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LGBT therapists in San Diego, CA

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People with insurance pay as low as $0 per session through Headway

Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in San Diego, CA

San Diego's vibrant LGBTQIA community deserves mental healthcare from providers with relevant experience and open-minded approaches. Headway offers flexible sessions, medication management support, and works with your insurance to help you focus on your care without worrying about costs.

Christina Stelly

Christina Stelly

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, CA


IMPORTANT: For current availability, visit https://mentalhealthpractitioners.com/ or call or text us anytime at 415-968-6515—we make it super easy! Intake forms are required before your first appointment and will be emailed to you when you book online. You can text us your info or email us at [email protected]. Please be sure to send us a picture of your insurance information and photo ID!

I'm Christina Stelly, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC — a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner based in Martinez, CA. With over 15 years of clinical experience across inpatient psychiatry, maternal health, and advanced practice, I am deeply committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to every person I serve.

I specialize in treating schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and etc.

My academic background includes a Post-Certificate DNP in Psychiatric Mental Health from the University of Illinois Chicago, a Doctorate of Nurse Practice from Texas Tech University, and a Master of Science in Nursing from Touro University. I also completed an intensive NP residency focused on advanced psychiatric care, crisis stabilization, and forensic psychiatry, which further strengthened my clinical expertise.

Earlier in my career, I specialized in maternal mental health, serving as a Patient Care Director for high-risk obstetric populations and contributing to perinatal mental health policy at the state and national levels. This background gives me a uniquely broad, whole-person perspective on psychiatric care across the lifespan.

My approach is grounded in trauma-informed, individualized care. I take time to fully understand your history, concerns, and goals before collaboratively building a treatment plan tailored to you. I have also served on health policy committees and presented at national nursing conferences, reflecting my commitment to psychiatric care.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Saby Kirpal

Saby Kirpal

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • San Diego, 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
Barbara Kenerson

Barbara Kenerson

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Orange, CA


“My approach is thoughtful, evidence-based, and personalized—focusing on long-term stability and emotional clarity through a carefully tailored treatment plan.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Participatory
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Antonia Sloan

Antonia Sloan

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I aspire to find the best approach that will enable you to gain insights, achieve personal growth and develop happiness within your life and personal relationships.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Courtney Roushion

Courtney Roushion

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Ontario, CA


“My approach is therapy should be client centered and feel like a normal conversation between two people.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Carrie Hansen

Carrie Hansen

Therapist

Virtual • Atascadero, CA


“I especially enjoy working with youth and young adults, I specialize in working with people with ADHD, Autistic teens and adults, phase of life issues, depression, anxiety...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Creative, Humorous
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Jessica Zavala

Jessica Zavala

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach to therapy is warm, direct, and collaborative. I believe therapy should be a space where clients feel genuinely understood and supported while also being challenged to grow.”
LGBTQIA+, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders, Family issues
Challenging, Direct, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Andrew Extein

Andrew Extein

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is thoughtful, collaborative, and grounded. I take the work seriously, but not myself—humor is part of the process, when it fits.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders, Family issues
Challenging, Creative, Open-minded
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Anjana Kathuria

Anjana Kathuria

Therapist

Virtual • California


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California since 2008. My work is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and respect for each client’s unique life story.

I support clients navigating anxiety, depression, stress, health issues, and interpersonal relationship challenges, trauma, grief, aging, and end-of-life concerns. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore challenges, build resilience, and reconnect with their strengths while moving toward greater clarity, healing, and emotional balance.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Candace Selover

Candace Selover

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“My goal is to sit with you in darkness and light, to help you engage in an act of bravery to feel your emotions, and learn how to choose yourself.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Creative, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Jaha Higgs

Jaha Higgs

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I hold a safe space for you to feel seen, understood, respected, supported, partnered with, and empowered across the intersections of your identity.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Catherine Stansell

Catherine Stansell

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I view therapy as a collaboration between client and therapist. As a team, we explore and work towards your therapy goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Luis Contreras

Luis Contreras

Therapist

Virtual • San Diego, CA


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 25 years of experience providing mental health services in behavioral health, crisis intervention, community mental health, and medical settings. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, family conflict, and other emotional challenges.

My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and trauma-informed. I believe healing happens when clients feel safe, understood, and empowered. I work alongside clients to build on their strengths, develop practical coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment.

Throughout my career, I have provided therapy and clinical support in outpatient, community-based, hospital, college mental health, and correctional settings. In my private practice, I provide bilingual psychotherapy to individuals and families experiencing trauma, stress, relationship challenges, parenting concerns, and behavioral health issues. I also have extensive experience supporting foster, adoptive, and biological families caring for children impacted by trauma and attachment-related difficulties.

My professional background includes crisis stabilization, risk assessment, treatment planning, wraparound services, and multidisciplinary care coordination for youth and families with complex needs. I am also a part-time lecturer in the School of Social Work at San Diego State University, where I teach and mentor future social workers.

I am passionate about culturally responsive care, equity in mental health services, and helping clients feel empowered throughout their healing journey. I provide services in both English and Spanish and welcome clients from all backgrounds.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Erika Huguenard

Erika Huguenard

Therapist

Virtual • California


Hello, I’m Erika Huguenard, LCSW and I believe that healing begins with feeling seen, understood, and supported exactly where you are. With over 12 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I provide a compassionate and collaborative space for people navigating trauma, loss, life transitions, and the complex emotions that come with being human.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Noel Sherry

Noel Sherry

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy, working with you to unlock your potential and achieve lasting change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sylvia Ybarra

Sylvia Ybarra

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I believe we get better with people and become worse in isolation. So, let's work together to bring you a better tomorrow.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Joyce Carter

Joyce Carter

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I aim to help people to understand we all have the power to re-create ourselves and live our best lives.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Panic disorders
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Jocelynn Jones

Jocelynn Jones

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable being themselves.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Family issues, Grief or loss, Identity issues
Creative, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 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
Brittany Gregory

Brittany Gregory

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach to therapy is a blended approach in which I incorporate cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ECT), and Exposure Response Prevention (ERT).”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, OCD
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Allan Sadac

Allan Sadac

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Los Alamitos, CA


“From our work, I hope you leave every session with more clarity and direction about the changes you can influence and bring you closer to the life you are wanting.”
LGBTQIA+, Cultural & ethnic issues, Men's issues, Relationship issues
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lori Richeson

Lori Richeson

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I utilize Cognitive Behavioral methods, and Communication model. I am certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapy.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Jeongmi Moon

Dr. Jeongmi Moon

Psychologist

Virtual • San Diego, CA


Clients : Creative field, writers, screen writers, actors, films makers.

I’m a bilingual (English/Korean) licensed clinical psychologist with over 13+ years of experience helping adults (20 and older) navigate anxiety, ADHD, relationship and family concerns, identity questions, and major life transitions.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in both evidence-based techniques and a deep respect for the human spirit. I integrate therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based methods with holistic tools drawn from meditation, Eastern/Western philosophy, and positive psychology. This allows me to support you not just in coping with challenges—but in creating a more meaningful, centered life.

I especially enjoy working with creatives, professionals, and individuals exploring cultural or gender identity. Whether you’re dealing with racing thoughts, emotional exhaustion, shifting roles, or inner conflict, we’ll work together to clarify what matters most to you and how to move forward with intention. Therapy doesn’t have to be cold or clinical—it can be a dynamic, reflective process that helps you reconnect with your values and sense of possibility.

Taking the first step can feel uncertain, but if you’re ready to talk, I’m here to listen. You deserve support that aligns with both your inner world and everyday life. Feel free to reach out with any questions or to schedule a consultation. I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues
Creative, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Vesna Sturman

Vesna Sturman

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“My approach to therapy is client-centered and research-based, meaning that I work with you to find which therapy style is most comfortable for you.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lauren Azantian

Lauren Azantian

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm passionate about working with individuals who want to understand themselves on a deeper level, not just manage symptoms but shift the patterns underneath them.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Katherine Farren

Katherine Farren

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My style is conversational, present, and engaged. I reflect back what I hear—and what I notice—in both your words and your body language.”
LGBTQIA+, Depression, Eating disorders, Identity issues, Infertility
Holistic, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cylystina Nevel

Cylystina Nevel

Therapist

Virtual • California


Some seasons of life ask more of you than you ever expected, and somewhere along the way you stopped feeling like yourself. I work with teens, parents, and adults who are moving through anxiety, depression, grief, relationship strain, and the heavy stretches that come with big life transitions. I care deeply about supporting LGBTQIA+ and transgender clients, and families who want to understand and show up for one another a little better. So much of this work is simply remembering that you do not have to carry any of it alone.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Thai Le

Dr. Thai Le

Psychologist

Virtual • Pasadena, CA


“I offer a collaborative and nonjudgemental space for discovering strengths and with helping you feel empowered.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Vickie Medina

Vickie Medina

Therapist

Virtual • Ventura, CA


“I believe therapy should feel safe, collaborative, and empowering. Supporting emotional healing and identity development is deeply meaningful to me.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 5 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
Lisa Reichenbach

Lisa Reichenbach

Therapist

Virtual • California


I work with teens, young adults, and families navigating ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance use, identity exploration, family conflict, relationship challenges, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. Whether you're feeling stuck, disconnected, overwhelmed, or uncertain about what comes next, therapy can provide a space to better understand yourself and move toward meaningful change.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and nonjudgmental. I believe therapy works best when clients feel genuinely understood, supported, and accepted for who they are. Together, we build on strengths, develop practical coping skills, and explore the patterns that may be getting in the way of living a more fulfilling life.

I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can be honest, reflective, and fully themselves without fear of judgment. My goal is not only to help clients navigate current challenges but also to foster greater resilience, self-awareness, confidence, and connection.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 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
Julia Hengst

Julia Hengst

Therapist

Virtual • California


As someone who has gone through years of therapy myself, I am very passionate about working with you for your highest good. With a background in meditation, conflict mediation, somatic work, spirituality and psychology, I have a solid toolkit that is at your service. My undergrad degree from Berkeley is in Media Studies, so we will also explore how media shapes us and the current culture we live in.

I work with all different ages, ethnic/racial backgrounds, social groups, nationalities and orientations!

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Michelle Liu

Michelle Liu

Therapist

Virtual • California


“My approach is Holistic and Cultural sensitive, with individually tailored goals that address Mind, Body, and Spirit Wellness.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Johnny Jimenez

Johnny Jimenez

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


“I provide efficient, evidence-based care focused on helping you feel better as quickly and safely as possible.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Elaine Zaragoza

Elaine Zaragoza

Therapist

Virtual • California


I hold a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Social Work. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with extensive experience in both community settings and private practice. I specialize in supporting women through the unique challenges they face in life. I offer a compassionate, empathetic approach to help women navigate anxiety, depression, struggles with identity, and the journey toward recognizing their self-worth.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Audrey Karitani

Audrey Karitani

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm here to learn what is important to you and help guide you through any challenges you may have that are preventing you from living authentically and without fear.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Grief or loss
Humorous, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Brandy Jaramillo

Brandy Jaramillo

Therapist

Virtual • California


“I'm a licensed clinical social worker specializing in supporting adults navigating the complex emotional landscape of chronic illness, burnout, and caregiver stress.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Amanda Khezra

Dr. Amanda Khezra

Psychologist

Virtual • California


“All progress is good progress and at the end of our session my hope is we took another step towards reaching your goals.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Terrance Jackson

Dr. Terrance Jackson

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • California


My name is Dr. Terrance Jackson, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am so glad you're considering working with me to explore your mental health and well-being

I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, CBT therapy, and trauma-informed care. I’m committed to creating a non-judgmental, supportive, and safe space to work together to help you overcome challenges and achieve your personal goals.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

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.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an LGBTQIA Therapist in San Diego

Searching for LGBTQIA+ therapists in San Diego starts with finding identity-affirming care. This can mean a therapist who lists experience with affirmative therapy, WPATH-informed care, gender-diverse clients, coming out, family dynamics, relationship concerns, or support for anxiety, depression, and trauma. Finding a therapist who understands LGBTQIA+ experiences matters beyond general training, so review their listed specialties, approach, and bio to see whether their experience matches what you want to talk about.

San Diego has many therapists across neighborhoods like Hillcrest, North Park, Mission Valley, and La Jolla, which can make it easier to find options but harder to narrow them down. Virtual care can also expand your choices, especially if you want a therapist with specific LGBTQIA+ experience or need more flexible scheduling. As you compare therapists, look at appointment availability, whether they offer a free phone consultation, and how clearly they describe their work with LGBTQIA+ people, gay couples therapy, lesbian couples therapy, or LGBTQIA+ couples counseling.

Therapy in San Diego can be expensive without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and understand what you may pay before care begins. Headway helps you compare therapists who are accepting new patients, review bios, enter your insurance details for an estimated cost, and book directly when you’re ready.

If you're experiencing or worried about violence, threats, or coercion in your relationship, couples therapy isn't usually the right starting point — individual support is safer. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233, or text START to 88788\) can help you think through next steps.

Find a provider - your way

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