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LGBT therapists in Santa Clarita, CA

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

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

Headway connects LGBTQIA+ individuals in Santa Clarita with affirming, open-minded providers who understand your unique experiences and challenges. Our 2,494 licensed therapists offer virtual and in-person sessions focused on identity, relationships, and mental wellness. With an average savings of 75% through insurance, many clients pay as low as $0 per session.

Danielle Rhinesmith

Danielle Rhinesmith

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello! My name is Danielle, and I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for over 10 years. Too often, we can become overwhelmed by the pressures of life, and that is where therapy can help. It may be time to prioritize your own mental health, and coming here is an important first step. I’m proud of you for taking it.

I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, family issues, LGBTQIA+ concerns, relationship challenges, PTSD, stress, grief and loss, ADHD, anger, substance use, and major life transitions. My focus in treatment is helping you feel supported while we better understand what you are carrying and what you hope will change. Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, your relationship, or your family, I look forward to meeting you and helping you move toward healing and growth.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
John Simmons

John Simmons

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I like using EMDR Therapy to help clients overcome past negative experiences that may be contributing to their current struggles.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Humorous, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Stephanie Garris

Stephanie Garris

Therapist

Virtual • Santa Clarita, CA


“I am humorous, warm and open minded and believe in a strong therapeutic bond for therapy to be effective...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Family issues, Identity issues
Energetic, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Dr. Amon Benavides

Dr. Amon Benavides

Therapist

Virtual • Westlake Vlg, CA


“I strive to create a supportive and nonjudgmental space where clients feel safe, understood, and comfortable being their authentic selves.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mary Hebert

Mary Hebert

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a clinician I focus on mindfulness and internal growth. My mission is to reach as many people as possible who may be suffering in silence and/or don't feel heard.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Identity issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Luis Contreras

Luis Contreras

Therapist

Virtual • San Diego, CA


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 25 years of experience providing mental health services in behavioral health, crisis intervention, community mental health, and medical settings. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, family conflict, and other emotional challenges.

My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and trauma-informed. I believe healing happens when clients feel safe, understood, and empowered. I work alongside clients to build on their strengths, develop practical coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment.

Throughout my career, I have provided therapy and clinical support in outpatient, community-based, hospital, college mental health, and correctional settings. In my private practice, I provide bilingual psychotherapy to individuals and families experiencing trauma, stress, relationship challenges, parenting concerns, and behavioral health issues. I also have extensive experience supporting foster, adoptive, and biological families caring for children impacted by trauma and attachment-related difficulties.

My professional background includes crisis stabilization, risk assessment, treatment planning, wraparound services, and multidisciplinary care coordination for youth and families with complex needs. I am also a part-time lecturer in the School of Social Work at San Diego State University, where I teach and mentor future social workers.

I am passionate about culturally responsive care, equity in mental health services, and helping clients feel empowered throughout their healing journey. I provide services in both English and Spanish and welcome clients from all backgrounds.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Roop Sabharwal

Dr. Roop Sabharwal

Psychologist

Virtual • California


Beginning therapy can be one of the hardest steps, especially when you have had to navigate mental health stigma, having your emotions dismissed, difficulty prioritizing your needs, or having years living a state of trauma, or survival mode.

I specialize in life transitions, anxiety, and self-esteem concerns. I have a deep passion for trauma work and rebuilding a sense of safety. I frequently work with clients who are overwhelmed with carrying high expectations, including BIPOC individuals.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Josiah Peratoner

Josiah Peratoner

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Irvine, CA


I'm Josiah — a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) offering in-person sessions in Irvine and telehealth sessions across California. My work centers on three communities I care deeply about: veterans navigating the often-invisible work of coming home, LGBTQ+ individuals and couples looking for a therapist who genuinely gets it, and parents who are doing their best while carrying more than they show. I'm Transgender Allied, trained in trauma-informed and multicultural frameworks, and I work with individuals, couples, and families. Before anything else, I work hard to make sure you feel like yourself in the session — not a diagnosis, not a file.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Family issues
Affirming, Challenging, Energetic
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Miyoung Son

Miyoung Son

Therapist

Virtual • California


Reaching out for help can be challenging for many. As psychotherapy aims at positive changes you desire, I am honored to provide a safe place for your self-exploration and reflection in which you can gain your inner peace and change you long for. Being specialized in trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse and domestic violence, I can offer some resolution in your trauma work. Trauma can penetrate not only your emotional well-being but also almost every facet of your life.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Marissa Morin

Marissa Morin

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work from a systemic perspective that supports you in understanding yourself within your relationships with self and others.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 8 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
Makenzie Gilliam

Makenzie Gilliam

Therapist

Virtual • Bishop, CA


“Through empathy and honesty, I strive to make each session a safe space where my clients have the opportunity to feel heard and to cultivate hope.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Howard Cohen

Howard Cohen

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I approach each client with an open mind and with the idea that I can help them through challenging and difficult situations with ease and kindness.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Yvonne Miller

Yvonne Miller

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and live a life worth celebrating.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jose Carranza

Jose Carranza

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi there, my name is Jose Carranza, LFMT, maneuvering through life and work with thoughtful intention and an open heart. I have approximately a decade of experience working in the mental health field and about 5 years practicing as a therapist. I'm certified in Trauma-Focused CBT and have lengthy experience working with mood, behavioral, and developmental disorders.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jasmine De La Torre

Jasmine De La Torre

Therapist

Virtual • California


I believe therapy is a journey, one in which the client is the navigating driver. As a Licensed marriage and family therapist, I take the passenger seat and support my clients in the direction they chose to go with in their therapeutic journey. I tailor each session to meet the unique needs of my clients, drawing on empathy, respect, and transparency to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Inquisitive
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Julie Cohen

Dr. Julie Cohen

Psychologist

Virtual • California


avigating emotional distress or long-standing conflict can feel like being fractured, but healing often begins with finding a reliable and experienced partner. I am Dr. Julie Cohen, a Clinical Psychologist with over 45 years of experience. I have spent my career helping individuals, couples, and families resolve conflict—whether it’s occurring in the living room or the workplace. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and stress, particularly for those who are ready to dive into their inner experience to improve how they feel about themselves and their relationships. I feel privileged to help my clients achieve their goals and improve their lives by providing the expert, seasoned care necessary to handle even the most complex challenges with precision and kindness.

I believe that the foundation of our work is a relationship of absolute trust and safety. My extensive training allows me to look at your life through a wide lens, understanding how your past experiences and upbringing shape your current personality and challenges. I encourage an honest and direct dialogue, as that is where true mutual understanding begins. When I am not working with clients, I value the perspective that comes from a long career dedicated to human behavior, often finding restoration in the very principles of balance and growth that I share in my sessions. I want my clients to feel safe and empowered during their time with me, knowing they have a safety net of four decades of clinical expertise behind them.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Solution-oriented, 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
Sarah Nicholson

Sarah Nicholson

Therapist

Virtual • Westlake Village, CA


“I practice a compassionate, but realistic view and empower you to take steps towards getting your unmet needs fulfilled.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Creative, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jack Gallagher

Jack Gallagher

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I take a humanistic, collaborative approach to help clients feel supported and empowered as they navigate life's challenges.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Jessica Chesbro

Jessica Chesbro

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, I'm Jessica and I love supporting youth and their families to bring out confidence and build healthy relationship patterns to support them as they grow in today's world. I have background in Expressive Arts Therapy and bring creative approaches including art, play, and drama therapy techniques as entry points into cognitive behavioral interventions and strategies to assist with behavior, emotion regulation, and understanding of one's self. My philosophical goal as a therapist is to help people I work with curate more joy into their lives and for children to be seen in their unique strengths and supported to grow through challenges. I believe that curiosity is the antidote to depression. Let's get curious together!

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Arthur Binder

Dr. Arthur Binder

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I often bring a sense of humor to the work, while providing active listening, fostering reflections, and useful psychological insights.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
James Carr

James Carr

Therapist

Virtual • Visalia, CA


“I want clients to feel they are accepted and respected as well as taking back the power they may have lost along the way.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Diabetes, Family issues
Challenging, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Eduardo Rodriguez

Eduardo Rodriguez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is compassionate, down-to-earth, and focused on collaboration—working together to help you gain insight, build resilience, and reach your personal goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
DeeDee Chukuka

DeeDee Chukuka

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • San Bernardino, CA


“I am passionate about building therapeutic relationships, promoting recovery, preventing suicide, and empowering patients through education and support.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Olivia White

Olivia White

Therapist

Virtual • California


I specialize in supporting women and queer folk heal from complex trauma, anxiety, and depression. I believe meaningful healing involves more than understanding our experiences intellectually—it also involves reconnecting with the body and helping the nervous system develop a greater sense of safety. In our work together, I can help you move beyond insight alone and develop practical tools and embodied practices to better understand and respond to the patterns underlying your struggles.

I am trained in Somatic Experiencing, EMDR and Brainspotting, evidence-informed somatic approaches that can support healing from trauma and C-PTSD. I am currently completing my training in EMDR. I love helping people reconnect with their bodies, access and integrate the full range of their emotions, and develop a deeper sense of aliveness, authenticity, and connection with themselves and others.

I have experience working with neurodivergent individuals, highly sensitive people, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and people who embrace alternative relationship and lifestyle structures, including consensual non-monogamy. I strive to create a space where you can show up as your whole self—without judgment—and feel genuinely seen, understood, and supported.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Larisa Escalante

Larisa Escalante

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe healing happens in safe, attuned relationships, and I work to create a space where you feel deeply seen, heard, and respected.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Samantha Tomarchio

Samantha Tomarchio

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Her approach to therapy work is both clinical and creative, is mindful, body-centric, and nervous system focused.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues, Identity issues
Direct, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Kathryn Benton

Kathryn Benton

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have been working in private practice for a few years and before that I worked in non-profits with a variety of individuals and groups. I am the parent of two adult sons and have three grandchildren that I thoroughly enjoy spending time with. I have an educational background in the study of philosophy, spirituality and counseling psychology. I have experience with helping people with histories of trauma, severe mental illness, as well as, symptoms of anxiety and depression. I also have experience and some expertise with clients struggling with substance use.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Janani Venkateswaran

Janani Venkateswaran

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Carmichael, CA


Are you struggling to have harmony in your relationships? Does having ease in your life seem like a far-fetched dream? Are you feeling overwhelmed with the state of the world and all you have to do? Welcome, you're in the right place! I have been in your shoes and the first (or twenty) step is always the hardest. As someone who has learned to balance multiple cultures, I know what it can feel like to straddle various parts of your identity. I have first hand experienced feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, angry, and at a complete loss for how to navigate the intensity of my emotions. This has informed my practice and work with clients where I strongly believe that our emotions guide us to understanding ourselves in a new light. Asking for help can be difficult, especially in a culture that values productivity over personality.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Infertility, Men's issues, Relationship issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Martin Ponciano

Martin Ponciano

Therapist

Virtual • California


“His therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges and increase meaning to their experiences.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
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
William Hernandez

William Hernandez

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“Working together is a reflective and collaborative process that attends to both symptoms and the deeper patterns that shape your emotional life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Creative, Holistic
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Laura Partridge

Dr. Laura Partridge

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe in a person-centered approach to therapy that looks beyond symptoms to understand the experiences and challenges that contribute to them.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Shuriee Gioieni

Shuriee Gioieni

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Lompoc, CA


“I create a safe and nonjudgmental environment for my clients to feel comfortable while sharing their stories.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Bernard Douglas

Bernard Douglas

Therapist

Virtual • California


I offer a grounded, practical, and collaborative space to help you heal, grow, and move forward with clarity. If you're feeling stuck in old patterns or seeking a deeper sense of direction, we will work together to make sense of your story and build a path toward lasting independence.

Reach out today to begin.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Challenging, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Elise Horwich

Elise Horwich

Therapist

Virtual • Tarzana, CA


“My style is interactive, direct and supportive. I focus on the here and now but recognize that one's past impacts choices, feelings, and behaviors in the present.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Brima Jah

Brima Jah

Therapist

Virtual • Oakland, CA


“Therapy offers an opportunity to understand longstanding patterns and practice new ways of relating—to yourself, to others, and to the world around you.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Felicia Ige

Felicia Ige

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hi, I'm Felicia Ige, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of nursing experience in mental health, public health, acute care, and education.

I hold a Post-Master's Certificate in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing from Walden University and a Master's degree in Nursing Education. I specialize in psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and personalized mental health treatment.

Above all, I believe everyone deserves to feel heard, understood, and supported without judgment. My goal is to create a welcoming space where you can feel comfortable being yourself.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Challenging, Direct
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Melody Claiborne

Melody Claiborne

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


I'm Melody Claiborne, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Washington and California. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, and depression, offering thorough diagnostic evaluations and personalized medication management for adults. I believe in care that sees the whole person — not just a diagnosis. Having witnessed patients go unheard during their most vulnerable moments, I built my practice around genuine advocacy and connection. I work at your pace, in a safe and supportive environment where your concerns are fully heard and your goals guide your treatment.

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

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists in Santa Clarita, CA

Number of therapists serving Santa Clarita, CA
There are over 2,489 therapists in Santa Clarita, CA accepting new patients.
2,489+
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
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 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
  • 28%Couples therapy
  • 17%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

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Find the right LGBTQ-friendly therapy provider for you

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