LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Des Moines, IA
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. I believe that everyone deserves the space to be heard and understood and I am passionate about providing this safe space for others. Areas of interest include LGBTQIA+ issues, body and weight neutrality, and Complex PTSD.
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. I believe that everyone deserves the space to be heard and understood and I am passionate about providing this safe space for others. Areas of interest include LGBTQIA+ issues, body and weight neutrality, and Complex PTSD.
Erin E. Elm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50301
I meet my clients where they are at emotionally & try provide guidance at any stage of change they are at. I can keep it very formal & clinical but I consider myself more of a guide/coach to help you navigate all of your "life stuff" including work, family, relationships, depression, anxiety, ADHD & other common diagnoses. I spent 8 years fully specializing in all things LGBTQ+ including identity & gender affirming letters/assessments for HRT & Surgical Interventions. Over the past 3 years I've also ventured into spirituality & have been integrating this into my coaching practices by exploring non-traditional treatment modalities.
I meet my clients where they are at emotionally & try provide guidance at any stage of change they are at. I can keep it very formal & clinical but I consider myself more of a guide/coach to help you navigate all of your "life stuff" including work, family, relationships, depression, anxiety, ADHD & other common diagnoses. I spent 8 years fully specializing in all things LGBTQ+ including identity & gender affirming letters/assessments for HRT & Surgical Interventions. Over the past 3 years I've also ventured into spirituality & have been integrating this into my coaching practices by exploring non-traditional treatment modalities.
Joe Nixon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience helping parents and/or loved ones of the LGBT+ community move forward in a healthy manner.
Are you struggling with LGBT+ related concerns? Are you struggling to come terms with your LGBT+ identity and/or struggling to find a way to move forward as an LGBT+ person? As a member of the LGBT+ community I am passionate about serving the LGBT+ community. Is a loved one of yours an LGBT+ member and you are struggling to move forward? accept? and/or want to reconcile with your LGBT+ loved one? Being LGBT+ can be hard in our society and it can help to talk about these experiences. Being fearful of our LGBT+ loved one's safety and well being can be stressful as well. If you feel like I can be of service I would be happy to help.
I have experience helping parents and/or loved ones of the LGBT+ community move forward in a healthy manner.
Are you struggling with LGBT+ related concerns? Are you struggling to come terms with your LGBT+ identity and/or struggling to find a way to move forward as an LGBT+ person? As a member of the LGBT+ community I am passionate about serving the LGBT+ community. Is a loved one of yours an LGBT+ member and you are struggling to move forward? accept? and/or want to reconcile with your LGBT+ loved one? Being LGBT+ can be hard in our society and it can help to talk about these experiences. Being fearful of our LGBT+ loved one's safety and well being can be stressful as well. If you feel like I can be of service I would be happy to help.
I offer personalized therapy using CBT, Person-Centered Therapy, Gestalt Theory, and hypnosis to support neurodivergent individuals, LGBTQ+ clients, and those exploring intimacy, kink, or sexual health concerns.
Are you neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, or have ADHD, navigating challenges like executive functioning, sensory sensitivities, emotional regulation, or identity exploration? Are you seeking support for intimacy, kink, BDSM, or sexual health concerns? Maybe you desire an understanding and non-judgmental space to improve your quality of life, build coping strategies, and foster meaningful relationships.
I offer personalized therapy using CBT, Person-Centered Therapy, Gestalt Theory, and hypnosis to support neurodivergent individuals, LGBTQ+ clients, and those exploring intimacy, kink, or sexual health concerns.
Are you neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, or have ADHD, navigating challenges like executive functioning, sensory sensitivities, emotional regulation, or identity exploration? Are you seeking support for intimacy, kink, BDSM, or sexual health concerns? Maybe you desire an understanding and non-judgmental space to improve your quality of life, build coping strategies, and foster meaningful relationships.
I am a member of the LGBTQIA community and enjoy working with this population.
Immediate appointments availiable. My name is Hilary Johnson and I am a licensed Mental Health Therapist (LMHC). Making the decision to come to therapy is not an easy one whether it is for you or your child. I am here to help by providing a safe, compassionate, and judgement free space. As a client centered therapist my goal is to focus on you and what you need out of therapy. I specialize in children (age 10 and up), teens, and young adults who have experienced trauma in their life. I also specialize in the LGBTQIA population, as an identified therapist.
I am a member of the LGBTQIA community and enjoy working with this population.
Immediate appointments availiable. My name is Hilary Johnson and I am a licensed Mental Health Therapist (LMHC). Making the decision to come to therapy is not an easy one whether it is for you or your child. I am here to help by providing a safe, compassionate, and judgement free space. As a client centered therapist my goal is to focus on you and what you need out of therapy. I specialize in children (age 10 and up), teens, and young adults who have experienced trauma in their life. I also specialize in the LGBTQIA population, as an identified therapist.
I have a special interest in working with the LGBT community and have earned a post-graduate certificate in Clinical Work with LGBT Individuals and their Families.
During my years in practice, I have noticed that many people feel like they are living their lives the way others would like them to live. This can create or contribute to depression, anxiety, and a general feeling of disconnection from oneself. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, childhood or recent trauma, or sexuality issues, my work is dedicated to helping you find your most authentic voice so that you can create the life that you've always wanted to live.
I have a special interest in working with the LGBT community and have earned a post-graduate certificate in Clinical Work with LGBT Individuals and their Families.
During my years in practice, I have noticed that many people feel like they are living their lives the way others would like them to live. This can create or contribute to depression, anxiety, and a general feeling of disconnection from oneself. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, childhood or recent trauma, or sexuality issues, my work is dedicated to helping you find your most authentic voice so that you can create the life that you've always wanted to live.
Kelsi Kennison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50321
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical focus includes, but is not limited to: anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders/disordered eating, low self-esteem, LGBTQ+, grief/loss, communication issues, open/poly relationships, stress management, infidelity/affairs, relationship issues, and pre/post-partum mental health.
I believe that therapy requires a specialized approach that recognizes each person’s unique life story. As a therapist, my goal is to understand the things that have made you who you are including your past life experiences, present circumstances, and future goals. I strive to provide a comfortable and safe environment where we can work together towards a meaningful narrative. I feel that my genuine approach and willingness to challenge and engage clients has helped me assist others to navigate life’s obstacles and improve their functioning and quality of life.
My clinical focus includes, but is not limited to: anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders/disordered eating, low self-esteem, LGBTQ+, grief/loss, communication issues, open/poly relationships, stress management, infidelity/affairs, relationship issues, and pre/post-partum mental health.
I believe that therapy requires a specialized approach that recognizes each person’s unique life story. As a therapist, my goal is to understand the things that have made you who you are including your past life experiences, present circumstances, and future goals. I strive to provide a comfortable and safe environment where we can work together towards a meaningful narrative. I feel that my genuine approach and willingness to challenge and engage clients has helped me assist others to navigate life’s obstacles and improve their functioning and quality of life.
I have extensive experience working with teens/ young adults, LGBT populations, and abuse survivors.
Making the decision to seek counseling can sometimes feel like an overwhelming process. It can be difficult to ask for help and know where to begin. It is my goal to help make this process a less frightening one and help you improve your life and personal well-being. Together we will identify the issues you would like to work on and determine a plan to help you reach your goals.
I have extensive experience working with teens/ young adults, LGBT populations, and abuse survivors.
Making the decision to seek counseling can sometimes feel like an overwhelming process. It can be difficult to ask for help and know where to begin. It is my goal to help make this process a less frightening one and help you improve your life and personal well-being. Together we will identify the issues you would like to work on and determine a plan to help you reach your goals.
I have experience with and a passion for working with people who identify as LGBTQ+, consensual non-monogamy, kink/BDSM, adolescents, adults, and relationships.
Making the decision to begin therapy can be difficult. Regardless of the circumstances that have brought you to consider therapy, you can be sure to find a safe, judgement-free space in my office. My role is to work with you to help you achieve your goals, whether that's overcoming obstacles, processing factors impacting you, or improving your overall satisfaction with life.
I have experience with and a passion for working with people who identify as LGBTQ+, consensual non-monogamy, kink/BDSM, adolescents, adults, and relationships.
Making the decision to begin therapy can be difficult. Regardless of the circumstances that have brought you to consider therapy, you can be sure to find a safe, judgement-free space in my office. My role is to work with you to help you achieve your goals, whether that's overcoming obstacles, processing factors impacting you, or improving your overall satisfaction with life.
Jennie Plummer
Counselor, tLMHC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Waitlist for new clients
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am passionate about providing affirmative care.
I believe you are the expert on your own life. You know your concerns, your fears, your struggles, and your story better than anyone else. As a counselor, my goal is to create a safe, affirming space in which you can explore your stressors, your identities, your relationships, or anything else you feel is significant to your life and your story. I will meet you where you are and accept you for who you are. I want therapy to be a collaborative process. Together, we will work to identify and address your concerns while also building upon and, hopefully, enriching your life story.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am passionate about providing affirmative care.
I believe you are the expert on your own life. You know your concerns, your fears, your struggles, and your story better than anyone else. As a counselor, my goal is to create a safe, affirming space in which you can explore your stressors, your identities, your relationships, or anything else you feel is significant to your life and your story. I will meet you where you are and accept you for who you are. I want therapy to be a collaborative process. Together, we will work to identify and address your concerns while also building upon and, hopefully, enriching your life story.
Sarah welcomes the LGBTQ+ community, immigrants to the United States, persons with refugee status, BIPOC, and persons with disabilities by providing a safe, warm, and affirming environment.
Sarah believes we each author our own story in the context of our cultures and relationships. As a professional counselor, Sarah considers therapy to be the hope that change is possible, the past does not determine the future, and tomorrow can be different than today. Sarah remains humbled by the invitation to walk alongside individuals in their journeys toward wellness as they discover the richness within themselves to be whole, balanced, strong, and interwoven with healthy relationships.
Sarah welcomes the LGBTQ+ community, immigrants to the United States, persons with refugee status, BIPOC, and persons with disabilities by providing a safe, warm, and affirming environment.
Sarah believes we each author our own story in the context of our cultures and relationships. As a professional counselor, Sarah considers therapy to be the hope that change is possible, the past does not determine the future, and tomorrow can be different than today. Sarah remains humbled by the invitation to walk alongside individuals in their journeys toward wellness as they discover the richness within themselves to be whole, balanced, strong, and interwoven with healthy relationships.
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Derek Michael Potthoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50301
My specialties include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger management, ADHD, self-harm/suicide ideation, inappropriate sexual behaviors, family and behavioral issues, low self-image, LGBTQ+, and more.
Reaching out is the first step and I am excited to help you in finding a path to self-growth that works best for you! It is my belief that anyone coming into therapy with an eagerness to grow has the ability to enact substantial change in their life. Each client's mental health journey is unique and I am here to help you forge your way. I am ready to meet you where you're at and make your counseling journey a positive experience.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger management, ADHD, self-harm/suicide ideation, inappropriate sexual behaviors, family and behavioral issues, low self-image, LGBTQ+, and more.
Reaching out is the first step and I am excited to help you in finding a path to self-growth that works best for you! It is my belief that anyone coming into therapy with an eagerness to grow has the ability to enact substantial change in their life. Each client's mental health journey is unique and I am here to help you forge your way. I am ready to meet you where you're at and make your counseling journey a positive experience.
Feeling misunderstood? I specialize in helping neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, & those who feel out of place.
Do you struggle with feeling like you don't fit in, like the world wasn't designed with you in mind? Do you experience anxiety, frustration, or a sense of being overwhelmed by trying to navigate a world that doesn't seem to understand your unique experiences? Do you feel drained from masking, code-switching, or just trying to "keep up"? Do you wonder if life could be different if you could find a way to thrive? You're not alone. Many neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ individuals feel like they're constantly swimming upstream. The world can feel isolating, confusing, and even hostile at times. But what if there was another way?
Feeling misunderstood? I specialize in helping neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, & those who feel out of place.
Do you struggle with feeling like you don't fit in, like the world wasn't designed with you in mind? Do you experience anxiety, frustration, or a sense of being overwhelmed by trying to navigate a world that doesn't seem to understand your unique experiences? Do you feel drained from masking, code-switching, or just trying to "keep up"? Do you wonder if life could be different if you could find a way to thrive? You're not alone. Many neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ individuals feel like they're constantly swimming upstream. The world can feel isolating, confusing, and even hostile at times. But what if there was another way?
Life and health transitions can make you feel like your world is upside down.
Are you looking for a warm and supportive therapist who will also challenge and empower you? I believe you have many answers within you but I look forward to collaborating with you to facilitate growth. I will create a space for you to feel safe exploring yourself and your needs so you can achieve a greater level of meaning, purpose, and wellness in your life. I embrace feminist and anti-racist values and work with clients from all genders, sexual orientations, races, and backgrounds.
Life and health transitions can make you feel like your world is upside down.
Are you looking for a warm and supportive therapist who will also challenge and empower you? I believe you have many answers within you but I look forward to collaborating with you to facilitate growth. I will create a space for you to feel safe exploring yourself and your needs so you can achieve a greater level of meaning, purpose, and wellness in your life. I embrace feminist and anti-racist values and work with clients from all genders, sexual orientations, races, and backgrounds.
Gus Raymond
Counselor, NCC, TLMHC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50313 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I focus on marginalized populations and am versed in multicultural counseling. It's been a rough couple of years, and this one harder than most. So many of us are feeling exhausted, overwhelmed and cast out. Suddenly, you might have noticed those bottles of wine going faster, your temper growing shorter, and the stress piling up. Everyone needs something from you, but you've given so much already and aren't sure where to refill yourself. Trans and LGBQ+ clients are my primary focus. Or/and perhaps you are a member of additional marginalized identities and facing additional stresses or obstacles in our society. Self-care IS activism.
I focus on marginalized populations and am versed in multicultural counseling. It's been a rough couple of years, and this one harder than most. So many of us are feeling exhausted, overwhelmed and cast out. Suddenly, you might have noticed those bottles of wine going faster, your temper growing shorter, and the stress piling up. Everyone needs something from you, but you've given so much already and aren't sure where to refill yourself. Trans and LGBQ+ clients are my primary focus. Or/and perhaps you are a member of additional marginalized identities and facing additional stresses or obstacles in our society. Self-care IS activism.
Emily Loynachan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with clients of all ages (age 6 and older) and provide individual, parent, and family therapy. I help clients with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and various life challenges. I enjoy serving LGBTQ+ (especially transgender) clients and their loved ones. Before becoming a therapist, I worked as an engineer and then I was a stay at home mom for 9 years. I had a transformative experience with therapy after some challenges with the birth of my third child. This experience inspired me to go back to school in my forties and become a therapist so I could help others who may be struggling.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages (age 6 and older) and provide individual, parent, and family therapy. I help clients with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and various life challenges. I enjoy serving LGBTQ+ (especially transgender) clients and their loved ones. Before becoming a therapist, I worked as an engineer and then I was a stay at home mom for 9 years. I had a transformative experience with therapy after some challenges with the birth of my third child. This experience inspired me to go back to school in my forties and become a therapist so I could help others who may be struggling.
Sarah Cammoun-Myers
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50322
Waitlist for new clients
At Sage Counseling and Wellness, I believe that healing can occur to develop a fulfilling and harmonious life filled with meaningful connections. I strive to help clients discover and feel comfortable with their authentic self and empower them to have the courage to bring that authenticity into their relationships. I believe in the importance of maintaining a supportive and affirming environment throughout the therapeutic process. I welcome people from all walks of life, including but not limited to: LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and individuals with disabilities by providing a safe and affirming environment to all.
At Sage Counseling and Wellness, I believe that healing can occur to develop a fulfilling and harmonious life filled with meaningful connections. I strive to help clients discover and feel comfortable with their authentic self and empower them to have the courage to bring that authenticity into their relationships. I believe in the importance of maintaining a supportive and affirming environment throughout the therapeutic process. I welcome people from all walks of life, including but not limited to: LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and individuals with disabilities by providing a safe and affirming environment to all.
Breann Goodall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50301 (Online Only)
My specialties include trauma work, mood and personality disorders, and working with fellow members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I'm so glad you're here. As a clinical social worker, my goal is to work with those who are seeking to heal from past trauma, cope with various mood disorders, or manage day-to-day stress. I am LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent affirming and strive for equity through person-centered care. Using a person-centered, trauma-focused approach I will work with you to cultivate hope & self-compassion. Now accepting new clients virtually in Colorado and Iowa! Check insurance info below.
My specialties include trauma work, mood and personality disorders, and working with fellow members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I'm so glad you're here. As a clinical social worker, my goal is to work with those who are seeking to heal from past trauma, cope with various mood disorders, or manage day-to-day stress. I am LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent affirming and strive for equity through person-centered care. Using a person-centered, trauma-focused approach I will work with you to cultivate hope & self-compassion. Now accepting new clients virtually in Colorado and Iowa! Check insurance info below.
Beyond The Matter Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, Veteran
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50301 (Online Only)
As a member and ally to the LGBTQ+ Community, I'm an advocate for the challenges faced by the community, both personally and professionally.
You're on a quest for self-discovery, aiming to grow and tap into your innate well-being. You desire self-discovery, resilience, and inner peace. Overcoming anxiety, stress, self-doubt, and low mood disrupts daily life. You want a non-judgmental environment to explore emotions, thoughts, and behaviors with compassionate guidance and evidence-based tools. Your goals include self-acceptance, positive relationships, and overall balance. You seek to regain control, boost self-esteem, and find lasting happiness. You long for connections, harmony, purpose, and joy. You aim to embrace challenges, unlock potential, and cultivate joy.
As a member and ally to the LGBTQ+ Community, I'm an advocate for the challenges faced by the community, both personally and professionally.
You're on a quest for self-discovery, aiming to grow and tap into your innate well-being. You desire self-discovery, resilience, and inner peace. Overcoming anxiety, stress, self-doubt, and low mood disrupts daily life. You want a non-judgmental environment to explore emotions, thoughts, and behaviors with compassionate guidance and evidence-based tools. Your goals include self-acceptance, positive relationships, and overall balance. You seek to regain control, boost self-esteem, and find lasting happiness. You long for connections, harmony, purpose, and joy. You aim to embrace challenges, unlock potential, and cultivate joy.
Hello & welcome, friend. I am truly glad you are here. I enjoy working with all people but specialize in working with clients with trauma histories who feel disconnected from their bodies, have a hard time feeling their emotions, being vulnerable & are unable to 'disarm' & connect with others. Utilizing a person centered, queer feminist lens, I weave EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) with somatic body experiencing, storytelling, parts work, imaginative play, guided imagery as well as expressive and mindfulness practices to promote internal growth within my clients.
Hello & welcome, friend. I am truly glad you are here. I enjoy working with all people but specialize in working with clients with trauma histories who feel disconnected from their bodies, have a hard time feeling their emotions, being vulnerable & are unable to 'disarm' & connect with others. Utilizing a person centered, queer feminist lens, I weave EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) with somatic body experiencing, storytelling, parts work, imaginative play, guided imagery as well as expressive and mindfulness practices to promote internal growth within my clients.
See more therapy options for Des Moines
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Des Moines
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- Clive
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- Indianola
- Johnston
- Newton
- Urbandale
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- West Des Moines
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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.