Then we-some of us LGBTQIA+ ourselves-signed up and tried the services for at least a month. To find the best therapy companies, we surveyed over 10,000 users of 80 online therapy platforms and directories, and sent questionnaires to each company.
While online counseling aims to make therapy more convenient for everyone, if you identify as LGBTQIA+, it can still be hard to know where to look for a therapist who can help you heal, rather than cause more hurt. Because of the stress of discrimination, queer and/or trans people are at greater risk of nearly every mental illness, including substance use disorders and suicide that's why the availability of therapists with LGBTQIA+ training and experience is incredibly important. But if you’re LGBTQIA+, it can be even more difficult to find a therapist who meets your specific needs. Whether you’re looking to start short-term counseling or you’re committed to longer-term therapy, finding a mental health provider can be a struggle, especially given the increase in mental health issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
