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Looking For A Graduate Internship? Apply Now & Join Our Team

We partner with Columbia U, Hunter College, Fordham U, NYU, Smith College, City College, Northwestern U and more to provide hands-on clinical experience and supervision.

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Graduate Internships

We are currently taking applications for the 23-’24 school year. Please email info@kiptherapy.com with a cover letter and resume to apply. We partner with Columbia University, Hunter College, Fordham University, New York University, Smith College, City College, Northwestern University and other leading institutions to provide hands-on clinical experience and supervision.

(Please contact your school’s placement office for more information.)

Seeking therapy is a crucial step towards self-care and mental well-being, and finding the right therapist is essential for a positive therapeutic experience.

For members of the LGBTQ+ community, it’s particularly important to find a therapist who understands and is knowledgeable about the unique challenges and experiences they face. In this blog post, we will explore some effective strategies to help you find a therapist who specializes in LGBTQ+ mental health, ensuring you receive the support and guidance that aligns with your specific needs.

Research LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy:

Begin your search by looking for therapists who specifically mention their expertise or experience in providing LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy. Affirmative therapy means that the therapist actively supports and validates your sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. Various online directories, such as Psychology Today, Pride Counseling, and the Gay and Lesbian Medical Association, provide filters to help you find therapists with LGBTQ+ specialization in your area.

Seek recommendations and referrals:

Reach out to your LGBTQ+ community, friends, or local LGBTQ+ organizations to ask for therapist recommendations. Personal referrals can be incredibly valuable as they come from individuals who have firsthand experience working with the therapist and can vouch for their expertise and understanding. Additionally, LGBTQ+ support groups or online forums can be great resources for gathering recommendations.

Check therapist credentials and experience:

Once you have a list of potential therapists, take the time to research their credentials and experience. Look for licensed mental health professionals with qualifications such as licensed professional counselors (LPC), licensed clinical social workers (LCSW), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), or psychologists. Additionally, review their websites, biographies, or online profiles to assess their experience and areas of specialization related to LGBTQ+ mental health.

Finding a therapist who specializes in LGBTQ+ mental health can significantly enhance your therapy experience and ensure that you receive the support you need.

Many therapists offer free or reduced-cost initial consultations to help you determine if they are a good fit for you. Take advantage of this opportunity to discuss your concerns, ask questions about their approach to LGBTQ+ mental health, and gauge their overall compatibility. Pay attention to how comfortable you feel during the consultation and whether the therapist demonstrates a genuine commitment to creating a safe and affirming therapeutic space.
Trust your intuition throughout the process of finding a therapist. Therapy is a personal journey, and feeling a sense of trust and rapport with your therapist is crucial for effective treatment. If something feels off or if you don’t feel fully understood or accepted, it’s okay to continue your search until you find a therapist who meets your expectations.
By conducting thorough research, seeking recommendations, and scheduling initial consultations, you can find a therapist who is knowledgeable, understanding, and affirming of your unique experiences as an LGBTQ+ individual. Remember, you deserve a therapist who respects and supports your journey towards mental well-being.

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