Find an LGBT Therapist

Understanding LGBT and how it can affect you

LGBT is an umbrella term that is used to describe people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender. For some people it also encompasses a wider range of sexual orientations and gender identities. Being LGBT is part of who you are, but the way society, relationships and institutions respond to sexuality and gender can affect how you feel about yourself. You may experience stress, anxiety, or low mood related to coming out, social rejection, discrimination, or difficulties navigating relationships and identity. Cultural pressures, family expectations and workplace issues can add extra layers of strain, and these experiences differ widely depending on your background, age and local context.

Signs you might benefit from therapy that focuses on LGBT issues

You might be considering therapy if you notice persistent feelings that affect your daily life. These can include ongoing anxiety about being open about your identity, recurring low mood, trouble sleeping, or a sense of isolation even when you are surrounded by people. Relationship difficulties related to disclosure or intimacy, confusion or distress about gender identity, and the emotional fallout from bullying or discrimination are also common reasons people seek help. If you find yourself avoiding social situations, using alcohol or other coping strategies more than you would like, or struggling to make decisions about next steps in your life, a therapist who specialises in LGBT matters can provide focused support.

When support is especially helpful

Therapy can be particularly helpful during transitional moments - when you are considering coming out, exploring a gender transition, changing relationship arrangements, or moving to a new community. It can also support you after traumatic experiences, such as hate incidents or family rejection. You do not need to wait for a crisis to ask for help - many people choose therapy to increase resilience, improve self-understanding and build tools for handling future challenges.

What to expect in LGBT-focused therapy sessions

When you begin work with a counsellor or therapist who specialises in LGBT issues, the early sessions are usually about getting to know you and what matters most right now. You can expect an initial conversation about your background, current concerns and any immediate needs. The therapist will ask about how your identity, relationships and environment are affecting you and will work with you to set goals. Sessions are typically collaborative - you and the therapist agree on what to focus on and review progress over time.

Therapists who specialise in LGBT matters create a comfortable environment where you can explore identity, relationships and emotions without judgement. They will often pay attention to the social context of your experience - such as family dynamics, workplace pressures, or cultural expectations - because these shape how you feel. Over the course of therapy you may explore practical coping strategies, communication skills, and ways to manage distress, as well as deeper questions about identity and meaning.

Common therapeutic approaches used with LGBT clients

A range of therapeutic models can be useful, and many practitioners integrate different approaches depending on your needs. Person-centred therapy emphasises empathy and your own capacity for growth, which can be helpful if you want a non-directive space to reflect on your identity. Cognitive behavioural therapy focuses on the links between thoughts, feelings and behaviour and is often used for anxiety and depression related to minority stress. Psychodynamic approaches explore how past experiences and relationships influence current patterns, which can be useful if you want to understand recurring relational difficulties.

Other approaches that may be offered include trauma-informed therapy for those who have experienced abuse or hate incidents, and narrative therapy which looks at the stories you tell about yourself and how those narratives can be reshaped. Group therapy can also be a powerful option if you want peer contact and mutual support, while couples therapy can support relationship conversations about disclosure, fidelity, parenting or roles. Many therapists tailor their work to your cultural background, faith and personal values to ensure the approach feels relevant to your life.

How online therapy works for LGBT support

Online therapy can be a practical option if you need flexible appointment times or access to specialists who are not local to you. Sessions commonly take place via video call or phone, and some practitioners offer messaging or email support between sessions. Online work preserves the core elements of face-to-face therapy - assessment, goal-setting and reflective dialogue - while removing the need to travel. This can be particularly helpful if you live in a smaller community where there are fewer LGBT-specific services or if mobility and scheduling are concerns.

When you choose online therapy, think about the setting you will use for sessions. Find a comfortable environment where you can speak freely and without interruptions. It is also sensible to clarify practical arrangements at the start - how to book, fees, cancellation policies and how the therapist records notes. Many UK therapists are registered with professional bodies such as BACP, HCPC or accredited through NCPS, and their profiles will note registrations, qualifications and areas of specialism.

How to choose the right LGBT therapist for you

Choosing a therapist is a personal decision and you should feel able to ask questions before booking. Look for practitioners who explicitly mention experience with LGBT issues, and read practitioner profiles to learn about their training and therapeutic approach. It is reasonable to ask about professional registrations and whether they are a registered or accredited member of a UK body such as BACP, HCPC or NCPS. Many therapists offer an initial consultation or brief phone call so you can gauge whether you feel comfortable with their style.

Consider practical factors too - location if you plan to meet in person, the availability of evening or weekend appointments, and whether online sessions are offered. Think about whether you prefer a counsellor who takes a directive approach or someone who follows your lead. If you have particular needs - for example, support with family mediation, legal matters, or working with young people - look for practitioners who mention those specialisms. Trust your instincts - if a therapist does not feel like the right fit, it is okay to try a different practitioner until you find someone who meets your needs.

Final thoughts

Seeking support for issues related to sexual orientation or gender identity is a positive step and many people find therapy helpful for navigating relationships, improving wellbeing and making life changes. Whether you choose face-to-face or online work, a therapist who understands LGBT experiences can provide tailored guidance and practical tools. Use the profiles on this page to compare qualifications and approaches, and arrange an initial conversation to see who feels right for you. With the right match, therapy can help you clarify goals, build resilience and feel more confident in the choices you make.