LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Raleigh, NC

Photo of Erin M Schicht, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Erin M Schicht
MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27612  (Online Only)
Finally, I have extensive experience in working with the LGBTQ community as well as those with severe depression and anxiety.
Everyone has the potential to unlock who they want to become and achieve a balanced life. If this is your first time seeking a therapist or if you have been in therapy before, I find ways to help client's feel comfortable to be able to speak freely to reach their goals. Having experience in working with children and adults in different capacities over my career, it has become my desire to help those I work with find their own potential and assist in empowerment. I have an extensive background in woking with those with a variety of mental health issues in the community mental health setting and hospital setting.
Finally, I have extensive experience in working with the LGBTQ community as well as those with severe depression and anxiety.
Everyone has the potential to unlock who they want to become and achieve a balanced life. If this is your first time seeking a therapist or if you have been in therapy before, I find ways to help client's feel comfortable to be able to speak freely to reach their goals. Having experience in working with children and adults in different capacities over my career, it has become my desire to help those I work with find their own potential and assist in empowerment. I have an extensive background in woking with those with a variety of mental health issues in the community mental health setting and hospital setting.
(919) 525-3182 View (919) 525-3182
Photo of Brian Hollingsworth, MS, MDiv, NCC, LCMHC, Counselor
Brian Hollingsworth
Counselor, MS, MDiv, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Populations and areas of focus include LGBTQ+ individuals, healthcare workers, and emerging adults (18+).
If you are at a crossroads between who you've been (or been told to be), and who you long to become, I am here for you. My clients come to me because the old narratives they've been living by no longer fit, and it's time to write a new chapter marked by honesty, authenticity, and abundance. Together we explore concerns related to sexual and gender identity, religious or spiritual concerns, life transitions, relationship concerns, depression, anxiety, stress, and more. My approach is laid back and collaborative, and designed to give you space to be heard, understood, and affirmed as we explore your unique needs and goals.
Populations and areas of focus include LGBTQ+ individuals, healthcare workers, and emerging adults (18+).
If you are at a crossroads between who you've been (or been told to be), and who you long to become, I am here for you. My clients come to me because the old narratives they've been living by no longer fit, and it's time to write a new chapter marked by honesty, authenticity, and abundance. Together we explore concerns related to sexual and gender identity, religious or spiritual concerns, life transitions, relationship concerns, depression, anxiety, stress, and more. My approach is laid back and collaborative, and designed to give you space to be heard, understood, and affirmed as we explore your unique needs and goals.
(919) 899-4301 View (919) 899-4301
Photo of Frances De Los Santos, MEd, LCMHCA
Frances De Los Santos
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MEd, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614  (Online Only)
I work with adult clients with various backgrounds and experiences focusing on concerns of depression, relationship challenges, neurodivergence, cultural and LGBTQ+ identity, sexuality, burnout, life transitions, and self-acceptance.
Do you sometimes worry if who you are is "wrong," stuck focusing on harmful messages or unrealistic expectations? Do you feel a little lost in who you are and what you want, then find thinking about it gets overwhelming? If there are times when life feels heavy or you feel like hiding away until you're "put together," you are not alone. It helps to have a space to put life's many complexities aside - to take the rules, systemic barriers, and needs of yourself and others, put them all down, breathe, and unpack. Looking for that space is a big step. I'm here to create that space with you.
I work with adult clients with various backgrounds and experiences focusing on concerns of depression, relationship challenges, neurodivergence, cultural and LGBTQ+ identity, sexuality, burnout, life transitions, and self-acceptance.
Do you sometimes worry if who you are is "wrong," stuck focusing on harmful messages or unrealistic expectations? Do you feel a little lost in who you are and what you want, then find thinking about it gets overwhelming? If there are times when life feels heavy or you feel like hiding away until you're "put together," you are not alone. It helps to have a space to put life's many complexities aside - to take the rules, systemic barriers, and needs of yourself and others, put them all down, breathe, and unpack. Looking for that space is a big step. I'm here to create that space with you.
(919) 246-8753 View (919) 246-8753
Photo of Noah Hood, MSW, LCSW-A
Noah Hood
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with people seeking support with identity challenges, including LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma recovery, and self-acceptance. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore emotions and resources for mental well-being. Together, we work towards inner peace, self-empowerment, and authenticity in relationships. My goal is to help you find clarity and resilience to live authentically, free from societal expectations, with compassionate guidance to embrace your true self.
I enjoy working with people seeking support with identity challenges, including LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma recovery, and self-acceptance. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore emotions and resources for mental well-being. Together, we work towards inner peace, self-empowerment, and authenticity in relationships. My goal is to help you find clarity and resilience to live authentically, free from societal expectations, with compassionate guidance to embrace your true self.
(919) 205-5065 View (919) 205-5065
Photo of Najjiya Boler, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Najjiya Boler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Hey! Is your life a little complicated? Same. Everybody’s is… Right? Let’s chat about it! I work with individuals and couples to process stressors due to issues with boundaries, communication, family conflict, managing life transitions, chronic health conditions, & more. As a black, cisgender woman being an ally is a priority of mine and that includes providing affirming care for queer folx & non traditional relationship styles. As a person who deals with Eosinophilic Esophagitis, I also specialize in supporting this community through the unique challenges they face. Welcome to your safe space!
Hey! Is your life a little complicated? Same. Everybody’s is… Right? Let’s chat about it! I work with individuals and couples to process stressors due to issues with boundaries, communication, family conflict, managing life transitions, chronic health conditions, & more. As a black, cisgender woman being an ally is a priority of mine and that includes providing affirming care for queer folx & non traditional relationship styles. As a person who deals with Eosinophilic Esophagitis, I also specialize in supporting this community through the unique challenges they face. Welcome to your safe space!
(984) 833-2479 View (984) 833-2479
Photo of Autumn Cooper, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Autumn Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
We work with clients from all religious backgrounds, including folx who have transitioned out of/do not practice organized religion and practice LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy.
We have 3 clinicians with immediate openings! Trauma, anxiety, and depression affect all areas of our lives and impact our ability to feel safe and secure. When experiencing hardships it can feel like negative feelings and thoughts just won't stop. These emotions can also become so overwhelming that they begin to interfere with our happiness, relationships, and ability to take control of our life. At Regrowth Counseling we will work collaboratively to process and endure intense emotions, overcome challenges and fill your toolbox with techniques to help you move forward in your life.
We work with clients from all religious backgrounds, including folx who have transitioned out of/do not practice organized religion and practice LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy.
We have 3 clinicians with immediate openings! Trauma, anxiety, and depression affect all areas of our lives and impact our ability to feel safe and secure. When experiencing hardships it can feel like negative feelings and thoughts just won't stop. These emotions can also become so overwhelming that they begin to interfere with our happiness, relationships, and ability to take control of our life. At Regrowth Counseling we will work collaboratively to process and endure intense emotions, overcome challenges and fill your toolbox with techniques to help you move forward in your life.
(919) 351-6374 View (919) 351-6374
Photo of Nick DeJesus, LCMHCS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nick DeJesus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
My approach to counseling is that of a “fellow traveler” who takes the journey alongside of you in a way that is calm, open, supportive, empathic, and actively engaged with you at all times. I bring a unique existential approach to counseling that helps you in the “here and now,” and daily lived experiences of your life. I work with couples and individual’s ages 13-70. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, intimacy issues (physical and emotional), LGBTQIA issues, men’s issues, marital conflict, sexual addiction, and complex personal life struggles. There is space here for you!
My approach to counseling is that of a “fellow traveler” who takes the journey alongside of you in a way that is calm, open, supportive, empathic, and actively engaged with you at all times. I bring a unique existential approach to counseling that helps you in the “here and now,” and daily lived experiences of your life. I work with couples and individual’s ages 13-70. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, intimacy issues (physical and emotional), LGBTQIA issues, men’s issues, marital conflict, sexual addiction, and complex personal life struggles. There is space here for you!
(919) 646-3816 View (919) 646-3816
Photo of Brianna Hicks, MA, LCMHCS
Brianna Hicks
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
For the last ten years I have been helping clients from a variety of backgrounds to move in the direction of making a meaningful, fulfilling life. I have extensive experience working with folks struggling with disordered eating and body image distress, obsessive compulsive tendencies, anxiety, depression, trauma, and challenges related to gender and sexuality. As a person who identifies as queer herself, I am strongly committed to providing a safe, non-judgemental, and affirming space for all folks in the LGTBQ community and provide letters for folks looking to receiving gender affirming medical care.
For the last ten years I have been helping clients from a variety of backgrounds to move in the direction of making a meaningful, fulfilling life. I have extensive experience working with folks struggling with disordered eating and body image distress, obsessive compulsive tendencies, anxiety, depression, trauma, and challenges related to gender and sexuality. As a person who identifies as queer herself, I am strongly committed to providing a safe, non-judgemental, and affirming space for all folks in the LGTBQ community and provide letters for folks looking to receiving gender affirming medical care.
(919) 888-4511 View (919) 888-4511
Photo of Finn Draper, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Finn Draper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
Hi! My name is Finn Draper (they/he), and I am so excited to be an outpatient psychotherapist at Three Oaks. I am a queer, non-binary clinician, and I believe in creating an anti-racist and anti-ableist therapeutic space. I have a passion for working with transgender, gender-expansive, and queer adults, as well as anyone working through their identity, going through stress around life changes, struggling with self-esteem or perfectionism, dealing with relationship issues, or living with anxiety, depression, or other neurodivergence (this includes if you are uncertain, self-diagnosed, or diagnosed later in life!).
Hi! My name is Finn Draper (they/he), and I am so excited to be an outpatient psychotherapist at Three Oaks. I am a queer, non-binary clinician, and I believe in creating an anti-racist and anti-ableist therapeutic space. I have a passion for working with transgender, gender-expansive, and queer adults, as well as anyone working through their identity, going through stress around life changes, struggling with self-esteem or perfectionism, dealing with relationship issues, or living with anxiety, depression, or other neurodivergence (this includes if you are uncertain, self-diagnosed, or diagnosed later in life!).
(984) 363-8731 View (984) 363-8731
Photo of Heidi Soto Holgate, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidi Soto Holgate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Hi there! I’m Heidi and I’m so glad our paths have crossed. I am passionate about the 2S-LGBTQIA+ community as well as working with children (as young as 6 years old). Although, I do also love to work with individuals, couples, and polycules. As a social worker, my practice is deeply rooted in a commitment to social justice, anti-racism, and cultural humility. If you have experienced big life changes, are wanting affirming & inclusive care, or are simply seeking someone to witness your process, you are not alone! I will prioritize creating an inclusive, relaxed, and casual environment for you to feel worthy, special, and seen.
Hi there! I’m Heidi and I’m so glad our paths have crossed. I am passionate about the 2S-LGBTQIA+ community as well as working with children (as young as 6 years old). Although, I do also love to work with individuals, couples, and polycules. As a social worker, my practice is deeply rooted in a commitment to social justice, anti-racism, and cultural humility. If you have experienced big life changes, are wanting affirming & inclusive care, or are simply seeking someone to witness your process, you are not alone! I will prioritize creating an inclusive, relaxed, and casual environment for you to feel worthy, special, and seen.
(984) 204-6218 View (984) 204-6218
Photo of Nancy Capel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Capel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27604  (Online Only)
Nancy Capel has been working as an LCSW for the last 31 yrs. She has been fortunate to have worked with patients of all diagnoses, including comorbid substance abuse/mental health conditions. Nancy has expertise in working with patients who have mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, grief, LGBTQIA+ issues, bipolar disorders, relationship issues, and job issues.
Nancy Capel has been working as an LCSW for the last 31 yrs. She has been fortunate to have worked with patients of all diagnoses, including comorbid substance abuse/mental health conditions. Nancy has expertise in working with patients who have mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, grief, LGBTQIA+ issues, bipolar disorders, relationship issues, and job issues.
(984) 230-9223 View (984) 230-9223
Photo of Marissa Hall, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marissa Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601
Waitlist for new clients
You deserve a life filled with joy and inner peace, and that journey begins with truly understanding yourself and your story. Think of me as your guide to healing—I'm a person who's genuinely dedicated to your well-being. As someone who deeply understands trauma and shares the perspective of being a queer therapist, I offer a space where our shared experiences can foster connection and growth. Your experiences as a trauma survivor and/or LGBTQIA+ or neurodivergent individual are welcomed here. Reaching out to a therapist can be intimidating but take a moment (and a deep breath) to reach out to me and see how I can help.
You deserve a life filled with joy and inner peace, and that journey begins with truly understanding yourself and your story. Think of me as your guide to healing—I'm a person who's genuinely dedicated to your well-being. As someone who deeply understands trauma and shares the perspective of being a queer therapist, I offer a space where our shared experiences can foster connection and growth. Your experiences as a trauma survivor and/or LGBTQIA+ or neurodivergent individual are welcomed here. Reaching out to a therapist can be intimidating but take a moment (and a deep breath) to reach out to me and see how I can help.
(980) 303-3460 View (980) 303-3460
Photo of Rachel Maguire, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Maguire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
Waitlist for new clients
I myself am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, am committed to anti-racist, intersectional work, and practice from a space of cultural humility.
I work well with anyone struggling with symptoms of mental illness (including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder), processing trauma or grief, undergoing transitions, exploring their gender or sexual identity, or is a survivor of gender violence. I also understand the emotional impact of online relationships, friendships, and community building, and enjoy working with folks immersed in online culture or who have online/long-distance support systems.
I myself am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, am committed to anti-racist, intersectional work, and practice from a space of cultural humility.
I work well with anyone struggling with symptoms of mental illness (including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder), processing trauma or grief, undergoing transitions, exploring their gender or sexual identity, or is a survivor of gender violence. I also understand the emotional impact of online relationships, friendships, and community building, and enjoy working with folks immersed in online culture or who have online/long-distance support systems.
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Photo of Kyle Flannelly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyle Flannelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I have a passion for adulthood and aging, LGBT issues, and anxiety disorders. I welcome any client 16+ who is interested in therapy...for any reason. I consider myself client-centered, and your goals are my goals.
I have a passion for adulthood and aging, LGBT issues, and anxiety disorders. I welcome any client 16+ who is interested in therapy...for any reason. I consider myself client-centered, and your goals are my goals.
(919) 277-0253 View (919) 277-0253
Photo of John A Cooper, MA, LPCC, LPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John A Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
I work with both individuals and groups, and have particular interest in issues affecting men, survivors of religious oppression, trauma, addictions, grief and loss, helping professionals and small business owners in developing healthy, vibrant careers, and supporting gay men and lesbians in their quest for maximum fulfillment in their lives.
Freud is credited with stating that two things really matter in life: love and work. I help people find greater satisfaction with a) their relationships with themselves and others, and b) what they do to make meaning in their lives. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to help you maximize your spiritual, physical, and emotional potential. Operating from an orientation which draws primarily on a combination of contemporary psychoanalytic, attachment, and neurobiological perspectives, I am fully committed to walking with you on your journey toward greater satisfaction and fulfillment.
I work with both individuals and groups, and have particular interest in issues affecting men, survivors of religious oppression, trauma, addictions, grief and loss, helping professionals and small business owners in developing healthy, vibrant careers, and supporting gay men and lesbians in their quest for maximum fulfillment in their lives.
Freud is credited with stating that two things really matter in life: love and work. I help people find greater satisfaction with a) their relationships with themselves and others, and b) what they do to make meaning in their lives. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to help you maximize your spiritual, physical, and emotional potential. Operating from an orientation which draws primarily on a combination of contemporary psychoanalytic, attachment, and neurobiological perspectives, I am fully committed to walking with you on your journey toward greater satisfaction and fulfillment.
(512) 843-8658 View (512) 843-8658
Photo of Tommy Hibbs, LCMHCA, Counselor
Tommy Hibbs
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
I work with adults from varying background and experiences: including but not limited to topics such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity, sexuality, life transitions, LGBTQ+, communication, family dynamics, the enneagram, and acceptance of self.
Welcome! My name is Tommy Hibbs and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in North Carolina. I believe therapy is for anyone and everyone. It is a chance for one to better explore their identity, wants and needs, goals, and so much more. My objective within sessions is to create a space for further self-discovery and self-acceptance. Clients deserve to be heard, validated, seen, and affirmed. My deepest desire in therapy is for my clients to feel at peace with who they are and who they are becoming.
I work with adults from varying background and experiences: including but not limited to topics such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity, sexuality, life transitions, LGBTQ+, communication, family dynamics, the enneagram, and acceptance of self.
Welcome! My name is Tommy Hibbs and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in North Carolina. I believe therapy is for anyone and everyone. It is a chance for one to better explore their identity, wants and needs, goals, and so much more. My objective within sessions is to create a space for further self-discovery and self-acceptance. Clients deserve to be heard, validated, seen, and affirmed. My deepest desire in therapy is for my clients to feel at peace with who they are and who they are becoming.
(984) 305-3679 View (984) 305-3679
Photo of Ellie Mental Health Raleigh Blue Ridge Rd Outpatient Mental Health - Ellie Mental Health Raleigh Blue Ridge Rd, LCMHC, NCC
Ellie Mental Health Raleigh Blue Ridge Rd
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
We want to help clients from all walks of life and from all different backgrounds. We approach therapy from a holistic, integrative, and supportive framework where we meet clients where they are. We are trans/queer inclusive, culturally sensitive, and trauma informed. We work with a multitude of issues including identity concerns, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and mood dysregulation.
We want to help clients from all walks of life and from all different backgrounds. We approach therapy from a holistic, integrative, and supportive framework where we meet clients where they are. We are trans/queer inclusive, culturally sensitive, and trauma informed. We work with a multitude of issues including identity concerns, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and mood dysregulation.
(984) 368-4609 View (984) 368-4609
Photo of Hannah Johnson, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Hannah Johnson
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) who offers therapy to adolescents, adults, seniors with a primary focus on trauma, as well as addiction, neurodivergence, life transitions, LGBTQ+ and gender identity issues, and other life stressors. My work in community mental health provided me the opportunity to work with a wide range of clients and presenting issues. I am excited to bring those skills into my practice!
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) who offers therapy to adolescents, adults, seniors with a primary focus on trauma, as well as addiction, neurodivergence, life transitions, LGBTQ+ and gender identity issues, and other life stressors. My work in community mental health provided me the opportunity to work with a wide range of clients and presenting issues. I am excited to bring those skills into my practice!
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Photo of Kate Williams, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Kate Williams
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
While I specialize in working with college and university students and with LGBTQ+ concerns, I do work with adults of any walk of life, affirming gender and sexual diversity, racial and ethnic identities and all manner of relationship make-ups - poly and kink aware in particular.
Accepting new clients - Something isn’t working, maybe your mind has been racing and you don’t know how to quiet it down, maybe painful feelings keep you up at night or you don't know what you really want your life to be. If you're thinking you'd like some help figuring out what is going on and how you can create change in your life, I'm happy to use my experience as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor to provide the support and information you could find useful. My clients have told me they left therapy understanding themselves better, feeling more confident they can manage their emotions and improved at work or school.
While I specialize in working with college and university students and with LGBTQ+ concerns, I do work with adults of any walk of life, affirming gender and sexual diversity, racial and ethnic identities and all manner of relationship make-ups - poly and kink aware in particular.
Accepting new clients - Something isn’t working, maybe your mind has been racing and you don’t know how to quiet it down, maybe painful feelings keep you up at night or you don't know what you really want your life to be. If you're thinking you'd like some help figuring out what is going on and how you can create change in your life, I'm happy to use my experience as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor to provide the support and information you could find useful. My clients have told me they left therapy understanding themselves better, feeling more confident they can manage their emotions and improved at work or school.
(919) 726-0193 View (919) 726-0193
Photo of Michelle Topal, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Topal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I am a cisgender woman who has been part of & serving the queer community for 40 years, with a focus on those who defy labels & who identify along the gender continuum.
Appointments Available. If you are looking for someone who understands the stress for many of us in these divisive, uncertain political times & is easy to talk to? Or are along the sexual or gender continuum (LGBTQ+/TGD), looking for someone who gets it? Or are having problems in your most important relationship(s)... I'm here to help. As an out queer person, I've been helping the LGBTQ+ community, as well as teens, parents, & partners, feel heard, cared for, accepted & understood for over 30 years. I create an authentic, safe, affirming space to explore & grow. I look forward to being an encouraging voice to help you find your own.
I am a cisgender woman who has been part of & serving the queer community for 40 years, with a focus on those who defy labels & who identify along the gender continuum.
Appointments Available. If you are looking for someone who understands the stress for many of us in these divisive, uncertain political times & is easy to talk to? Or are along the sexual or gender continuum (LGBTQ+/TGD), looking for someone who gets it? Or are having problems in your most important relationship(s)... I'm here to help. As an out queer person, I've been helping the LGBTQ+ community, as well as teens, parents, & partners, feel heard, cared for, accepted & understood for over 30 years. I create an authentic, safe, affirming space to explore & grow. I look forward to being an encouraging voice to help you find your own.
(919) 885-1200 View (919) 885-1200
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LGBTQ+ Therapists

Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?

Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?

Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?

While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.