LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Madison, CT

Photo of Vincent Samuolis - Vincent Samuolis, LCSW, LCSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vincent Samuolis, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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.
(203) 654-3602 View (203) 654-3602
Photo of Tony Karajanis, JD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tony Karajanis
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
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.
(203) 697-8366 View (203) 697-8366
Photo of Barbara Black, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara Black
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443  (Online Only)
I work with adults moving through life transitions, trauma, couples counseling and depression and/or anxiety.
The world can create a lot of anxiety these days, and that can bring up many questions along with feeling out of control and ultimately cause strain on our lives and relationships. As a trained Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) therapist, I am passionate about working with couples to establish ways to deepen their bond and strengthen the connection they long for. As an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing-trained therapist, I use EMDR to help clients who have experienced trauma to find long-lasting healing through restructuring negative beliefs into healthy, positive emotional freedom.
I work with adults moving through life transitions, trauma, couples counseling and depression and/or anxiety.
The world can create a lot of anxiety these days, and that can bring up many questions along with feeling out of control and ultimately cause strain on our lives and relationships. As a trained Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) therapist, I am passionate about working with couples to establish ways to deepen their bond and strengthen the connection they long for. As an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing-trained therapist, I use EMDR to help clients who have experienced trauma to find long-lasting healing through restructuring negative beliefs into healthy, positive emotional freedom.
(203) 774-4235 View (203) 774-4235
Photo of Shannon Wynne, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Wynne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
I am proudly aligned with Health at Every Size (HAES) and provide LGBTQ+ and neurodiversity affirming care.
Welcome! I am a trauma-informed Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Owner/Founder of Trauma Dump LLC and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist Candidate who is passionate about supporting individuals on their journey in healing from trauma, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, grief/loss and life transitional stressors.
I am proudly aligned with Health at Every Size (HAES) and provide LGBTQ+ and neurodiversity affirming care.
Welcome! I am a trauma-informed Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Owner/Founder of Trauma Dump LLC and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist Candidate who is passionate about supporting individuals on their journey in healing from trauma, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, grief/loss and life transitional stressors.
(475) 242-0946 View (475) 242-0946
Photo of Joseph Grebel, PhD, Psychologist
Joseph Grebel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
I work with young adults and adults of all ages and have several decades of experience, including with gay & lesbian clients, older clients, teenagers, tech workers and everything in between.
We often know where we are stuck and what is causing distress — but not how to go about fixing it. My job is to help you get where you are trying to go, to help you figure out what's getting in the way and to help you connect the dots and see the bigger context. People work in therapy in different ways so there is no one formula for everyone. In general, I am interactive, thoughtful, solution focused and believe in people who are working on themselves.
I work with young adults and adults of all ages and have several decades of experience, including with gay & lesbian clients, older clients, teenagers, tech workers and everything in between.
We often know where we are stuck and what is causing distress — but not how to go about fixing it. My job is to help you get where you are trying to go, to help you figure out what's getting in the way and to help you connect the dots and see the bigger context. People work in therapy in different ways so there is no one formula for everyone. In general, I am interactive, thoughtful, solution focused and believe in people who are working on themselves.
(415) 968-5261 View (415) 968-5261
Photo of Robin Klatzkie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Klatzkie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
People come to me when they find themselves facing difficult life challenges; Navigating life transitions, managing anxiety and depression, and exploring issues of identity. I am here to offer a safe space, and to help you find your way. My approach is grounded in strengths-based principles, helping you to find resilience and innate resources within yourself. LGBTQIA+ affirming, and neurodivergent affirming.
People come to me when they find themselves facing difficult life challenges; Navigating life transitions, managing anxiety and depression, and exploring issues of identity. I am here to offer a safe space, and to help you find your way. My approach is grounded in strengths-based principles, helping you to find resilience and innate resources within yourself. LGBTQIA+ affirming, and neurodivergent affirming.
(475) 265-5804 View (475) 265-5804
Photo of Erica Preston, PsyD, Psychologist
Erica Preston
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443
I am a clinical psychologist with 15 years of experience in the field of psychotherapy. I provide a safe and affirming environment in which you can explore your emotions and work towards growth and healing.
I am a clinical psychologist with 15 years of experience in the field of psychotherapy. I provide a safe and affirming environment in which you can explore your emotions and work towards growth and healing.
(203) 678-8398 View (203) 678-8398
Photo of Ethan Sherrerd Wattley, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ethan Sherrerd Wattley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443
Are you struggling to feel truly connected in your relationships? Do you find yourself overwhelmed by feelings of guilt, shame, or frustration when it comes to intimacy? Perhaps you're longing for emotional closeness but don’t know how to get there, or you're simply searching for a deeper sense of inner peace. Whatever you're experiencing, you deserve a safe space to explore these feelings with compassion and without judgment. Together, we can work toward healing, growth, and the peace you're longing for. Let’s embark on this journey, so you can experience the joy and connection you deserve.
Are you struggling to feel truly connected in your relationships? Do you find yourself overwhelmed by feelings of guilt, shame, or frustration when it comes to intimacy? Perhaps you're longing for emotional closeness but don’t know how to get there, or you're simply searching for a deeper sense of inner peace. Whatever you're experiencing, you deserve a safe space to explore these feelings with compassion and without judgment. Together, we can work toward healing, growth, and the peace you're longing for. Let’s embark on this journey, so you can experience the joy and connection you deserve.
(475) 405-2391 View (475) 405-2391
Photo of Dr. Michael Francis Hinkley, PhD, LMSW, LADC, STL, MA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Dr. Michael Francis Hinkley
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, LMSW, LADC, STL, MA
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443
Addiction compromises a person causing pain. You may be finding it hard to make the changes required to address a substance addiction. You may experience family discord. You may be isolating from others, experiencing a poor diet or one bad decision after another, this is all common in addiction. Your unique story of Alcoholism or Drug Addiction happened in stages, a slippery slope, that only gets worse. But there's good news, you are taking the time to consider getting help now, maybe again, and that's where your recovery starts. Working with you and possibly your family, you will see change, starting now!
Addiction compromises a person causing pain. You may be finding it hard to make the changes required to address a substance addiction. You may experience family discord. You may be isolating from others, experiencing a poor diet or one bad decision after another, this is all common in addiction. Your unique story of Alcoholism or Drug Addiction happened in stages, a slippery slope, that only gets worse. But there's good news, you are taking the time to consider getting help now, maybe again, and that's where your recovery starts. Working with you and possibly your family, you will see change, starting now!
(203) 871-3296 View (203) 871-3296
Photo of Jody L. Rowell, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jody L. Rowell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443  (Online Only)
I am a "generalist" but my specialties include loss (trauma, grief, untimely death including loss of children, terminal illness, grief), developmental trauma, life transitions, as well as anxiety and depression.
Few slots open: If you are feeling uneasy and fearful, if you are constantly worrying, feeling "lost" or "directionless", you are not alone. Its hard to ask for help but you have come this far. Take the next step and reach out.
I am a "generalist" but my specialties include loss (trauma, grief, untimely death including loss of children, terminal illness, grief), developmental trauma, life transitions, as well as anxiety and depression.
Few slots open: If you are feeling uneasy and fearful, if you are constantly worrying, feeling "lost" or "directionless", you are not alone. Its hard to ask for help but you have come this far. Take the next step and reach out.
(203) 779-7408 View (203) 779-7408
Photo of Sarah Trepp, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Trepp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, grief and loss, and life transitions.
Accepting new clients virtually and in person. I specialize in treating young adult women with anxiety and self esteem challenges. I also work with teens and adults managing anxiety, depression, major life changes, grief & loss, and school/work related stress. I offer a safe and supportive space for clients, please don't hesitate to reach out.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, grief and loss, and life transitions.
Accepting new clients virtually and in person. I specialize in treating young adult women with anxiety and self esteem challenges. I also work with teens and adults managing anxiety, depression, major life changes, grief & loss, and school/work related stress. I offer a safe and supportive space for clients, please don't hesitate to reach out.
(860) 590-9357 View (860) 590-9357
Photo of Nuriye Rumeli, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nuriye Rumeli
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
Do you find yourself avoiding intimacy or feeling anxious in social situations? Do you notice that past wounds prevent you from connecting and being in the present? Perhaps you forgot how and who to trust? Are you feeling intense anger, sadness, hopelessness, or frustration? These feelings are not going away despite talking to friends / family. You like you are in a hamster wheel. You are blaming yourself for what happened and feel unworthy of love. Trauma anniversaries bring flashbacks, nightmares, or even feeling "jumpy" triggered at times. Just know that you aren't alone in this!
Do you find yourself avoiding intimacy or feeling anxious in social situations? Do you notice that past wounds prevent you from connecting and being in the present? Perhaps you forgot how and who to trust? Are you feeling intense anger, sadness, hopelessness, or frustration? These feelings are not going away despite talking to friends / family. You like you are in a hamster wheel. You are blaming yourself for what happened and feel unworthy of love. Trauma anniversaries bring flashbacks, nightmares, or even feeling "jumpy" triggered at times. Just know that you aren't alone in this!
(860) 356-3947 View (860) 356-3947
Photo of Cathleen Adams, PhD, Psychologist
Cathleen Adams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443
Trained in short and long-term therapy, I am flexible with your goals. I help people find new solutions to on-going problems in relationships, in work, or creativity, and in navigating life transitions. My ideal client is a person who is open to change and is willing to confront what hasn't been working so that life can improve. Times of transition often teach us the most, including times of painful change. I work to help others imagine a future that makes sense. I work with adults of all ages, and I can be flexible with scheduling and fees. Note: I practice in two locations - NYC & Madison CT.
Trained in short and long-term therapy, I am flexible with your goals. I help people find new solutions to on-going problems in relationships, in work, or creativity, and in navigating life transitions. My ideal client is a person who is open to change and is willing to confront what hasn't been working so that life can improve. Times of transition often teach us the most, including times of painful change. I work to help others imagine a future that makes sense. I work with adults of all ages, and I can be flexible with scheduling and fees. Note: I practice in two locations - NYC & Madison CT.
(917) 765-7507 View (917) 765-7507
Photo of Lisa Bioty, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Bioty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443
Life can be challenging with various stressors, responsibilities with balancing work, family/friends, relationships, etc. I have worked with individuals and families for over 20 years to improve the quality of their life by providing them with the various tools, skills, and resources necessary to better their current life situations. I provide clients with a safe space to feel comfortable sharing their experiences.
Life can be challenging with various stressors, responsibilities with balancing work, family/friends, relationships, etc. I have worked with individuals and families for over 20 years to improve the quality of their life by providing them with the various tools, skills, and resources necessary to better their current life situations. I provide clients with a safe space to feel comfortable sharing their experiences.
(475) 471-1615 View (475) 471-1615
Photo of Daniel Mirandi, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel Mirandi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
For the last 12 years I've enjoyed working in the non-profit sector helping people from various backgrounds. My therapy style is non-judgmental and relaxed in which I try to meet people where they are at. I help people address a number of concerns ranging from enhancing their self-esteem and coping skills to treating Trauma, Anxiety, Grief, and severe Depression. I'm experienced with helping adults communicate with other generations within their family and gaining healthier relationships. Over the years I've also fostered skills designed for helping men and women address a variety of challenges.
For the last 12 years I've enjoyed working in the non-profit sector helping people from various backgrounds. My therapy style is non-judgmental and relaxed in which I try to meet people where they are at. I help people address a number of concerns ranging from enhancing their self-esteem and coping skills to treating Trauma, Anxiety, Grief, and severe Depression. I'm experienced with helping adults communicate with other generations within their family and gaining healthier relationships. Over the years I've also fostered skills designed for helping men and women address a variety of challenges.
(203) 490-0345 View (203) 490-0345
Photo of Lindsay Benjamin - Lindsay Benjamin LCSW, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Benjamin LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443  (Online Only)
Are you a teen or young adult struggling with anxiety, stress, or school issues? Are these issues impacting your life, relationships, or education? I specialize in empowering, goal-oriented therapy to help my clients move toward the future with confidence; we can work together to ensure better days are ahead. With nearly a decade of counseling experience, I help teens and young adults struggling with life’s transitions due to anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, perfectionism, family dynamics, self-esteem, and relationship challenges. I am a strong believer in the collaborative process; I want you to feel empowered.
Are you a teen or young adult struggling with anxiety, stress, or school issues? Are these issues impacting your life, relationships, or education? I specialize in empowering, goal-oriented therapy to help my clients move toward the future with confidence; we can work together to ensure better days are ahead. With nearly a decade of counseling experience, I help teens and young adults struggling with life’s transitions due to anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, perfectionism, family dynamics, self-esteem, and relationship challenges. I am a strong believer in the collaborative process; I want you to feel empowered.
(860) 901-1945 View (860) 901-1945
Photo of Jocelyn Ness, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jocelyn Ness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adolescents in preventing diagnosing and treating mental and behavioral health disorders . I work directly with adolescents to help them with various struggles of life and learn how to develop better coping skills to understand and resolve problems, modify behavior, and make positive long term changes in their lives. I use multiple modalities approaches to address and target presenting issues.
I work with adolescents in preventing diagnosing and treating mental and behavioral health disorders . I work directly with adolescents to help them with various struggles of life and learn how to develop better coping skills to understand and resolve problems, modify behavior, and make positive long term changes in their lives. I use multiple modalities approaches to address and target presenting issues.
(475) 253-5054 View (475) 253-5054
Photo of Keri Marcovici, PhD, Psychologist
Keri Marcovici
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443
The choice to begin therapy is often laden with emotions and questions. From this initial decision process to later stages, I bring warmth and a strong skill set to every person and couple I treat. Together, we focus on connecting current problems to old patterns, finding meaning in symptoms and identifying realistic approaches to change. The approach I use is highly collaborative and will be tailored to suit your needs.
The choice to begin therapy is often laden with emotions and questions. From this initial decision process to later stages, I bring warmth and a strong skill set to every person and couple I treat. Together, we focus on connecting current problems to old patterns, finding meaning in symptoms and identifying realistic approaches to change. The approach I use is highly collaborative and will be tailored to suit your needs.
(914) 935-7823 View (914) 935-7823
Photo of Abby Lipschutz - Shoreline Psychological, Psychologist
Shoreline Psychological
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443
We are multi-disciplinary practice focused on helping individuals create meaningful lives. We use a compassionate, evidence-based approach for a range of psychological challenges across the life-span, including anxiety, depression, OCD and relational issues. We believe that by combining compassion and commitment, together we can help individuals, couples, and familiies overcome the obstacles to living their lives to their full potential. Our work focuses on helping people understand themselves, relate better to others, while they learn new skills to cope with emotion, and think and behave more effectively.
We are multi-disciplinary practice focused on helping individuals create meaningful lives. We use a compassionate, evidence-based approach for a range of psychological challenges across the life-span, including anxiety, depression, OCD and relational issues. We believe that by combining compassion and commitment, together we can help individuals, couples, and familiies overcome the obstacles to living their lives to their full potential. Our work focuses on helping people understand themselves, relate better to others, while they learn new skills to cope with emotion, and think and behave more effectively.
(475) 264-6094 View (475) 264-6094
Photo of Joyce Gendler, LPC, REAT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joyce Gendler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, REAT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, CT 06443
Hi there! I'd like to share a glimpse into how I approach therapy with kids, teens, parents and adults—if any of this resonates with you, please reach out! First, we're a team, and our collaboration is everything. Your comfort in being your authentic self is my top priority. Together, as equals, we're on a quest for self-discovery and growth. Second, I'm a big believer in thinking outside the box. When words fail, we have endless tools to explore - from Expressive Arts Therapy to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). We'll create a unique approach for you.
Hi there! I'd like to share a glimpse into how I approach therapy with kids, teens, parents and adults—if any of this resonates with you, please reach out! First, we're a team, and our collaboration is everything. Your comfort in being your authentic self is my top priority. Together, as equals, we're on a quest for self-discovery and growth. Second, I'm a big believer in thinking outside the box. When words fail, we have endless tools to explore - from Expressive Arts Therapy to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). We'll create a unique approach for you.
(475) 255-6492 View (475) 255-6492
1
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.