- Online & In-Person Sessions Available in Newhall-Santa Clarita, Los Angeles & Studio City
Compassionate LGBTQIA Therapist In Newhall-Santa Clarita, CA
Inclusive Care for Every Journey
Find a space where you can truly be yourself—reach out to begin.
Welcome, I'm Julia.
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#104811) with over fifteen years of experience supporting individuals from marginalized communities through an intersectional lens. I’m passionate about helping clients understand how their history impacts their present, and empowering them to move forward with clarity, strength, and intention.
I offer both online and in-person sessions in Newhall-Santa Clarita, Los Angeles, and Studio City.
Office Locations
Newhall-Santa Clarita Office
24509 Walnut St Ste. 201,
Newhall, CA 91321
(818) 646-7921
Los Angeles Office
566 S. San Vicente Blvd STE 101
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(323) 483-4225
Studio City Office
11712 Moorpark St suite 101
Studio City, CA 91604
(818) 646-7921
Have questions?Call or Schedule a Consultation
LGBTQIA Community
As a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans*, Queer (LGBTQ) affirmative therapist, I have the honor of sitting with people as they navigate the layers of gender, sexuality, culture, and race that shape their everyday experiences.
Over the last 16 years, I’ve worked in the queer community both as a therapist and as an advocate. I’ve witnessed and fought against the oppression and discrimination the community experiences. If you identify outside of heteronormativity, it is invaluable to work with an LGBT friendly therapist who grasps and affirms the breadth of gender and sexual identities.
Sexual Identity
Whether you are questioning your sexuality or identifying outside of heteronormativity, it’s imperative to get quality support from an experienced LGBT therapist. Growing up in a heteronormative society, you’re made to feel othered. In our therapeutic relationship, you'll find a supportive environment where you can explore your identity freely. I offer therapy services for a wide range of clients, including queer individuals, non-binary clients, and those navigating the complexities of romantic orientation. With a focus on affirmative therapy, I aim to provide the quality care you deserve on your journey toward a more harmonious life.
Gender Identity
Questioning your gender identity can be an incredibly challenging experience, often filled with shame, fear, and anxiety. As a trans-affirming therapist, I’m here to offer a safe space where we can explore your identity together. Your lived experience matters, and you deserve compassionate care that acknowledges the difficulties you face. As a mental health professional with specialized training in gender identity exploration, my approach to therapy is tailored to your unique journey. See here for specific gender-affirming information.
LGBTQIA Relationships
LGBTQIA relationships often don’t receive the same visibility and representation as straight relationships in our society, which can make navigating them feel isolating. This lack of representation can lead to unique relationship concerns, identity struggles, and mental health challenges for many in the queer community. As an LGBT friendly therapist, I understand that every relationship is different, whether you’re exploring romantic orientation, navigating relationship dynamics, or working through challenges related to interpersonal relationships. In our therapy sessions, we’ll dive into relationship building and address any concerns you may have.
WPATH - Letters for gender affirming surgeries
If you’re considering a medical transition, know that I’m here to support you every step of the way. Navigating the process can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to meeting the requirements for gender-affirming surgeries. As part of your journey, I can provide mental health clearance letters that align with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) standards. Whether you’re looking for guidance, seeking mental health services, or ready to take the next step in your transition, I’m here to provide the support and documentation you need.
Your Compassionate LGBT Therapist
While the world is moving toward greater LGBTQIA inclusion, discrimination and marginalization still exist, affecting the lives of many in the queer community. Individuals questioning their sexuality or exploring their gender identity can face a range of issues that create significant stress.
These challenges may include navigating interpersonal relationships, dealing with body image concerns, and experiencing mental health issues such as anxiety disorders or even trauma. Seeking support from understanding chosen family members can be crucial for those in the LGBTQIA community who may not feel accepted by their biological relatives.
It is important for society to continue working towards creating a more inclusive and compassionate environment for all individuals regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. By fostering understanding chosen family can help alleviate some of the burdens and provide a sense of belonging and acceptance for those who may feel marginalized or discriminated against.
Given that LGBTQ individuals are twice as likely as the general population to experience mental health conditions, and trans people are four times as likely, the need for culturally inclusive mental health care and LGBTQIA counseling has never been more critical. As an LGBT therapist, I strive to provide a supportive environment where you can feel seen, heard, and cared for.
My practice focuses on affirmative therapy, utilizing evidence-based practices to address mental health concerns, including body image issues, identity struggles, and the impacts of trauma. I understand the importance of compassionate care and offer both in-person and online therapy sessions to make access to mental healthcare more convenient. If you’re a prospective client seeking a competent therapist who genuinely understands the unique challenges faced by queer individuals, know that my approach to therapy is built on empathy, respect, and an alliance that fosters authentic relationships.
“Openness may not completely disarm prejudice, but it’s a good place to start.” – Jason Collins
Work with Me
Starting therapy is a big step—and you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re brand new to therapy or returning after some time away, I’m here to meet you exactly where you are. My goal is to help you feel supported, understood, and empowered to grow in ways that feel real and sustainable.
Here’s what our work together usually looks like:
Free Consultation
We’ll start with a free 20-minute phone call. This is your space to share what’s been coming up for you, ask any questions, and get a feel for how I work—no pressure, no commitment. Some people decide to move forward right away, while others take some time to think about it. Either way is welcome.
Weekly Sessions
We’ll meet regularly (typically once a week) in a supportive, non-judgmental space. Our sessions will focus on processing your experiences, building practical tools, and gently shifting patterns that no longer serve you—all at a pace that feels right for you.
Tailored Plan
If you decide to move forward, we’ll schedule your first full session and begin shaping a plan that fits your goals, identity, and lived experience. This is where we begin exploring what’s getting in the way and how therapy can support the changes you want to make.
Ongoing Support & Growth
Therapy isn’t just about fixing what feels broken—it’s about becoming more connected to yourself. As you grow, we’ll continue adjusting the work to reflect your evolving needs, helping you stay grounded, clear, and supported through it all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Affirmative therapy is an approach specifically tailored to support LGBTQIA individuals. It focuses on understanding and affirming your unique experiences, including navigating societal challenges, difficult situations, life transitions, and body dysmorphia. As an LGBTQ-friendly therapist, I use affirmative therapy techniques to create a therapeutic environment where you feel safe to explore LGBTQ-related issues and express your authentic self, without judgment.
The first consultation is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and discuss your goals for therapy. During our LGBTQIA therapy sessions, I want to hear about your experiences, concerns, and what you hope to achieve through our work together. This initial meeting helps us build an alliance and ensures you feel comfortable in a safe therapy space as we begin this healing journey. My goal as an LGBT therapist is to provide compassionate care that helps you overcome gender identity issues and live a meaningful life.
My practice is LGBTQIA-friendly because it is rooted in an understanding of the challenges and nuances that come with identifying outside of heteronormativity. I have specialized training in affirmative therapy and have been an advocate for the community for over 16 years. By focusing on compassion, respect, and evidence-based practices, I strive to create a therapeutic space where you can explore your identity, sexual orientation, relationships, and mental health without judgment.
Yes, I have extensive experience working with clients from various cultural backgrounds, including queer individuals of color and non-binary clients. My practice emphasizes an intersectional approach, considering the broader community contexts, background of race, and individual life experiences to provide compassionate care tailored to each person's needs.
I use trauma-focused practices to help clients navigate various forms of trauma, including childhood trauma, religious trauma, and the impacts of discrimination. By creating a collaborative environment, we’ll work through your experiences, identify coping strategies, and focus on building resilience. My approach is always grounded in compassion, ensuring you feel safe and cared for as we work toward healing.
At this time, I am not in-network with any insurance companies. However, many insurance companies have an “out of network mental health coverage policy.” If your insurance company offers this I can provide you with a monthly “superbill” to submit for possible reimbursement.
Julia Schwab Therapy offers both online and in-person sessions. In-person appointments are available in Los Angeles, Studio City, and the Newhall–Santa Clarita area.
Related Services
Book Your First LGBTQIA Therapy Session Now!
I’ve been working with the LGBTQIA community for over 16 years and would be honored to work with you. Contact me for an appointment. We’ll start with a consultation to learn about each other and address any concerns you may have. LGBTQIA therapy can help by creating a safe and supportive environment to explore yourself and any potential barriers you may experience in the world.