Connecting LGBTQ+ Families

We’ve supported thousands of LGBTQ+ families over the years and we are here for you, too. Our programs help LGBTQ+ families establish healthy relationships and community connections. The Center is here for you whether you’re looking to become part of a community that reflects and affirms your identity or you're hoping to connect with other LGBTQ+ families.
We offer a variety of programs and services to support your family and those you look to for care.

LGBTQ+ family at The Center

Family Therapy at The Center

The Center provides non-judgmental, affirming support for families navigating a child’s coming out process and developing identity.

Therapy is available for families with children ages 5 and up who are perceived to be or identify as LGBTQ+, gender nonconforming, queer or questioning.

We accept families with both public and private insurance.

If you have questions please email [email protected].

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Family Resources

The Center offers resources for LGBTQ+ families, from general information about family formation, pregnancy, surrogacy, foster care, and marriage to insurance enrollment, support, and family counseling services.

Two women sitting closely with two children. They are smiling and are outdoors seated on stone steps like one would see at a park

The LGBTQ+ Institute For Family Therapy (LIFT) Certification Program

LIFT is a training and certification program for Licensed Master Social Workers (LMSW) and Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) who provide therapeutic services to families involved with New York City’s Administration for Children’s Services (ACS).

LIFT is designed to help clinicians gain additional knowledge, skills, and confidence to reduce the rejecting behaviors of families struggling to accept their LGBTQ+ children. The program also aims to support families experiencing conflict around their child’s actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Upon program completion, clinicians will receive CE hours.

LIFT is offered in six-month or three-month cycles. It includes training sessions, group coaching sessions, and one-on-one technical assistance for case consultations.

LIFT Certification Program Requirements: 

Credentialed as a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) or a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in New York State; Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT) and Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHC) are invited to apply but are not eligible to receive CEUs at this time

Currently working with families in a clinical capacity or supervising clinicians who are working with families

Submit application; upload resume and complete assessment

Secure supervisor approval to commit to LIFT time commitment and guidelines

Prior participation in the ACS LGBTQ+ Training is preferred but not required; participation in LIFT may be used in lieu of mandated ACS LGBTQ+ training and re-training sessions

Have a strong foundational understanding of LGBTQ+ identities and experiences, the ACS LGBTQ+ policy, and related best practices

Questions about LIFT

LIFT is currently virtual and facilitated through Zoom and Google Classroom. If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].