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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 2,614 licensed therapists with availability as soon as tomorrow.

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
Andrea Faraday

Andrea Faraday

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I support clients who want a caring and steady space where they can explore their inner world with honesty and compassion.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kelly Carll

Kelly Carll

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • San Diego, CA


“I believe that therapy should be a safe, collaborative space where clients feel empowered to make decisions that most align with their values and needs.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shara Ally

Shara Ally

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“I translate complex research into clear, practical care plans that help my patients feel informed and supported.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Lisa Bove

Lisa Bove

Therapist

Virtual • Encino, CA


Hi, I’m Lisa Bove, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and also a non-judgmental Christian minister based in Southern California. With nearly three decades of experience, I’m here to support individuals from all walks of life, including those in the LGBTQI+ community, as they navigate the challenges of grief, anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship struggles. I also specialize in end of life issues. I know how difficult it can be to reach out, but I’m committed to creating a safe, welcoming space where you can feel truly heard and supported.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 14 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Digna Guerrero

Digna Guerrero

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m Digna, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to creating a supportive and safe space where clients will feel heard and understood. I work with adolescents and adults of all ages in navigating anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, and emotional overwhelm. I also have vast experience working with individuals who have co-occuring disorders, developmental disabilities and cognitive delays servicing mild to moderate clients.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Misty Steffen

Misty Steffen

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Beverly Hills, CA


“At the core of my practice is authentic partnership, showing up for every client with genuine warmth, deep respect, and real interest in who they are.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Sujin Ma

Dr. Sujin Ma

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in trauma recovery using body-centered and expressive arts therapy, helping clients process emotions, build safety, and reconnect with themselves.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Creative, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Kathleen Stanton

Kathleen Stanton

Psychologist

Virtual & in-person • California


“I see my role as providing a supportive therapeutic space to foster growth, healing, and healthy relationships.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Noelle Neglia

Noelle Neglia

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have a diverse toolkit to offer. From CBT, to DBT, to action oriented methods like Expressive Arts Therapies and Mindfulness...”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Dr. Marc Steinmetz

Dr. Marc Steinmetz

Psychologist

Virtual • California


I'm a licensed psychologist working with adolescents, adults, and seniors navigating anxiety, depression, grief, significant life changes, or challenges with attention and focus. My goal is to offer a safe, affirming space to explore your life, your story, and what matters most to you — your experiences, your values, and where you hope to go. You are a complex, whole person made up of many parts — and there is room here for all of them.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Ben Savelli

Ben Savelli

Therapist

Virtual • Sacramento, CA


“I'm a late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD (AuDHD) man — I received my diagnosis in my 30s from a psychologist who is also self-disclosed autistic.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Julieta Serrato

Julieta Serrato

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hi, I’m Julieta a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence. I’ve been working in the mental health field since 2016 and bring both clinical experience and real-life perspective into my work. I create a supportive and collaborative space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. My approach blends cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior skills, and person-centered care to help clients build emotional resilience and healthier relationships. I specialize in working with anxiety, stress, life transitions, and trauma.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ashley Wettlaufer

Ashley Wettlaufer

Therapist

Virtual • Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA


Most of us aren't born knowing how to navigate relationships, understand our emotions, or process trauma. Many things influence how we react and behave, but that doesn't mean we can't grow. My goal is to help you build confidence through discovering your self-worth and practicing self-compassion. My priority is creating a safe, judgment-free environment where you feel comfortable. I show up as my authentic self to build trust with you. I'm an empathetic listener and communicate in a calm, gentle, respectful way. My job isn't to tell you what to do, but to help you process and explore topics to build self-awareness and confidence.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Eating disorders
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Juan Sanchez

Juan Sanchez

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Visalia, CA


“I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use, using evidence-based approaches including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Tate Tyler

Tate Tyler

Therapist

Virtual • California


Welcome and congratulations on beginning your therapy journey! I'm here to support you as you take steps toward your goals and develop into your best possible self. I hope to create a safe space for you to find relief, healing, and develop meaningful insight to reach your fullest potential.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Alexius Carter

Dr. Alexius Carter

Therapist

Virtual • California


“A client will always feel that I was 100% engage in the session and walk away feeling heard and validated.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Teresa Rosecliff

Dr. Teresa Rosecliff

Psychologist

Virtual • Berkeley, CA


“My practice focuses on providing depth-oriented, feminist psychotherapy to young adults, queer folks, and people healing from traumatic experiences.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sarina Sandoval

Sarina Sandoval

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to offer a steady, grounded, and completely pressure-free space where you don't have to censor your feelings, put on a brave face, or figure it all out on your own.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
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
Angelique Rochelle

Angelique Rochelle

Therapist

Virtual • California


I work with all ages and I'm trained in trauma based therapies such as CBT, DBT, and EMDR. I offer individual therapy using attachment based therapies, solution-focused brief therapy, and Gestalt self-compassion techniques. I'm not currently offering couples counseling except through private pay. I have worked with foster youth, caregivers, families, LGBTQ, and veterans. I have found my work to be professionally rewarding by assisting people in reaching their goals. I’m committed to meeting your needs and learning.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Salamatou Carr

Salamatou Carr

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My background spans inpatient psychiatry, outpatient mental health, and correctional healthcare—experiences that have shaped me into a clinician who leads with compassion, cultural humility, and deep respect for every person's story.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Andrea James

Andrea James

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Montrose, CA


My expertise is in child and adolescent anxiety reduction, OCD, autism and ADHD. My goal is to provide education to kids and their parents about anxiety and related and co-occurring conditions. I also frequently treat phobias, separation anxiety, emotion regulation issues, school refusal, learning disabilities, trauma, giftedness and 2e.

I am also experienced in helping adults and children navigate issues related to divorce including coparenting, custody planning, divorce navigation from considering separation (discernment) through divorce mediation/proceedings to post judgment. I also have expertise in helping adults navigate post separation abuse, domestic violence and coercive control.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Jessica Vazquez

Jessica Vazquez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I like to create spaces that make it inviting and warm to talk about the things that make use the most uncomfortable.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Bill Benson

Bill Benson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Clients often tell me they appreciate that I am direct without being harsh, compassionate without being vague, and practical without reducing therapy to bumper-sticker wisdom.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

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
Rachel Howard

Rachel Howard

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello! I am Registered Yoga Teacher, Clinical Supervisor & Consultant, as well as a Certified Focusing-Oriented Expressive Arts Practitioner.

I have almost a decade of experience working with children, adults, couples, and families in a therapeutic capacity. I specialize in trauma and family work. I am an integrative psychotherapist – integrating art therapy, play therapy, sand tray, mindfulness, astrology, spirituality, and more into therapy.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kristina Modeste

Kristina Modeste

Therapist

Virtual • Berkeley, CA


“Together we will utilize the transformative power of relationship as a sacred tool, capable of moving us all further away from colonized markers of wellness, and closer to a version of healing rich with compassion, self-confrontation, and reverence...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Nealy Moeckler

Nealy Moeckler

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm a neurodivergent therapist dedicated to creating a space where you feel truly understood and supported on your journey.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Creative, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Abigail Rowan

Abigail Rowan

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Sacramento, CA


“As a queer person myself my lived experience allows insight and understanding of parts of living life as a queer person.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 4 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
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 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Clint Nacar

Clint Nacar

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I strive to provide a supportive, respectful space where you feel heard, understood, and actively involved in your care.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Joseph Krimple

Joseph Krimple

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I enjoy taking a holistic and integrative approach to treatment, incorporating different treatment techniques and modalities, and working collaboratively with individuals to develop the most positive outcomes.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Joshua Petty

Joshua Petty

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I have specialized in emotional health for nine years, with experience treating adolescents and adults with various diagnoses.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Rachel Jenkins Stevens

Rachel Jenkins Stevens

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm listening for feelings, themes, patterns, and especially experiences that haven't been articulated or spoken out loud yet.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Zohal Parsa

Zohal Parsa

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I provide a warm, structured, and down-to-earth approach that's both compassionate and results-oriented.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Hayley Osretkar

Hayley Osretkar

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I use a humanistic and strengths-based approach, meaning I meet my client's where they are in their journey...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Infertility
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 17 insurance carriers
Adam Wiswell

Adam Wiswell

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“My approach to counseling is strengths based and empowerment focused. I use a collaborative and egalitarian style with people who I works with in counseling.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Brannon La Force

Brannon La Force

Therapist

Virtual • Sacramento, CA


I have been a counselor for more than 30 years. I remain passionate about making a difference in the lives of others and believe that genuine caring is an essential element to an effective counseling relationship. Over the years I have worked with clients with significant trauma and loss. I consider it a privilege to stand with another individual as he or she resolves great pain. I specialize in treating clients with trauma, relationship issues, and borderline personality disorder.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Family issues, Grief or loss
Creative, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists in Santa Cruz, CA

Number of therapists serving Santa Cruz, CA
There are over 2,555 therapists in Santa Cruz, CA accepting new patients.
2,555+
Average years in practice
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9 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 94%Depression
  • 89%Stress management
  • 86%Trauma
Insurances accepted
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  • 98%Aetna
  • 80%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 75%Cigna
  • 73%Anthem Blue Cross California
  • 64%Blue Shield of California
Languages spoken
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  • 97%English
  • 15%Spanish
  • 2%Farsi
  • 1%Mandarin
  • 1%Assamese
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 89%Online only
  • 11%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 74%Woman
  • 24%Man
  • 3%Non-binary
License types
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  • 46%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 29%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 9%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

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.