LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 28207
Jessica Clodfelter
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28207 (Online Only)
Jess Clodfelter is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and clinically certified trauma professional with 10 years of experience in the mental health field. They have done extensive training in helping clients explore gender & sexuality, along with helping transgender clients through their transitions. They work with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, self-esteem issues, and trauma histories, especially relating to the LGBTQIA+ experience. Jess understands the social & mental challenges that come with being part of the community, which allows Jess to provide their clients the support they need.
Jess Clodfelter is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and clinically certified trauma professional with 10 years of experience in the mental health field. They have done extensive training in helping clients explore gender & sexuality, along with helping transgender clients through their transitions. They work with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, self-esteem issues, and trauma histories, especially relating to the LGBTQIA+ experience. Jess understands the social & mental challenges that come with being part of the community, which allows Jess to provide their clients the support they need.
Tia Hunter
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28207 (Online Only)
Working to ensure members of communities such as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, chronic illness, and hidden disabilities feel heard and seen is a daily goal.
I strive to create an environment for each client that is as liberating as it is welcoming to inspire a growth mindset. Our sessions have a person-centered foundation and incorporate approaches such as CBT, Somatic, ACT, Existential, Narrative, Brainspotting, and yoga-based therapies as needed. I find that the methods listed help foster a growth mindset and allow clients to reflect on their experiences and explore their goals and values at a pace that suits them. Sessions, treatment planning, and goals are the result of our partnership, and it's important that you always feel comfortable in the design of your care.
Working to ensure members of communities such as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, chronic illness, and hidden disabilities feel heard and seen is a daily goal.
I strive to create an environment for each client that is as liberating as it is welcoming to inspire a growth mindset. Our sessions have a person-centered foundation and incorporate approaches such as CBT, Somatic, ACT, Existential, Narrative, Brainspotting, and yoga-based therapies as needed. I find that the methods listed help foster a growth mindset and allow clients to reflect on their experiences and explore their goals and values at a pace that suits them. Sessions, treatment planning, and goals are the result of our partnership, and it's important that you always feel comfortable in the design of your care.
Bethany Otten
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA, RYT-500
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207
I specialize in therapy for adults, teens, and children (10+) facing anxiety, addiction, LGBTQIA+ issues, mood instability, OR transitions. My methods blend principles of mindfulness, yoga, & Reiki to support clients through stress, work, school, substance use, OR identity challenges. You can also stick to classic approaches to therapy as opposed to holistic, such as CBT, solution focused therapy, or person-centered therapy. I provide an inclusive space for all, with particular sensitivity to the LGBTQIA+ and recovery community. Based in Charlotte, NC, I also offer telehealth sessions across North Carolina & South Carolina.
I specialize in therapy for adults, teens, and children (10+) facing anxiety, addiction, LGBTQIA+ issues, mood instability, OR transitions. My methods blend principles of mindfulness, yoga, & Reiki to support clients through stress, work, school, substance use, OR identity challenges. You can also stick to classic approaches to therapy as opposed to holistic, such as CBT, solution focused therapy, or person-centered therapy. I provide an inclusive space for all, with particular sensitivity to the LGBTQIA+ and recovery community. Based in Charlotte, NC, I also offer telehealth sessions across North Carolina & South Carolina.
Samantha Reinier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207 (Online Only)
I am a body positive, LGBTQIA+ affirming Therapist who seeks to uplift and affirm all intersecting identities you may hold.
Currently Accepting New Clients! Are you going through a difficult relationship, an unexpected life change, or discontentment with your current path. Perhaps you are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, or feeling increasingly overwhelmed with life’s stressors. I am here to tell you that you do not have to walk this path alone. As you navigate through the Psychology Today Profiles, you are making the first step in taking back control over your life and livelihood. It would be my honor to support you as you navigate through your therapeutic journey towards the best version of you.
I am a body positive, LGBTQIA+ affirming Therapist who seeks to uplift and affirm all intersecting identities you may hold.
Currently Accepting New Clients! Are you going through a difficult relationship, an unexpected life change, or discontentment with your current path. Perhaps you are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, or feeling increasingly overwhelmed with life’s stressors. I am here to tell you that you do not have to walk this path alone. As you navigate through the Psychology Today Profiles, you are making the first step in taking back control over your life and livelihood. It would be my honor to support you as you navigate through your therapeutic journey towards the best version of you.
Heather Shannon | Certified Sex Therapist
Counselor, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207
I love working with ENM, LGBT+, kinky and sex worker clients .
Has sex started to feel like a chore? Maybe you've tried discussing it and have been to individual or couples counseling but still feel stuck. I specialize in helping people in committed relationships to get unstuck and get back to feeling close and passionate again. Along the way we build some amazing sexual communication skills and get a clear sense of turn-ons and turn-offs so you can initiate like a pro. Whether you have low libido, sex addiction, erectile dysfunction or trauma around sexuality, I can offer support and guidance.
I love working with ENM, LGBT+, kinky and sex worker clients .
Has sex started to feel like a chore? Maybe you've tried discussing it and have been to individual or couples counseling but still feel stuck. I specialize in helping people in committed relationships to get unstuck and get back to feeling close and passionate again. Along the way we build some amazing sexual communication skills and get a clear sense of turn-ons and turn-offs so you can initiate like a pro. Whether you have low libido, sex addiction, erectile dysfunction or trauma around sexuality, I can offer support and guidance.
Dr. Sherri Newpol
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207 (Online Only)
Areas I focus on are ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, addictions, eating disorders, LGBTQ (and QIAAP), head injury, dementia, Alzheimer's, chronic illness, cancer, "chemo brain," tics, seizures, trichotillomania, & couples counseling.
Hello! I'm a seasoned psychologist who welcomes people with complex issues. If you have multiple diagnoses, facing a life transition such as divorce or new career, or planning for surgery or retirement...I want to work with you. I enjoy working with medical practices helping people navigate bariatric or other surgeries. I have a passion helping people overcome trauma using Prolonged Exposure. I have specialized training in addictions and eating disorders. People return to my practice when facing new life challenges. Couples make fast positive changes under my care. Let's start your journey today. I respond to all inquiries.
Areas I focus on are ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, addictions, eating disorders, LGBTQ (and QIAAP), head injury, dementia, Alzheimer's, chronic illness, cancer, "chemo brain," tics, seizures, trichotillomania, & couples counseling.
Hello! I'm a seasoned psychologist who welcomes people with complex issues. If you have multiple diagnoses, facing a life transition such as divorce or new career, or planning for surgery or retirement...I want to work with you. I enjoy working with medical practices helping people navigate bariatric or other surgeries. I have a passion helping people overcome trauma using Prolonged Exposure. I have specialized training in addictions and eating disorders. People return to my practice when facing new life challenges. Couples make fast positive changes under my care. Let's start your journey today. I respond to all inquiries.
Heather Shannon | Certified Sex Therapist
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207
I love working with people who are kinky, ENM, sex workers, LGBTQ+ and straight/vanilla too.
Has sex started to feel like a chore or a stressor rather than something that connects you? Maybe you've tried talking about it and have even gone to individual or couples counseling, but it hasn't really moved the needle. That's where I come in! I will listen to you, but I will also challenge you to make real changes and get out of your comfort zone. My gift is putting people at ease talking about a sensitive subject. I'll guide you on how to approach your sex and intimacy so that you get unstuck and back to feeling close and passionate. I specialize in helping committed couples get their sexy spark back through my Pathway to Passi
I love working with people who are kinky, ENM, sex workers, LGBTQ+ and straight/vanilla too.
Has sex started to feel like a chore or a stressor rather than something that connects you? Maybe you've tried talking about it and have even gone to individual or couples counseling, but it hasn't really moved the needle. That's where I come in! I will listen to you, but I will also challenge you to make real changes and get out of your comfort zone. My gift is putting people at ease talking about a sensitive subject. I'll guide you on how to approach your sex and intimacy so that you get unstuck and back to feeling close and passionate. I specialize in helping committed couples get their sexy spark back through my Pathway to Passi
Elizabeth E. Field, MA, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207
I am open to LGBTQIA populations.
After 25 years of working in the field primarily offering individual therapy, I am now most interested in group therapy. My co-therapist and I offer two groups currently. Both groups have openings and are ongoing psychotherapy groups. There is nothing quite like the magic of therapy group. Group can immediately effect feelings of isolation, loneliness and supports healthy connections. Group can normalize human needs for a sense of belonging and support during these most uncertain times. I am accepting new patients and I hope to keep my practice relational with a strong focus on couples, families and group therapy.
I am open to LGBTQIA populations.
After 25 years of working in the field primarily offering individual therapy, I am now most interested in group therapy. My co-therapist and I offer two groups currently. Both groups have openings and are ongoing psychotherapy groups. There is nothing quite like the magic of therapy group. Group can immediately effect feelings of isolation, loneliness and supports healthy connections. Group can normalize human needs for a sense of belonging and support during these most uncertain times. I am accepting new patients and I hope to keep my practice relational with a strong focus on couples, families and group therapy.
Desmond Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207
Waitlist for new clients
I work with other groups too, including: individuals dealing with anxiety, grief, or loss of meaning; issues related to one's LGBTQ identity; families learning to adjust to life-cycle and other transitions.
Does it sometimes feel like your partner doesn't understand you? Have you experienced an affair or some other kind of infidelity? Connecting to our partner begins with understanding our own wants and desires and learning to communicate with one another in the most effective way possible. Relationships can give us a lot of comfort, but to be their best, they require hard work - and some guidance every now and then.
I work with other groups too, including: individuals dealing with anxiety, grief, or loss of meaning; issues related to one's LGBTQ identity; families learning to adjust to life-cycle and other transitions.
Does it sometimes feel like your partner doesn't understand you? Have you experienced an affair or some other kind of infidelity? Connecting to our partner begins with understanding our own wants and desires and learning to communicate with one another in the most effective way possible. Relationships can give us a lot of comfort, but to be their best, they require hard work - and some guidance every now and then.
Beverly (Mecca) L Moss
Counselor, MA, LCMHC-S, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207
Moss Counseling Services specializes in the following populations: Transgender, gender non-conforming, Lesbian ,Gay , Sexually aggressive youth, Trauma Focused(CBT), ADHD * Anxiety Disorder * Bipolar Disorder * Compulsive Disorder * Depression * Sexuality Identity * Childhood /adolescent Behavioral concerns, Learning /academic Disabilities * Panic Disorder * schizophrenia * Substance Abuse * Grief and Loss.
"Beginning therapy can be a very difficult decision for one to make. I am so excited that you have taken the first step in this rewarding journey!" My passion and goals are to assist others to experience healing and wholeness in life through management of the symptoms that cause dysfunction in everyday lives. Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As an integrated therapist my goal is to help you figure out how to use your own resiliency."
Moss Counseling Services specializes in the following populations: Transgender, gender non-conforming, Lesbian ,Gay , Sexually aggressive youth, Trauma Focused(CBT), ADHD * Anxiety Disorder * Bipolar Disorder * Compulsive Disorder * Depression * Sexuality Identity * Childhood /adolescent Behavioral concerns, Learning /academic Disabilities * Panic Disorder * schizophrenia * Substance Abuse * Grief and Loss.
"Beginning therapy can be a very difficult decision for one to make. I am so excited that you have taken the first step in this rewarding journey!" My passion and goals are to assist others to experience healing and wholeness in life through management of the symptoms that cause dysfunction in everyday lives. Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As an integrated therapist my goal is to help you figure out how to use your own resiliency."
LGBTQ + Affirming.
Life can be filled with incredible challenges and demands. Are you dealing with stress, anxiety, sadness, or hopeless? Have you been overwhelmed by work or school responsibilities? Are you struggling with marital or relationship problems? Therapy will provide the space you need to solve these stressful issues in a way that works best for YOU.
LGBTQ + Affirming.
Life can be filled with incredible challenges and demands. Are you dealing with stress, anxiety, sadness, or hopeless? Have you been overwhelmed by work or school responsibilities? Are you struggling with marital or relationship problems? Therapy will provide the space you need to solve these stressful issues in a way that works best for YOU.
15 Second Videos
Jessica Clodfelter
Bethany Otten
Heather Shannon | Certified Sex Therapist
Heather Shannon | Certified Sex Therapist
MACS (McCloud Acosta Clinical Services PLLC)
Hannah Smith Adult Asd And Sex Therapist
Brittany Bate
Liz Sakatos
Justin D'Avella
Jenna Bock
Angelo Maurice Covington
Dignity Weight Center
Lotus Counseling Group
Analise M. Anderson: Sex And Relationship Therapist
Paula Ulrich
Jamie Siegel
Jonah Woodsong Leslie
Kayla Lewis
Liz E. Slonena
Kristel Byrd
Carolyn Lee Downes
Lauren Barker
Brian Curtis
MACS (McCloud Acosta Clinical Services PLLC)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207
We are LGBTQIA+ informed and allied.
We are a Group of Trauma Specialist working with a variety of ages (8-100+) who have experienced trauma & have mental health needs. Our team of 15 therapists have a variety of specialties, experience & methods along with life experiences that can address most challenges. We love to work with clients who are ready to take the healing journey, are open, motivated & committed. Therapy is work & it is something we are honored to help you do. If you are ready to improve your life- please reach out. Virtual (in NC) and In-Person Sessions Available in Matthews & Mint Hill.
We are LGBTQIA+ informed and allied.
We are a Group of Trauma Specialist working with a variety of ages (8-100+) who have experienced trauma & have mental health needs. Our team of 15 therapists have a variety of specialties, experience & methods along with life experiences that can address most challenges. We love to work with clients who are ready to take the healing journey, are open, motivated & committed. Therapy is work & it is something we are honored to help you do. If you are ready to improve your life- please reach out. Virtual (in NC) and In-Person Sessions Available in Matthews & Mint Hill.
Toni Lynn Willis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28207 (Online Only)
Throughout my years in the field, Toni has worked with many individuals on a wide range of concerns including but not limited to stress, anxiety, self-esteem, OCD, ADHD, career difficulties, depression, LGBT+, relationship dynamics, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy issues, anger management and bipolar disorder.
Toni Willis is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 15 years of experience providing therapy. Her therapy style is compassionate, warm and engaging. It is very important to her to respect and empower each individual to enable the confidence needed to make life changes. Toni's approach combines both humanistic and cognitive-behavioral therapy to identify and reframe negative and unhelpful thoughts that may be affecting the way you think, feel and respond to situations in an unhelpful way.
Throughout my years in the field, Toni has worked with many individuals on a wide range of concerns including but not limited to stress, anxiety, self-esteem, OCD, ADHD, career difficulties, depression, LGBT+, relationship dynamics, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy issues, anger management and bipolar disorder.
Toni Willis is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 15 years of experience providing therapy. Her therapy style is compassionate, warm and engaging. It is very important to her to respect and empower each individual to enable the confidence needed to make life changes. Toni's approach combines both humanistic and cognitive-behavioral therapy to identify and reframe negative and unhelpful thoughts that may be affecting the way you think, feel and respond to situations in an unhelpful way.
Hannah Smith Adult Asd And Sex Therapist
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207
As a sex and relationship therapist, I specialize in addressing sexual issues within the LGBTQ+ and kink communities, offering a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your identity and desires.
It's not easy being you in a world that so narrowly defines what it means to be "normal." There's so much pressure to conform. You might feel judged, misunderstood, or marginalized because of your LGBTQ+ identity or unique sexual expressions like BDSM, kink, or polyamory. These experiences can lead to isolation, communication barriers, and difficulties in finding accepting communities or partners who truly understand and respect your boundaries and desires. Let's work towards acceptance, self-love, and fulfilling relationships where you can be your authentic self.
As a sex and relationship therapist, I specialize in addressing sexual issues within the LGBTQ+ and kink communities, offering a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your identity and desires.
It's not easy being you in a world that so narrowly defines what it means to be "normal." There's so much pressure to conform. You might feel judged, misunderstood, or marginalized because of your LGBTQ+ identity or unique sexual expressions like BDSM, kink, or polyamory. These experiences can lead to isolation, communication barriers, and difficulties in finding accepting communities or partners who truly understand and respect your boundaries and desires. Let's work towards acceptance, self-love, and fulfilling relationships where you can be your authentic self.
As a queer therapist serving the LGBTQIA+ community, I'll follow your lead.
Are you a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and seeking a therapist who "just gets it?" Are you tired of feeling alone, scared, or unsupported as you navigate various changes, challenges, or identities? Has pandemic stress and grief has gotten to be too much? Are you stressed or concerned with one or more relationships?Perhaps you and your partner(s) have found yourself in a difficult cycle you are struggling to break, leaving y'all feeling disconnected and unsatisfied? If you answered yes to any of these, then you've made the right choice by being here. And I know this is hard, but you're brave. Just being here shows that!
As a queer therapist serving the LGBTQIA+ community, I'll follow your lead.
Are you a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and seeking a therapist who "just gets it?" Are you tired of feeling alone, scared, or unsupported as you navigate various changes, challenges, or identities? Has pandemic stress and grief has gotten to be too much? Are you stressed or concerned with one or more relationships?Perhaps you and your partner(s) have found yourself in a difficult cycle you are struggling to break, leaving y'all feeling disconnected and unsatisfied? If you answered yes to any of these, then you've made the right choice by being here. And I know this is hard, but you're brave. Just being here shows that!
Billie Hinton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28207 (Online Only)
My name is Billie Hinton and I'm a licensed psychotherapist practicing psychotherapy for 32 years. I specialize in sexual abuse, PTSD, anxiety and depression, LGBTQ issues, and have worked with a wide variety of clients and concerns. I bring an eclectic set of modalities to my work and am excited to be offering EMDR as one of those. I'm a compassionate, creative clinician and my goal for each client is to create a safe, respectful, and effective space for change. (18+, not currently offering couples therapy)
My name is Billie Hinton and I'm a licensed psychotherapist practicing psychotherapy for 32 years. I specialize in sexual abuse, PTSD, anxiety and depression, LGBTQ issues, and have worked with a wide variety of clients and concerns. I bring an eclectic set of modalities to my work and am excited to be offering EMDR as one of those. I'm a compassionate, creative clinician and my goal for each client is to create a safe, respectful, and effective space for change. (18+, not currently offering couples therapy)
I am passionate about creating an inclusive space for LGBT+ clients.
As women we face an overwhelming amount of pressure to be perfect. We need a safe, non judgmental space to express our fears of never being “good enough.” My goal as a therapist is to listen and provide you support as we navigate the unique challenges and pressures you face every day. This is a space for you to put yourself and your well-being first. If you are struggling with symptoms of anxiety or depression, or experiencing feelings of stress and overwhelm, you are not alone. I am dedicated to working with you one on one and I am confident we can find tools that meet your needs and relieve distress.
I am passionate about creating an inclusive space for LGBT+ clients.
As women we face an overwhelming amount of pressure to be perfect. We need a safe, non judgmental space to express our fears of never being “good enough.” My goal as a therapist is to listen and provide you support as we navigate the unique challenges and pressures you face every day. This is a space for you to put yourself and your well-being first. If you are struggling with symptoms of anxiety or depression, or experiencing feelings of stress and overwhelm, you are not alone. I am dedicated to working with you one on one and I am confident we can find tools that meet your needs and relieve distress.
Liz Sakatos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207 (Online Only)
I have had over 15 years of professional counseling experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, parenting support, life transitions, self-esteem, marriage and family issues, and LGBTQIA+.
I specialize in helping clients learn to take control of their anxiety and lives by examining the impact of internal pressure (like unhealthy self-talk) and external triggers (like toxic relationships) and replacing what doesn't work with strategies to feel more empowered. I firmly believe that the way that we speak to ourselves impacts how we handle the pressures we face and let's be honest, we are often our own harshest critics. That is why I use a strengths-based approach to treatment to help clients get rid of hurtful self-talk and learn to embrace their own power!
I have had over 15 years of professional counseling experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, parenting support, life transitions, self-esteem, marriage and family issues, and LGBTQIA+.
I specialize in helping clients learn to take control of their anxiety and lives by examining the impact of internal pressure (like unhealthy self-talk) and external triggers (like toxic relationships) and replacing what doesn't work with strategies to feel more empowered. I firmly believe that the way that we speak to ourselves impacts how we handle the pressures we face and let's be honest, we are often our own harshest critics. That is why I use a strengths-based approach to treatment to help clients get rid of hurtful self-talk and learn to embrace their own power!
My specialities include: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, men’s issues, LGBTQIA+, and ‘people pleasers’.
Are you ready to slow down? To get unstuck? To discover a deeper sense of well-being? Transformational change is possible but healing is not a solo journey. I am passionate about supporting my clients to unlock a more genuine experience of themselves. Together, we will work to cultivate awareness, courage, confidence and steadiness in your life. I work with people who want to find clarity, a sense of aliveness, and to heal from both the bruises and scars that life sometimes creates. I can help you discover a deeper understanding of yourself, your relationships, and your purpose in the world.
My specialities include: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, men’s issues, LGBTQIA+, and ‘people pleasers’.
Are you ready to slow down? To get unstuck? To discover a deeper sense of well-being? Transformational change is possible but healing is not a solo journey. I am passionate about supporting my clients to unlock a more genuine experience of themselves. Together, we will work to cultivate awareness, courage, confidence and steadiness in your life. I work with people who want to find clarity, a sense of aliveness, and to heal from both the bruises and scars that life sometimes creates. I can help you discover a deeper understanding of yourself, your relationships, and your purpose in the world.
Though I have worked with a diverse array of populations, most of my experience has been with survivors of traumatic experiences, anxiety/depression, people in recovery from substances, and the LGBTQ community.
Imagine beginning every day feeling energized, confident and ready to take on whatever comes your way. You might feel better about your progress with life goals, be able create meaningful and close relationships, maintain healthier habits, and have a regular sense of pride and accomplishment. You know you have so much potential, but may not know exactly how to reach it. I hope to join you on your journey by providing you with an emotionally safe space where you are able to authentically express yourself as well as feel supported and not judged.
Though I have worked with a diverse array of populations, most of my experience has been with survivors of traumatic experiences, anxiety/depression, people in recovery from substances, and the LGBTQ community.
Imagine beginning every day feeling energized, confident and ready to take on whatever comes your way. You might feel better about your progress with life goals, be able create meaningful and close relationships, maintain healthier habits, and have a regular sense of pride and accomplishment. You know you have so much potential, but may not know exactly how to reach it. I hope to join you on your journey by providing you with an emotionally safe space where you are able to authentically express yourself as well as feel supported and not judged.
See more therapy options for 28207
LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.