Mental health care for LGBTQIA+ members
Embracing who you are can have huge positive effects on your mental health. It can also pose some challenges. For support, use your Blue Shield plan to connect to resources such as:
- Counseling
- Therapy
- Support groups
- Crisis services
- Mental health assessments for gender-affirming care
To find LGBTQIA+-friendly mental health support, you’ll want to first check these sites:
- Mental Health Directory from the National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network (nqttcn.com)
- Association of LGBTQ+ Psychiatrists
- Inclusive Therapists
- LGBTQ+ Healthcare Directory
- The Online Therapy Directory
- Psychology Today’s LGBTQ+ provider directory
You can also ask your local LGBTQ+ community center for recommendations. The LGBTQ Centers can also help.
Before choosing a mental health provider, make sure they’re covered by your Blue Shield plan. Log in to your online account and search Find a Doctor. Under Specialties, select therapist, counselor, psychologist, or other mental health provider.
Or call us for help. Use the customer service number on the back of your Blue Shield member ID card.
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Get personalized support for your health
A case manager can help you get the care you need. Talk to them to find providers who understand LGBTQIA+ needs. They'll explain benefits and coverage. They'll also give guidance for preventive screenings, gender-affirming care, and more.
Programs & social support
Findhelp offers resources that are either free or reduced cost. Resources include financial help, food pantries, and medical care. Search by ZIP code and then enter “LGBTQIA+” into the next search bar.
National hotlines
LGBT National Help Center
(888) 843-4564
Coming Out Support
(888) 688-5428
Youth (age 25 and younger)
(800) 246-7743
Senior (age 50+)
(888) 234-7243
One-to-one online chat
Trans Lifeline
(877) 565-8860
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or Text “START” to 988
The Trevor Project for Youth: Reach a Counselor
(866) 488-7386
Text “START” to 678678
Domestic Abuse
(800) 799-7233
Text “START” to 88788
Unless stated, certain resources linked or described above are provided by third-party entities, independent of Blue Shield. The opinions expressed by third parties through interactive features of the site are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect those of Blue Shield.
All information provided on this website is intended only for informational purposes and for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment or for the care that patients receive from their providers. Nothing on this site is intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your provider before beginning any new treatment.,
