OutYouth Therapist Network
OutYouth has established a network of therapists who agree to reserve one therapy spot for a low-cost LGBTQ youth or young adult client. The Network is similar to a “pro bono” model, in which a number of therapists hold a single spot for a youth or young adult who would not otherwise be able to access LGBTQIA-affirming counseling.
Why There is a Need for the Network
Despite a growing clinical staff at OutYouth, demand for affordable LGBTQ-affirming counseling for people with barriers to accessing care is outpacing supply. We are frequently running on a waitlist.
Youth present to OutYouth requesting counseling who would benefit from specialized counseling, especially trauma-focused counseling such as EMDR and DBT.
Clinicians have voiced a desire to support OutYouth’s work, and the Network provides a way for clinicians to offer tangible support and cooperate with OutYouth.
How the Network Works
Clients continue to present to OutYouth and go through our screening process to assess the appropriate level of care.
If the waitlist would prevent timely placement with a counselor, or if the client would benefit from more specialized treatment than OutYouth is able to provide, the client is matched with a clinician in the Therapist Network.
OutYouth would connect clinician and client and pass along relevant information from screening to a clinician.
Clinician meets with clients at their existing location and under their Professional Liability Insurance. As OutYouth does not accept insurance and offers services at no cost, the clinician will also not accept insurance and offer the service at no cost.
Additionally, therapists in the Network will be listed in OutYouth materials and may share publicly that they are in the Network. We also host trainings and periodic mixers to foster a community of LGBTQIA-affirming therapists.
Apply to Join the Network
If you would like to be part of our therapist network, please reach out to Jane Bernick (she/her) at jane.bernick@outyouth.org