LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Acton, MA
Emily Hogan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720 (Online Only)
Hello! I’m glad you’re here. We all face challenges in life, and you are worth the support you're seeking. I am a unique fit for you if you identify as LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and/or chronically ill (these often overlap, especially EDS, POTS, MCAS, ME/CFS, long COVID, autoimmune). Perhaps you are here because you are facing medical trauma, new or ongoing disability, adult diagnosis of ADHD/autism, or sexuality/gender identity questions. If you would like support with trauma, I am fully EMDR trained. I am also a certified perinatal therapist and can support you in all aspects of your fertility, pregnancy, or parenthood journey.
Hello! I’m glad you’re here. We all face challenges in life, and you are worth the support you're seeking. I am a unique fit for you if you identify as LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and/or chronically ill (these often overlap, especially EDS, POTS, MCAS, ME/CFS, long COVID, autoimmune). Perhaps you are here because you are facing medical trauma, new or ongoing disability, adult diagnosis of ADHD/autism, or sexuality/gender identity questions. If you would like support with trauma, I am fully EMDR trained. I am also a certified perinatal therapist and can support you in all aspects of your fertility, pregnancy, or parenthood journey.
Concerns addressed; anxiety, mood disorder, trauma or difficult past events, grief and loss, coping with medical illness; both treatment of yourself or a loved one, healthy adjustment to life transitions (job changes, new parenthood, retirement, aging, support for parents of LGBTQ+ youth).
I am a clinical social worker passionate about helping people find ways to their best selves. I provide a safe and supportive environment for the client in search of self-understanding. I believe people have the capacity to feel content, grateful and joyful but a lot of the time our preconceived notions of ourselves get in the way. Everyday I am amazed at people's resilience.
Concerns addressed; anxiety, mood disorder, trauma or difficult past events, grief and loss, coping with medical illness; both treatment of yourself or a loved one, healthy adjustment to life transitions (job changes, new parenthood, retirement, aging, support for parents of LGBTQ+ youth).
I am a clinical social worker passionate about helping people find ways to their best selves. I provide a safe and supportive environment for the client in search of self-understanding. I believe people have the capacity to feel content, grateful and joyful but a lot of the time our preconceived notions of ourselves get in the way. Everyday I am amazed at people's resilience.
Erika Reimers LICSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01718
I’ve supported multiple clients in the LGBTQIA+ community who have had experiences with transitioning, dysphoria, bullying and differences of views with family members.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in private practice with over a decade of experience working with adolescents and their families in their homes and in the community. In addition to working with adolescents and their family's I see young adults ages 18-35 virtually. I do my best work with adolescents who “don’t like therapy” or who have struggled to connect or engage with other therapists in the past. This happens for lots of reasons–but one major one is that sometimes sitting in an office staring at one another just feels too threatening.
I’ve supported multiple clients in the LGBTQIA+ community who have had experiences with transitioning, dysphoria, bullying and differences of views with family members.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in private practice with over a decade of experience working with adolescents and their families in their homes and in the community. In addition to working with adolescents and their family's I see young adults ages 18-35 virtually. I do my best work with adolescents who “don’t like therapy” or who have struggled to connect or engage with other therapists in the past. This happens for lots of reasons–but one major one is that sometimes sitting in an office staring at one another just feels too threatening.
Ally Kuriloff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720 (Online Only)
I focus on helping clients develop meaningful, satisfying lives and relationships. While I tailor treatment to individual needs, my approach is generally collaborative, trauma informed, relational, and committed to social justice. I draw from a range of modalities and theories and bring experience with community mental health, family and couples/relationship therapy, and psychodynamic work.
I focus on helping clients develop meaningful, satisfying lives and relationships. While I tailor treatment to individual needs, my approach is generally collaborative, trauma informed, relational, and committed to social justice. I draw from a range of modalities and theories and bring experience with community mental health, family and couples/relationship therapy, and psychodynamic work.
As humans, we are wired for connection. When we feel connected to our loved ones, not only do we feel closer to them, we do better in the rest of our lives. So, of course, when we have difficulty connecting with the people we are closest to, it is painful and distressing. We can get into cycles where the arguments sound and feel the same regardless of what they are about. And these cycles are hard to break on our own.
As humans, we are wired for connection. When we feel connected to our loved ones, not only do we feel closer to them, we do better in the rest of our lives. So, of course, when we have difficulty connecting with the people we are closest to, it is painful and distressing. We can get into cycles where the arguments sound and feel the same regardless of what they are about. And these cycles are hard to break on our own.
Christine Musello, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
Waitlist for new clients
Update November 2020: If you viewed this profile recently, please note that I've moved! In addition, currently most meetings are remote and openings are rare. I currently work with teens, young adults, and adults. Mood disorders, parent guidance, veterans, family relationships, trauma and PTSD are areas of clinical interest. Those who seek to be responsible for their own happiness, whether through acceptance or through efforts to change and grow, are the people I hope to meet.
Update November 2020: If you viewed this profile recently, please note that I've moved! In addition, currently most meetings are remote and openings are rare. I currently work with teens, young adults, and adults. Mood disorders, parent guidance, veterans, family relationships, trauma and PTSD are areas of clinical interest. Those who seek to be responsible for their own happiness, whether through acceptance or through efforts to change and grow, are the people I hope to meet.
Are you exhausted by chronic anxiety? Does trying to prevent worst-case scenarios or running from "failure" consume your life? You are used to doing everything well, but now it feels impossible keep all the balls in the air. Let’s work together to help you gain clarity in work and as a parent, improve communication, decrease self-criticism so you can actually feel content, engaged and connected in your life. Getting more support now can be an important step in the path of a life-changing shift in your relationship with work, perfectionism & self-compassion.
Are you exhausted by chronic anxiety? Does trying to prevent worst-case scenarios or running from "failure" consume your life? You are used to doing everything well, but now it feels impossible keep all the balls in the air. Let’s work together to help you gain clarity in work and as a parent, improve communication, decrease self-criticism so you can actually feel content, engaged and connected in your life. Getting more support now can be an important step in the path of a life-changing shift in your relationship with work, perfectionism & self-compassion.
Some people struggle for weeks, months, or even years before considering psychotherapy. And it makes sense — it's hard to confide in a stranger and can take a while to find the right fit. We want authenticity and experience in a therapist but also someone relatable and easy to talk with. When couples counseling, family therapy, or child/adolescent support is needed, the search may seem even more daunting. We need a clinician with the interpersonal skills, temperament, and adaptability to forge a meaningful connection with our partners, children, and the networks who support them.
Some people struggle for weeks, months, or even years before considering psychotherapy. And it makes sense — it's hard to confide in a stranger and can take a while to find the right fit. We want authenticity and experience in a therapist but also someone relatable and easy to talk with. When couples counseling, family therapy, or child/adolescent support is needed, the search may seem even more daunting. We need a clinician with the interpersonal skills, temperament, and adaptability to forge a meaningful connection with our partners, children, and the networks who support them.
Making the choice to seek out therapy can be a tough decision and transition, but it doesn't necessarily need to be hard. I invite you into a therapeutic space of safety, comfort, non-judgement, and exploration. Establishing a positive therapeutic relationship is the key to promoting healing. Therapy is a space where you should feel seen, understood, and heard. I emphasize that traditional talk therapy isn't right for everyone and incorporate different styles of therapy into each session. I would be thrilled to work with you!
Making the choice to seek out therapy can be a tough decision and transition, but it doesn't necessarily need to be hard. I invite you into a therapeutic space of safety, comfort, non-judgement, and exploration. Establishing a positive therapeutic relationship is the key to promoting healing. Therapy is a space where you should feel seen, understood, and heard. I emphasize that traditional talk therapy isn't right for everyone and incorporate different styles of therapy into each session. I would be thrilled to work with you!
Everyone needs someone to talk to sometimes. I've been in practice for 15 years. I work with a variety of clients and situations, treating depression, anxiety, adjustment-related issues, loss, lonliness, and other concerns. My approach encompasses cognitive, psychodynamic, and spiritual orientations, depending on one's needs. My method seeks to be gentle, yet
goal-directed. Couple's Therapy is a particular area of interest, as is Dream Work.
Everyone needs someone to talk to sometimes. I've been in practice for 15 years. I work with a variety of clients and situations, treating depression, anxiety, adjustment-related issues, loss, lonliness, and other concerns. My approach encompasses cognitive, psychodynamic, and spiritual orientations, depending on one's needs. My method seeks to be gentle, yet
goal-directed. Couple's Therapy is a particular area of interest, as is Dream Work.
The complexity of life can affect our everyday functioning, and how we choose to deal with conflict. We are all affected by conflict. Sometimes we need support to regulate our emotions and make authentic decisions. We all deserve to live fulfilling lives and access the tools we need. I enjoy helping people find their path to emotional well-being. I provide a safe, nurturing, and positive therapeutic space. I honor the client’s experiences and strengths.
The complexity of life can affect our everyday functioning, and how we choose to deal with conflict. We are all affected by conflict. Sometimes we need support to regulate our emotions and make authentic decisions. We all deserve to live fulfilling lives and access the tools we need. I enjoy helping people find their path to emotional well-being. I provide a safe, nurturing, and positive therapeutic space. I honor the client’s experiences and strengths.
Janet L Russo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LADC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor who has worked in the field of Mental Health and Substance Use disorders for twenty+ years. I am especially concerned for, not only the person who uses, but the people who have been affected by a loved one's behaviors, be it substance use or something else. Often dealing with a loved one's issues can cause significant impairment in your own life and mental health. Self-care is essential if you are going to live a sane and happy life. To help someone else, it is of upmost importance to have support and help for yourself.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor who has worked in the field of Mental Health and Substance Use disorders for twenty+ years. I am especially concerned for, not only the person who uses, but the people who have been affected by a loved one's behaviors, be it substance use or something else. Often dealing with a loved one's issues can cause significant impairment in your own life and mental health. Self-care is essential if you are going to live a sane and happy life. To help someone else, it is of upmost importance to have support and help for yourself.
If you yearn for a more fulfilling relationship, greater self-esteem, healing from the past, or a more enjoyable and purposeful life, it means you’re paying attention. There’s always room for growth. Perhaps you aspire to improve one aspect of your life or several areas. Maybe you feel discouraged and lost because you’ve worked hard to make things better and haven’t seen a difference, or you’re newly aware of the need for a shift in life and this is your first try; either is okay. Successful change doesn’t have to start with self-confidence or a plan. It just requires the willingness to reach out and not take the journey alone.
If you yearn for a more fulfilling relationship, greater self-esteem, healing from the past, or a more enjoyable and purposeful life, it means you’re paying attention. There’s always room for growth. Perhaps you aspire to improve one aspect of your life or several areas. Maybe you feel discouraged and lost because you’ve worked hard to make things better and haven’t seen a difference, or you’re newly aware of the need for a shift in life and this is your first try; either is okay. Successful change doesn’t have to start with self-confidence or a plan. It just requires the willingness to reach out and not take the journey alone.
Jamie Chiarelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I have experience working with people of all ages who have found themselves faced with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, life transition and stress, parenting challenges, social and relationship issues, and feeling stuck in general. My approach is highly relational, warm, supportive and sprinkled with humor when appropriate. Our initial sessions will focus on building trust and using collaboration and curiosity as we develop a plan to address your concerns. I firmly believe that we all have inherent resources and strengths within us that can be tapped into to support the process of healing and growth.
Welcome! I have experience working with people of all ages who have found themselves faced with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, life transition and stress, parenting challenges, social and relationship issues, and feeling stuck in general. My approach is highly relational, warm, supportive and sprinkled with humor when appropriate. Our initial sessions will focus on building trust and using collaboration and curiosity as we develop a plan to address your concerns. I firmly believe that we all have inherent resources and strengths within us that can be tapped into to support the process of healing and growth.
Are you having a hard time figuring it all out? What you want, how to get there, or who you are? If you have big ideas that you’re having a hard time translating into daily life, you’ve come to the right place. I love working with adolescents and young adults who want to create a path towards their goals. I often work with people whose anxiety, depression, trauma, or behavioral struggles have held them back from being able to find the version of themself that they seek. If you know where you want to be but can’t get there or if you don’t even know who you want to be, let’s talk. Find out more here: www.ampersandcounselingma.com.
Are you having a hard time figuring it all out? What you want, how to get there, or who you are? If you have big ideas that you’re having a hard time translating into daily life, you’ve come to the right place. I love working with adolescents and young adults who want to create a path towards their goals. I often work with people whose anxiety, depression, trauma, or behavioral struggles have held them back from being able to find the version of themself that they seek. If you know where you want to be but can’t get there or if you don’t even know who you want to be, let’s talk. Find out more here: www.ampersandcounselingma.com.
Kate Imhoff
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
Waitlist for new clients
With over 20 years of experience in the field of helping others, I have learned that making a genuine connection with people is the best way in which to begin the work of therapy.
One of the most important skills I have to offer is to carefully and compassionately listen to what you have to say.
We then go from there; when you are ready, we begin to look at how to change.
With over 20 years of experience in the field of helping others, I have learned that making a genuine connection with people is the best way in which to begin the work of therapy.
One of the most important skills I have to offer is to carefully and compassionately listen to what you have to say.
We then go from there; when you are ready, we begin to look at how to change.
Lauren Sava
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720 (Online Only)
Has your child been struggling with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? Are you a parent needing help and support for your child, but struggling to find a therapist who is available and capable of helping your family? As a therapist in a group practice, I am happy to help you and your child through this difficult time. My area of speciality is working with children and adolescents utilizing a strengths-based, resiliency approach. Above all, I aim to support my clients in feeling affirmed in who they are. I prioritize building collaborative and trusting relationships with all my clients and their families.
Has your child been struggling with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem? Are you a parent needing help and support for your child, but struggling to find a therapist who is available and capable of helping your family? As a therapist in a group practice, I am happy to help you and your child through this difficult time. My area of speciality is working with children and adolescents utilizing a strengths-based, resiliency approach. Above all, I aim to support my clients in feeling affirmed in who they are. I prioritize building collaborative and trusting relationships with all my clients and their families.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst who provides therapy to individuals who are looking to more authentically connect with themselves and others; understand who they are, what they are feeling, and why they are experiencing these emotions. I am trained to provide a variety of therapeutic interventions. I tailor my therapeutic approach to fit the unique needs and desires of each individual client. I use an insight oriented approach to aid individuals in understanding and interrupting repetitive patterns that may be interfering or often lead us to that "stuck" feeling.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst who provides therapy to individuals who are looking to more authentically connect with themselves and others; understand who they are, what they are feeling, and why they are experiencing these emotions. I am trained to provide a variety of therapeutic interventions. I tailor my therapeutic approach to fit the unique needs and desires of each individual client. I use an insight oriented approach to aid individuals in understanding and interrupting repetitive patterns that may be interfering or often lead us to that "stuck" feeling.
Sharon Greenfield
Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes we're not our "best selves." We change in ways we're not happy about, or, don't change in ways we'd like to. We feel too sad, disoriented, mad, anxious, numb, ashamed; we have one too many, too often. Job performance can suffer, relationships can wobble, getting to sleep (or out of bed) can become a chore. Life can fade in color, or, become too colorful. Together you and I can find a flashlight for your dark corners, and a negotiated, generative space from which to address painful, sometimes scary and/or frustrating situations and feelings.
Sometimes we're not our "best selves." We change in ways we're not happy about, or, don't change in ways we'd like to. We feel too sad, disoriented, mad, anxious, numb, ashamed; we have one too many, too often. Job performance can suffer, relationships can wobble, getting to sleep (or out of bed) can become a chore. Life can fade in color, or, become too colorful. Together you and I can find a flashlight for your dark corners, and a negotiated, generative space from which to address painful, sometimes scary and/or frustrating situations and feelings.
I have been a psychotherapist for over 30 years. I strive to create a safe place for you to explore and successfully address the challenges you bring to therapy. I specialize in treating trauma (chronic or recent). I am a certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTPII). Trauma is not necessarily a specific event; it can be the environment you breathe(d). I also work with depression, anxiety, hopeless grief, and communication issues.
I have been a psychotherapist for over 30 years. I strive to create a safe place for you to explore and successfully address the challenges you bring to therapy. I specialize in treating trauma (chronic or recent). I am a certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTPII). Trauma is not necessarily a specific event; it can be the environment you breathe(d). I also work with depression, anxiety, hopeless grief, and communication issues.
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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.