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LGBT therapists in Santa Cruz, CA

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

Santa Cruz's vibrant LGBTQIA community deserves affirming mental health care. Headway provides access to warm, solution-oriented providers across the city who support your journey. Connect with 2,462 licensed therapists with availability as soon as tomorrow.

Hilary Malloy

Hilary Malloy

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


I have a Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work, and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), working in private practice as a Psychotherapist. I live in Los Angeles, and work in-person or hybrid, with adults, teens, couples and the aging population. I specialize in anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, work stress/dissatisfaction, career goals, sleep disorders, substance use, trauma (ptsd/complex/acute), obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD/OCPD), attention deficit disorders (ADD/ADHD). In addition I deal with grief, isolation, and breaking creative blocks.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Natalie Arballo

Natalie Arballo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work with people who are carrying real pain, from trauma, from years of emotional dysregulation, from experiences that have made relationships feel unsafe or exhausting.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Katherine Van Heerden

Katherine Van Heerden

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal in helping clients is to help them identify their personal strengths in order to feel more resilient and tackle issues with learned coping skills.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Carolyn Le

Carolyn Le

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I take the time to understand what's been going on and what matters to you, and we'll work together to find a path forward that feels manageable and realistic for your life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Emin Issaghoulian

Emin Issaghoulian

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe my greatest strength is in the connections I build with my clients, making you feel heard, seen and empowered.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Lynn Northrop

Dr. Lynn Northrop

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“My core values include authenticity, kindness, humility, & celebrating the unique beauty & worth of every human.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Creative, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Alyssa Rodriguez

Alyssa Rodriguez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe in a genuine, collaborative relationship with my clients and value the courage it takes to open up.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Crystal Lawson

Crystal Lawson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“The Rogerian approach allows me to get to know my client, identifying acute issues and crisis manage while building rapport through active listening.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Yu-Ning Lin

Yu-Ning Lin

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I'm an empathetic listener who believes in fully understanding my client in order to customize effective strategies individually.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Mitzy Ruelas

Mitzy Ruelas

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I prioritize the therapeutic relationship. Without a trusting therapeutic relationship, it is nearly impossible for clients to feel safe doing the work.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Challenging, Humorous
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michael They

Michael They

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Modesto, CA


“I will listen intently and ask questions to learn more about you so I can determine what type of care is most appropriate.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 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
Kate Salami

Kate Salami

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide an inclusive, empathetic, and nonjudgmental space that welcomes people of all genders, sexual orientations, and religious backgrounds.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Laurie Eaton

Laurie Eaton

Therapist

Virtual • California


I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 28 years. I have worked in a Foster Care agency, as a Clinical Supervisor at a Children's Clinic in East LA and at a Drug, Alcohol, and Mental Health Facility. I also provided therapy for our military.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Victoria Omeri

Victoria Omeri

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“I am a holistic provider and try to help my patients see the bigger picture and improve their mental health, not only with medication management but with using a naturopathic approach as well.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Elissa Buchman

Dr. Elissa Buchman

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I work particularly well with creative individuals whose rich inner lives are often labeled as "too intense" by a world who misunderstands them.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cassidy Bradehoft-Masters

Cassidy Bradehoft-Masters

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, I'm Cassidy, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I believe that healing starts with a warm, genuine connection. If you’ve been struggling with the weight of depression or anxiety, I’m here to walk alongside you with kindness and understanding. I love combining the 'science' of therapy with human connection, making sure you feel seen and supported while we break down the big stressors into more manageable pieces.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 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
Andres Borja

Andres Borja

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I bring a warm, grounded presence to therapy and believe that effective treatment starts with authentic connection and mutual respect.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Susan Word

Susan Word

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • South San Francisco, CA


“Although I have 3 years as an NP I have over 40 years in almost all areas of Psychiatric Nursing most often in Bipolar, ADHD, trauma, crisis resolution and PTSD.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Challenging, Empowering
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Eva Clay

Eva Clay

Therapist

Virtual • California


I specialize in couples sex therapy, and I understand that love can be the most challenging -and- the most rewarding part of life. I'm passionate about helping you have a healthy, satisfying intimate life and to make your relationship amazing.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Emily Dalton

Dr. Emily Dalton

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy can have many shapes and forms. Sometimes, it is simply a place where you are seen and heard.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Michael Herrera

Michael Herrera

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I am warm, friendly, and passionate about my work. I am creative in techniques and I use humor to facilitate the exploration of concerns.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Jasmine Maniti

Jasmine Maniti

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“My approach emphasizes collaboration—I believe the best outcomes happen when we work together as partners in your care.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Jennifer Eastman

Jennifer Eastman

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“My approach combines evidence-based treatments with genuine empathy and respect for your unique journey.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Amber Robison

Amber Robison

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I also have vast experience working with children, teens and adults experiencing difficulties and life transitions including depression, anxiety and I have specialized training in supporting transgender individuals.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Sofia Alonso Baez

Sofia Alonso Baez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I bring both professionalism and authenticity to my work and feel deeply honored to walk alongside clients through periods of transition, healing, and growth.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Zoot Sax

Zoot Sax

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Clients often describe me as someone who helps them feel genuinely accepted, free to show up as their full selves, whoever that may be.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Humorous, Inquisitive
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Alex Honigman

Alex Honigman

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I want clients I work with to feel empowered, grounded and have a greater understanding of themselves and the healthy pathways that lead to a meaningful life aligned to their value set.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Andrea Gomar Padilla

Andrea Gomar Padilla

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to provide a supportive space where both children and caregivers feel understood, empowered, and equipped with tools to create meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Renee EB-Walton

Renee EB-Walton

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My training enables me to facilitate personal growth and self-discovery, helping individuals access their inner resources to overcome challenges and reduce suffering.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Inquisitive, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Steffan Weiner

Steffan Weiner

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My approach is integrative, trauma-informed, and tailored to the individual — shaped by the understanding that no two people experience the same condition in exactly the same way.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
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 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Alex Bailey

Alex Bailey

Therapist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


I have found my own personal healing to be intimately connected to nature, and it is here that I believe that we can all begin to rediscover our intrinsic humanity and let go of those things that distract us from our higher selves. In my spare time, I work as an outdoor educator and manage my own private practice and guide Outdoor Retreats

I believe it is helpful and important to translate what is discussed in session and in telehealth meetings into lived experience and real change.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Chioma Ahaiwe

Dr. Chioma Ahaiwe

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Riverside, CA


“We listen, empathize and acknowledge your concerns. We utilize biopsychosocial model in all our assessments, evaluations and evidence-based practice for a better patient outcome.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Candice Jeffers

Candice Jeffers

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Jose, CA


I'm Candice Jeffers, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with an unusual background—I spent nearly a decade in cardiovascular critical care before dedicating myself to mental health. That ICU experience taught me something crucial: psychiatric crises deserve the same urgency, expertise, and unwavering support as any cardiac emergency.

For nine years at Ascension Seton Medical Center's Cardiovascular ICU, I supervised teams through impossible situations. I learned to stay steady when everything felt uncertain, to read the subtle signs others might miss, and to offer hope when families needed it most. Those years shaped how I practice psychiatry today—with precision, presence, and profound respect for what you're facing.

I completed my Master of Science in Nursing at University of South Alabama in 2024, immersing myself in over 600 clinical hours spanning outpatient clinics, inpatient psychiatry, and crisis intervention. My pediatric nursing background adds another layer—I understand how early experiences shape us and how differently mental health shows up across ages.

My practice centers on thorough psychiatric evaluations, personalized medication management, and crisis intervention for all ages. I specialize in suicide risk assessment, trauma-informed approaches, and evidence-based treatments that actually fit into real lives. I'm MOUD-trained and licensed for telehealth in Texas, California, Arizona, and Florida.

Here's what matters most: I approach mental health as someone who's held space for both miracles and heartbreak. I know seeking help requires tremendous courage. I know healing rarely follows a straight line. And I know you need a provider who won't flinch, no matter what you share. My work blends critical care decisiveness with deep compassion—because you deserve both.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Scott Ivey

Dr. Scott Ivey

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“During sessions, I prioritize listening to you approximately 80% of the time and provide feedback on the remaining 20%.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Men's issues
Affirming, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Kai Chuang

Dr. Kai Chuang

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“As an Asian American therapist, I value identity, culture, and lived experience as essential pieces of healing.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Holly Shannon

Holly Shannon

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“I'm particularly skilled at understanding how trauma shapes mental health, how personality patterns develop as coping mechanisms, and how conditions like OCD can complicate other presentations.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Gia Stark

Gia Stark

Therapist

Virtual • San Francisco, CA


Thank you for reading this. Having a background in grassroots and non-profit work as well as teaching, I am fiercely passionate about equity, social justice and liberation for all people. The therapeutic relationship is unique and radical --- your words have exquisite power and we get to think together about what they mean.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

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.