LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Connecticut
The majority of my 15 plus years of experience include the treatment for trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+, and relationship challenges.
My name is Adam Sola, and I am the founder of Awakened Mental Health. My practice is an inclusive and judgement-free space where we will explore your holistic wellness through a trauma informed lens, utilizing a variety of modalities. My aim is to work together with you to build a safe and trusting partnership that empowers you to achieve your fullest potential in a way that is truly sustainable. I will always work to listen and learn your unique experience and work with you at your pace to address anything you decide is worth taking time to better understand and to work on. I am certified as an EMDR specialist.
The majority of my 15 plus years of experience include the treatment for trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+, and relationship challenges.
My name is Adam Sola, and I am the founder of Awakened Mental Health. My practice is an inclusive and judgement-free space where we will explore your holistic wellness through a trauma informed lens, utilizing a variety of modalities. My aim is to work together with you to build a safe and trusting partnership that empowers you to achieve your fullest potential in a way that is truly sustainable. I will always work to listen and learn your unique experience and work with you at your pace to address anything you decide is worth taking time to better understand and to work on. I am certified as an EMDR specialist.
I also enjoy working with individuals in the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello, My name is Karenna Lang and I am a licensed master's level clinical therapist. I earned my graduate degree from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. If you are facing challenges in your life and are considering therapy I am happy to assist. Many of us experience issues with anxiety, confidence, and self-esteem. Emotions, thoughts and behaviors can be very challenging. It is my goal to assist clients with understanding how these three components are interrelated and to assist clients with empowering themselves to achieve increased awareness, introspection and insight and gain a happier life.
I also enjoy working with individuals in the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello, My name is Karenna Lang and I am a licensed master's level clinical therapist. I earned my graduate degree from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. If you are facing challenges in your life and are considering therapy I am happy to assist. Many of us experience issues with anxiety, confidence, and self-esteem. Emotions, thoughts and behaviors can be very challenging. It is my goal to assist clients with understanding how these three components are interrelated and to assist clients with empowering themselves to achieve increased awareness, introspection and insight and gain a happier life.
I provide affirming and trauma-informed care which conceptualizes individual mental health within a sociopolitical and cultural context. This is particularly important to understanding the experiences of individuals within invalidating and discriminatory environments. I know the impacts of minority-based stress and trauma cannot be addressed merely through changing your thinking. My aim is to help you develop coping skills, insight, and resiliency to thrive in our challenging world. As a queer therapist, I aspire to offer a safe space for LGBTQIA+ identity exploration. I specialize in treating PTSD and gender dysphoria.
I provide affirming and trauma-informed care which conceptualizes individual mental health within a sociopolitical and cultural context. This is particularly important to understanding the experiences of individuals within invalidating and discriminatory environments. I know the impacts of minority-based stress and trauma cannot be addressed merely through changing your thinking. My aim is to help you develop coping skills, insight, and resiliency to thrive in our challenging world. As a queer therapist, I aspire to offer a safe space for LGBTQIA+ identity exploration. I specialize in treating PTSD and gender dysphoria.
Vincent Samuolis, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443
I specialize in addiction and recovery, transgender and non-binary youth and adults, and hard of hearing persons including cochlear implants.
Are you ready to to take the first step on your journey toward self improvement and achieving your personal goals? Twenty-four years as a school social worker has given me comprehensive experience with children, adolescents, parents, and families challenged by as difficult behavior, emotional disturbance, ADHD, and ineffective parenting. Two years experience as a clinician for a psychiatric hospital provided me intensive knowledge and compassion for adults with mental illness and dually diagnoses. Five years experience as a substance abuse counselor for a state agency provided a thorough understanding of addiction and recovery.
I specialize in addiction and recovery, transgender and non-binary youth and adults, and hard of hearing persons including cochlear implants.
Are you ready to to take the first step on your journey toward self improvement and achieving your personal goals? Twenty-four years as a school social worker has given me comprehensive experience with children, adolescents, parents, and families challenged by as difficult behavior, emotional disturbance, ADHD, and ineffective parenting. Two years experience as a clinician for a psychiatric hospital provided me intensive knowledge and compassion for adults with mental illness and dually diagnoses. Five years experience as a substance abuse counselor for a state agency provided a thorough understanding of addiction and recovery.
Olivia Tanzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, CT 06040 (Online Only)
I have experience working with and hold a safe space for LGBTQ+ people to find liberation and happiness.
Clients say: I feel really stuck and I don't know where to go from here. Everything seems kind of hopeless and the world...it's a mess. I know I gotta find the courage to reach out. Find someone who gets what I'm going through and can help me figure it out without all the judgment. It's just taking that first leap that feels impossible right now.
I have experience working with and hold a safe space for LGBTQ+ people to find liberation and happiness.
Clients say: I feel really stuck and I don't know where to go from here. Everything seems kind of hopeless and the world...it's a mess. I know I gotta find the courage to reach out. Find someone who gets what I'm going through and can help me figure it out without all the judgment. It's just taking that first leap that feels impossible right now.
Jen King - Building Happiness Llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, CT 06040 (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with queer folks, ENM/polyamorous folks, those exploring gender identity, & kinky folks.
Hey there! I'm Jen, and I want to support your journey towards happiness and fulfillment. Life's a rollercoaster, and finding happiness, peace, gratification, or even "yourself" doesn't always come naturally. Whether it's stress, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, navigating difficult relationships, or exploring identity, I'm here for you. My approach is about empowering you to build stronger connections, both with yourself & with others. Through our work together, you'll gain valuable insights and practical tools to manage your stress, overcome challenges, be the person you want to be, and build the life you want to live.
I have a passion for working with queer folks, ENM/polyamorous folks, those exploring gender identity, & kinky folks.
Hey there! I'm Jen, and I want to support your journey towards happiness and fulfillment. Life's a rollercoaster, and finding happiness, peace, gratification, or even "yourself" doesn't always come naturally. Whether it's stress, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, navigating difficult relationships, or exploring identity, I'm here for you. My approach is about empowering you to build stronger connections, both with yourself & with others. Through our work together, you'll gain valuable insights and practical tools to manage your stress, overcome challenges, be the person you want to be, and build the life you want to live.
Brandi Sabato
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Southbury, CT 06488 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ individuals and folx who are at all points of their self-identity journey, who are seeking a little extra support as they navigate the ups and downs of life. Whether you're facing transitions, relationship issues, work stress, or simply feeling stuck and unsure of your next steps, I am here to help you gain insight, build coping skills, and discover new ways to approach and overcome these challenges.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ individuals and folx who are at all points of their self-identity journey, who are seeking a little extra support as they navigate the ups and downs of life. Whether you're facing transitions, relationship issues, work stress, or simply feeling stuck and unsure of your next steps, I am here to help you gain insight, build coping skills, and discover new ways to approach and overcome these challenges.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am deeply committed and passionate about providing support and a safe space for individuals who want to work on trauma, relationship issues, communication, anxiety, mindfulness, self worth, and confidence. I am also excited about working within LGBTQIA+, Polyamorous/Non-Monogamous, and BDSM/kink communities. I strongly believe that therapy should be a collaborative experience and that each individual is unique. Together we will co-create a therapy experience that is tailored to your needs and will empower you to be your most authentic, fulfilled, and favorite self.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am deeply committed and passionate about providing support and a safe space for individuals who want to work on trauma, relationship issues, communication, anxiety, mindfulness, self worth, and confidence. I am also excited about working within LGBTQIA+, Polyamorous/Non-Monogamous, and BDSM/kink communities. I strongly believe that therapy should be a collaborative experience and that each individual is unique. Together we will co-create a therapy experience that is tailored to your needs and will empower you to be your most authentic, fulfilled, and favorite self.
Lenny Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, CT 06525
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a 20 year veteran of the Army National Guard and a gay man, I’ve seen and heard a lot of things, but I’m here to listen.
I love to work with clients who are open to seeing themselves with new eyes. Maybe a change of perspective or new mindest can help start down a new path. I love my queer and veteran clients who are looking for how they can express their concerns from an authentic and vulnerable place.
I’m a 20 year veteran of the Army National Guard and a gay man, I’ve seen and heard a lot of things, but I’m here to listen.
I love to work with clients who are open to seeing themselves with new eyes. Maybe a change of perspective or new mindest can help start down a new path. I love my queer and veteran clients who are looking for how they can express their concerns from an authentic and vulnerable place.
New office location starting 9/9. My name is Tara Fornuto and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with teens, young adults, and adults. My passion lies in helping people overcome trauma, life transitions, anxiety disorders, depression, and gender dysphoria and LGBTQ+ issues. I take a nonjudgmental person-centered approach and give my clients the ability to set the tone and pace of our sessions. I incorporate humor, creativity, and evidence based practices into our sessions.
New office location starting 9/9. My name is Tara Fornuto and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with teens, young adults, and adults. My passion lies in helping people overcome trauma, life transitions, anxiety disorders, depression, and gender dysphoria and LGBTQ+ issues. I take a nonjudgmental person-centered approach and give my clients the ability to set the tone and pace of our sessions. I incorporate humor, creativity, and evidence based practices into our sessions.
Kevin Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, EMDR, LADC
Verified Verified
Guilford, CT 06437
I have extensive experience with the LGBTQ+ population.
I have extensive experience treating substance use disorders and related trauma. I also have created a subspecialty called ABC therapy that directly addresses the needs of families involved with substance use. Additionally, I have recently added EMDR as a powerful new tool for helping clients dealing with trauma and anxiety.
I have extensive experience with the LGBTQ+ population.
I have extensive experience treating substance use disorders and related trauma. I also have created a subspecialty called ABC therapy that directly addresses the needs of families involved with substance use. Additionally, I have recently added EMDR as a powerful new tool for helping clients dealing with trauma and anxiety.
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Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guilford, CT 06437
Waitlist for new clients
Whatever the reason that brings you to therapy, including sensitive matters such as LGBTQ issues or romantic/sexual concerns, your session should be a place where you, and your loved ones, can address these topics in an honest, respectful and nurturing way, free from judgment or shame.
Seeking therapy is an important step on your journey to promoting healthy change and positive growth in your life. You are many things, and take on many roles in your life. I believe positive change does not occur from an outside source, but comes from your own strength and resilience, as well as a better understanding of who you are. My role is to guide and challenge you on your journey of re-connecting to your own potential and power so you can achieve change in yourself and your life. With current COVID-19 concerns regarding public health & safety, please know I offer online/video counseling sessions for new & existing clients.
Whatever the reason that brings you to therapy, including sensitive matters such as LGBTQ issues or romantic/sexual concerns, your session should be a place where you, and your loved ones, can address these topics in an honest, respectful and nurturing way, free from judgment or shame.
Seeking therapy is an important step on your journey to promoting healthy change and positive growth in your life. You are many things, and take on many roles in your life. I believe positive change does not occur from an outside source, but comes from your own strength and resilience, as well as a better understanding of who you are. My role is to guide and challenge you on your journey of re-connecting to your own potential and power so you can achieve change in yourself and your life. With current COVID-19 concerns regarding public health & safety, please know I offer online/video counseling sessions for new & existing clients.
Merissa Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS ED, SYC, LPC
Verified Verified
Bristol, CT 06010 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with teens and young adults facing mental health disorders, school difficulties, and the challenges that may arise for a person that identifies as a part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
There are times in life where we realize that having someone to help us navigate through the challenges may be necessary. Having a therapist you can trust help you process through big emotions, life changes, or mental health struggles may be what’s needed. A strong therapeutic relationship, where you are accepted and seen, creates a safe space to explore these issues. Together we can explore the hard feelings, resolve past and current wounds, improve communication with self and others, increase self-esteem, and develop stronger and more meaningful relationships.
I specialize in working with teens and young adults facing mental health disorders, school difficulties, and the challenges that may arise for a person that identifies as a part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
There are times in life where we realize that having someone to help us navigate through the challenges may be necessary. Having a therapist you can trust help you process through big emotions, life changes, or mental health struggles may be what’s needed. A strong therapeutic relationship, where you are accepted and seen, creates a safe space to explore these issues. Together we can explore the hard feelings, resolve past and current wounds, improve communication with self and others, increase self-esteem, and develop stronger and more meaningful relationships.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Elliott Strick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107
Welcome to my practice! I am a Certified Internal Family Systems therapist (IFS) and work with individuals and couples, both gay and heterosexual, men who experienced childhood trauma, with gay men and lesbians, and with people who grew up with an alcoholic or emotionally absent parent (ACOA). I am committed to co-creating a safe space with you, where ALL parts of you can show up and be seen without judgment, heal wounds from the past, become free of shame, & unresolved anger or grief, and gaining the ability to live with more passion, energy and joy. My ideal clients are people familiar with or who are seeking IFS therapy.
Welcome to my practice! I am a Certified Internal Family Systems therapist (IFS) and work with individuals and couples, both gay and heterosexual, men who experienced childhood trauma, with gay men and lesbians, and with people who grew up with an alcoholic or emotionally absent parent (ACOA). I am committed to co-creating a safe space with you, where ALL parts of you can show up and be seen without judgment, heal wounds from the past, become free of shame, & unresolved anger or grief, and gaining the ability to live with more passion, energy and joy. My ideal clients are people familiar with or who are seeking IFS therapy.
Heather L. Kunkel- Davis Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Danbury, CT 06810 (Online Only)
I do offer expertise in couples work, early childhood emotional development & LGBTQ specific issues, Specializing in Transgender work.
My clients range from 20's through Geriatrics. ( Indiv/Couples/Fam) I see a variety of individuals in various situations. Ideally, my clients are seeking to unpack something that they are carrying that may be weighing them down. I like to be the passenger on your journey, and follow your lead while offering possible different ways of seeing a situation, and offering solution focused suggestions. I believe firmly in attachment theory and believe our earliest connections in life have a major impact on how we see life and relationships today. I believe in the ability to gain insight and strength to make positive changes in your life.
I do offer expertise in couples work, early childhood emotional development & LGBTQ specific issues, Specializing in Transgender work.
My clients range from 20's through Geriatrics. ( Indiv/Couples/Fam) I see a variety of individuals in various situations. Ideally, my clients are seeking to unpack something that they are carrying that may be weighing them down. I like to be the passenger on your journey, and follow your lead while offering possible different ways of seeing a situation, and offering solution focused suggestions. I believe firmly in attachment theory and believe our earliest connections in life have a major impact on how we see life and relationships today. I believe in the ability to gain insight and strength to make positive changes in your life.
Kathleen McKay-Pyne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06107 (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping people across a wide range of backgrounds, including LGBTQIA +, BIPOC, first generation, and cross cultural communities.
There may be several aspects of your life that need to be addressed in order to heal. You may be seeking a safe space to explore all of the parts of you that make you whole - your sexuality, racial identity, gender, and cross-cultural experiences.
I am passionate about helping people across a wide range of backgrounds, including LGBTQIA +, BIPOC, first generation, and cross cultural communities.
There may be several aspects of your life that need to be addressed in order to heal. You may be seeking a safe space to explore all of the parts of you that make you whole - your sexuality, racial identity, gender, and cross-cultural experiences.
Mindful Nature Counseling and Psychotherapy
Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
Guilford, CT 06437
Several immediate open slots. I am specially trained in facilitating Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and integration for treatment-resistant depression, and more. My clinical interests are in women, and/or marginalized persons impacted by trauma, as well as LGBTQ+ folx navigating their identity. As a sex-informed therapist I am experienced in supporting and validating individuals, couples, and those in non-traditional relationships (open, poly, kink, etc). I also specialized in nature-informed therapy, and incorporate nature and mindfulness, as well as other evidence-based approaches and treatments.
Several immediate open slots. I am specially trained in facilitating Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and integration for treatment-resistant depression, and more. My clinical interests are in women, and/or marginalized persons impacted by trauma, as well as LGBTQ+ folx navigating their identity. As a sex-informed therapist I am experienced in supporting and validating individuals, couples, and those in non-traditional relationships (open, poly, kink, etc). I also specialized in nature-informed therapy, and incorporate nature and mindfulness, as well as other evidence-based approaches and treatments.
Shaune Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Pawcatuck, CT 06379
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is Neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQIA+ affirming and Veteran supporting.
About 10 years ago I was going through a difficult time in my life and a therapist said to me “you matter!”. I truly believe that everyone is doing the best they can, “you matter”. Life can be hard. My strength-based, compassionate, and collaborative approach can help support you during these difficult times.
My practice is Neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQIA+ affirming and Veteran supporting.
About 10 years ago I was going through a difficult time in my life and a therapist said to me “you matter!”. I truly believe that everyone is doing the best they can, “you matter”. Life can be hard. My strength-based, compassionate, and collaborative approach can help support you during these difficult times.
Thrive and Renew Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Branford, CT 06405 (Online Only)
Jamelah Stone LCSW specializes in working with people in the kink, BDSM, poly, bisexual, , gay, lesbian and transgender LQBTQIA2S+ communities.
My name is Jamelah Stone LCSW, I have provided counseling services for over 20 years to adults with various conditions. I believe in providing compassionate and custom clinical services to meet the needs and goals of our clients in a non-judgmental and safe space. I created Thrive and Renew Counseling LLC to reflect this philosophy. We offer Individual therapy for adult clients with various conditions such as, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, trauma, addictions, relationship struggles, sexual health, and caregivers of loved ones with dementia/Alzheimer.
Jamelah Stone LCSW specializes in working with people in the kink, BDSM, poly, bisexual, , gay, lesbian and transgender LQBTQIA2S+ communities.
My name is Jamelah Stone LCSW, I have provided counseling services for over 20 years to adults with various conditions. I believe in providing compassionate and custom clinical services to meet the needs and goals of our clients in a non-judgmental and safe space. I created Thrive and Renew Counseling LLC to reflect this philosophy. We offer Individual therapy for adult clients with various conditions such as, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, trauma, addictions, relationship struggles, sexual health, and caregivers of loved ones with dementia/Alzheimer.
See more therapy options for Connecticut
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.