LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Brighton, MA
Carmen Pullella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135 (Online Only)
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and born and raised with international, bi-cultural life experience, I warmly welcome those with shared identities.
Accepting new clients! Therapy is one of the most loving practices we can gift ourselves. It is brave and powerful to look inwards, meet parts of ourselves we’ve tucked away, and share our inner world. We all have parts of us that resist change, uncomfortable emotions, vulnerability, and owning our truths. And we also have parts of us that are yearning to speak up, to be free, and to feel confident in our ability to manage life’s many ebbs and flows. I join you in the process of growth and self-reflection with warmth, empowerment, and acceptance as we discover the most authentic versions of you.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and born and raised with international, bi-cultural life experience, I warmly welcome those with shared identities.
Accepting new clients! Therapy is one of the most loving practices we can gift ourselves. It is brave and powerful to look inwards, meet parts of ourselves we’ve tucked away, and share our inner world. We all have parts of us that resist change, uncomfortable emotions, vulnerability, and owning our truths. And we also have parts of us that are yearning to speak up, to be free, and to feel confident in our ability to manage life’s many ebbs and flows. I join you in the process of growth and self-reflection with warmth, empowerment, and acceptance as we discover the most authentic versions of you.
Felicia M. Romano
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135 (Online Only)
I see many nonbinary, trans, nonmonogamous, and queer clients and I enjoy helping clients reimagine their identities.
It is strange and often hard to be a human being. I walk alongside my clients amidst life's chaos to demystify each person's unique inner world. I encourage getting curious about symptoms rather than judging or condemning them. I am passionate about couples work in particular - this is my current specialty/focus. I earned my MA in Counseling Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara, CA, where I studied dream/imaginal work & unconscious processes. My work is primarily psychodynamic & depth-oriented - striving to uncover what has been forgotten, digging deep, & viewing all parts of self as valuable
I see many nonbinary, trans, nonmonogamous, and queer clients and I enjoy helping clients reimagine their identities.
It is strange and often hard to be a human being. I walk alongside my clients amidst life's chaos to demystify each person's unique inner world. I encourage getting curious about symptoms rather than judging or condemning them. I am passionate about couples work in particular - this is my current specialty/focus. I earned my MA in Counseling Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara, CA, where I studied dream/imaginal work & unconscious processes. My work is primarily psychodynamic & depth-oriented - striving to uncover what has been forgotten, digging deep, & viewing all parts of self as valuable
I love working with LGBTQIA and Latinx identified individuals.
I believe all individuals are capable of healing and growth. Having a safe, trusting relationship with a therapist can be an important part of that process. In my practice, I aim to create an open space for us to work towards your goals while allowing you to feel heard, cared for, and accepted.
I love working with LGBTQIA and Latinx identified individuals.
I believe all individuals are capable of healing and growth. Having a safe, trusting relationship with a therapist can be an important part of that process. In my practice, I aim to create an open space for us to work towards your goals while allowing you to feel heard, cared for, and accepted.
Sabiha Zaman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MA 02135 (Online Only)
I welcome clients of all backgrounds and identities, and specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ clients.
Navigating mental health can be intimidating, confusing, and exhausting. I commend you for taking the first steps and am here to support you along the way! Therapy is not one-size fits all— my approach is culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and collaborative to prioritize each client's specific needs. I believe in the importance of building genuine therapeutic-relationships with clients to help them feel understood and empowered. I value your feedback to make sure we are working towards your goals. I hope to create a space that is warm, inviting, and celebrates your authentic self.
I welcome clients of all backgrounds and identities, and specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ clients.
Navigating mental health can be intimidating, confusing, and exhausting. I commend you for taking the first steps and am here to support you along the way! Therapy is not one-size fits all— my approach is culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and collaborative to prioritize each client's specific needs. I believe in the importance of building genuine therapeutic-relationships with clients to help them feel understood and empowered. I value your feedback to make sure we are working towards your goals. I hope to create a space that is warm, inviting, and celebrates your authentic self.
Leslie Piken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135 (Online Only)
I specialize in addressing major life changes rooted in trauma, relational loss/distress, grief, career/school transitions, coping with loved ones’ illnesses and surgery/injury recovery.
My treatment approach is integrative and personalized to my clients’ needs, focused on building a foundation of trust. I work with clients to identify underlying roots of problems and elicit existing and new strengths and resources. I prefer a holistic approach to treatment which, while based in a psychodynamic framework, draws from my specialized training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, attachment based, trauma-informed and mindfulness modalities. I work with adults ranging from young adulthood through end of life, using a culturally-sensitive approach.
I specialize in addressing major life changes rooted in trauma, relational loss/distress, grief, career/school transitions, coping with loved ones’ illnesses and surgery/injury recovery.
My treatment approach is integrative and personalized to my clients’ needs, focused on building a foundation of trust. I work with clients to identify underlying roots of problems and elicit existing and new strengths and resources. I prefer a holistic approach to treatment which, while based in a psychodynamic framework, draws from my specialized training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, attachment based, trauma-informed and mindfulness modalities. I work with adults ranging from young adulthood through end of life, using a culturally-sensitive approach.
Eric Knee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135 (Online Only)
Though I have worked with a diverse array of populations, most of my experience has been with survivors of traumatic experiences, anxiety/depression, people in recovery from substances, and the LGBTQ community.
Imagine beginning every day feeling energized, confident and ready to take on whatever comes your way. You might feel better about your progress with life goals, be able create meaningful and close relationships, maintain healthier habits, and have a regular sense of pride and accomplishment. You know you have so much potential, but may not know exactly how to reach it. I hope to join you on your journey by providing you with an emotionally safe space where you are able to authentically express yourself as well as feel supported and not judged.
Though I have worked with a diverse array of populations, most of my experience has been with survivors of traumatic experiences, anxiety/depression, people in recovery from substances, and the LGBTQ community.
Imagine beginning every day feeling energized, confident and ready to take on whatever comes your way. You might feel better about your progress with life goals, be able create meaningful and close relationships, maintain healthier habits, and have a regular sense of pride and accomplishment. You know you have so much potential, but may not know exactly how to reach it. I hope to join you on your journey by providing you with an emotionally safe space where you are able to authentically express yourself as well as feel supported and not judged.
I enjoy working with adults who are in a transitionary point of their lives, including college students, single parents, first-generation immigrants, people of color, older adults, and Queer folk.
Are you tired of living life in autopilot? Are you sick of the mundane routine that has become your day to day? Do you find yourself feeling alone or unable to connect with others? Therapy offers a chance to change things up. Each is its own little safe haven designed to release difficult emotions and gain different perspectives from the one that keeps us stuck. Let me help you clear out the cobwebs of your life! My goal is to create a warm environment that fosters real human connection that leaves you feeling like you are part of something bigger than yourself.
I enjoy working with adults who are in a transitionary point of their lives, including college students, single parents, first-generation immigrants, people of color, older adults, and Queer folk.
Are you tired of living life in autopilot? Are you sick of the mundane routine that has become your day to day? Do you find yourself feeling alone or unable to connect with others? Therapy offers a chance to change things up. Each is its own little safe haven designed to release difficult emotions and gain different perspectives from the one that keeps us stuck. Let me help you clear out the cobwebs of your life! My goal is to create a warm environment that fosters real human connection that leaves you feeling like you are part of something bigger than yourself.
Fall 2024- Accepting New Clients! Therapy is a journey of both self-discovery and growth, and a space where you can celebrate your authentic self. Working through life's many challenges can be difficult to do alone. Through therapy, working through these challenges can become easier with time. I welcome clients to bring their whole selves to the therapeutic space and work to ensure that your identities will be honored, respected, and validated. I take a holistic approach in getting to know you. Here, therapy can become a space to grow, be empowered, and be challenged to apply skills outside of therapy into your personal life.
Fall 2024- Accepting New Clients! Therapy is a journey of both self-discovery and growth, and a space where you can celebrate your authentic self. Working through life's many challenges can be difficult to do alone. Through therapy, working through these challenges can become easier with time. I welcome clients to bring their whole selves to the therapeutic space and work to ensure that your identities will be honored, respected, and validated. I take a holistic approach in getting to know you. Here, therapy can become a space to grow, be empowered, and be challenged to apply skills outside of therapy into your personal life.
I strive to help people find strength during difficult times - to keep going, build supports, and focus on finding solutions. I can help identify ways to find more energy and appreciation in your life, and increase insight into sources of distress. Together we can work to identify your natural supports and improve on your strengths, as well as build coping skills and healthy ways to process difficult feelings. I specialize in EMDR and have advanced training in using EMDR for anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and complex PTSD.
I strive to help people find strength during difficult times - to keep going, build supports, and focus on finding solutions. I can help identify ways to find more energy and appreciation in your life, and increase insight into sources of distress. Together we can work to identify your natural supports and improve on your strengths, as well as build coping skills and healthy ways to process difficult feelings. I specialize in EMDR and have advanced training in using EMDR for anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and complex PTSD.
I work with adults to enhance their daily functioning, establish healthy boundaries, and develop positive habits. I am passionate about supporting individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and social skills development. My approach focuses on empowering individuals to gain insights into themselves and their family dynamics, equipping them with coping strategies for managing everyday stress. I offer guidance in navigating difficult relationships by fostering effective communication skills and understanding one's role within the relationship.
I work with adults to enhance their daily functioning, establish healthy boundaries, and develop positive habits. I am passionate about supporting individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and social skills development. My approach focuses on empowering individuals to gain insights into themselves and their family dynamics, equipping them with coping strategies for managing everyday stress. I offer guidance in navigating difficult relationships by fostering effective communication skills and understanding one's role within the relationship.
As a wounded healer, I have found my own way to sustained recovery and balance through a holistic approach. I understand the therapeutic tools that I use with clients on an intimate level, through both extensive self-application and careful application with others. I have a particular interest in working with people who hear voices, see visions, and have tactile sensations, and who want to make meaning of these experiences and learn to cope if they become distressing. My goal is to help you improve the relationship with your experience to achieve agency, empowerment, and to reduce distress and hopelessness. I work with adults only.
As a wounded healer, I have found my own way to sustained recovery and balance through a holistic approach. I understand the therapeutic tools that I use with clients on an intimate level, through both extensive self-application and careful application with others. I have a particular interest in working with people who hear voices, see visions, and have tactile sensations, and who want to make meaning of these experiences and learn to cope if they become distressing. My goal is to help you improve the relationship with your experience to achieve agency, empowerment, and to reduce distress and hopelessness. I work with adults only.
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Eric Knee
Jessica Slicer
Shaundry Swainamer
Melissa Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MA 02135 (Online Only)
I specialize in CBT to help mitigate symptoms of anxiety around relationships, social situations, self-esteem, work/school issues, chronic health issues, and chronic depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that treats problems and boosts happiness by modifying dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, and thoughts. Unlike traditional talk therapy, which probes patterns and root causes of conflict, CBT focuses on solutions, encouraging patients to challenge distorted cognitions and change destructive patterns of behavior.
I specialize in CBT to help mitigate symptoms of anxiety around relationships, social situations, self-esteem, work/school issues, chronic health issues, and chronic depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that treats problems and boosts happiness by modifying dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, and thoughts. Unlike traditional talk therapy, which probes patterns and root causes of conflict, CBT focuses on solutions, encouraging patients to challenge distorted cognitions and change destructive patterns of behavior.
Do you not have enough satisfaction in your life? Do you wish you were in a relationship? Are you struggling with the one you are in? Do you wish for a better career?
Talking in a therapeutic environment helps people take more control of their lives, allowing them to experience a quality of life that was otherwise impossible. It is rewarding to see this type of change take place with my clients.
Do you not have enough satisfaction in your life? Do you wish you were in a relationship? Are you struggling with the one you are in? Do you wish for a better career?
Talking in a therapeutic environment helps people take more control of their lives, allowing them to experience a quality of life that was otherwise impossible. It is rewarding to see this type of change take place with my clients.
Allison Elizabeth Arrigg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135 (Online Only)
As a clinical psychologist, I provide brief and long-term psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults around a wide range of issues including life transitions, relationships, anxiety, depression, loss and grief.
As a clinical psychologist, I provide brief and long-term psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults around a wide range of issues including life transitions, relationships, anxiety, depression, loss and grief.
"A year from now, you may wish you started today." - K. Lamb. It is normal to view the process of beginning therapy as daunting, however recognizing the need for help is a sign of strength and motivation. There is nothing harder than starting every day with the feeling that nothing is ever going to change and what's the use in trying? Therapy can and will help you address obstacles, create meaningful relationships, and learn ways to develop better insight. Whether you are experiencing depressed feelings, overwhelming anxiety, unbearable life transitions, or struggles in your relationships, it can get better.
"A year from now, you may wish you started today." - K. Lamb. It is normal to view the process of beginning therapy as daunting, however recognizing the need for help is a sign of strength and motivation. There is nothing harder than starting every day with the feeling that nothing is ever going to change and what's the use in trying? Therapy can and will help you address obstacles, create meaningful relationships, and learn ways to develop better insight. Whether you are experiencing depressed feelings, overwhelming anxiety, unbearable life transitions, or struggles in your relationships, it can get better.
Beth Rontal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, MA 02135
Waitlist for new clients
TRANSFORM OVEREATING! You can lose weight without depriving yourself of or punishing yourself with food. This may sound crazy, but if you learn to love the body you have, change can be lasting and genuinely satisfying. Using a holistic and non-diet approach, you will discover how to deeply care for yourself while setting loving limits with others. Together, we'll identify what makes you run to the fridge so your relationship with food is changed for good.
TRANSFORM OVEREATING! You can lose weight without depriving yourself of or punishing yourself with food. This may sound crazy, but if you learn to love the body you have, change can be lasting and genuinely satisfying. Using a holistic and non-diet approach, you will discover how to deeply care for yourself while setting loving limits with others. Together, we'll identify what makes you run to the fridge so your relationship with food is changed for good.
I work with people who are personally struggling or have family members struggling with challenges such as medical illness/chronic pain, grief/loss, life transitions, relationships, substance abuse/misuse, mental illness, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
I believe psychotherapy is a powerful means of facilitating personal growth and deepening relationships and connection. My clients describe me as genuine, warm, and interactive. My goal is to help you access your inner strength and resilience so you may better cope with problems and adversity, find solutions, and make positive changes you hope to achieve. My years practicing in outpatient mental health and primary care medical settings have afforded me rich experience with clients diverse in background and a broad range of issues.
I work with people who are personally struggling or have family members struggling with challenges such as medical illness/chronic pain, grief/loss, life transitions, relationships, substance abuse/misuse, mental illness, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
I believe psychotherapy is a powerful means of facilitating personal growth and deepening relationships and connection. My clients describe me as genuine, warm, and interactive. My goal is to help you access your inner strength and resilience so you may better cope with problems and adversity, find solutions, and make positive changes you hope to achieve. My years practicing in outpatient mental health and primary care medical settings have afforded me rich experience with clients diverse in background and a broad range of issues.
My life’s work is focused on shining the light upon psychological influences that bind us to the past and affect our present life situations in a patterned, repetitive and unconscious ways. I will help you to develop a deeper understanding of your internal conflicts, which will have a positive effect on your overall state-of-mind, mood, emotions, and ultimately your future.
My life’s work is focused on shining the light upon psychological influences that bind us to the past and affect our present life situations in a patterned, repetitive and unconscious ways. I will help you to develop a deeper understanding of your internal conflicts, which will have a positive effect on your overall state-of-mind, mood, emotions, and ultimately your future.
There is not a singular source to our suffering. Turmoil can originate in, and travel through, our bodies, minds, communities, families, and sociopolitical systems. Often, we respond to inner turmoil in two extreme ways. We may excessively worry, attempt to control, develop repetitive, troubling thoughts, or just obsess about our lives. Or we may do the opposite; avoid, isolate, refuse contact with situations we perceive to be dangerous or distressing, or say 'it is hopeless,' and check out. Therapy can help us gain access to our grief and pain while developing the wisdom that comes with renewed commitment to our lives.
There is not a singular source to our suffering. Turmoil can originate in, and travel through, our bodies, minds, communities, families, and sociopolitical systems. Often, we respond to inner turmoil in two extreme ways. We may excessively worry, attempt to control, develop repetitive, troubling thoughts, or just obsess about our lives. Or we may do the opposite; avoid, isolate, refuse contact with situations we perceive to be dangerous or distressing, or say 'it is hopeless,' and check out. Therapy can help us gain access to our grief and pain while developing the wisdom that comes with renewed commitment to our lives.
Freddie Palmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MA 02135
As a former teacher turned therapist, I have developed a strong counseling tool box. I specialize in supporting adolescents/teens and adults find ways to cope with trauma and loss, manage anxiety and depression, develop problem solving strategies and social skills, overcome substance abuse and low self-esteem, and manage family conflict. I am also able to help the individuals I work with to develop executive functioning and advocacy skills at school, home, and in the community. I utilize humor, unconditional positive regard, and curiosity to create a safe and productive space for you to grow.
As a former teacher turned therapist, I have developed a strong counseling tool box. I specialize in supporting adolescents/teens and adults find ways to cope with trauma and loss, manage anxiety and depression, develop problem solving strategies and social skills, overcome substance abuse and low self-esteem, and manage family conflict. I am also able to help the individuals I work with to develop executive functioning and advocacy skills at school, home, and in the community. I utilize humor, unconditional positive regard, and curiosity to create a safe and productive space for you to grow.
See more therapy options for Brighton
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Brighton
- Allston
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- Cambridge
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- Newton
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- Newton Highlands
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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.