Therapists in Dupont Circle, Washington, DC
![Photo of Tyler A. Pietz, PhD, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52520d39-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to my practice. I offer counseling and psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and groups in Washington, DC as a licensed Psychology Associate. In my practice I work as a generalist and have experience with a wide range of concerns and issues including the stress of daily life, relationships, depression, anxiety, life adjustments, and addiction concerns. I work with adults from all backgrounds including college students, young professionals, and LGBTQ identifying individuals.
Welcome to my practice. I offer counseling and psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and groups in Washington, DC as a licensed Psychology Associate. In my practice I work as a generalist and have experience with a wide range of concerns and issues including the stress of daily life, relationships, depression, anxiety, life adjustments, and addiction concerns. I work with adults from all backgrounds including college students, young professionals, and LGBTQ identifying individuals.
![Photo of Tyler Strusowski, LPC, ATR-BC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05e9c749-b81e-4f3f-80cf-effc7ec87392/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tyler Strusowski
Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20009
Waitlist for new clients
I also focus on providing support with issues that affect the LGBTQ+ community.
Clients usually approach me because they are overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or because they are experiencing challenges that are affecting their emotional wellbeing, relationships, career, or sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. During sessions with me I will provide you with practical tools to assist with managing your anxiety and stress, while providing support towards changing habits, behaviors, or relationships that no longer serve you. My approach will normalize your experience and allow you to regain a sense of control thus helping you decide how to redefine who you are.
I also focus on providing support with issues that affect the LGBTQ+ community.
Clients usually approach me because they are overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, or because they are experiencing challenges that are affecting their emotional wellbeing, relationships, career, or sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. During sessions with me I will provide you with practical tools to assist with managing your anxiety and stress, while providing support towards changing habits, behaviors, or relationships that no longer serve you. My approach will normalize your experience and allow you to regain a sense of control thus helping you decide how to redefine who you are.
![Photo of Jeremy Ayers, LGPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c461f3e-35eb-4eb3-88da-2af97348cf48/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe you’re stronger and wiser than your current struggles might lead you to believe. It’s just that sometimes our core strength gets covered up by the stress of life and the difficulties we’ve faced. With me, therapy is about helping your best self emerge, which often takes a big dose of compassion and a much-needed break. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including anxiety and depression, relationships and sex, career changes, grief, trauma, and growing up in dysfunctional families. I'm also passionate about supporting LGBTQ, trans, and gender expansive clients.
I believe you’re stronger and wiser than your current struggles might lead you to believe. It’s just that sometimes our core strength gets covered up by the stress of life and the difficulties we’ve faced. With me, therapy is about helping your best self emerge, which often takes a big dose of compassion and a much-needed break. I work with clients on a variety of issues, including anxiety and depression, relationships and sex, career changes, grief, trauma, and growing up in dysfunctional families. I'm also passionate about supporting LGBTQ, trans, and gender expansive clients.
![Photo of Kate L Stewart, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/101ed02f-9928-4817-94d6-fd7ea25344e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kate L Stewart
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20009
Waitlist for new clients
I value working with individuals from many different backgrounds, including folx from queer and trans communities, POC, and both college students and working adults. I’m a strong advocate for gender affirming health care. A significant focus of my work involves helping my clients to deepen their understanding of themselves and their relationships.
I value working with individuals from many different backgrounds, including folx from queer and trans communities, POC, and both college students and working adults. I’m a strong advocate for gender affirming health care. A significant focus of my work involves helping my clients to deepen their understanding of themselves and their relationships.
![Photo of Morgan Christie, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f6f18e4-613b-4a3c-88b9-9bc4987b2075/1/320x400.jpeg)
Morgan Christie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036 (Online Only)
I have specialized training in trauma treatment, body image concerns, and LGBTQIA+ mental health.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist working online with adults (both individuals and couples) in Maryland, DC, and Ohio. I provide evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, gender-affirming care, body affirmation and wellness, and identity development. My collaborative approach with clients allows us to build a strong connection in treatment, creating a space where clients feel safe and understood. We will work together to identify goals for therapy, develop helpful coping skills, and process life events in meaningful ways.
I have specialized training in trauma treatment, body image concerns, and LGBTQIA+ mental health.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist working online with adults (both individuals and couples) in Maryland, DC, and Ohio. I provide evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, gender-affirming care, body affirmation and wellness, and identity development. My collaborative approach with clients allows us to build a strong connection in treatment, creating a space where clients feel safe and understood. We will work together to identify goals for therapy, develop helpful coping skills, and process life events in meaningful ways.
![Photo of David A. Heilman, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f7ccbe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
David A. Heilman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
26 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
Waitlist for new clients
While I have enjoyed working effectively with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and couples/relationship challenges.
One of the hardest parts of the therapeutic process is choosing the right therapist for you, and I hope to join you on your journey toward greater self-understanding, compassion, and insight. Many people come to therapy after experiencing emotional distress that has led them to feel overwhelmed and as though they have lost direction in, and control of, their life. In a safe and non-judgmental space, I work collaboratively with my clients to explore ways in which they can effectively regain a sense of empowerment, meaning, and control in their lives.
While I have enjoyed working effectively with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and couples/relationship challenges.
One of the hardest parts of the therapeutic process is choosing the right therapist for you, and I hope to join you on your journey toward greater self-understanding, compassion, and insight. Many people come to therapy after experiencing emotional distress that has led them to feel overwhelmed and as though they have lost direction in, and control of, their life. In a safe and non-judgmental space, I work collaboratively with my clients to explore ways in which they can effectively regain a sense of empowerment, meaning, and control in their lives.
![Photo of Danielle Wells, LGSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/832335e3-5418-44f8-8a41-2787dabcba64/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20009
I’m LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex positive, kink-affirming, and see clients in ethically non-monogamous and monogamous relationships.
Hi, I’m Danielle. I’m a reproductive rights advocate turned therapist. Many of us experience being "othered" – judged or excluded – because of our gender, race, who we love, how our brain is wired, and more. I see therapy as a collaboration that empowers you to be your whole, authentic self and make real change for YOU. Together, we’ll explore your many sources of strength and solutions to cultivate greater well-being, joy, ease, connection, and belonging in your life and relationships. In session, I strive to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space. Clients tell me that I have a calming presence and they feel seen and heard.
I’m LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex positive, kink-affirming, and see clients in ethically non-monogamous and monogamous relationships.
Hi, I’m Danielle. I’m a reproductive rights advocate turned therapist. Many of us experience being "othered" – judged or excluded – because of our gender, race, who we love, how our brain is wired, and more. I see therapy as a collaboration that empowers you to be your whole, authentic self and make real change for YOU. Together, we’ll explore your many sources of strength and solutions to cultivate greater well-being, joy, ease, connection, and belonging in your life and relationships. In session, I strive to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space. Clients tell me that I have a calming presence and they feel seen and heard.
![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
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20009 (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 Andy Hill, BBA, MBA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/408d3e33-2b51-49d8-9fa0-9ff3b68dd8f4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Andy Hill
Pre-Licensed Professional, BBA, MBA
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036 (Online Only)
I work with adults of all ages and genders in academic and professional fields and specialize in anxiety, stress, LGBTQ+, negative thought patterns, life transitions, and relationships.
You may feel stressed, anxious, exhausted, or overwhelmed by responsibilities, expectations, and changes in your life. These challenges can be difficult to process on your own. I provide a space where you can show up as your authentic self and learn tools to help manage life’s competing priorities. My goal is to create a collaborative environment where you feel understood, appreciated, and empowered to overcome life’s challenges.
I work with adults of all ages and genders in academic and professional fields and specialize in anxiety, stress, LGBTQ+, negative thought patterns, life transitions, and relationships.
You may feel stressed, anxious, exhausted, or overwhelmed by responsibilities, expectations, and changes in your life. These challenges can be difficult to process on your own. I provide a space where you can show up as your authentic self and learn tools to help manage life’s competing priorities. My goal is to create a collaborative environment where you feel understood, appreciated, and empowered to overcome life’s challenges.
![Photo of Morgan Summers-Slaughter, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a31a3ba-9b9b-416c-bdf4-2cf01ee20f8a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Morgan Summers-Slaughter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20009 (Online Only)
I love to work with clients in the process of working through identity struggles, and dynamics at play that impact a person's ability to be authentic. I'm particularly interested in working with young adults, and those in and around the LGBTQIA+ community. I work to provide an affirming, supportive space for healing and growth for all clients regardless of their age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious background and practices (or lack thereof), or any other factor.
I love to work with clients in the process of working through identity struggles, and dynamics at play that impact a person's ability to be authentic. I'm particularly interested in working with young adults, and those in and around the LGBTQIA+ community. I work to provide an affirming, supportive space for healing and growth for all clients regardless of their age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious background and practices (or lack thereof), or any other factor.
![Photo of Dr. Daniel Kraning, PsyD, LPC, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfdfd804-33f6-4e46-ba0b-1522f34abf43/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Daniel Kraning
Psychological Associate, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20009 (Online Only)
While some of my interests include helping clients who struggle with spiritual concerns or members of the LGBT+ community, I am prepared to help each and every person that I can.
Through video Telehealth sessions, two main therapy approaches I use are Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Existential Therapy. In CBT, I am able to help you understand what thoughts are present and how to work through those thoughts to change behavior. An additional option, if desired, is Existential Therapy; with this optional approach, I help you to focus on larger questions involving purpose in life, drives and passions, meaning of life and also death, and other topics. Click on my website link for more information about me and the approaches used.
While some of my interests include helping clients who struggle with spiritual concerns or members of the LGBT+ community, I am prepared to help each and every person that I can.
Through video Telehealth sessions, two main therapy approaches I use are Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Existential Therapy. In CBT, I am able to help you understand what thoughts are present and how to work through those thoughts to change behavior. An additional option, if desired, is Existential Therapy; with this optional approach, I help you to focus on larger questions involving purpose in life, drives and passions, meaning of life and also death, and other topics. Click on my website link for more information about me and the approaches used.
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![Photo of Dr. Chloe Goldbach, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bad8e78c-40b8-4000-b12f-be4f933329f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chloe Goldbach
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
Chloe specializes in working LGBTQIA+ individuals (especially transgender, nonbinary, and asexual individuals), outpatient disordered eating and body image concerns, complex and acute PTSD, DBT skills building, women's issues, identity exploration, resilience, mindfulness, career concerns, and insomnia/sleep concerns.
With dozens of psychological journal publications to her name, Chloe Goldbach is a licensed psychologist and PsyPact provider who received her PhD in Counseling Psychology from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale. Chloe is a lesbian, gray-asexual, transgender woman-identified clinician who is deeply passionate about helping clients understand how the unique intersection of their identities, cultural backgrounds, and social context can inform experiences of trauma, sources of strength and community, and shape other life challenges.
Chloe specializes in working LGBTQIA+ individuals (especially transgender, nonbinary, and asexual individuals), outpatient disordered eating and body image concerns, complex and acute PTSD, DBT skills building, women's issues, identity exploration, resilience, mindfulness, career concerns, and insomnia/sleep concerns.
With dozens of psychological journal publications to her name, Chloe Goldbach is a licensed psychologist and PsyPact provider who received her PhD in Counseling Psychology from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale. Chloe is a lesbian, gray-asexual, transgender woman-identified clinician who is deeply passionate about helping clients understand how the unique intersection of their identities, cultural backgrounds, and social context can inform experiences of trauma, sources of strength and community, and shape other life challenges.
![Photo of Roland Scheppske, MA, LPC-R, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db27f6c1-b717-48e1-94cc-ee1211de77fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Roland Scheppske
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-R
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
Roland loves working with the aromantic and asexual community, failure-to-launch young adults, queer veterans and military families, those with people pleasing tendencies, the gay male population, and people working on improving their abilities to self-advocate and empower themselves.
With over 12 years in the medical field, Roland utilizes the relationship between the client and therapist to facilitate forward growth and healing, with the goal of becoming the best version of themselves. Roland uses a variety of therapeutic approaches, including experiential and reality-based approaches to highlight implementing changes in the here & now. As a big proponent of creating connections, Roland makes the therapy setting conversational and comfortable to promote safety and collaboration in the therapeutic space.
Roland loves working with the aromantic and asexual community, failure-to-launch young adults, queer veterans and military families, those with people pleasing tendencies, the gay male population, and people working on improving their abilities to self-advocate and empower themselves.
With over 12 years in the medical field, Roland utilizes the relationship between the client and therapist to facilitate forward growth and healing, with the goal of becoming the best version of themselves. Roland uses a variety of therapeutic approaches, including experiential and reality-based approaches to highlight implementing changes in the here & now. As a big proponent of creating connections, Roland makes the therapy setting conversational and comfortable to promote safety and collaboration in the therapeutic space.
![Photo of Sara Mindel, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b294dd24-3df3-4f0a-861e-be3b950d3cc9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Mindel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
I am a passionate about working with LGBTQ+ and BIPOC folx and I work towards healing the emotional experience and bodies, in all bodies, including all sizes (HAES), genders, and relationship orientations including kink, poly and ethical monogamy.
Satisfaction, joy and self-awareness are key elements to a fulfilling life. Although that seems easier said than done, I believe that we can find these elements with encouraging support and guidance. I am a committed, compassionate therapist who is ready to help you uncover your inner strengths to make the changes you want and live a more gratifying life. I believe that we all take a journey to find ourselves, but it becomes even more difficult when we are burdened by depression, addiction and/or trauma. Finding the right fit can help us get through difficult times, creating positive relationship is paramount to our happiness.
I am a passionate about working with LGBTQ+ and BIPOC folx and I work towards healing the emotional experience and bodies, in all bodies, including all sizes (HAES), genders, and relationship orientations including kink, poly and ethical monogamy.
Satisfaction, joy and self-awareness are key elements to a fulfilling life. Although that seems easier said than done, I believe that we can find these elements with encouraging support and guidance. I am a committed, compassionate therapist who is ready to help you uncover your inner strengths to make the changes you want and live a more gratifying life. I believe that we all take a journey to find ourselves, but it becomes even more difficult when we are burdened by depression, addiction and/or trauma. Finding the right fit can help us get through difficult times, creating positive relationship is paramount to our happiness.
![Photo of Robyn S. Zeiger, PhD, LCPC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46e4cd48-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
For the past 4 decades plus, I have specialized in LGBTQ issues. I currently focus on gender identity issues and assist my transgender clients with navigating their often challenging journeys. As an "out" cisgender lesbian practitioner, I strive to help my LGBTQ clients travel from a place of shame to pride. Much of our work centers on self- esteem and the ways in which homophobia and transphobia impact so many areas of our lives-including family, career, and our intimate relationships. I love animals and also do veterinary counseling and consulting. My style is interactive and casual. I highly value your confidentiality.
For the past 4 decades plus, I have specialized in LGBTQ issues. I currently focus on gender identity issues and assist my transgender clients with navigating their often challenging journeys. As an "out" cisgender lesbian practitioner, I strive to help my LGBTQ clients travel from a place of shame to pride. Much of our work centers on self- esteem and the ways in which homophobia and transphobia impact so many areas of our lives-including family, career, and our intimate relationships. I love animals and also do veterinary counseling and consulting. My style is interactive and casual. I highly value your confidentiality.
![Photo of Steve Geishecker, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/622005fc-a54b-4b8a-9d5e-497523bb12cd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Steve Geishecker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036 (Online Only)
I have expertise working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Feeling depressed, confused, anxious? Let's talk about how I might be able to help. Creating a safe and supportive space is an important for a good partnership in therapy. Rest assured that you will be entering the therapeutic process without judgment and with unconditional positive regard. I approach therapy as a collaborative process of exploration with the goal of achieving greater self-awareness and the ability to manage life in better balance. Good chemistry and a healthy rapport are essential elements in creating a meaningful working relationship.
I have expertise working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Feeling depressed, confused, anxious? Let's talk about how I might be able to help. Creating a safe and supportive space is an important for a good partnership in therapy. Rest assured that you will be entering the therapeutic process without judgment and with unconditional positive regard. I approach therapy as a collaborative process of exploration with the goal of achieving greater self-awareness and the ability to manage life in better balance. Good chemistry and a healthy rapport are essential elements in creating a meaningful working relationship.
![Photo of Jeannette Craigfeld, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/853923bc-8e0e-4c84-a341-a472d0ba597f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and relationship concerns. I work particularly well with clients who struggle with being compassionate towards themselves and need a space to understand and embrace their authentic selves so they can pursue what they truly value in life. I am also able to provide assessments and letters for transgender and gender non-conforming clients who are seeking gender affirming treatments.
I specialize in working with anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, low self-esteem, perfectionism, and relationship concerns. I work particularly well with clients who struggle with being compassionate towards themselves and need a space to understand and embrace their authentic selves so they can pursue what they truly value in life. I am also able to provide assessments and letters for transgender and gender non-conforming clients who are seeking gender affirming treatments.
![Photo of Dr. Nadia Alsamadi, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6c32a79-a4ca-4e25-bb9c-135d6ee8f857/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a queer, non-binary, bicultural Palestinian American who specializes in working with LGBTQ+ and second generation immigrant clients to address anxiety related concerns, identity exploration, identity-based stress and trauma, intergenerational cultural conflict, family/relationship concerns, and general life transitions.
Welcome! As you walk through the world, you may find yourself feeling anxious, confused, ashamed, lost, or disconnected to yourself or your culture. Internalized messages of doubt and blame can disempower you from moving forward. It’s difficult to make sense of these experiences, and you are not alone! Together, we’ll work on developing a more compassionate and non-judgmental understanding of how your relationships, culture, and oppressive experiences have shaped your perspectives and behaviors. By reclaiming your narrative, we can forge a path towards meaningful change that's rooted in your values.
I am a queer, non-binary, bicultural Palestinian American who specializes in working with LGBTQ+ and second generation immigrant clients to address anxiety related concerns, identity exploration, identity-based stress and trauma, intergenerational cultural conflict, family/relationship concerns, and general life transitions.
Welcome! As you walk through the world, you may find yourself feeling anxious, confused, ashamed, lost, or disconnected to yourself or your culture. Internalized messages of doubt and blame can disempower you from moving forward. It’s difficult to make sense of these experiences, and you are not alone! Together, we’ll work on developing a more compassionate and non-judgmental understanding of how your relationships, culture, and oppressive experiences have shaped your perspectives and behaviors. By reclaiming your narrative, we can forge a path towards meaningful change that's rooted in your values.
![Photo of Bailey Franklin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b27608e-476a-4e11-953c-5573b3c16530/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bailey Franklin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC 20036
I believe that whom and how we love and express our gender deserves celebration, not just tolerance, and my approach is LGBTQIA+ and Poly/Kink Affirmative.
I believe that deep down we all make sense, and that while life can feel overwhelming and our problems too great to solve, real change is possible. My therapeutic process integrates strength-based modalities that are tailored to the unique needs of each client and centers on identifying our untapped sources of strength and resilience to break through doubt, shame and fear. With care and curiosity, we will begin the process of exploring and healing the often hidden wounds inflicted by our experiences, families and society. Working together, we can change old patterns of feeling and thinking in order to empower your authentic self.
I believe that whom and how we love and express our gender deserves celebration, not just tolerance, and my approach is LGBTQIA+ and Poly/Kink Affirmative.
I believe that deep down we all make sense, and that while life can feel overwhelming and our problems too great to solve, real change is possible. My therapeutic process integrates strength-based modalities that are tailored to the unique needs of each client and centers on identifying our untapped sources of strength and resilience to break through doubt, shame and fear. With care and curiosity, we will begin the process of exploring and healing the often hidden wounds inflicted by our experiences, families and society. Working together, we can change old patterns of feeling and thinking in order to empower your authentic self.
![Photo of James Puzo Smith, LGPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93709581-f659-4b7c-84fe-e2f56193b7c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a cisgender gay man with a love of pop music and professional experience advancing racial justice, protecting children’s rights, defending civil liberties, and providing therapy at an LGBTQIA+ health center in Washington, DC, I show up as my authentic self as a therapist supporting clients across the spectrum of gender and sexuality.
Therapy with me is warm and genuine. Together, clients and I look into breaking patterns, exploring identities, getting in touch with and better handling emotions, unpacking shame and self-blame, and taking charge of life. Whether you feel held back by self-doubt, trauma, societal expectations, the stressors of life, or other causes not on that list, you have the power to gain a sense of clarity about who you are, what you want, and what changes you need to get there. Therapy provides a space for that power to emerge.
As a cisgender gay man with a love of pop music and professional experience advancing racial justice, protecting children’s rights, defending civil liberties, and providing therapy at an LGBTQIA+ health center in Washington, DC, I show up as my authentic self as a therapist supporting clients across the spectrum of gender and sexuality.
Therapy with me is warm and genuine. Together, clients and I look into breaking patterns, exploring identities, getting in touch with and better handling emotions, unpacking shame and self-blame, and taking charge of life. Whether you feel held back by self-doubt, trauma, societal expectations, the stressors of life, or other causes not on that list, you have the power to gain a sense of clarity about who you are, what you want, and what changes you need to get there. Therapy provides a space for that power to emerge.
See more therapy options for Dupont Circle, Washington
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.