LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Avondale Estates, GA
Julius Jessup Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LCSW
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
I seek to create a safe and inclusive space for black-bodied individuals, LGBTQ+ folks, survivors of trauma, sex workers, and clients who are struggling with relationship and intimacy issues. My approach to mental health care is rooted in anti-oppressive and decolonizing frameworks. The treatment modalities that I use have been found to be effective across many cultures, ages, genders, and experiences. I am here to support my clients in rediscovering themselves, strengthening their mind-body connection, and living the life they have always wanted.
I seek to create a safe and inclusive space for black-bodied individuals, LGBTQ+ folks, survivors of trauma, sex workers, and clients who are struggling with relationship and intimacy issues. My approach to mental health care is rooted in anti-oppressive and decolonizing frameworks. The treatment modalities that I use have been found to be effective across many cultures, ages, genders, and experiences. I am here to support my clients in rediscovering themselves, strengthening their mind-body connection, and living the life they have always wanted.
Felicia Kanu
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
I am a Black queer cis woman. I hold space as a guide and a supporter. I strive to make therapy accessible with clear, direct communication, warm energy, and pre-emptive radically inclusive stance. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Smith College School for Social Work. As a master-level social worker, I am currently pursuing my licensure in the state of Georgia under supervision at Heartwork. At Heartwork Counseling Center, we do not take insurance. We do offer a sliding scale. Our regular fee is $150.
I am a Black queer cis woman. I hold space as a guide and a supporter. I strive to make therapy accessible with clear, direct communication, warm energy, and pre-emptive radically inclusive stance. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Smith College School for Social Work. As a master-level social worker, I am currently pursuing my licensure in the state of Georgia under supervision at Heartwork. At Heartwork Counseling Center, we do not take insurance. We do offer a sliding scale. Our regular fee is $150.
On a personal note, I'm a queer Jewish nonbinary woman who's big on crafting, reading sci-fi and fantasy, playing Dungeons & Dragons and cozy switch games, and thrifting.
I specialize in child centered play therapy with young children ages 2-7 and person centered counseling for adults 20-40. I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, neurodivergence, gender and sexual identity exploration, suicide, coping with oppression, and adjusting to life changes. My door is wide open to anyone in the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, and polyamorous individuals/families, or anyone looking to do the brave work of understanding themselves more deeply.
On a personal note, I'm a queer Jewish nonbinary woman who's big on crafting, reading sci-fi and fantasy, playing Dungeons & Dragons and cozy switch games, and thrifting.
I specialize in child centered play therapy with young children ages 2-7 and person centered counseling for adults 20-40. I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, neurodivergence, gender and sexual identity exploration, suicide, coping with oppression, and adjusting to life changes. My door is wide open to anyone in the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, and polyamorous individuals/families, or anyone looking to do the brave work of understanding themselves more deeply.
Latechia Hogue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Oh how I loved everybody else when I finally got to talk about myself. - Dar Williams. This practice provides a space for clients to feel safe enough to take off the mask without judgement. What about the anxious, depressed, angry, shamed and stuck parts of ourselves? They desire to be seen as well. I am here to stand witness with you. I work with women, particularly women of color, and the men who love them. I am proudly LGBTQ allied. I work with individuals and couples. All are welcome.
Oh how I loved everybody else when I finally got to talk about myself. - Dar Williams. This practice provides a space for clients to feel safe enough to take off the mask without judgement. What about the anxious, depressed, angry, shamed and stuck parts of ourselves? They desire to be seen as well. I am here to stand witness with you. I work with women, particularly women of color, and the men who love them. I am proudly LGBTQ allied. I work with individuals and couples. All are welcome.
Sara Zambo
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have experience working with childhood trauma, grief, anxiety, perfectionism, LGBTQIA+ concerns, ADHD, and autism.
I often work with people who are feeling stuck and disconnected from themselves and their loved ones because of past experiences that continue to impact them in the present. You may notice that strategies you developed to survive those periods of your life no longer serve you, but are unsure how to change. Taking the first step to get help and approach the thoughts, emotions, and events that have felt too difficult to touch can be intimidating and anxiety provoking. As your therapist it is my goal to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and accepting environment for you to process your past and find new ways of caring for yourself today.
I have experience working with childhood trauma, grief, anxiety, perfectionism, LGBTQIA+ concerns, ADHD, and autism.
I often work with people who are feeling stuck and disconnected from themselves and their loved ones because of past experiences that continue to impact them in the present. You may notice that strategies you developed to survive those periods of your life no longer serve you, but are unsure how to change. Taking the first step to get help and approach the thoughts, emotions, and events that have felt too difficult to touch can be intimidating and anxiety provoking. As your therapist it is my goal to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and accepting environment for you to process your past and find new ways of caring for yourself today.
Kimberly Swanson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2018. Kimberly has several years of experience working with families with anxiety, depression, PSTD, and other life stressors ranging from coping with a chronic illness to going through relationship issues. Her approach to counseling is to guide and help you determine the best approach for improving your well-being. Kimberly tends to use person-centered, solution-focused, along with cognitive-behavioral therapy approaches; however, she can modify her therapeutic techniques to meet the needs of each client.
Kimberly Swanson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2018. Kimberly has several years of experience working with families with anxiety, depression, PSTD, and other life stressors ranging from coping with a chronic illness to going through relationship issues. Her approach to counseling is to guide and help you determine the best approach for improving your well-being. Kimberly tends to use person-centered, solution-focused, along with cognitive-behavioral therapy approaches; however, she can modify her therapeutic techniques to meet the needs of each client.
I have been in the mental health field for over 25 years and a licensed professional counselor for 9 years. I believe a person has the answers to whatever it is that concerns them about themselves, but they may not have identified the question. Once the question or the why has been identified a person begins adapting to resolve it. I use tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness exercises to assist my clients in living an intentional life.
I have been in the mental health field for over 25 years and a licensed professional counselor for 9 years. I believe a person has the answers to whatever it is that concerns them about themselves, but they may not have identified the question. Once the question or the why has been identified a person begins adapting to resolve it. I use tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness exercises to assist my clients in living an intentional life.
Rashida Whitley is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2014. She studied at University of Kentucky and Georgia State. Rashida is trained in DBT and has used the technique to assist clients with borderline personality disorder. She has also been trained in TF CBT and has been able to treat adults and children coping with trauma. Rashida has experience treating adults and children with ADHD, mood disorders, and anxiety. Lastly, she has provided treatment focusing on coping with societal issues, gender identity, and gender-based issues.
Rashida Whitley is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2014. She studied at University of Kentucky and Georgia State. Rashida is trained in DBT and has used the technique to assist clients with borderline personality disorder. She has also been trained in TF CBT and has been able to treat adults and children coping with trauma. Rashida has experience treating adults and children with ADHD, mood disorders, and anxiety. Lastly, she has provided treatment focusing on coping with societal issues, gender identity, and gender-based issues.
No two people are the same- not even two therapy sessions, with the same person, are the same. So, describing what therapy is like with me on a web site is a little like describing what "all rivers" look like. What I can say is I will prioritize that you are heard, valued, and encouraged, and I will collaborate with you on what works best for you-whether that's finding strategies to cope with something current or finally addressing a concern that has developed over time. I will also met you with integrity and offer you the best of who I am and what the field of psychology has to offer.
No two people are the same- not even two therapy sessions, with the same person, are the same. So, describing what therapy is like with me on a web site is a little like describing what "all rivers" look like. What I can say is I will prioritize that you are heard, valued, and encouraged, and I will collaborate with you on what works best for you-whether that's finding strategies to cope with something current or finally addressing a concern that has developed over time. I will also met you with integrity and offer you the best of who I am and what the field of psychology has to offer.
Meredith L Albert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Psychotherapy is my second career. I come from a rich background in entrepreneurship and business management which makes me more focused on goal-setting that underpins my action-oriented approach. I work collaboratively with clients to define actionable goals and identify issues (conscious and unconscious) that act as barriers to long term psycho-emotional health. Philosophically, I embrace the idea that individuals often have the answers they seek to difficult questions. The real challenge may be finding the stillness to settle inner conflicts or competing thoughts (expectations, judgments, etc.) long enough to uncover personal truths.
Psychotherapy is my second career. I come from a rich background in entrepreneurship and business management which makes me more focused on goal-setting that underpins my action-oriented approach. I work collaboratively with clients to define actionable goals and identify issues (conscious and unconscious) that act as barriers to long term psycho-emotional health. Philosophically, I embrace the idea that individuals often have the answers they seek to difficult questions. The real challenge may be finding the stillness to settle inner conflicts or competing thoughts (expectations, judgments, etc.) long enough to uncover personal truths.
Amy Lynne Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
While I greatly enjoy working with all adults around a multitude of life challenges, I have particular passion for working with elders and their families, as well as those affected by chronic and terminal illness (based on work and personal experience). I also particularly enjoy helping people find and express their authentic voices.
While I greatly enjoy working with all adults around a multitude of life challenges, I have particular passion for working with elders and their families, as well as those affected by chronic and terminal illness (based on work and personal experience). I also particularly enjoy helping people find and express their authentic voices.
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Julius Jessup Peterson
Miranda Barzey
Latechia Hogue
I have been counseling clients for over 25 years, helping people from all walks of life to overcome barriers to living a healthier and happier life. Whether you are struggling with addiction issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, sexual identity issues, relationship issues, feeling overwhelmed by life's demands, or seeking a deeper sense of purpose and meaning, we can work together to find solutions. Life can be full of pain and struggle, but it is also full of beauty and inspiration. If you have become overwhelmed by the struggle, let's begin today to lighten your burden.
I have been counseling clients for over 25 years, helping people from all walks of life to overcome barriers to living a healthier and happier life. Whether you are struggling with addiction issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, sexual identity issues, relationship issues, feeling overwhelmed by life's demands, or seeking a deeper sense of purpose and meaning, we can work together to find solutions. Life can be full of pain and struggle, but it is also full of beauty and inspiration. If you have become overwhelmed by the struggle, let's begin today to lighten your burden.
Michielle Maggard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
I work best with clients that have decided that they are ready to make a change in their lives. These clients recognize that they have been struggling for quite some time and are finally at a point in their lives where they are ready to make some changes. Even if they aren't aware what those changes look like, they know that they need to start thinking differently. This is where I come in. I am here to help facilitate the growth, self awareness, and steps needed to produce these changes that will translate to self-actualization.
I work best with clients that have decided that they are ready to make a change in their lives. These clients recognize that they have been struggling for quite some time and are finally at a point in their lives where they are ready to make some changes. Even if they aren't aware what those changes look like, they know that they need to start thinking differently. This is where I come in. I am here to help facilitate the growth, self awareness, and steps needed to produce these changes that will translate to self-actualization.
Lisa Cottrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002 (Online Only)
When you need support, guidance, and a safe place in which to heal or to process the many stressors of these challenging times, it is important that you find a loving, insightful and highly trained therapist that feels right for you. Clients tell me that I put them at ease with my accepting and non-judgmental attitude. At the same time, I point out options you may not have considered and teach you new ways of dealing with your problems. I have over 20 years experience guiding clients into health and happiness. I appreciate you having the courage and self-compassion to get help.
When you need support, guidance, and a safe place in which to heal or to process the many stressors of these challenging times, it is important that you find a loving, insightful and highly trained therapist that feels right for you. Clients tell me that I put them at ease with my accepting and non-judgmental attitude. At the same time, I point out options you may not have considered and teach you new ways of dealing with your problems. I have over 20 years experience guiding clients into health and happiness. I appreciate you having the courage and self-compassion to get help.
Debbie James
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002 (Online Only)
Working from a perspective of radical acceptance, I am looking forward to working with clients who are currently navigating challenging life transitions. I am adept at working with adolescents and young adults, primarily around issues of perfectionism, anxiety, and self-esteem. As a former Division I athlete, I have the skills and experience to work closely with clients who are currently negotiating the stressful and unique challenges associated with high level athletics, at the high school, collegiate, or professional level.
Working from a perspective of radical acceptance, I am looking forward to working with clients who are currently navigating challenging life transitions. I am adept at working with adolescents and young adults, primarily around issues of perfectionism, anxiety, and self-esteem. As a former Division I athlete, I have the skills and experience to work closely with clients who are currently negotiating the stressful and unique challenges associated with high level athletics, at the high school, collegiate, or professional level.
Leslie M. Sessley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Are you struggling with life balance since your loved one has become ill? Are you now caring for an aging parent that didn't take care of you? Is talking with your family about your aging loved one challenging or stressful? As we age, so do our families of origin. Sometimes we are called back to our families of origin to help aging family members - like our siblings or parents. This can be challenging for many people. When we are called back to help, things like old wounds, family dysfunction and confusion on where to go for help can arise. Therapy can help bring clarity.
Are you struggling with life balance since your loved one has become ill? Are you now caring for an aging parent that didn't take care of you? Is talking with your family about your aging loved one challenging or stressful? As we age, so do our families of origin. Sometimes we are called back to our families of origin to help aging family members - like our siblings or parents. This can be challenging for many people. When we are called back to help, things like old wounds, family dysfunction and confusion on where to go for help can arise. Therapy can help bring clarity.
Align Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Hi, I'm Melanie Storrusten, LCSW. At Align Wellness, we work in modalities that utilize the mind-body connection to access healing at deeper levels. The work we love most is walking alongside brave journeyers who are ready and willing to face both their shadow and their light. If you are ready for this work of deeper healing, we would be honored to work with you. I personally currently provide Clinical Supervision and Consultation services for other therapists, short-term discernment sessions for folks facing big life decisions, and lead community rituals to process big emotions together.
Hi, I'm Melanie Storrusten, LCSW. At Align Wellness, we work in modalities that utilize the mind-body connection to access healing at deeper levels. The work we love most is walking alongside brave journeyers who are ready and willing to face both their shadow and their light. If you are ready for this work of deeper healing, we would be honored to work with you. I personally currently provide Clinical Supervision and Consultation services for other therapists, short-term discernment sessions for folks facing big life decisions, and lead community rituals to process big emotions together.
Melissa Dickinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Therapy is a chance to cultivate a healthy relationship with a professional who will allow you to grow and explore new ways of being. I work with you to create a safe space, so that we can make real progress on the issues that matter to you.
Therapy is a chance to cultivate a healthy relationship with a professional who will allow you to grow and explore new ways of being. I work with you to create a safe space, so that we can make real progress on the issues that matter to you.
Julie Coker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Not accepting new clients
Nice to meet you! Unforeseen challenges and issues going on in the world can leave you reeling. Maybe you've been a pillar of strength to those around you but, at the same time, there seems to be no space left for you to meet your own needs. Self-critical thoughts, perfectionism and fear of falling behind can leave you feeling stuck: you want a better life for yourself and, at the same time, change seems daunting. Therapy can provide an accepting, wellness-focused environment for you to move to a place of growth and positive change.
Nice to meet you! Unforeseen challenges and issues going on in the world can leave you reeling. Maybe you've been a pillar of strength to those around you but, at the same time, there seems to be no space left for you to meet your own needs. Self-critical thoughts, perfectionism and fear of falling behind can leave you feeling stuck: you want a better life for yourself and, at the same time, change seems daunting. Therapy can provide an accepting, wellness-focused environment for you to move to a place of growth and positive change.
Stephanie Lynn Roach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Building on over 20 years of nonprofit social work with older adults and families, I am committed to a clinical practice that focuses on serving this unique population. I believe that growing older is a process of continual growth and that seeking therapy as a part of that growth is good for your health, your relationships, and your life. In my work with family caregivers, I provide critical emotional and practical support to help you to better cope with the challenges of supporting an older family member while setting good boundaries and practicing essential self care.
Building on over 20 years of nonprofit social work with older adults and families, I am committed to a clinical practice that focuses on serving this unique population. I believe that growing older is a process of continual growth and that seeking therapy as a part of that growth is good for your health, your relationships, and your life. In my work with family caregivers, I provide critical emotional and practical support to help you to better cope with the challenges of supporting an older family member while setting good boundaries and practicing essential self care.
See more therapy options for Avondale Estates
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Avondale Estates
- Atlanta
- Brookhaven
- Chamblee
- Clarkston
- Decatur
- Lithonia
- Redan
- Sandy Springs
- Scottdale
- Stone Mountain
- Stonecrest
- Tucker
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.