LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Cocoa, FL
![Photo of Michele Evans, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9167e68b-3c0b-46ce-8a53-ec680ea94804/2/320x400.jpeg)
She concentrates on special populations which include couples therapy, LGBTQA+, and polyamory.
A graduate of Nova Southeastern University with honors holding a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling and a Master's Degree in Conflict Analysis and Resolution. She is a renowned therapist at The Recovery Village of Palm Beach where she has guided over 400 individuals with substance abuse disorder, Bi-polarity, BPD, Anxiety, Depression, Schizophrenia, and PTSD for the past 4 years.
She concentrates on special populations which include couples therapy, LGBTQA+, and polyamory.
A graduate of Nova Southeastern University with honors holding a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling and a Master's Degree in Conflict Analysis and Resolution. She is a renowned therapist at The Recovery Village of Palm Beach where she has guided over 400 individuals with substance abuse disorder, Bi-polarity, BPD, Anxiety, Depression, Schizophrenia, and PTSD for the past 4 years.
![Photo of Anjanette Daugherty, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0cef959-bbba-45d4-98af-69d5bf591232/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Southwest Florida. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling from PennWest California located in W. Pennsylvania. In my clinical work, I draw from varied experiences in rural communities serving adults and adolescents in hospitals, community clinics and have a special appreciation for the unique challenges faced by individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+. I seek to specialize in providing mental health care that is affirming and mindful of others' lived experiences.
Hello. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Southwest Florida. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling from PennWest California located in W. Pennsylvania. In my clinical work, I draw from varied experiences in rural communities serving adults and adolescents in hospitals, community clinics and have a special appreciation for the unique challenges faced by individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+. I seek to specialize in providing mental health care that is affirming and mindful of others' lived experiences.
![Photo of Bernadette Alers-Estelle, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d18922d-b9ad-4e55-9b5f-639e1a58085f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Bernadette Alers-Estelle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Cocoa, FL 32926
I have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. My experience is with individuals and their families in a variety of settings. I have experience with a wide range of clinical issues such as, anxiety, stress related issues, depression, anger, neurodivergence, trauma and abuse issues. Additionally, I’ve worked with family of origin issues, relationship issues and LGBTQIA related issues. My current focus is with young adults who are struggling to navigate through life; POC in particular.
I have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. My experience is with individuals and their families in a variety of settings. I have experience with a wide range of clinical issues such as, anxiety, stress related issues, depression, anger, neurodivergence, trauma and abuse issues. Additionally, I’ve worked with family of origin issues, relationship issues and LGBTQIA related issues. My current focus is with young adults who are struggling to navigate through life; POC in particular.
![Photo of Bob Shackelford, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da4d4b35-9794-417a-beed-333f6d04721b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bob Shackelford
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cocoa, FL 32926 (Online Only)
No matter your ethnic, gender, religious background or LGBTQ preference, we all hurt and are challenged from time to time.
Welcome! Your step forward in personal growth is important to me. Your courage deserves effective, individualized, evidence based interventions that can help you manage even the most difficult family, couple and individual challenges. I will work with you to build a path that focuses on your specific needs, concerns and ways to move forward.
No matter your ethnic, gender, religious background or LGBTQ preference, we all hurt and are challenged from time to time.
Welcome! Your step forward in personal growth is important to me. Your courage deserves effective, individualized, evidence based interventions that can help you manage even the most difficult family, couple and individual challenges. I will work with you to build a path that focuses on your specific needs, concerns and ways to move forward.
![Photo of Shawn Veazey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6fcad2d6-6c52-478e-8756-760b8a06b57c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a LCSW licensed in Florida. I have 21 years experience in the field and 14 years post graduate from USF. When I share my personal journey to becoming a LCSW I always say this field chose me. The experiences I have had in this field are truly awe inspiring and life changing. I hope that through the connections I make with each client, that they leave feeling empowered and inspired that they can lead the life they desire and deserve. I have experience working with survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, military related trauma, LGBTQIA+, chronic illness and death and dying. I have worked with all ages
Hello! I am a LCSW licensed in Florida. I have 21 years experience in the field and 14 years post graduate from USF. When I share my personal journey to becoming a LCSW I always say this field chose me. The experiences I have had in this field are truly awe inspiring and life changing. I hope that through the connections I make with each client, that they leave feeling empowered and inspired that they can lead the life they desire and deserve. I have experience working with survivors of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, military related trauma, LGBTQIA+, chronic illness and death and dying. I have worked with all ages
![Photo of Lady Funcke Munoz, RCSWI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38e35fed-fc66-4aa4-8334-387ed48da1b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lady Funcke Munoz
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, RCSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cocoa, FL 32924
Lady specializes in fertility counseling, multicultural therapy, LGBTQ+ issues, youth counseling, art therapy, anxiety, and depression.
Are you a young person needing guidance, someone looking for support with fertility concerns, or navigating multicultural challenges. Maybe you are exploring your identity or facing unique issues as part of the LGBTQ+ community. You might be struggling with anxiety, depression, or feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges. Lady understands your need for a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can express yourself and work towards your goals
Lady specializes in fertility counseling, multicultural therapy, LGBTQ+ issues, youth counseling, art therapy, anxiety, and depression.
Are you a young person needing guidance, someone looking for support with fertility concerns, or navigating multicultural challenges. Maybe you are exploring your identity or facing unique issues as part of the LGBTQ+ community. You might be struggling with anxiety, depression, or feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges. Lady understands your need for a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can express yourself and work towards your goals
![Photo of Tamara Stirling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54cad503-5388-4f34-92ab-a94c3c94cba3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tamara Stirling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cocoa, FL 32926 (Online Only)
Hi I'm Tammy! Has life been feeling overwhelming lately? Do you wish you could talk to someone and share all those thoughts and feelings you keep hidden from others while struggling to get through the day? Would you like someone who can listen, really listen, and help you find your way back to yourself? I help clients of all ages and stages to find their inner strength and empower themselves. I will work with you to fill your tool box with strategies you can use to manage anxiety, depression, and life changes such as parenthood, empty nest, caregiving and end of life.
Hi I'm Tammy! Has life been feeling overwhelming lately? Do you wish you could talk to someone and share all those thoughts and feelings you keep hidden from others while struggling to get through the day? Would you like someone who can listen, really listen, and help you find your way back to yourself? I help clients of all ages and stages to find their inner strength and empower themselves. I will work with you to fill your tool box with strategies you can use to manage anxiety, depression, and life changes such as parenthood, empty nest, caregiving and end of life.
![Photo of Marilyn Bennett, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c245898-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy can be a journey of growth and discovery. Life's most difficult challenges often present opportunities for positive change. If you are dealing with transition, struggling with a difficult situation, or taking a positive step towards healing and personal growth, I am dedicated to assist you on your journey. Each person comes to therapy with their own unique needs and goals. I have no "one size fits all" approach. I am guided by what is best for each individual. Open yourself to new possibilities and begin your own journey to personal growth and development.
Therapy can be a journey of growth and discovery. Life's most difficult challenges often present opportunities for positive change. If you are dealing with transition, struggling with a difficult situation, or taking a positive step towards healing and personal growth, I am dedicated to assist you on your journey. Each person comes to therapy with their own unique needs and goals. I have no "one size fits all" approach. I am guided by what is best for each individual. Open yourself to new possibilities and begin your own journey to personal growth and development.
![Photo of Holly Champa, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e73eeae5-545a-4a60-aab3-58bbb4065d9d/1/320x400.jpeg)
When anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or other struggles take over your life, asking for help can be intimidating and scary. You are taking the first step now, probably after receiving a lot of advice and feeling uncertain. I am here to help you using evidenced based interventions that will give you the tools and resources that are the most authentic to your life. After all, you are the expert on you. As a strength and solutions based therapist, my approach is to listen without judging, and to meet you where you are. You do not have to suffer alone.
When anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or other struggles take over your life, asking for help can be intimidating and scary. You are taking the first step now, probably after receiving a lot of advice and feeling uncertain. I am here to help you using evidenced based interventions that will give you the tools and resources that are the most authentic to your life. After all, you are the expert on you. As a strength and solutions based therapist, my approach is to listen without judging, and to meet you where you are. You do not have to suffer alone.
![Photo of Michael Schwing, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c71cd0e-6ee0-4e53-b5e3-e538fcec212a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Schwing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cocoa, FL 32927 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Michael. Call me Mike if you like. Great job taking the first step towards improving your mental health. Let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment allowing clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, self-care, anger management, grief, feeling stuck, uncertainty and others. I help clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and others to help improve their quality of life. Counseling can foster personal growth and development in whatever way you're seeking.
Welcome! I'm Michael. Call me Mike if you like. Great job taking the first step towards improving your mental health. Let's be honest - starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment allowing clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, self-care, anger management, grief, feeling stuck, uncertainty and others. I help clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and others to help improve their quality of life. Counseling can foster personal growth and development in whatever way you're seeking.
![Photo of David Flett, LMHC, CAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48bb7991-dadc-4024-ba0b-a187f6f415d2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy consists of a partnership between therapist and client. My goal is to help the client recognize that he/she has choices and make changes necessary to improve their overall quality of life.
Therapy consists of a partnership between therapist and client. My goal is to help the client recognize that he/she has choices and make changes necessary to improve their overall quality of life.
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![Photo of Rose Topal, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/309b69c3-f89f-4827-b5c8-635541ae427e/1/320x400.jpeg)
You may have come to find me because the conflicts in your life are increasing and with it comes the pressure and added stress that we all know serves only to break us down over time or to keep us stuck in a rut. Is it the challenges of your relationship, the challenges of parenting a difficult child, are you trying to navigate the role of single parenting or stymied over a relationship that is not growing, lacking intimacy or trying to survive infidelity. Every role comes with it's own challenge, and every problem has within it the opportunity for growth.
You may have come to find me because the conflicts in your life are increasing and with it comes the pressure and added stress that we all know serves only to break us down over time or to keep us stuck in a rut. Is it the challenges of your relationship, the challenges of parenting a difficult child, are you trying to navigate the role of single parenting or stymied over a relationship that is not growing, lacking intimacy or trying to survive infidelity. Every role comes with it's own challenge, and every problem has within it the opportunity for growth.
![Photo of Cecilia Land, LCSW-R, LCAT, ATR-BC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48959c3a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cecilia Land
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cocoa, FL 32922
Welcome! I am a therapist with a wide range of experience who listens closely and pinpoints the issue(s) we should focus on. This way, as we work together, we can understand and unknot whatever gets in the way of your ability to get what you want out of life.
Welcome! I am a therapist with a wide range of experience who listens closely and pinpoints the issue(s) we should focus on. This way, as we work together, we can understand and unknot whatever gets in the way of your ability to get what you want out of life.
![Photo of Michael H Lake, MS, LMHC, QS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/582a6ae1-a5fa-4038-b0f6-d961676c76df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Looking for change, satisfaction, fulfillment or peace in your life? Struggling with anxiety, depression, stress or grief? Family or partner issues keep you on the treadmill of frustration? Lets work together to to find a happier, effective and more peaceful life.
Looking for change, satisfaction, fulfillment or peace in your life? Struggling with anxiety, depression, stress or grief? Family or partner issues keep you on the treadmill of frustration? Lets work together to to find a happier, effective and more peaceful life.
![Photo of Deana Duckenfield, MA, LMHC, MCAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef8faa7b-6a3b-4ef5-a049-78bc99cf797b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deana Duckenfield
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MCAP
Verified Verified
Cocoa, FL 32923 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Or do you just have questions or doubts about where your life is going? Whether life feels like a crisis or a circus I am here to help!
Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Or do you just have questions or doubts about where your life is going? Whether life feels like a crisis or a circus I am here to help!
![Photo of Genger Kaye Benson Perez, MS, LMHC, KAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f18184a3-0738-4249-bf07-1ed02d90b7eb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you sometimes feel alone, stressed, anxious or overwhelmed with your current life situation? I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I enjoy helping individuals and couples who realize that it's ok to ask for help during these times. My mission is to help you work through any road blocks that are holding you back from moving forward on your path to a brighter day. I am an EMDREA approved EMDR therapist, an Informed IFS Therapist, call me to set a free 30 minute consult to see if we are a good fit. Ketamine Assisted Therapy consultation available in collaboration with Journey Clinical available upon request.
Do you sometimes feel alone, stressed, anxious or overwhelmed with your current life situation? I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I enjoy helping individuals and couples who realize that it's ok to ask for help during these times. My mission is to help you work through any road blocks that are holding you back from moving forward on your path to a brighter day. I am an EMDREA approved EMDR therapist, an Informed IFS Therapist, call me to set a free 30 minute consult to see if we are a good fit. Ketamine Assisted Therapy consultation available in collaboration with Journey Clinical available upon request.
![Photo of Linda Ouellette, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/127ec4ab-e9bd-4a67-99e7-3f8e6ffba552/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals, couples, families and groups to overcome life's challenges and live life to the fullest.
I work with individuals, couples, families and groups to overcome life's challenges and live life to the fullest.
![Photo of Jennifer Lynn Lacasse, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6b9d509-1391-483c-8ce1-1a3b3175ba25/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapist with 7 years of professional work experience. I attended Saint Leo University and gained my Master of Social Work Advanced Clinical Practice degree.
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapist with 7 years of professional work experience. I attended Saint Leo University and gained my Master of Social Work Advanced Clinical Practice degree.
![Photo of Jennifer Stowers, MA, LMHC, PMH-C, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bbd2dfc-c021-4506-9e43-3326eedd91ba/2/320x400.jpeg)
So often we think of ourselves in ways that others' have decided that we are based on their own assumptions. When we begin to realize that we are more than what others' have said, we begin to peel back the layers and discover ourselves. Can that be scary and intimidating? Yes. There are times in life where talking to someone might benefit you. "We must not allow other people's limited perceptions to define us." Virginia Satir
So often we think of ourselves in ways that others' have decided that we are based on their own assumptions. When we begin to realize that we are more than what others' have said, we begin to peel back the layers and discover ourselves. Can that be scary and intimidating? Yes. There are times in life where talking to someone might benefit you. "We must not allow other people's limited perceptions to define us." Virginia Satir
![Photo of Marina Nesterenko, MD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2a6535e-efe8-4029-a927-4ff8a990cf52/1/320x400.jpeg)
I accept insurances from NY, NJ, VA, and FL. I am Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr. Marina Nesterenko finished Medical school in Kiev, Ukraine, in 1997 and worked as a child psychiatrist in Ukraine. After relocation to USA, she completed a Psychiatry Residency program in SUNY Upstate, followed by Child Fellowship in Syracuse, NY. I see clients of all ages from 5 years old to 95 years old in person and by tele. I specialized in ADHD, autism, anger management, mood swings, mood disorder and all type of anxiety.
I accept insurances from NY, NJ, VA, and FL. I am Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr. Marina Nesterenko finished Medical school in Kiev, Ukraine, in 1997 and worked as a child psychiatrist in Ukraine. After relocation to USA, she completed a Psychiatry Residency program in SUNY Upstate, followed by Child Fellowship in Syracuse, NY. I see clients of all ages from 5 years old to 95 years old in person and by tele. I specialized in ADHD, autism, anger management, mood swings, mood disorder and all type of anxiety.
See more therapy options for Cocoa
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Cocoa
- Alafaya
- Cocoa Beach
- Indialantic
- Melbourne
- Melbourne Beach
- Merritt Island
- Palm Bay
- Rockledge
- Satellite Beach
- Titusville
- Viera
- West Melbourne
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.