Your identity is one of the most crucial things to you. What would it be like to see a therapist who denies who you really are? You need a therapist who understands you, and that is not necessarily an easy feat.

So how can you make sure that you choose a therapist who not only understands your LGBTQ identity, but also affirms it? Here's what you need to know.

Check Out the Therapist's Website

A good way to gauge whether or not a therapist will be a good fit for you is by looking at their website and social media. Do they have any information about working with the LGBTQ community? This is a good sign that they are going to be a good source of information for you.

Schedule an Appointment to Meet

If the therapist's website looks good, you may want to schedule a meeting. During this meeting, listen to the way the therapist talks and uses inclusive language. Does the therapist affirm your identity? Do they use your pronouns appropriately?

Another good way to gauge whether or not the therapist is a good fit for you is by asking about their experience with working with the LGBTQ community. If they have little to no experience, this may not be the right therapist for you.

Gauge How Safe You Feel in the Office

When you're looking for a therapist, you should also look for a safe space. This is a place where you can go to talk about your identity without feeling judged or misunderstood.

A therapist's office should be a safe space for you to be yourself. If you don't feel comfortable in the therapist's office, it may not be the right place for you.

Take Your Time Choosing a Therapist

There is no rush when it comes to choosing a therapist. You should take your time and find someone who you feel comfortable with. This is a decision that will affect your mental health, so it's important to choose wisely. You may even find that you need to meet several therapists to find the best match for your needs.

Find the Right Therapist to Meet Your Needs

The therapist-client relationship is built on trust. You need to be able to trust your therapist with the intimate details of your life and your identity. In order for this trust to form, it is essential that you feel seen and heard by your therapist.

To learn more about LGBTQ therapy, reach out to a local service, such as Encircle.