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LGBT therapists in El Cajon, CA

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in El Cajon, CA

Headway connects LGBTQIA individuals in El Cajon with 2,408 licensed providers who offer affirming, open-minded care tailored to your unique needs. Access talk therapy and medication management virtually or in-person, with sessions often available as soon as the next day. Our network supports your journey with flexible scheduling and insurance coverage to help you focus on your wellbeing.

Gabriel Ramirez Penaranda

Gabriel Ramirez Penaranda

Therapist

Virtual • California


I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 14 year experience in the mental health field. I specialize in supporting individuals who are committed to their emotional healing. I have experience in working with age groups ranging from children to adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, trauma survivors, and those who seek to live their best lives. In order to support the individuals I work with, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strength-Based, and Person-Centered approaches.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dino Koutsolioutsos

Dino Koutsolioutsos

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work with my clients as I talk with my friends. I am honest, I try to help them, as I would a friend, and I try to support them in their life path, no matter what that path is.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Helene Farr

Helene Farr

Psychologist

Virtual • Laguna Beach, CA


“I bring a calm, thoughtful presence, along with life experience, openness, and a non-judgmental approach.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Danelle Riles

Danelle Riles

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Nevada City, CA


“I'm a neurodiversity-affirming psychotherapist and Integrative Health Practitioner offering a holistic, heart-centered approach to healing.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jennifer Matthes

Jennifer Matthes

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is warm, collaborative, and relational. I believe that trust is the foundation of helpful therapy.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Stuart Brugman

Stuart Brugman

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello there. Thanks for checking out my profile.

I don't know what brings you to this tiny nook of the internet, on this particular day, but I am grateful and very curious to hear.

As a therapist, I've worked with adolescents and adults for over a decade; sharing in their challenges, connecting in laughter and kindness.

It would be my joy to learn your story and meet you with warmth, humor, and sincerity.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 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
Saby Kirpal

Saby Kirpal

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


“I believe that truly exceptional psychiatric care must address not merely symptoms but the whole person—your relationships, circumstances, aspirations, concerns, and the meaning you are working to create.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Sarina Sandoval

Sarina Sandoval

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I recognize that opening up during pregnancy or postpartum can feel especially vulnerable, particularly when there's fear of being judged or not feeling like the parent you "should" be.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Thomas Moore

Thomas Moore

Therapist

Virtual • California


I’m Thomas Moore, LPCC, a licensed professional clinical counselor providing therapy for individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, emotional overwhelm, identity development, and complex relational patterns. Many of the people I work with feel stuck in repeating cycles such as overthinking, people pleasing, emotional shutdown, intense reactions, or difficulty maintaining stable relationships even when they logically understand what they should do. My goal is to help you translate insight into real change.

My approach is structured and compassionate. I integrate evidence based methods including cognitive restructuring, emotional regulation training, interpersonal effectiveness skills, and trauma informed therapy. Sessions focus on understanding why your brain reacts the way it does and building practical tools you can actually use outside the therapy room. This is not only about talking through problems but learning how to respond differently when they show up in real life.

I work well with clients who want more than passive support and are ready to build skills, increase self awareness, and interrupt patterns that no longer serve them.

What clients should know before starting

Therapy with me is collaborative and active and you will learn strategies rather than only venting. We will work on understanding both the emotional and neurological side of your reactions. Sessions focus on present day functioning while also addressing past experiences that still affect you. I may gently challenge patterns when it supports growth while maintaining a supportive and respectful space. Progress often comes from small repeated changes rather than sudden breakthroughs.

If you are looking for therapy that combines validation with practical change, we will likely work well together.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Lorrie Herzberg

Lorrie Herzberg

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work as a companion and guide, offering direct, respectful, and non-judgmental support to help clients navigate challenges such as grief, trauma, serious illness, life transitions, and personal growth.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
David Marquez

David Marquez

Therapist

Virtual • California


My name is David Marquez and I am a Licensed Clinicial Social Worker (LCSW) in California. I have been a social worker for over 10 years and graduated from San Francisco State University. As a Latino therapist, I’m especially passionate about serving LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. I offer therapy in English and Spanish, and I bring cultural awareness, warmth, and real conversation into the room. Your identity, experiences, and personality aren’t side notes here — they’re part of the story we honor. Therapy with me is collaborative, affirming, and occasionally sprinkled with humor — because sometimes the most healing moments come right after we say, “Ohhh... that makes sense.”

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Anthony Gulla

Anthony Gulla

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe therapy should feel like a space where you can show up fully as yourself—without judgment, pressure, or needing to have everything figured out.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Family issues, Grief or loss, Men's issues
Affirming, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Shauna Rossington

Shauna Rossington

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Each client has a different "recipe" for them to reach their goals and the first few sessions are about building rapport and trust so we can find the approach that is your "recipe."”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kimberly G. Galindo

Kimberly G. Galindo

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where patients feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their care.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
George Naves

George Naves

Therapist

Virtual • Glendale, CA


Hi, I’m George. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 17 years of experience working with individuals, couples, groups, and families. I bring a diverse background and wide range of interests to my work as a mental health therapist. I have experience working with groups, couples, families, and individuals of all ages. Some of my major areas of focus include grief and loss, anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, gender identity concerns, and LGBTQ issues. Other areas include panic disorders, anger management, divorce, and blended families.

I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from California State University Northridge and a Master of Science degree from California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks, California.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Gurleen Hans

Gurleen Hans

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Santa Ana, CA


“My passion for mental health care stems from a genuine love of caring for others and witnessing the transformative power of compassionate, evidence-based treatment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 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
Matthew Paden

Matthew Paden

Therapist

Virtual • California


“Matthew is also an end-of-life doula and a Certified HeartMath® trainer, integrating mindfulness, emotional regulation, and compassionate presence into his work.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Christopher Mckillop

Christopher Mckillop

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their challenges and develop meaningful coping skills.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Julia Hamilton

Julia Hamilton

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My practice centers radical tolerance, creating an affirming, compassionate, and culturally responsive safe space.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Edward Garren

Edward Garren

Therapist

Virtual • Los Angeles, CA


“The purpose of therapy is to remove blocks to truth; to help you abandon any patterns of belief that no longer serve you in a productive way; to implement self-forgiveness.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Monica Castanon

Monica Castanon

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I consider myself a therapist who leads with empathy, making others feel safe, seen, and genuinely understood.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
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
Saby Kirpal

Saby Kirpal

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Westlake Village, CA


I'm Saby Kirpal, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care. I hold Master's degrees from Chamberlain University and Walden University, graduating with Presidential Honors, reflecting my commitment to clinical excellence. My diverse professional background spans inpatient psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment centers, and outpatient clinics, giving me insight into mental health treatment at every level of care. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorders, eating disorders, and substance use disorders across age groups. My experience includes working with children as young as eight through adults in crisis stabilization, residential treatment, and ongoing medication management.

What makes my practice unique is the integration of my nursing background with psychiatric expertise. I understand how physical health, medications, lifestyle factors, and mental health interconnect. Being trilingual in English, Hindi, and Punjabi, with conversational Spanish, allows me to serve diverse communities and appreciate how culture shapes mental health experiences.

I've worked from UCSF Health to community clinics, teaching me that excellent care isn't about the setting—it's about the relationship. Whether you're seeking help for the first time, between providers, or managing ongoing conditions, I'm here to partner with you. My approach centers on listening first, explaining clearly, and making decisions together. Mental health treatment should never feel like something done to you, but rather something we navigate together. I'm committed to creating a space where you feel respected, understood, and genuinely supported.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jules Gomez

Jules Gomez

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have experience working with clients of all ages to manage major life transitions, move through traumatic stress, and build a toolkit of coping skills to manage day to day challenges.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Debbie LeFevre

Debbie LeFevre

Therapist

Virtual • California


“With over 30 years of experience, I've developed a deep passion for helping individuals and families navigate relationship challenges--especially those involving blended families and divorce.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Nate Hinerman

Nate Hinerman

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to help you build a healthier relationship with your thoughts and find deep meaning in your life.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Xenia Raskin

Xenia Raskin

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I work with adults throughout California who are navigating anxiety, trauma, and relationship stress.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 2 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 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Marchita Masters

Dr. Marchita Masters

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“I have a warm, comfortable, conversational style. I consider attachment theory, utilize Cognitive Therapy, EMDR and sometimes humor.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Tamra Smith

Tamra Smith

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello, my name is Tamra Smith. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Sacramento, CA. I have over 20 years of experience in the field of Mental Health Services, especially providing therapy and consultation. My practice name is Path to Wellbeing Therapy Services, and I truly lead each person on a path to their own emotional health and wellbeing.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 5 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
Mayra Licano

Mayra Licano

Therapist

Virtual • California


¡Hola! Finding your balance doesn't happen all at once, it happens paso a paso (step by step). As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8+ years of experience, my heart’s work has always been to provide culturally centered, evidence-based care for those navigating the complexities of early parenthood, identity transitions, anxiety, and depression.

My goal is to provide a warm, collaborative space where you feel truly heard and empowered. Together, we will work to reduce the overwhelm so you can find more balance and joy in your everyday life.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Aaron Ruiz Zuniga

Aaron Ruiz Zuniga

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I have extensive history working with individuals experiencing psychotic symptoms and crisis situations.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Natasha Houston

Natasha Houston

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach with my clients is open and honest communication while offering a non-judgmental approach.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Tracey Horwitz

Tracey Horwitz

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My goal is for you to leave each session feeling a little more grounded and a little clearer about yourself.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Michael Nguyen

Michael Nguyen

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Long Beach, CA


“I chose to specialize across this broad spectrum because I understand how neurodivergence intersects with trauma responses, how personality patterns emerge as adaptive mechanisms...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Nicholas Seibel

Nicholas Seibel

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe the most transformative healing happens in relationship through empathy, attunement, and having the space to be fully yourself, without the need for code-switching, masking, or minimizing any part of your experience.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Men's issues, Substance use / addiction, Trauma
Affirming, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lauren Chew

Lauren Chew

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced specific or prolonged trauma, mental health struggles, navigating healthy relationships...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Frequently asked questions

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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.