LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Newton Centre, MA

Photo of Dr. Madeleine Gordon, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Madeleine Gordon
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
I have specific expertise working with children, adolescents and parents/primary caregivers, couples and families, particularly those experiencing high conflict dynamics, individuals impacted by trauma, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Often, we find ourselves stuck. We repeat ineffective and painful patterns of behavior, and think worrisome and self-critical thoughts. Our past creeps in and impacts our present functioning. We struggle with conflict and communication in our most important relationships. It takes courage to tell your story, whether it is your first time or you have previously engaged in therapy. It is a privilege for me to learn about, and partner with you in pursuit of your goals. I see therapy as a safe and collaborative space to explore yourself, your areas of strength and of growth, and your relationships, without judgement.
I have specific expertise working with children, adolescents and parents/primary caregivers, couples and families, particularly those experiencing high conflict dynamics, individuals impacted by trauma, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Often, we find ourselves stuck. We repeat ineffective and painful patterns of behavior, and think worrisome and self-critical thoughts. Our past creeps in and impacts our present functioning. We struggle with conflict and communication in our most important relationships. It takes courage to tell your story, whether it is your first time or you have previously engaged in therapy. It is a privilege for me to learn about, and partner with you in pursuit of your goals. I see therapy as a safe and collaborative space to explore yourself, your areas of strength and of growth, and your relationships, without judgement.
(617) 545-0882 View (617) 545-0882
Photo of Sandra Duggan, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Duggan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
I have over twenty years of experience providing psychotherapy for couples, adolescents, adults and families. My style is interactive, warm and compassionate. I offer easily usable strategies along with deeper dives to help improve how a client is feeling. I believe in using clients' strengths to help inform the work we do together. I believe in understanding what is going well as well as understanding where people are struggling. I have a strong respect for all of my clients and believe in providing a safe, trusting environment so clients have space to discuss what feels challenging at this time.
I have over twenty years of experience providing psychotherapy for couples, adolescents, adults and families. My style is interactive, warm and compassionate. I offer easily usable strategies along with deeper dives to help improve how a client is feeling. I believe in using clients' strengths to help inform the work we do together. I believe in understanding what is going well as well as understanding where people are struggling. I have a strong respect for all of my clients and believe in providing a safe, trusting environment so clients have space to discuss what feels challenging at this time.
(617) 420-7545 View (617) 420-7545
Photo of Belinda Kussman, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Belinda Kussman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
I am an experienced psychotherapist with a special interest in Adult and Couple psychotherapy. I work with individuals and couples presenting with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, loss or grief, life transitions, trauma, and relationship and marital difficulties. I offer a safe and respectful exploratory space within which I strive to get to know and understand my clients. My approach is collaborative and empowering. Together we discover what the client needs and how best to respond to those needs. The client's experience of finding what is needed within the therapeutic relationship contributes towards personal growth and change.
I am an experienced psychotherapist with a special interest in Adult and Couple psychotherapy. I work with individuals and couples presenting with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, loss or grief, life transitions, trauma, and relationship and marital difficulties. I offer a safe and respectful exploratory space within which I strive to get to know and understand my clients. My approach is collaborative and empowering. Together we discover what the client needs and how best to respond to those needs. The client's experience of finding what is needed within the therapeutic relationship contributes towards personal growth and change.
(857) 816-3087 View (857) 816-3087
Photo of Aila Jesse McCutchen, PsyD, Psychologist
Aila Jesse McCutchen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
Cognitive Therapy is a model of psychotherapy whose objective is to help people identify inaccurate thought patterns and assumptions that cause anxiety or depression, and that may even affect functioning. It can be challenging to pinpoint and correct these thoughts. Nonetheless, the process of acquiring healthier, reality-based ways of perceiving and actually trying out new solutions to old problems can improve symptoms and mood considerably. In cognitive therapy, I work collaboratively with patients to help them identify and understand how perceptions can interfere with their mood and decision-making, and we work together on a plan to achieve better balance for their life.
Cognitive Therapy is a model of psychotherapy whose objective is to help people identify inaccurate thought patterns and assumptions that cause anxiety or depression, and that may even affect functioning. It can be challenging to pinpoint and correct these thoughts. Nonetheless, the process of acquiring healthier, reality-based ways of perceiving and actually trying out new solutions to old problems can improve symptoms and mood considerably. In cognitive therapy, I work collaboratively with patients to help them identify and understand how perceptions can interfere with their mood and decision-making, and we work together on a plan to achieve better balance for their life.
(617) 229-5982 View (617) 229-5982
Photo of Jyotsna Sharan - Joey Sharan LMHC, CST, LMHC, CST, RYT, Counselor
Joey Sharan LMHC, CST
Counselor, LMHC, CST, RYT
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
Hi, I'm Joey. I'm a licensed mental health counselor and certified sex therapist.  I work with couples and individuals struggling with relationship problems, anxiety, sexual disorders, and sexual trauma. Finding just the right therapist can be a daunting task. I'm all about creating a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore whatever's on your mind. Trust is key in any therapeutic relationship, and I take that very seriously! I'm open-minded to the core. No matter what your background, beliefs, or desires may be, you can trust me to approach with openness and a desire to grow alongside you.
Hi, I'm Joey. I'm a licensed mental health counselor and certified sex therapist.  I work with couples and individuals struggling with relationship problems, anxiety, sexual disorders, and sexual trauma. Finding just the right therapist can be a daunting task. I'm all about creating a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore whatever's on your mind. Trust is key in any therapeutic relationship, and I take that very seriously! I'm open-minded to the core. No matter what your background, beliefs, or desires may be, you can trust me to approach with openness and a desire to grow alongside you.
(857) 382-2615 View (857) 382-2615
Photo of Aliza Phillips-Stoll, PhD, Psychologist
Aliza Phillips-Stoll
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
A licensed psychologist practicing in Newton, Mass., I have 15+ years of experience treating couples and individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, and relationship challenges. With adults and couples, I use an integrative therapeutic approach, drawing on psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and dialectical behavioral techniques. Life can be full of rough patches. Therefore my clients and I work together to shift the ways in which they relate to themselves and others, in order to lead more meaningful, productive, healthy, and fulfilling lives.
A licensed psychologist practicing in Newton, Mass., I have 15+ years of experience treating couples and individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illness, and relationship challenges. With adults and couples, I use an integrative therapeutic approach, drawing on psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and dialectical behavioral techniques. Life can be full of rough patches. Therefore my clients and I work together to shift the ways in which they relate to themselves and others, in order to lead more meaningful, productive, healthy, and fulfilling lives.
(508) 348-7274 View (508) 348-7274
Photo of Peggy Kriss, PhD, Psychologist
Peggy Kriss
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'd like you to know that you can feel better, whether you're troubled by difficult feelings, thoughts, behaviors or situations. I work in a highly collaborative way, using empathy, education, humor, patience and lots of practice to help you reach your mental health and wellness goals. I'll introduce you to CBT, mindfulness, and acceptance based skills to build your resilience, confidence, and ability to manage uncomfortable thoughts and feelings, and to promote healthy relationships. I work with adults from college age and on. .
I'd like you to know that you can feel better, whether you're troubled by difficult feelings, thoughts, behaviors or situations. I work in a highly collaborative way, using empathy, education, humor, patience and lots of practice to help you reach your mental health and wellness goals. I'll introduce you to CBT, mindfulness, and acceptance based skills to build your resilience, confidence, and ability to manage uncomfortable thoughts and feelings, and to promote healthy relationships. I work with adults from college age and on. .
(617) 934-4525 View (617) 934-4525
Photo of Gabriella Arrien, LMHC, Counselor
Gabriella Arrien
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
Life is full of challenges and hardships that can leave us feeling lost, overwhelmed and burned out. I firmly believe that every person possesses unique strengths and abilities that can be harnessed to navigate the difficulties they face. By adopting a strengths-based approach, I strive to help individuals identify and leverage their inner resources to develop resilience and achieve their therapeutic goals. I view therapy as a collaborative process, where my clients and I work together as equal partners in exploring their concerns and co-creating personalized strategies for positive change.
Life is full of challenges and hardships that can leave us feeling lost, overwhelmed and burned out. I firmly believe that every person possesses unique strengths and abilities that can be harnessed to navigate the difficulties they face. By adopting a strengths-based approach, I strive to help individuals identify and leverage their inner resources to develop resilience and achieve their therapeutic goals. I view therapy as a collaborative process, where my clients and I work together as equal partners in exploring their concerns and co-creating personalized strategies for positive change.
(339) 240-6826 View (339) 240-6826
Photo of Leslie Penni, LICSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Penni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Are you struggling feelings of sadness all the time? You may be struggling with a major life stressor or perhaps you are feeling you are not where you want to be in your life or how you got there. I am passionate about working with clients to help them heal from the past, cope with the present and repair and grow healthy relationships. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), I specialize in perinatal mental health, anxiety and depression, OCD, alcohol and substance abuse disorders, ADHD, life transitions, parenting and attachment, and relationship issues.
Are you feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Are you struggling feelings of sadness all the time? You may be struggling with a major life stressor or perhaps you are feeling you are not where you want to be in your life or how you got there. I am passionate about working with clients to help them heal from the past, cope with the present and repair and grow healthy relationships. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), I specialize in perinatal mental health, anxiety and depression, OCD, alcohol and substance abuse disorders, ADHD, life transitions, parenting and attachment, and relationship issues.
(617) 766-0319 View (617) 766-0319
Photo of Kellyann Langdon, MA, LMHC, PLLC, Counselor
Kellyann Langdon
Counselor, MA, LMHC, PLLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
Life's journey is full of crisis, loss, grief, relationship issues and trauma. These experiences affect how a person functions in terms of perspective, thoughts, beliefs, behaviors, coping, choices, relationships, self-perception, moods, stress reactions and symptoms. If these experiences are left unresolved, they lead to physical, mental, emotional, spiritual problems, which accumulate whether or not one is aware that is happening. My dedication, experience and empathy provide clients with a safe, compassionate, nonjudgmental and trusting relationship where each client receives the understanding and helpful tools feel relief.
Life's journey is full of crisis, loss, grief, relationship issues and trauma. These experiences affect how a person functions in terms of perspective, thoughts, beliefs, behaviors, coping, choices, relationships, self-perception, moods, stress reactions and symptoms. If these experiences are left unresolved, they lead to physical, mental, emotional, spiritual problems, which accumulate whether or not one is aware that is happening. My dedication, experience and empathy provide clients with a safe, compassionate, nonjudgmental and trusting relationship where each client receives the understanding and helpful tools feel relief.
(781) 512-6998 View (781) 512-6998
Photo of Laurie Sherwood, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Sherwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients! My approach as a psychotherapist is to work as a consultant to you, facilitating your intention and effort to live the best life you have envisioned for yourself. This will include exploring personal impediments and challenges to this goal and promoting your unique strengths and resources. My attention is directed to the whole person, incorporating an appreciation for the dimensions of "knowing" that reside in the experience of intellect, physical being, emotion, and the spirit. I am warm, empathic, interactive and professional, and fully respect each person's individual life circumstance and process.
Accepting New Patients! My approach as a psychotherapist is to work as a consultant to you, facilitating your intention and effort to live the best life you have envisioned for yourself. This will include exploring personal impediments and challenges to this goal and promoting your unique strengths and resources. My attention is directed to the whole person, incorporating an appreciation for the dimensions of "knowing" that reside in the experience of intellect, physical being, emotion, and the spirit. I am warm, empathic, interactive and professional, and fully respect each person's individual life circumstance and process.
(781) 406-5886 View (781) 406-5886
Photo of Joanie A Piken, MA, MSW, ACSW, LICSW, DCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanie A Piken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, ACSW, LICSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
CALL Office ONLY: Adults & Seniors: Individual & Couple: The imprint of trauma is psychological, body and brain memory long after the events are over, one continues to respond as if danger were ever present. The therapy mission is to bring this understanding of trauma to Adult & Seniors, via integrated psychotherapy. Looking for answers to healing traumatic events. Healing is not just knowing what happened but transforming how Behavior, mind, & body still store trauma revealing itself via depression, anxiety, grief, despair, conflict ,lack of resolve, patterns of repetition, worn out "survival mode defenses" Mild and Moderate.
CALL Office ONLY: Adults & Seniors: Individual & Couple: The imprint of trauma is psychological, body and brain memory long after the events are over, one continues to respond as if danger were ever present. The therapy mission is to bring this understanding of trauma to Adult & Seniors, via integrated psychotherapy. Looking for answers to healing traumatic events. Healing is not just knowing what happened but transforming how Behavior, mind, & body still store trauma revealing itself via depression, anxiety, grief, despair, conflict ,lack of resolve, patterns of repetition, worn out "survival mode defenses" Mild and Moderate.
(508) 348-7840 View (508) 348-7840
Photo of Fran Kuehn, LICSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fran Kuehn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
CBT really works! Especially when you are working with a trained and experienced therapist. I hold advanced certification in Cognitive Behavior Therapy and use this approach exclusively. Together we will work to improve your insight, mood and motivation. You will learn what influences your mood and decision-making, and how ways of thinking and doing can lead to feeling stuck and hopeless. In addition to CBT, I can teach you powerful skills to improve distress tolerance and emotional regulation. These are skills you will learn to use now, and can rely on in the future.
CBT really works! Especially when you are working with a trained and experienced therapist. I hold advanced certification in Cognitive Behavior Therapy and use this approach exclusively. Together we will work to improve your insight, mood and motivation. You will learn what influences your mood and decision-making, and how ways of thinking and doing can lead to feeling stuck and hopeless. In addition to CBT, I can teach you powerful skills to improve distress tolerance and emotional regulation. These are skills you will learn to use now, and can rely on in the future.
(617) 702-2038 View (617) 702-2038
Photo of Richard L Phillipps, LICSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Richard L Phillipps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
For over 30 years I've been helping people overcome obstacles that seem insurmountable. I have special expertise in the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, and emotional issues related to physical illness. My dual background in Public Health and Social Work enables me to help people who have both psychological and health issues. I'm a strong advocate for family, peer and community support when acceptable to my clients.
For over 30 years I've been helping people overcome obstacles that seem insurmountable. I have special expertise in the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, and emotional issues related to physical illness. My dual background in Public Health and Social Work enables me to help people who have both psychological and health issues. I'm a strong advocate for family, peer and community support when acceptable to my clients.
(617) 440-7138 View (617) 440-7138
Photo of Marianne Brandon, PhD, Psychologist
Marianne Brandon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459
*NOT CURRENTLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Welcome to my psychology practice. Intimate relationships are challenging for just about everyone. Keeping a passionate connection alive over time requires unique skills, persistence and determination. I work with individuals and couples who wish to deepen emotional or sexual intimacy, improve communication, strengthen their romantic bond, heal from affairs, and folks who feel addicted to pornography or other sexual outlets, as well as depression, irritability, anxiety, etc. Probably the best way to get a sense of me quickly is to read my Psychology Today blog, The Future of Intimacy.
*NOT CURRENTLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Welcome to my psychology practice. Intimate relationships are challenging for just about everyone. Keeping a passionate connection alive over time requires unique skills, persistence and determination. I work with individuals and couples who wish to deepen emotional or sexual intimacy, improve communication, strengthen their romantic bond, heal from affairs, and folks who feel addicted to pornography or other sexual outlets, as well as depression, irritability, anxiety, etc. Probably the best way to get a sense of me quickly is to read my Psychology Today blog, The Future of Intimacy.
(410) 988-4254 View (410) 988-4254
Photo of Mark Joyce, LMHC, Counselor
Mark Joyce
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
As a licensed mental health clinician, my goal is to help guide you to a place of well-being and fulfillment. I have experience working with teenagers and adults of all ages in addressing struggles related to anxiety, depression, addiction, grief & loss, life transitions, and trauma. I am also interested in the role technology plays in one’s experience of mental health symptoms and have completed research on the impact of smartphone addiction in college age students.
As a licensed mental health clinician, my goal is to help guide you to a place of well-being and fulfillment. I have experience working with teenagers and adults of all ages in addressing struggles related to anxiety, depression, addiction, grief & loss, life transitions, and trauma. I am also interested in the role technology plays in one’s experience of mental health symptoms and have completed research on the impact of smartphone addiction in college age students.
(617) 272-7416 View (617) 272-7416
Photo of Brayden Kendziora, LMHC, REAT, Counselor
Brayden Kendziora
Counselor, LMHC, REAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
Currently accepting new clients. I hope to foster an environment that facilitates growth and healing for clients and their loved ones. Together, we create a trusting relationship to spark self-discovery and enduring change for clients of all identities, bodies, and abilities. I tailor my psychotherapeutic approach to each person as an individual. Together, my clients and I create the opportunity to learn about themselves and their interpersonal world in a safe environment by incorporating evidence-based and trauma-informed interventions (e.g. ARC, CBT, motivational interviewing, DBT, expressive arts, family systems, etc.)
Currently accepting new clients. I hope to foster an environment that facilitates growth and healing for clients and their loved ones. Together, we create a trusting relationship to spark self-discovery and enduring change for clients of all identities, bodies, and abilities. I tailor my psychotherapeutic approach to each person as an individual. Together, my clients and I create the opportunity to learn about themselves and their interpersonal world in a safe environment by incorporating evidence-based and trauma-informed interventions (e.g. ARC, CBT, motivational interviewing, DBT, expressive arts, family systems, etc.)
(857) 349-5543 View (857) 349-5543
Photo of Taylor Lombard, LMHC, R-DMT, CIEC, Counselor
Taylor Lombard
Counselor, LMHC, R-DMT, CIEC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459
Fall 2024 - Accepting New Clients! Throughout life, we experience many transitions and challenges that are difficult to navigate. Sometimes, we need support in identifying and removing the barriers that can hold us back. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort between therapist and client and that we work together as a team to meet your goals. I utilize a strength-based, multicultural-informed and feminist lens to empower my clients to develop insight and bring out their inner resiliencies.
Fall 2024 - Accepting New Clients! Throughout life, we experience many transitions and challenges that are difficult to navigate. Sometimes, we need support in identifying and removing the barriers that can hold us back. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort between therapist and client and that we work together as a team to meet your goals. I utilize a strength-based, multicultural-informed and feminist lens to empower my clients to develop insight and bring out their inner resiliencies.
(617) 398-4217 View (617) 398-4217
Photo of Fernanda Romo Siren, LMHC, Counselor
Fernanda Romo Siren
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Having worked in a variety of settings like inpatient and outpatient hospital programs, public schools, and private practice helped me appreciate the uniqueness of the human psyche. In today's world predicament more than ever I am aware of the enormous need for a secure space in which you can regain access to your authentic self and allow it to guide you through your everyday life. Being in touch with your authentic self holds the key to a more fulfilling and balanced life.
Having worked in a variety of settings like inpatient and outpatient hospital programs, public schools, and private practice helped me appreciate the uniqueness of the human psyche. In today's world predicament more than ever I am aware of the enormous need for a secure space in which you can regain access to your authentic self and allow it to guide you through your everyday life. Being in touch with your authentic self holds the key to a more fulfilling and balanced life.
(617) 917-2528 View (617) 917-2528
Photo of Sarah Schermerhorn, LMHC, RYT, Counselor
Sarah Schermerhorn
Counselor, LMHC, RYT
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
As a licensed psychotherapist, I believe therapy needs to be as unique as the individual and originate from a place of compassionate and collaborative curiosity. I take an eclectic approach that draws from somatic, dynamic, and relational schools of thought, with the underlying belief that all individuals already possess the ingredients needed to heal. My background predominantly involves working with teens, young and emerging adults, and athletes.
As a licensed psychotherapist, I believe therapy needs to be as unique as the individual and originate from a place of compassionate and collaborative curiosity. I take an eclectic approach that draws from somatic, dynamic, and relational schools of thought, with the underlying belief that all individuals already possess the ingredients needed to heal. My background predominantly involves working with teens, young and emerging adults, and athletes.
(781) 691-2319 View (781) 691-2319
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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.