LGBTQ+ Therapists in Cleveland Park, Washington, DC
![Photo of Dallas Williams-Sierra, LICSW, EMDR-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51801d43-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dallas Williams-Sierra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Cleveland Park, Washington, DC 20008 (Online Only)
I recognize that LGBTQ persons have unique challenges and may face additional obstacles when choosing a psychotherapist.
*At this time, I am only accepting new clients for EMDR treatment* Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
I recognize that LGBTQ persons have unique challenges and may face additional obstacles when choosing a psychotherapist.
*At this time, I am only accepting new clients for EMDR treatment* Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
![Photo of Margo Beth Rowles, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/650b1d0b-4c5b-4bdc-8678-b14b6151a98b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Margo Beth Rowles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Cleveland Park, Washington, DC 20008
Special interests of mine include working with members of the LGBTQ community, dealing with the particular issues that arise from managing aging parents and developing children, as well as the depression and anxiety that come from job choices and changes.
Having been a clinical psychotherapist in DC for over thirty years, I am adept at helping adults with practical solutions to current troubling situations. With a nod to exploring your past life experiences and history, we together can identify patterns which are leading you to make personal and professional choices which may not be serving your best interests. I assist people with improving their personal and professional relationships, while managing a wide range of emotions in a relaxed and collaborative environment.
Special interests of mine include working with members of the LGBTQ community, dealing with the particular issues that arise from managing aging parents and developing children, as well as the depression and anxiety that come from job choices and changes.
Having been a clinical psychotherapist in DC for over thirty years, I am adept at helping adults with practical solutions to current troubling situations. With a nod to exploring your past life experiences and history, we together can identify patterns which are leading you to make personal and professional choices which may not be serving your best interests. I assist people with improving their personal and professional relationships, while managing a wide range of emotions in a relaxed and collaborative environment.
![Photo of Michael Garber, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d75b786e-83c4-4485-9782-3a9ba32d4959/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Garber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cleveland Park, Washington, DC 20008
Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people often face additional concerns when searching for a mental health professional due to past discrimination.
I stress the importance of a strong, caring therapeutic relationship with my clients. My approach depends on each person's goals. My approach is exploratory and less structured for those with general concerns about identity issues, transitions, or relationships. For those seeking a resolution of a particular problem (e.g., depression, OCD, PTSD), I take a structured, goal-oriented approach. I have advanced training in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, and personality disorders. I often utilize EMDR for trauma, DBT for emotional dysregulation, and exposure therapy for anxiety disorders.
Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people often face additional concerns when searching for a mental health professional due to past discrimination.
I stress the importance of a strong, caring therapeutic relationship with my clients. My approach depends on each person's goals. My approach is exploratory and less structured for those with general concerns about identity issues, transitions, or relationships. For those seeking a resolution of a particular problem (e.g., depression, OCD, PTSD), I take a structured, goal-oriented approach. I have advanced training in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, and personality disorders. I often utilize EMDR for trauma, DBT for emotional dysregulation, and exposure therapy for anxiety disorders.
![Photo of Amanda Marie Jones, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ff9d748-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Are you having trouble living the life you want, in part because of circumstances outside your control? Could you use additional support and guidance to navigate the difficulties you face? I provide a warm and accepting environment for you to reflect on your life and your strengths, then develop strategies for using those strengths to meet your goals. My specialties include the struggles of people who identify as LGBTQ and their families, as well as the challenges faced by individuals with mental illnesses and their loved ones.
Are you having trouble living the life you want, in part because of circumstances outside your control? Could you use additional support and guidance to navigate the difficulties you face? I provide a warm and accepting environment for you to reflect on your life and your strengths, then develop strategies for using those strengths to meet your goals. My specialties include the struggles of people who identify as LGBTQ and their families, as well as the challenges faced by individuals with mental illnesses and their loved ones.
![Photo of Emma Love, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3630688d-5f42-4393-b352-f27e14387480/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emma Love
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland Park, Washington, DC 20008
As an individual who identifies with and works with the LGBTQ+ community, I know how important it is to feel safe when sharing your story authentically.
Are you exhausted and overwhelmed trying to navigate adulthood as a 20- or 30-something? Feeling pressure to figure out who you are and what you want from life, your relationships, or your career? Can't shed negative patterns you've developed? Know you need a change but need help figuring out where to start? You're not alone in feeling anxious, lost, or stuck. If you've tried everything and leaning on friends and family hasn't been enough, it's time to change.
As an individual who identifies with and works with the LGBTQ+ community, I know how important it is to feel safe when sharing your story authentically.
Are you exhausted and overwhelmed trying to navigate adulthood as a 20- or 30-something? Feeling pressure to figure out who you are and what you want from life, your relationships, or your career? Can't shed negative patterns you've developed? Know you need a change but need help figuring out where to start? You're not alone in feeling anxious, lost, or stuck. If you've tried everything and leaning on friends and family hasn't been enough, it's time to change.
![Photo of Hallie Fleisch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0e99d16-79cc-47f2-a33e-d92d6eabaa0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hallie Fleisch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cleveland Park, Washington, DC 20008
Seeking therapy is a courageous choice. I would be honored to walk with you on your journey. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders (anorexia nervosa, bulimia, binge-eating), and disordered eating. I have extensive experience treating: trauma, anxiety, depression, issues related to self-esteem, and relationship concerns. I am actively affirming and welcoming of LGBTQIA+ identities and sexual orientation. In our work together, I will encourage you to uncover your strengths, advocate for your needs, and help you reach your goals. I will provide support, humor, and a nonjudgmental perspective throughout our work together.
Seeking therapy is a courageous choice. I would be honored to walk with you on your journey. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders (anorexia nervosa, bulimia, binge-eating), and disordered eating. I have extensive experience treating: trauma, anxiety, depression, issues related to self-esteem, and relationship concerns. I am actively affirming and welcoming of LGBTQIA+ identities and sexual orientation. In our work together, I will encourage you to uncover your strengths, advocate for your needs, and help you reach your goals. I will provide support, humor, and a nonjudgmental perspective throughout our work together.
![Photo of Maurine K Kelly, PhD, FIPA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d47574ab-24f9-4c50-8ee7-3b31d410be8b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maurine K Kelly
Psychologist, PhD, FIPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland Park, Washington, DC 20008
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia, adoption, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.
![Photo of Drew Joseph - Couples Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/548a4a00-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Drew Joseph - Couples Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Cleveland Park, Washington, DC 20008 (Online Only)
I provide a confidential setting where straight & gay couples can address matters of the heart. I help you figure out what's wrong and consider what to do about it. The length of therapy varies from one-time consultations to long-term treatment, depending on your problem, interest, and resources. I work well with couples who fear they may not be able to go on together. I also enjoy working with recovering alcoholics and addicts, supporting their integration of therapy with the wisdom and fellowship of the Twelve Steps.
I provide a confidential setting where straight & gay couples can address matters of the heart. I help you figure out what's wrong and consider what to do about it. The length of therapy varies from one-time consultations to long-term treatment, depending on your problem, interest, and resources. I work well with couples who fear they may not be able to go on together. I also enjoy working with recovering alcoholics and addicts, supporting their integration of therapy with the wisdom and fellowship of the Twelve Steps.
![Photo of Gordon Cohen, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c96b491-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
The time is right to take action and start therapy, begin to relieve your pain and transform your life. Most of us can’t do it alone. I am here to help you navigate life’s twists and turns, find lasting change and thrive. Together, we will work to resolve day-to-day problems and dive deeper into larger issues: anxiety, depression, isolation, family crises, complicated relationships, grief, lose, abuse and trauma. My clients come from around the world and different walks of life: straight, adult women and men; members of the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities; interracial couples; and adoptive parents.
The time is right to take action and start therapy, begin to relieve your pain and transform your life. Most of us can’t do it alone. I am here to help you navigate life’s twists and turns, find lasting change and thrive. Together, we will work to resolve day-to-day problems and dive deeper into larger issues: anxiety, depression, isolation, family crises, complicated relationships, grief, lose, abuse and trauma. My clients come from around the world and different walks of life: straight, adult women and men; members of the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities; interracial couples; and adoptive parents.
![Photo of Emma Hinkens, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0241b7a-5575-4b89-a491-1493551715b2/1/320x400.png)
Emma Hinkens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Cleveland Park, Washington, DC 20008
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, as well as dissatisfaction with or conflict in their relationships. I can help you better understand the patterns that are not working for you and identify opportunities to change them. I also work with clients facing stressors related to identity or life transitions, such as starting a family, experiencing a change in one’s career, schooling, relationship, or challenges specific to LGBTQ identity. I have expertise in supporting people through a wide range of experiences with grief and loss.
I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, as well as dissatisfaction with or conflict in their relationships. I can help you better understand the patterns that are not working for you and identify opportunities to change them. I also work with clients facing stressors related to identity or life transitions, such as starting a family, experiencing a change in one’s career, schooling, relationship, or challenges specific to LGBTQ identity. I have expertise in supporting people through a wide range of experiences with grief and loss.
![Photo of Dr. Arianne E. Miller, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4ecbf3d-5cd1-40c9-b6f8-3d771cb38f27/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Arianne E. Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cleveland Park, Washington, DC 20008 (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include self-care, stress management, depression, anxiety, life and career transitions, eating issues, cancer and race-related stress and trauma.
Deciding to go to therapy sometimes takes a long time because we may minimize our suffering and delay finding someone who can help. Whether you are feeling stuck, trying to resolve a specific problem, make a relationship work, or manage stress, illness or trauma, no issue is too small or too big. I work collaboratively with all my clients to develop a safe and authentic relationship to address their goals. I help my clients to understand the history and impact of their relationships and critical life events that have created suffering or difficulty, and develop skills and strategies that lead to growth and long lasting healing.
My areas of expertise include self-care, stress management, depression, anxiety, life and career transitions, eating issues, cancer and race-related stress and trauma.
Deciding to go to therapy sometimes takes a long time because we may minimize our suffering and delay finding someone who can help. Whether you are feeling stuck, trying to resolve a specific problem, make a relationship work, or manage stress, illness or trauma, no issue is too small or too big. I work collaboratively with all my clients to develop a safe and authentic relationship to address their goals. I help my clients to understand the history and impact of their relationships and critical life events that have created suffering or difficulty, and develop skills and strategies that lead to growth and long lasting healing.
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Raha Janka, MSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MPH, LGSW
Verified Verified
Cleveland Park, Washington, DC 20008
I have experience working with clients suffering from anxiety, codependency, substance use, and trauma/PTSD, as well marginalized, BIPOC, and LGBT communities, providing trauma-informed and culturally affirming care.
I believe therapy is a powerful tool to help you cultivate the life you want. My intention is to create a safe space where you can access inner resources and increase awareness of your authentic self. As a first-generation immigrant, I bring a multicultural lens to our work together, honoring your multifaceted identities and cultural strengths. Infused with humor and compassion, we will work together to identify and build a personal development toolkit for effective communication in relationships, boundary setting, navigating identity struggles, learned behaviors, intergenerational trauma, and explore agency within your life.
I have experience working with clients suffering from anxiety, codependency, substance use, and trauma/PTSD, as well marginalized, BIPOC, and LGBT communities, providing trauma-informed and culturally affirming care.
I believe therapy is a powerful tool to help you cultivate the life you want. My intention is to create a safe space where you can access inner resources and increase awareness of your authentic self. As a first-generation immigrant, I bring a multicultural lens to our work together, honoring your multifaceted identities and cultural strengths. Infused with humor and compassion, we will work together to identify and build a personal development toolkit for effective communication in relationships, boundary setting, navigating identity struggles, learned behaviors, intergenerational trauma, and explore agency within your life.
![Photo of Camille Espinoza, LCSW-C, LICSW, MSPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52526fb3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Camille Espinoza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, MSPH
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cleveland Park, Washington, DC 20008
All are warmly welcomed and affirmed, including people in the LGBTQIA+, poly, trans and non-binary communities.
Get qualified help for your relationship from a couple's therapy specialist and AASECT certified sex therapist. You'll receive hands-on support to work through your conflicts about identity, money, intimacy, children, family, career, emotions, or major life decisions. No matter where you are in your relationship, therapy can help you connect, repair and grow. Using a combination of effective therapy models and the latest research, we will work together to achieve your relationship goals by practicing new skills in session. We can also address any concerns you have about sex and intimacy.
All are warmly welcomed and affirmed, including people in the LGBTQIA+, poly, trans and non-binary communities.
Get qualified help for your relationship from a couple's therapy specialist and AASECT certified sex therapist. You'll receive hands-on support to work through your conflicts about identity, money, intimacy, children, family, career, emotions, or major life decisions. No matter where you are in your relationship, therapy can help you connect, repair and grow. Using a combination of effective therapy models and the latest research, we will work together to achieve your relationship goals by practicing new skills in session. We can also address any concerns you have about sex and intimacy.
![Photo of Ami Lynch, MSW, PhD, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1b183f8-c7ea-44a1-825d-1f16efe41049/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ami Lynch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, PhD, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland Park, Washington, DC 20008
I believe that freedom from emotional hijack is found in noticing, naming, & knowing. I am a licensed clinical therapist (VA, DC, MD, NC, VT, & WV) specializing in counseling adults, teens, and relationships, of all identities, orientations, and lifestyles. My areas of focus include trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, adjustment challenges, grief/loss, stress reduction, LGBTQIA+ concerns & identity issues, family disruptions, polyamory/ENM/CNM, & relationships challenges. Those preyed on online, catfished, or who have experienced DNA test revelations will also find a welcome home here. Reach out to see if we are a good fit!
I believe that freedom from emotional hijack is found in noticing, naming, & knowing. I am a licensed clinical therapist (VA, DC, MD, NC, VT, & WV) specializing in counseling adults, teens, and relationships, of all identities, orientations, and lifestyles. My areas of focus include trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, adjustment challenges, grief/loss, stress reduction, LGBTQIA+ concerns & identity issues, family disruptions, polyamory/ENM/CNM, & relationships challenges. Those preyed on online, catfished, or who have experienced DNA test revelations will also find a welcome home here. Reach out to see if we are a good fit!
![Photo of Lottena Wolters - The F.L. Wolters Group, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9ca4454-a4c5-46f4-9d6f-2e9959ccd9bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you grappling with intense emotions, navigating life transitions, or seeking a space for open conversation and self-discovery? Do you experience anxiety, tension, or overwhelm, or wonder why you feel irritable, tearful, or unable to enjoy your usual activities? In times of stress, people often withdraw or adopt other unhealthy habits, only to find it makes the situation worse. Our therapists can support you in overcoming these challenges. We are an inclusive, multicultural and LGBTQIA+ affirming practice and we welcome all of who you are. We are accepting new clients!
Are you grappling with intense emotions, navigating life transitions, or seeking a space for open conversation and self-discovery? Do you experience anxiety, tension, or overwhelm, or wonder why you feel irritable, tearful, or unable to enjoy your usual activities? In times of stress, people often withdraw or adopt other unhealthy habits, only to find it makes the situation worse. Our therapists can support you in overcoming these challenges. We are an inclusive, multicultural and LGBTQIA+ affirming practice and we welcome all of who you are. We are accepting new clients!
![Photo of Ann K Ewing, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f4b6925-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ann K Ewing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Cleveland Park, Washington, DC 20008
Waitlist for new clients
I have had good success in treating all types of relational and transitional issues in an individual therapy format.
Do you feel like you're stuck in in any of your current relationships - spouse or partner, family, friends, or with work? Are you still seeking healthy relationships? Would you like to improve your relationship with yourself? Do you have sexual orientation or gender identity concerns, either for yourself or for someone you care about? Are you working to adjust to a significant change in your life - navigating a break-up, divorce, or move, grieving a loss, or becoming a parent? Do you strive to live authentically while struggling with the vulnerability needed to do so? Whatever your relational concerns or issues are, I can help.
I have had good success in treating all types of relational and transitional issues in an individual therapy format.
Do you feel like you're stuck in in any of your current relationships - spouse or partner, family, friends, or with work? Are you still seeking healthy relationships? Would you like to improve your relationship with yourself? Do you have sexual orientation or gender identity concerns, either for yourself or for someone you care about? Are you working to adjust to a significant change in your life - navigating a break-up, divorce, or move, grieving a loss, or becoming a parent? Do you strive to live authentically while struggling with the vulnerability needed to do so? Whatever your relational concerns or issues are, I can help.
![Photo of Rob Williams, MBA, LICSW, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b9f386e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rob Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, LICSW, CGP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Cleveland Park, Washington, DC 20008
I work with adults and couples who need help with relationship issues, life transitions, addiction recovery, anxiety and mood dysregulation, sex addiction, and sexual orientation.
As our lives evolve, we inevitably experience periods of loss, frustration and conflict that signal the need for better understanding and change. Are you experiencing a major life change or challenge? Job loss, relationship breakups, divorce, death, disappointment, or other crisis? Is your relationship less than you had hoped? Your angry, sad, anxious or lonely feelings may feel overwhelming, but you do not have to go through this alone. We can work together to help you develop an inner awakening and awareness to a more comfortable relationship with yourself, your life, and others. I can walk the journey with you.
I work with adults and couples who need help with relationship issues, life transitions, addiction recovery, anxiety and mood dysregulation, sex addiction, and sexual orientation.
As our lives evolve, we inevitably experience periods of loss, frustration and conflict that signal the need for better understanding and change. Are you experiencing a major life change or challenge? Job loss, relationship breakups, divorce, death, disappointment, or other crisis? Is your relationship less than you had hoped? Your angry, sad, anxious or lonely feelings may feel overwhelming, but you do not have to go through this alone. We can work together to help you develop an inner awakening and awareness to a more comfortable relationship with yourself, your life, and others. I can walk the journey with you.
![Photo of Kevin Hollander, LICSW, LCSW-C, CTP-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01705813-d151-4dc1-aaae-b79d9755e620/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kevin Hollander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, CTP-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cleveland Park, Washington, DC 20008 (Online Only)
You may have arrived here because a part of you is ready to shift, even though another part of you is scared. Know that you have a reached a space where you are safe. Know that you have reached a space where your feelings are handled with care. Know that you have reached a space where you are unconditionally accepted. It's nice to meet you.
You may have arrived here because a part of you is ready to shift, even though another part of you is scared. Know that you have a reached a space where you are safe. Know that you have reached a space where your feelings are handled with care. Know that you have reached a space where you are unconditionally accepted. It's nice to meet you.
![Photo of Kris O'Shee - Kris O'Shee, LPC, MFA, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9caa8e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kris O'Shee, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cleveland Park, Washington, DC 20016
I think of therapy as a way of freeing ourselves from the obstacles which prevent us from moving forward in our lives. Frequently these obstacles present themselves to us in the challenges of the outer world--in problems at work, in difficult relationships, in adapting to life changes, or in the sudden impact of a traumatic event. And sometimes what stands in the way of our freedom and happiness lies within us, as negative thought patterns, conflicting or confusing emotions, and unexpressed feelings--all of which can result in depression, anxiety, chronic illness, low self esteem--burdens we often carry alone.
I think of therapy as a way of freeing ourselves from the obstacles which prevent us from moving forward in our lives. Frequently these obstacles present themselves to us in the challenges of the outer world--in problems at work, in difficult relationships, in adapting to life changes, or in the sudden impact of a traumatic event. And sometimes what stands in the way of our freedom and happiness lies within us, as negative thought patterns, conflicting or confusing emotions, and unexpressed feelings--all of which can result in depression, anxiety, chronic illness, low self esteem--burdens we often carry alone.
![Photo of Ellen D Mazer, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9a269d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ellen D Mazer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Cleveland Park, Washington, DC 20016 (Online Only)
I am transitioning to full time provide practice and can offer flexibility to work with busy schedules.
The decision to enter therapy often coincides with a desire to make changes in one's life. We posses a keen internal radar system that can lead us to realize that the quality of our lives can improve. Your radar may point toward your readiness to enter therapy as suggested by your visit to this site. I provide patients a nonjudgmental safe space to examine potential changes they desire or issues they need to explore. My therapeutic approach emphasizes the examination of significant relationships, including the therapist and client and exploring various unhelpful though patterns. I am accepting new patients as of 9/18/23.
I am transitioning to full time provide practice and can offer flexibility to work with busy schedules.
The decision to enter therapy often coincides with a desire to make changes in one's life. We posses a keen internal radar system that can lead us to realize that the quality of our lives can improve. Your radar may point toward your readiness to enter therapy as suggested by your visit to this site. I provide patients a nonjudgmental safe space to examine potential changes they desire or issues they need to explore. My therapeutic approach emphasizes the examination of significant relationships, including the therapist and client and exploring various unhelpful though patterns. I am accepting new patients as of 9/18/23.
See more therapy options for Cleveland Park, Washington
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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.