LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Decatur County, GA
![Photo of Victoria Johnson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59a33b84-3fab-4ee7-b8ad-893afd56e772/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience with depression, anxiety, BIPOC, relationship issues, self-care, body positivity, LGBTQ+ affirming care, trauma, self-esteem, processing the impacts of systemic oppression and capitalism, grief, and much more.
My name is Tori, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I approach therapy from an integrative perspective with an emphasis on Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Processing Theory, Narrative Therapy, Expressive Arts and Mindfulness Techniques, and some Feminist Theories as well. I have a Holistic and collaborative approach to therapy. I believe the you are the expert of your own experience, and my job is never to tell you what to do but instead to support you along your healing journey, process what comes up on the path to healing, and empower you in your continued growth.
I have experience with depression, anxiety, BIPOC, relationship issues, self-care, body positivity, LGBTQ+ affirming care, trauma, self-esteem, processing the impacts of systemic oppression and capitalism, grief, and much more.
My name is Tori, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I approach therapy from an integrative perspective with an emphasis on Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Processing Theory, Narrative Therapy, Expressive Arts and Mindfulness Techniques, and some Feminist Theories as well. I have a Holistic and collaborative approach to therapy. I believe the you are the expert of your own experience, and my job is never to tell you what to do but instead to support you along your healing journey, process what comes up on the path to healing, and empower you in your continued growth.
![Photo of Christina Haire, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abb8b2b6-e4d9-4825-8f18-8d88c968abff/11/320x400.jpeg)
I help people who are anxious to feel a lot less anxious and more confident. Do you always have an ache in your stomach telling you something is wrong? Are you always a little worried that an anxiety attack could happen at any moment? I know exactly how you feel. The shortness of breath, pounding chest, feeling as if the space around you is closing in and you need to escape NOW. This can feel terrible, and I don’t want you to have to feel this way anymore. I am here to help.
I help people who are anxious to feel a lot less anxious and more confident. Do you always have an ache in your stomach telling you something is wrong? Are you always a little worried that an anxiety attack could happen at any moment? I know exactly how you feel. The shortness of breath, pounding chest, feeling as if the space around you is closing in and you need to escape NOW. This can feel terrible, and I don’t want you to have to feel this way anymore. I am here to help.
![Photo of Carron Alexander, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c93ed9fe-b50e-429a-ab03-d9d7bdd30e0e/1/320x400.png)
My name is Carron Alexander, and I am a Licensed Professional Therapist. I have experience working with clients between the ages of 5-65 and am comfortable treating a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, grief, women’s issues, trauma, and PTSD. My approach to therapy is eclectic, drawing from multiple modalities to fit your needs such as Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Person-Centered theories. I have worked with a variety of mental health issues in a variety of populations and look forward to helping you find a better path forward.
My name is Carron Alexander, and I am a Licensed Professional Therapist. I have experience working with clients between the ages of 5-65 and am comfortable treating a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, grief, women’s issues, trauma, and PTSD. My approach to therapy is eclectic, drawing from multiple modalities to fit your needs such as Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Person-Centered theories. I have worked with a variety of mental health issues in a variety of populations and look forward to helping you find a better path forward.
![Photo of Julio Ginel, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ef48174-ee84-4ba6-9d7a-3d149d3e591e/1/320x400.png)
I am a 13 year military veteran who grew up in the South Bronx, first generation Puerto Rican in this country, raised by a single parent. It is these experiences that formed the foundation of my core beliefs, for better or worse. I approach my practice in the same way. The world impacts us, from the womb to the tomb. It is how we traverse the challenges that defines us. I use an eclectic mix of techniques, including solution focused, experiential, trauma informed, and cognitive behavioral, to help my clients better navigate those challenges.
I am a 13 year military veteran who grew up in the South Bronx, first generation Puerto Rican in this country, raised by a single parent. It is these experiences that formed the foundation of my core beliefs, for better or worse. I approach my practice in the same way. The world impacts us, from the womb to the tomb. It is how we traverse the challenges that defines us. I use an eclectic mix of techniques, including solution focused, experiential, trauma informed, and cognitive behavioral, to help my clients better navigate those challenges.
![Photo of Angela Velez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/244abd77-7e39-4b8c-97dc-fd8e378ce41d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am Angela Velez, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the greater Atlanta area, and I’d love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. At this time, all sessions are conducted using HIPAA compliant telehealth formats due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
I am Angela Velez, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the greater Atlanta area, and I’d love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. At this time, all sessions are conducted using HIPAA compliant telehealth formats due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
![Photo of Loriann Merritt, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8693b2c9-c5a3-4c62-a030-c342ffcf4e59/1/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy can be beneficial at many points in your life, whether you're struggling with stressors, experiencing mental health symptoms, going through life changes, or just wanting to explore who you are. I aim to offer a helping hand and safe environment for you to be heard and accepted.
Therapy can be beneficial at many points in your life, whether you're struggling with stressors, experiencing mental health symptoms, going through life changes, or just wanting to explore who you are. I aim to offer a helping hand and safe environment for you to be heard and accepted.
![Photo of Adrienne Marshall, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a7cfecc-9f71-40e9-80fe-1933966084e7/1/320x400.png)
My name is Adrienne L. Marshall, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am also a Certified Life Coach. My approach to therapy is person-centered. My focus areas of practice are couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. The types of clients that I work with include those in need of couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. I am most comfortable treating those dealing with relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional issues, and life transitions.
My name is Adrienne L. Marshall, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am also a Certified Life Coach. My approach to therapy is person-centered. My focus areas of practice are couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. The types of clients that I work with include those in need of couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. I am most comfortable treating those dealing with relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional issues, and life transitions.
![Photo of Nicole Allen, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df5613aa-14ec-4d7d-8304-ae30ebddd444/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
Bainbridge, GA 31717 (Online Only)
Are you ready to cultivate healing and become your best, authentic self? If you answered yes, making the decision to pursue therapy is important and can assist you to maximize your greatest potential and improve overall mental wellness! Life can be filled with swift transitions; therefore, it is my commitment to provide a welcoming environment for my clients to navigate through challenges they may face, impacting their mental health. As a therapist, I am compassionate and committed to helping others by providing support, guidance, expertise, to cultivate personal growth and mental wellness.
Are you ready to cultivate healing and become your best, authentic self? If you answered yes, making the decision to pursue therapy is important and can assist you to maximize your greatest potential and improve overall mental wellness! Life can be filled with swift transitions; therefore, it is my commitment to provide a welcoming environment for my clients to navigate through challenges they may face, impacting their mental health. As a therapist, I am compassionate and committed to helping others by providing support, guidance, expertise, to cultivate personal growth and mental wellness.
![Photo of Sharon Sirmons, PhD, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58af0ceb-cf1f-46ca-bd27-5478623b29a3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sharon Sirmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bainbridge, GA 39817
Online Therapists
![Photo of Victoria Johnson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5da8af22-27ab-482a-ae82-89e2fe56feeb/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience with depression, anxiety, BIPOC, relationship issues, self-care, body positivity, LGBTQ+ affirming care, trauma, self-esteem, processing the impacts of systemic oppression and capitalism, grief, and much more.
My name is Tori, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I approach therapy from an integrative perspective with an emphasis on Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Processing Theory, Narrative Therapy, Expressive Arts and Mindfulness Techniques, and some Feminist Theories as well. I have a Holistic and collaborative approach to therapy. I believe the you are the expert of your own experience, and my job is never to tell you what to do but instead to support you along your healing journey, process what comes up on the path to healing, and empower you in your continued growth.
I have experience with depression, anxiety, BIPOC, relationship issues, self-care, body positivity, LGBTQ+ affirming care, trauma, self-esteem, processing the impacts of systemic oppression and capitalism, grief, and much more.
My name is Tori, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I approach therapy from an integrative perspective with an emphasis on Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Processing Theory, Narrative Therapy, Expressive Arts and Mindfulness Techniques, and some Feminist Theories as well. I have a Holistic and collaborative approach to therapy. I believe the you are the expert of your own experience, and my job is never to tell you what to do but instead to support you along your healing journey, process what comes up on the path to healing, and empower you in your continued growth.
![Photo of Tommy Hampton IV, MS, LMFT, CFVIPF, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd4dc839-6f95-4e28-a746-9c701f8a4efb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tommy Hampton IV
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CFVIPF
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31603 (Online Only)
Greetings and welcome! I'm Tommy Hampton, IV. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and AAMFT Approved Supervisor Candidate. My extensive education and training have equipped me to specialize in a holistic approach in areas such as Couple's Dynamics, Family Systems, Men's Issues, Christian Counseling, LGBTQIA+, Grief, Stress Management, Parenting, Anger Management, Cultural Competency Issues, and Personal Growth.
Greetings and welcome! I'm Tommy Hampton, IV. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and AAMFT Approved Supervisor Candidate. My extensive education and training have equipped me to specialize in a holistic approach in areas such as Couple's Dynamics, Family Systems, Men's Issues, Christian Counseling, LGBTQIA+, Grief, Stress Management, Parenting, Anger Management, Cultural Competency Issues, and Personal Growth.
![Photo of Jessica D Wheeler - Jessica Wheeler, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16668698-b05e-4a09-88a2-f5fa8e34014c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Wheeler, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, GA 31639
Over 10 years of experience providing LGBTQIA affirmative therapy. Tattoos and authenticity are my trademarks with the occasional cuss word. Think orchids, moonlight, tarot, crystals, and trinkets. An accent stronger than your glass of whiskey. I see individuals, couples, and teens. Call today for a free initial consult to see if I am a good fit for you.
Over 10 years of experience providing LGBTQIA affirmative therapy. Tattoos and authenticity are my trademarks with the occasional cuss word. Think orchids, moonlight, tarot, crystals, and trinkets. An accent stronger than your glass of whiskey. I see individuals, couples, and teens. Call today for a free initial consult to see if I am a good fit for you.
![Photo of Nyesia Knight, LCSW, CADC II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72e3285c-6c86-45b8-b722-f68bb01dc64e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nyesia Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31602
Area of specialization: LGBTQ, Trauma in men, and couples/marriage.
Are you keeping your struggles with depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief hidden behind a polished exterior? Everyone sees you as having everything sorted, but behind closed doors, it's an ongoing challenge. Your social energy wears thin, intrusive thoughts linger, and it's impacting your confidence, relationships, family, and work. There's a sense that a shift is needed—whether it's a new and exciting relationship, the closure of an existing one, or an uncertain urge for change. You might not be sure what's prompting this, but you feel ready to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your past experiences.
Area of specialization: LGBTQ, Trauma in men, and couples/marriage.
Are you keeping your struggles with depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief hidden behind a polished exterior? Everyone sees you as having everything sorted, but behind closed doors, it's an ongoing challenge. Your social energy wears thin, intrusive thoughts linger, and it's impacting your confidence, relationships, family, and work. There's a sense that a shift is needed—whether it's a new and exciting relationship, the closure of an existing one, or an uncertain urge for change. You might not be sure what's prompting this, but you feel ready to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your past experiences.
![Photo of Lori Allison Stubbs, LCSW, CAMSII, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed78ce8-8fdd-417c-802f-48124a0f5a09/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lori Allison Stubbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAMSII
Verified Verified
Thomasville, GA 31792
Everyone has a story. What’s yours? I aim to supply you with the tools and resources you need to navigate your story. I provide a safe space for individuals to feel listened to and accepted. I am inclusive in my practice, including LGBTQIA+ affirming, and aim to be neurodiversity-affirming in a safe space. I enjoy working with those looking to transition into what life offers them.
Everyone has a story. What’s yours? I aim to supply you with the tools and resources you need to navigate your story. I provide a safe space for individuals to feel listened to and accepted. I am inclusive in my practice, including LGBTQIA+ affirming, and aim to be neurodiversity-affirming in a safe space. I enjoy working with those looking to transition into what life offers them.
![Photo of Sarah Cox, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ee26fec-ba51-4094-82f9-3881e4fad514/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist proving therapy for children, adolescents and adults. I am an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community and strive to provide an affirming and validating space for all of my clients. I’ve found that many people come to me with narratives that describe themselves as “bad” or broken and not good enough, thinking that they will never succeed, or are unworthy of love or respect. These false beliefs often prevent them from making desired changes, resulting in a hopeless narrative that brings pain and discouragement.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist proving therapy for children, adolescents and adults. I am an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community and strive to provide an affirming and validating space for all of my clients. I’ve found that many people come to me with narratives that describe themselves as “bad” or broken and not good enough, thinking that they will never succeed, or are unworthy of love or respect. These false beliefs often prevent them from making desired changes, resulting in a hopeless narrative that brings pain and discouragement.
![Photo of A.j. Ramirez - L.E.A.F. Therapy Services LLC, EdD, LPC, NCC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ee9e83d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
L.E.A.F. Therapy Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31601
Therapy we offer services for a wide variety of mental health concerns, including Depression, Anxiety, Abuse and Trauma, Grief and Loss, Gay and Lesbian Concerns, Trans-gender concerns and transitioning, Family and Relationship issues, Marriage Counseling, Premarital Counseling, Couples Therapy, Individual Therapy, & Anger Management.
L.E.A.F. Therapy provides therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families who are seeking change in their lives or in their relationships. The philosophy of L.E.A.F. Therapy Services is to allow you to engage in your own curiosity, interest, and creative abilities to develop a dialogue that facilitates change. We take a position of curiosity and work with you in developing meaningful change in your life and relationships.
Therapy we offer services for a wide variety of mental health concerns, including Depression, Anxiety, Abuse and Trauma, Grief and Loss, Gay and Lesbian Concerns, Trans-gender concerns and transitioning, Family and Relationship issues, Marriage Counseling, Premarital Counseling, Couples Therapy, Individual Therapy, & Anger Management.
L.E.A.F. Therapy provides therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families who are seeking change in their lives or in their relationships. The philosophy of L.E.A.F. Therapy Services is to allow you to engage in your own curiosity, interest, and creative abilities to develop a dialogue that facilitates change. We take a position of curiosity and work with you in developing meaningful change in your life and relationships.
![Photo of Cassie Avellaneda, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb92cc20-c4f7-496c-81c2-312247ad943e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cassie is clinically experienced in working with a variety of concerns including ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety and mood disorders, grief, PTSD, social skills training, and LGBTQ communities.
Cassie Avellaneda is a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC. Cassie’s professional career began in the public education system. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Warner University. She taught in the public-school system for several years. Cassie then received her Master of Arts Degree in Counseling from Webster University. Cassie has been a fully licensed clinician for almost 10 years in the state of Florida. In relocating to Georgia, she is now dually licensed in both Florida and Georgia.
Cassie is clinically experienced in working with a variety of concerns including ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety and mood disorders, grief, PTSD, social skills training, and LGBTQ communities.
Cassie Avellaneda is a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC. Cassie’s professional career began in the public education system. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Warner University. She taught in the public-school system for several years. Cassie then received her Master of Arts Degree in Counseling from Webster University. Cassie has been a fully licensed clinician for almost 10 years in the state of Florida. In relocating to Georgia, she is now dually licensed in both Florida and Georgia.
![Photo of Adrienne Marshall, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d48f82e-6c64-43be-b800-342689136266/1/320x400.png)
My name is Adrienne L. Marshall, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am also a Certified Life Coach. My approach to therapy is person-centered. My focus areas of practice are couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. The types of clients that I work with include those in need of couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. I am most comfortable treating those dealing with relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional issues, and life transitions.
My name is Adrienne L. Marshall, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am also a Certified Life Coach. My approach to therapy is person-centered. My focus areas of practice are couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. The types of clients that I work with include those in need of couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. I am most comfortable treating those dealing with relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional issues, and life transitions.
![Photo of Brenda K Brunston, LPC, CPRP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70739856-b993-47f0-9dec-6d454ce76ac6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brenda K Brunston
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPRP
Verified Verified
Hahira, GA 31632 (Online Only)
As a therapist I meet individuals where they are right now and focus on where they want to be in order to live their best lives. I am an eclectic therapist who integrates several modalities including but not limited to: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Mindfulness-based Therapy, Existential Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
As a therapist I meet individuals where they are right now and focus on where they want to be in order to live their best lives. I am an eclectic therapist who integrates several modalities including but not limited to: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Mindfulness-based Therapy, Existential Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
![Photo of Jasmine Harden - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8056cd0d-e3ca-4e5a-8f94-6daaed7018b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Albany, GA 31707
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
See more therapy options for Decatur County
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.