and drives me.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Empowering, Energetic
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Mike Chang

Mike Chang

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I make strong connections with my clients through an authentic presence, well-developed active listening skills, and transparency.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
William Dexter

William Dexter

Therapist

Virtual • California


My name is William Dexter I am a LMFT licensed marriage family therapist. I am devoted to the health, well-being, and safety of clients and have lived a clean and sober lifestyle for over thirty years. My approach to therapy is to focus on relationships with yourself, with others, and with your Higher Power or GOD as you understand him. I believe the problem is not knowing who you are, and the solution is finding out who you are.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Samira Soroory

Samira Soroory

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I like to create a safe and calm atmosphere for my clients. I put an emphasis on mindfulness and becoming insightful to your own patterns.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dawn Holiski

Dawn Holiski

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I don't believe therapy is about someone else telling you how to live your life. I see it as a space where we can be curious together and make room for more than one thing to be true.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Inquisitive, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kianna Romero

Kianna Romero

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I recognize that past experiences can affect how we see ourselves, relate to others, and navigate everyday life.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Brandy Walker

Brandy Walker

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a firm believer that there are solutions to all of life's problems, and I believe therapy is a gateway to change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Baleska Alfaro

Baleska Alfaro

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy is most effective when it is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to your unique experiences and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Melissa Fletcher

Melissa Fletcher

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have a lot of energy! I love helping while providing you the support you need help managing stress anxiety/panic attacks, anger, motivation, self-esteem, improving confidence, past substance use, and/or depressive symptoms.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Energetic
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Haley Parker

Haley Parker

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy is a collaborative healing process. My hope is to empower the individuals I work with to seek clarity and guidance on different strategies to alleviate any existing distress.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Adriana Galdamez

Adriana Galdamez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm a California-licensed LMFT with 15 years of experience across cultural, community, and non-profit settings.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Cynthia Fullwood-fleck

Cynthia Fullwood-fleck

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that therapy is a collaborative journey—one where you show up as your authentic self and know that you'll be supported every step of the way.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Shaudi Adel

Shaudi Adel

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My hope is to help you create a "life worth living" in which you can be the best version of yourself and feel more confident in the resilient person you are.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 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 13 insurance carriers
Ruth Clavelo

Ruth Clavelo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Sessions are a calm, welcoming space where you can show up as you are, without pressure or judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cristina Vigil

Cristina Vigil

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My speciality in the last ten years has been working with gender expansive and LGBTQ+ children, adolescents and their families/caregivers.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Lauren Genung

Lauren Genung

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am passionate about helping folks thrive as their authentic self and create meaning that aligns with their personal values.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Challenging, Inquisitive
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jorge Belloso-Curiel

Jorge Belloso-Curiel

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello! Thank you for considering me as a potential therapist. I have worked in social services related occupations for over thirty years. I am humbled daily and appreciate working with people wherever stage they are in their life.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Karina Gonzalez

Karina Gonzalez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is collaborative and tailored, creating a supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Ednita Ramirez

Ednita Ramirez

Therapist

Virtual • Fullerton, CA


Hi, I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I offer therapy for adults and teens who are looking for support with life’s challenges—whether it’s stress, transitions, relationships, or just feeling stuck. I’m bilingual in Spanish and have a deep, personal understanding of the Latinx experience, which helps me connect with clients in a meaningful and culturally sensitive way.

I’m trained in EMDR, trauma-informed care, DBT, CBT, and more, and have worked in the mental health field for over 10 years. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family—including my toddler and teenager—going on walks, doing yoga, and enjoying a good matcha.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Samir Hamed

Samir Hamed

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach to providing care is client-centered and holistic. I work collaboratively with clients to understand their unique needs and create personalized treatment plans.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Ashley Griffin

Ashley Griffin

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Newport Beach, CA


I know how heavy life can feel when you’re carrying pain, uncertainty, or self-doubt. But I believe, as a wise old wizard once said, “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of places, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” My role is to help you find that light again. I work with Gen Z and Millennial adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more. Through integrative, culturally responsive care, I combine evidence-based psychiatry with holistic strategies to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered to create a life that aligns with your true self.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 6 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
Ben Quan

Ben Quan

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with almost 10 years experience providing individual therapy. I am a graduate of Cal State Fullerton, and specialize in EMDR therapy and LGBTQ+ affirming therapy. I am a big advocate for taking care of our mental health, and I am so glad you are here because that usually means you are thinking about taking care of yours too!

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Nicolas Valles

Nicolas Valles

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hey there! You being here is huge, and I am honored to partner with you on your journey toward wellness. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and U.S. Navy veteran, having earned both my BA and Master of Social Welfare from UCLA. My professional background includes extensive experience with the Department of Veterans Affairs and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, specializing in helping individuals navigate complex psychosocial needs, trauma, and substance use. Ultimately, I am deeply committed to helping you break down life's barriers, adapt to major transitions, and successfully reclaim your stability

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tony Gunn

Tony Gunn

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am Tony Gunn, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am also a Substance Abuse Professional and a board certified transgender care therapist. I value connection, trust, and respect.

I work with adults, teens, families, and couples. My focus areas include LGBTQIA+ clients, gender nonconforming clients, transgender care, sexual health concerns, trauma, grief, mood concerns, and major life transitions.

You receive care grounded in empathy, cultural awareness, and collaboration. Sessions center on clear goals, practical skills, and meaningful insight. I create a space where you feel heard, supported, and understood without judgment.

I provide services through in-person and telehealth settings. My approach blends evidence-based practice with care shaped around your needs, values, and lived experience. My goal centers on supporting clarity, stability, and long-term well-being through an affirming therapeutic relationship.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Identity issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Rizi Timane

Dr. Rizi Timane

Therapist

Virtual • California


As an affirming therapist for the LGBTQIA community, I understand that navigating a world that wasn't built for us can be exhausting. Whether you are dealing with the weight of microaggressions, exploring your gender identity, navigating relationship dynamics, or working through historical trauma, you deserve a space where you don’t have to explain the basics of your identity. I strongly believe that mental health professionals should be gate-openers, not gatekeepers. If you need a referral letter for gender-affirming medical care (including top surgery, bottom surgery, HRT, or other procedures), I provide comprehensive, WPATH-compliant evaluations.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Kaylyn Gatto

Dr. Kaylyn Gatto

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a space where clients feel safe showing up exactly as they are while also feeling supported to grow and make meaningful changes.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Stacey Kane

Stacey Kane

Therapist

Virtual • California


I earned my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and have completed training in EMDR, Brainspotting, DBT, trauma‐informed care, and play‐based interventions.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Justin Matar

Justin Matar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Corona, CA


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.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Patricia Gutierrez

Patricia Gutierrez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My practice centers on trauma and PTSD, identity and gender affirming care, and the lived experiences of women and LGBTQIA+ individuals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
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
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
Wendy Barajas

Wendy Barajas

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a first-gen Latina, I understand the struggle to balance bicultural identify and generational trauma.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Sandy Elder

Sandy Elder

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Through my work at El Camino Hospital; I have specialties in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral therapies.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Maternal mental health
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Dr. Sheila Katz

Dr. Sheila Katz

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in working with children on the autism spectrum, offering tailored, compassionate, and effective support to meet each child and family's unique needs.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Bryan Doster

Bryan Doster

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is deeply rooted in Narrative Therapy, helping clients uncover their preferred narratives, recognize their strengths, and develop tools for meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
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
Christina Strom

Christina Strom

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am a client centered therapist, meaning I want to meet you where you are. Down to earth, gentle, honest, and transparent...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

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

Number of therapists within 20 miles of Santa Ana, CA
There are over 32 therapists in Santa Ana, CA accepting new patients.
32+
Average years in practice
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9 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 97%Anxiety
  • 97%Relationship issues
  • 94%Stress management
  • 91%Depression
Insurances accepted
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  • 97%Aetna
  • 69%Cigna
  • 63%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 63%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 50%Curative
Languages spoken
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  • 100%English
  • 19%Spanish
  • 6%Hindi
  • 3%American Sign Language
  • 3%Farsi
How they see their clients
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  • 100%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 75%Woman
  • 19%Man
  • 6%Non-binary
License types
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  • 53%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 19%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 13%Clinical Psychologist
  • 13%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
  • 3%Nurse Practitioner
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 56%Couples therapy
  • 47%Family therapy
  • 19%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

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