Best Online Therapy for LGBTQIA+

The clear denotation of LGBTQIA+ allyship or therapist identity on a website or social media is the most obvious way to know if a therapist will be affirming. Dr. Marschall tells us that “part of why I chose to have an active social media presence is so that potential clients can confirm I am a safe person for them before seeking services with me. I also put LGBT+ Affirming on my website so that it is clear.” 

Though therapists don’t always advertise their identities in general, for this population it can be useful. “As some LGBTQIA+ therapy seekers might need a therapist with similar lived experience as them, it might be more important for the therapist to disclose personal identities that they normally might not share,” notes Owens. 
Finding a Christian therapist who is LGBTQIA+ friendly is possible, but may be more difficult to find than one without religious affiliations. Owens tells us that “it is imperative to do your research when looking for Christian counseling as a member of this community,” and adds that “referring to the LGBTQIA+ identities as 'lifestyles' or 'choices' is always a big red flag. Additionally, if the company allows you to filter for LGBTQIA+ care but refers to that as an 'issue' to be addressed in therapy, that is problematic as well, as it assumes that an LGBTQIA+ identity is problematic.” 

If you are unsure about the stance of a Christian therapist for LGBTQIA+ oriented services, you may need to ask. Marschall says, “an affirming therapist who is also Christian will acknowledge that this is a valid concern and will talk you through it. Ask about whether they are deliberately and actively affirming of LGBTQIA+ clients, and look elsewhere if the answer is not an enthusiastic yes.” Also, she notes that “there are Christian denominations that are LGBTQIA+ affirming, and there are people who identify as a denomination that isn't affirming who disagree with that aspect of their doctrine.” 

LGBTQIA+ therapy is right for anyone seeking therapy that can take their identity into account, provided they’re not seeking emergency help for issues around suicidal ideation or crisis intervention. Finding a therapist who understands your identity is an affirming choice, versus one who either isn’t familiar with it or holds moral beliefs that aren’t aligned with yours. 

Additionally, it’s a great choice for anyone who has questions or concerns about their sexuality or gender identity. There are many specialties within LGBTQIA+ therapy, and a therapist who works specifically within your demographic is likely to do a better job at helping you parse out the questions and concerns you have about it. 

Yes, some online therapy services are covered by insurance. Some therapists directly take insurance and will be in-network providers for whom you will pay only a small copay. Other providers who are not in-network may provide you with superbills to submit to your insurance company for partial reimbursement. If you want to find a therapist that is in-network with your insurance, use your online insurance platform benefits finder to search for a provider. Or, you can ask a therapist what plans they accept; this information is usually available on their website.

Most therapy can’t be anonymous, particularly if you are working through your health insurance. However, some providers of therapy via text may allow you to hide your identity, and some free providers may as well. 

Yes. All HIPAA laws that are in place for in-person therapy also apply to online therapy. Online therapy should be equally safe as in-person therapy in those ways, but it's always a good idea to check the online therapy's privacy policy.

Yes, online therapy or counseling can definitely help anyone with their mental health and with past or recent trauma. Finding a therapist who is affirming of both your experience and your identity is key for you to get the help you deserve. Marschall says that “LGBTQIA+ people are at higher risk for mental health issues related to trauma and stress from oppression compared to cishet people,” making therapy all the more important. 

If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm, there are many resources available for you. If you have access to a cell phone or laptop, you can text a volunteer at the Crisis Text Line. If you want to speak to someone on the phone, you can dial 988, which is the national suicide and crisis lifeline. This helpline has volunteers available 24/7.