Individual Counseling with Out Youth

Out Youth provides a safe, confidential space for LGBTQIA+ youth (ages 5-29) to explore their identities, navigate challenges, and receive support tailored to their unique needs. Our licensed counselors offer affirming therapy to address a wide range of concerns, including mental health, coming out, family dynamics, and more.

Out Youth does not accept insurance. Counseling services are available to all youth regardless of financial situation, with the highest cost per session being $10 for families and individuals who can afford to pay.

Who We Serve

Children & Preteens (Ages 5-11)

  • Sessions are primarily in-person, using play therapy for ages 5-8.

  • Preteens (ages 9-11) may receive counseling in person or via teletherapy.

  • Parent/guardian involvement is required.

Youth & Young Adults (Ages 12-29)

  • Weekly 50-minute sessions with an assigned therapist.

  • Counseling is available in person or via teletherapy.

  • Clients may receive up to 20 sessions.

How to Get Started

To begin counseling, you must complete a counseling screening form:

  • For children, preteens, and teens (5-17): A parent/guardian must submit the form for minors under the age of 18.

  • For young adults (18-29): A parent/guardian must submit the form for minors under the age of 18. Individuals 18 and up may submit the screening form for themselves.

Once we receive your form, a staff member will follow up within 2-10 business days to discuss next steps. If our services aren’t the best fit, we’ll provide referrals.

Before counseling begins, we need a copy on file of either the Recurring Payment for Individual Counseling Services Authorization Form or, for those seeking no-cost options, the Statement of Inability to Afford Payment for Counseling Services Form.

  • Out Youth provides counseling services for LGBTQIA+ youth and young adults ages 5-29 who physically reside in Texas.

    • Children & Pre-Teens (Ages 5-11): Counseling is available for children and pre-teens with required parental/guardian involvement.

    • Youth & Young Adults (Ages 12-29): Counseling is available for individuals who may attend sessions independently.

    • Family Therapy: While family members are not eligible for individual counseling, they may participate in family therapy and couple counseling sessions. If interested, reach out to Rachael Longoria at rachael.longoria@outyouth.org

    • Children & Pre-Teens (Ages 5-11): Sessions are generally individual, with caregiver coordination every 4-6 sessions or as needed.

      • Play therapy is encouraged for children ages 5-8 (in-person only).

      • Pre-teens (ages 9-11) may receive in-person or teletherapy counseling, determined on a case-by-case basis.

      • Parents/guardians must be present in the lobby (for in-person) or at home (for teletherapy) during sessions.

    • Youth & Young Adults (Ages 12-29): Individuals receive weekly 50-minute sessions with a licensed counselor or graduate intern.

  • Clients are eligible for 8 to 20 individual or family counseling sessions at Out Youth. At the conclusion of sessions, Out Youth can provide resources and referrals for ongoing support options.

  • Out Youth strives to make counseling accessible to all.

  • Clients meet with licensed counselors, social workers, or provisionally-licensed graduate student counseling interns. Interns are working toward Master’s Degrees in Professional Counseling and receive ongoing clinical supervision to ensure high-quality therapeutic services.

  • Out Youth partners with a Therapist Network of professionals who reserve one low-cost ($10/session) therapy spot for LGBTQIA+ youth or young adults. If our waitlist prevents timely placement, or if a client requires specialized treatment beyond Out Youth’s scope, we can match them with a clinician in our network (with proper consent).

  • Sometimes, our counseling services may not be the best option for a child, youth, or family. If this is the case, we will provide additional referrals as needed during the screening or intake process.

For further questions, please contact Rachael Longoria, Director of Clinical & Social Services, at rachael.longoria@outyouth.org.