Skip to main content
Headway

Book LGBT-friendly therapy, covered by insurance

LGBT therapists in Santa Monica, CA

Therapist and patient in a therapy session
Calculator Illustration
Get a cost estimate
People with insurance pay as low as $0 per session through Headway

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

Santa Monica's vibrant LGBTQIA+ community deserves mental health care that truly understands their experiences. Headway offers flexible, judgment-free sessions with providers experienced in supporting gender identity, sexual orientation, and community-specific challenges. With 70+ insurance plans accepted, quality affirming care is more accessible than ever.

Olivia White

Olivia White

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe that true healing goes beyond the mind and requires releasing stored trauma in the body, helping your nervous system to finally feel safe.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Mariah Larkin

Mariah Larkin

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I think a collaborative approach is very effective. We both bring strengths and vulnerabilities to the work.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Abieyuwa Salami

Abieyuwa Salami

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Bernardino, CA


“I provide compassionate, evidence-based care for adults dealing with trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and alcohol use recovery.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Brace Bacon

Brace Bacon

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Palm Springs, CA


“I help adults navigate anxiety, self-esteem, relationship challenges, and life transitions with warmth, insight, and practical support.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Participatory, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Phoenix (Sharon) Piwowarski

Phoenix (Sharon) Piwowarski

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Sebastopol, CA


“I aim to empower clients to explore their feelings and experiences in a supportive environment conducive to personal growth and self-actualization.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Arianna Penalba

Arianna Penalba

Therapist

Virtual • California


“As a counselor, I would describe myself as an eclectic therapist, and I use a variety of theoretical approaches in my work, depending on my specific client's needs.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Alexandra Brown

Alexandra Brown

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Through EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), I guide clients in processing these pain points and shifting negative patterns...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Sarai Tovar

Sarai Tovar

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m dedicated to helping clients create meaningful change through a collaborative, compassionate, and goal oriented approach. I specialize in crisis intervention and draw from proven, evidence-based therapies (EMDR, IFS, CBT, DBT, ERP) tailored to your unique needs. I believe every person’s story is unique, and I work to create a safe, supportive space where you can explore challenges, build on strengths, and move toward the life you want. I earned my Master’s in Educational & Clinical Counseling from Azusa Pacific University and have received specialized training in trauma focused care and crisis interventions. I’ve worked in community mental health settings, crisis intervention programs, and private practice; which has allowed me to support individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Pavlo OConnor

Pavlo OConnor

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work primarily with gay and queer men, and the people who love them, navigating identity, self-worth, relationships, and life transitions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Alanna Everhart

Alanna Everhart

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with a Master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy from the University of San Diego. Since graduating in 2021, I have worked with adolescents, adults, and couples in community mental health and outpatient settings.

I became a therapist because I wanted to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. I’m passionate about helping others better understand themselves, work through challenges, and become the best versions of themselves. I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to heal, grow, and create a life that feels fulfilling and authentic to them.

I have experience supporting clients navigating depression, anxiety, mood and personality disorders, neurodivergence, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and general life stress. I believe therapy should be a space where clients feel safe, supported, and genuinely heard.

My approach is collaborative and individualized, drawing from modalities including CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, and EMDR. I work alongside clients to better understand patterns, build coping skills, improve relationships, and create meaningful change aligned with their goals and values.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
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 7 insurance carriers
Valderene DaPaixao Passos Waian

Valderene DaPaixao Passos Waian

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a warm, welcoming environment that allows you to feel comfortable sharing and being vulnerable, while also feeling secure.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Bruce Strumpf

Bruce Strumpf

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'll provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where we can work together to help you feel better an move toward the life you want.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Humorous, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Shannon Oliveira

Shannon Oliveira

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I like to meet clients where they are at emotionally, and provide support so they feel comfortable to open up...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Christiana Grotlisch

Christiana Grotlisch

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm direct, warm, and a little spunky. I'll challenge you when it's useful, but you won't find judgment in our sessions, just a space to be met where you are.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Energetic, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Funmi Igbinigie

Funmi Igbinigie

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“My goal is to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard, respected, and empowered throughout your mental health journey.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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 6 insurance carriers
Emmanuel Ifemazi

Emmanuel Ifemazi

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I believe mental health care should be respectful, non-judgmental, and empowering, and I strive to create a space where you feel heard and supported.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Angie Douma

Angie Douma

Therapist

Virtual • California


“You're the author and expert in your life story. The backstory: your family, culture, sexuality, chosen tribe, and politics significantly impact how your story will unfold.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, PTSD
Direct, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 4 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 10 insurance carriers
Patricia Riley

Patricia Riley

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe in each individual's right to self determination. Life can have multiple challenges, but with a thoughtful approaches it can reduce the power over us the challenges can have.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Vincente Mozell

Vincente Mozell

Therapist

Virtual • Ontario, CA


“Clients appreciate my steady presence, humor, active listening, and ability to make hard conversations feel manageable.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Identity issues, Men's issues, PTSD
Direct, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Robert Ryan

Robert Ryan

Therapist

Virtual • Agoura Hills, CA


I veiw the path of a human life span, as each of us interact and peerceives the environment around us in our own unique way. My goal is to help clients look at their options, evaluate choices towarda healthier outcome. My work has involved in helping clients toward building better communication between couples, family members, and individual relationships. It is my belief that counseling / psychotherapy can provide a safe place where personal challenges can be processed, and finding choices toward enhancing the quality of life and improve relationships.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Lane McConnell

Lane McConnell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe successful therapy works best when there is a positive empathetic working relationship between the client & therapist.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Robert Kilgore

Robert Kilgore

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Understanding, listening, and proving feedback on one's perspectives that hinders their happiness can open unforeseen possibilities for fulfillment.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Elihu "Eliott" Goretsky

Elihu "Eliott" Goretsky

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in adults with addiction-recovery issues, LGBT+ patients, phase of life problems, and couples (limited).”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Conrad Larkin

Conrad Larkin

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Santa Rosa, CA


“During my more than 30 years as a therapist I have found that once an unworkable pattern is revealed and the emotions connected to that are expressed, your authentic self is more available.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Joanna Amenero

Joanna Amenero

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I tailor treatment to each individual and offer a safe environment where I listen without judging you, motivate and engage you.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Family issues, Identity issues, Infertility
Direct, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Najwa Azizi

Najwa Azizi

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


Hello! I’m Najwa Azizi, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and support. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, stress, and burnout through a personalized and collaborative approach to care. With a background in both behavioral health and critical care nursing, I understand the importance of treating the whole person — emotionally, mentally, and physically. My goal is to create a welcoming, judgment-free space where clients feel safe, heard, and empowered to grow, heal, and reach their full potential.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 6 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
Christina Duffy

Christina Duffy

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I want you to leave each session feeling like you gained something useful—whether that's a new way of looking at a situation, a tool you can use right away, or a clearer plan for moving forward.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Xiomara Morales

Xiomara Morales

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe healing occurs when we address the connection between the mind, body, nervous system, and spirit while building on each person's existing strengths and resilience.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Karissa Lentz-Klepacki

Karissa Lentz-Klepacki

Psychologist

Virtual • California


My name is Dr. Lentz and I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 10 years. I strive to help those acquire skills to overcome challenging situations that are tailored to a person's specific need. I am a goal oriented therapist that works diligently to achieve goals that are identified by the individual and myself. Life is full of situations that do not always have clear and definitive answers, which is a process the therapeutic approach I utilize can assist with.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Lauren Lo Wise

Lauren Lo Wise

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m a licensed clinical social worker and Army veteran who’s passionate about helping people reconnect with their sense of purpose, strength, and authenticity. My background in depth psychology means I approach therapy with curiosity about both the conscious and unconscious parts of who we are through the stories, dreams, and emotions that shape our inner world. I aim to create a space where healing feels human and not clinical. You don’t have to have the right words; you just have to show up.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Men's issues
Challenging, Energetic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
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
Rita Phetmixay

Rita Phetmixay

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm deeply honored to support folks from the Southeast Asian diaspora, children of refugees and immigrants, QTBIPOC communities, survivors of sexual trauma and gender-based violence, and those doing the hard work of organizing and fighting for...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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

Frequently asked questions

Therapy Chair

Happy patient looking away

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.

Find a provider - your way

Use left and right arrow keys to switch tabs. Press Shift+Tab to return to the tab list from links in the selected tab.

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