LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Annapolis, MD

Photo of Dr. Katherine E Smith - KES Private Practice, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
KES Private Practice
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
For instance, if you are managing difficulties growing your family, experiencing postpartum anxiety/depression, or if you are having a hard time finding acceptance identifying as an LGBTQIA+ individual, these are just a few of the areas in which I can help.
Thank you for taking a moment to view my Psychology Today profile. You can learn more about my practice by visiting www.kesprivatepractice.com. My name is Katherine E. Smith, and I am a licensed psychologist who works with individuals 14 years of age and over. My training has provided me the opportunity to work with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ issues including sexuality and gender diversity, as well as working with women who experience reproductive trauma including infertility, pregnancy loss, and perinatal mental health disorders.
For instance, if you are managing difficulties growing your family, experiencing postpartum anxiety/depression, or if you are having a hard time finding acceptance identifying as an LGBTQIA+ individual, these are just a few of the areas in which I can help.
Thank you for taking a moment to view my Psychology Today profile. You can learn more about my practice by visiting www.kesprivatepractice.com. My name is Katherine E. Smith, and I am a licensed psychologist who works with individuals 14 years of age and over. My training has provided me the opportunity to work with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ issues including sexuality and gender diversity, as well as working with women who experience reproductive trauma including infertility, pregnancy loss, and perinatal mental health disorders.
(410) 970-3949 View (410) 970-3949
Photo of William Willis, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William Willis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Many of us struggle to manage many of life's challenges on top of feeling fear, frustration, or deep sadness. That being said, you've already taken an important first step in connecting with help! I've seen clients who experience anxiety, depression, bipolar, personality disorders, trauma, grief, life changes, anger, and interpersonal issues. My goal is to help you feel comfortable managing whatever symptoms you may be experiencing while embracing wellness and change. I am a culturally sensitive, LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist. Slots are available for some morning and afternoon weekly or biweekly times.
Many of us struggle to manage many of life's challenges on top of feeling fear, frustration, or deep sadness. That being said, you've already taken an important first step in connecting with help! I've seen clients who experience anxiety, depression, bipolar, personality disorders, trauma, grief, life changes, anger, and interpersonal issues. My goal is to help you feel comfortable managing whatever symptoms you may be experiencing while embracing wellness and change. I am a culturally sensitive, LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist. Slots are available for some morning and afternoon weekly or biweekly times.
(410) 401-1818 View (410) 401-1818
Photo of Eddie Lomash, LCPC
Eddie Lomash
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
We draw heavily from person centered, relational, queer theory, & ACT.
I am the owner & clinical director of Magothy River Counseling. I do not have openings, but can connect you with a licensed therapist in our practice. As a group, we all specialize in providing LGBTQIA+ affirming, & informed psychotherapy. We utilize a supportive, personable, yet direct approach
We draw heavily from person centered, relational, queer theory, & ACT.
I am the owner & clinical director of Magothy River Counseling. I do not have openings, but can connect you with a licensed therapist in our practice. As a group, we all specialize in providing LGBTQIA+ affirming, & informed psychotherapy. We utilize a supportive, personable, yet direct approach
(410) 670-0922 View (410) 670-0922
Photo of Smith Broadwell, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Smith Broadwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21403
I love to work with LGBTQIA+ folks, neurodivergent adults and adolescents, and their important people.
I invite you to reach out about my waitlist for appointments as they come open. HI! My name is Smith (they/them) and I deeply value clients feeling heard and believed. One of the coolest things I get to do is walk with people as they move toward what wellness means to them. Clients I work with are dealing with anxiety, depression, body image struggles, disordered eating, coming out, transitioning, dissociation, relationship conflict, acute and complex trauma, and more.
I love to work with LGBTQIA+ folks, neurodivergent adults and adolescents, and their important people.
I invite you to reach out about my waitlist for appointments as they come open. HI! My name is Smith (they/them) and I deeply value clients feeling heard and believed. One of the coolest things I get to do is walk with people as they move toward what wellness means to them. Clients I work with are dealing with anxiety, depression, body image struggles, disordered eating, coming out, transitioning, dissociation, relationship conflict, acute and complex trauma, and more.
(410) 847-7695 View (410) 847-7695
Photo of Colleen Newman, Pre-Licensed Professional
Colleen Newman
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21403
Hello and welcome to my profile! I'm glad you're here. My goal is to serve as an ally in your therapeutic journey and provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to feel seen, heard, and validated in your experiences. I have experience in treating individuals with anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, complex trauma, and eating disorders. I am a trauma-informed, queer-affirming, and poly-inclusive counselor that works with a diverse range of individual clients and couples of all ages, backgrounds, and identities.
Hello and welcome to my profile! I'm glad you're here. My goal is to serve as an ally in your therapeutic journey and provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to feel seen, heard, and validated in your experiences. I have experience in treating individuals with anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, complex trauma, and eating disorders. I am a trauma-informed, queer-affirming, and poly-inclusive counselor that works with a diverse range of individual clients and couples of all ages, backgrounds, and identities.
(667) 222-6741 View (667) 222-6741
Photo of Paige Thomas, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paige Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Hello! I am a clinician with Ellie Mental Health offering both virtual and in-person sessions. My main therapeutic interventions are play therapy, DBT, CBT, and narrative therapy. I am passionate about helping those with gender dysphoria, anxiety, depression, anyone in the LGBTQ+ community, OCD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I have years of experience with children and adolescents and have worked with many ages in traumatic situations. Let's get in touch!
Hello! I am a clinician with Ellie Mental Health offering both virtual and in-person sessions. My main therapeutic interventions are play therapy, DBT, CBT, and narrative therapy. I am passionate about helping those with gender dysphoria, anxiety, depression, anyone in the LGBTQ+ community, OCD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I have years of experience with children and adolescents and have worked with many ages in traumatic situations. Let's get in touch!
(301) 215-2279 View (301) 215-2279
Photo of Shelby Willoughby, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelby Willoughby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Are you an adult or teen in the LGBTQIA+ community, affected by eating disorders self-discovery, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, grief, or relational and social difficulties? I have extensive history working with these individuals and those who have experienced intimate partner violence and substance abuse/dependency. If you are looking for bariatric evaluations that are required for the surgical process, I can assist you. I offer this service is to aid in determining readiness, addressing any concerns for underlying eating disorder behavior,pre/post therapeutic support, and exploring options outside of surgery.
Are you an adult or teen in the LGBTQIA+ community, affected by eating disorders self-discovery, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, grief, or relational and social difficulties? I have extensive history working with these individuals and those who have experienced intimate partner violence and substance abuse/dependency. If you are looking for bariatric evaluations that are required for the surgical process, I can assist you. I offer this service is to aid in determining readiness, addressing any concerns for underlying eating disorder behavior,pre/post therapeutic support, and exploring options outside of surgery.
(240) 213-7612 View (240) 213-7612
Photo of Karen Lemus, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Lemus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
I have specialties in working with family conflicts, relationship issues, and supporting the LGBTQIA community.
My goal as a therapist is to ensure an affirming and judgement free space where you can feel comfortable sharing and processing the hard things that life throws your way. I aim to achieve this by meeting you where you are. It’s important for you to feel safe when sharing some of the most personal parts of yourself and your life. I can work with you to identify unhealthy patterns and gain insights about your problems to learn how they impact you and your relationships.
I have specialties in working with family conflicts, relationship issues, and supporting the LGBTQIA community.
My goal as a therapist is to ensure an affirming and judgement free space where you can feel comfortable sharing and processing the hard things that life throws your way. I aim to achieve this by meeting you where you are. It’s important for you to feel safe when sharing some of the most personal parts of yourself and your life. I can work with you to identify unhealthy patterns and gain insights about your problems to learn how they impact you and your relationships.
(443) 733-6230 View (443) 733-6230
Photo of Stacey Jackson-Roberts, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacey Jackson-Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21402  (Online Only)
My specialized training and expertise encompass gender, sex, and sexuality, with a focus on supporting diverse individuals and relationships, including queer and trans individuals, parents and partners of LGBTQ+ individuals, practitioners of ethical nonmonogamy, participants in kink, as well as addressing issues such as sexual anxiety and functioning.
I provide therapy to individuals navigating the diverse spectrums of gender (i.e., transgender, cisgender, and gender diverse) and sexuality (i.e., LGBTQ to Straight to ENM), offering a nurturing environment to address challenges in sexuality, relationships, personal growth, and general mental health. Through empathetic and nonjudgmental therapy, we'll explore both areas for growth and your accomplishments, collaborating to define your desired path in life and relationships. With proficiency in various therapeutic techniques, I'll tailor our sessions to align with your specific needs, values, and objectives.
My specialized training and expertise encompass gender, sex, and sexuality, with a focus on supporting diverse individuals and relationships, including queer and trans individuals, parents and partners of LGBTQ+ individuals, practitioners of ethical nonmonogamy, participants in kink, as well as addressing issues such as sexual anxiety and functioning.
I provide therapy to individuals navigating the diverse spectrums of gender (i.e., transgender, cisgender, and gender diverse) and sexuality (i.e., LGBTQ to Straight to ENM), offering a nurturing environment to address challenges in sexuality, relationships, personal growth, and general mental health. Through empathetic and nonjudgmental therapy, we'll explore both areas for growth and your accomplishments, collaborating to define your desired path in life and relationships. With proficiency in various therapeutic techniques, I'll tailor our sessions to align with your specific needs, values, and objectives.
(301) 701-4478 View (301) 701-4478
Photo of Marvida Lake, LGPC, Counselor
Marvida Lake
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
Pregnancy and motherhood, life transitions, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ identity, career stress, relationships issues, trauma, self worth, worry and overwhelm and concentration issues are my areas of clinical expertise. I use Trauma Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to decrease and manage the frequency, duration and intensity of their symptoms.  I'll incorporate your values, identities, faith and cultural practices and belief systems. We will identify symptoms and implement long-term coping strategies that are practical for your personality and lifestyle.
Pregnancy and motherhood, life transitions, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ identity, career stress, relationships issues, trauma, self worth, worry and overwhelm and concentration issues are my areas of clinical expertise. I use Trauma Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to decrease and manage the frequency, duration and intensity of their symptoms.  I'll incorporate your values, identities, faith and cultural practices and belief systems. We will identify symptoms and implement long-term coping strategies that are practical for your personality and lifestyle.
(240) 202-2677 View (240) 202-2677
Photo of Timothy Perry, LGPC
Timothy Perry
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
I have experience working with clients who have mood disorders like anxiety and depression, trauma, grief, are LGBTQIA+, and children with disabilities.
I do my best to make my therapy space as welcoming, warm, and inviting as possible. I believe we all have our own unique story nobody else can truly understand, but I do my best to get to know you and your story to help you understand what is going on, where it comes from, and how to overcome the barriers and challenges so you can be the best version of yourself possible. I work with my clients at their pace to accommodate their needs and comfortability, but I do not plan on seeing any of my clients for life. What you are able to learn with me will ideally be usable in the long run to help with any future challenges or barriers.
I have experience working with clients who have mood disorders like anxiety and depression, trauma, grief, are LGBTQIA+, and children with disabilities.
I do my best to make my therapy space as welcoming, warm, and inviting as possible. I believe we all have our own unique story nobody else can truly understand, but I do my best to get to know you and your story to help you understand what is going on, where it comes from, and how to overcome the barriers and challenges so you can be the best version of yourself possible. I work with my clients at their pace to accommodate their needs and comfortability, but I do not plan on seeing any of my clients for life. What you are able to learn with me will ideally be usable in the long run to help with any future challenges or barriers.
(667) 291-8894 View (667) 291-8894
Photo of Erin Beskid, LCPC, Counselor
Erin Beskid
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
Have openings Sept 2024. Hi, I’m Erin. I help teens and adults, especially queer, LGBTQIA+, and neurodiverse (ADHD, Autism Spectrum) individuals, who are exhausted from trying to do everything perfectly. I support clients in learning to let their guard down and discover what life can be like without anxiety controlling every thought and action. My clients experience meaningful changes during their time in therapy, not just in their anxiety but also in their relationships, careers, and self-perception. I love to bring in research, theories, and resources to sessions, and there is often laughter, even as we work through the pain.
Have openings Sept 2024. Hi, I’m Erin. I help teens and adults, especially queer, LGBTQIA+, and neurodiverse (ADHD, Autism Spectrum) individuals, who are exhausted from trying to do everything perfectly. I support clients in learning to let their guard down and discover what life can be like without anxiety controlling every thought and action. My clients experience meaningful changes during their time in therapy, not just in their anxiety but also in their relationships, careers, and self-perception. I love to bring in research, theories, and resources to sessions, and there is often laughter, even as we work through the pain.
(667) 226-9093 View (667) 226-9093
Photo of Melissa Thompson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
I have a special place in my heart for all LGBTQIA teens as I believe only a skilled and seasoned therapist can truly understand the depth of their needs.
Niche: LGBTQIA, adolescents/young adults, teachers, athletes and children. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where clients can feel safe to share their story and know they are being seen and heard. Using a holistic, client-centered approach I help folks find self-love, acceptance, and healthy ways to move through life transitions. I use a variety of clinical skills with children. I encourage parents of young children to attend sessions as I model behavioral techniques they can implement at home.
I have a special place in my heart for all LGBTQIA teens as I believe only a skilled and seasoned therapist can truly understand the depth of their needs.
Niche: LGBTQIA, adolescents/young adults, teachers, athletes and children. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where clients can feel safe to share their story and know they are being seen and heard. Using a holistic, client-centered approach I help folks find self-love, acceptance, and healthy ways to move through life transitions. I use a variety of clinical skills with children. I encourage parents of young children to attend sessions as I model behavioral techniques they can implement at home.
(667) 382-8707 View (667) 382-8707
Photo of Lory A. Cosner, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lory A. Cosner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21403  (Online Only)
I am queer allied and gender affirming.
I know that a lot of these profiles look the same, so I’ll skip the things that everyone says. Here’s the truth: I can’t help you on my own. Therapy takes teamwork. I will listen to you, I will validate you, and I will give you tools. The choice is yours of whether you pick them up and use them. I have been providing therapy in a variety of settings for over the past 15 years- community mental health, residential facilities, military clinics, and via telehealth. I have seen a broad range of issues- anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, life changes, postpartum struggles, family violence, struggles with identity, and many more.
I am queer allied and gender affirming.
I know that a lot of these profiles look the same, so I’ll skip the things that everyone says. Here’s the truth: I can’t help you on my own. Therapy takes teamwork. I will listen to you, I will validate you, and I will give you tools. The choice is yours of whether you pick them up and use them. I have been providing therapy in a variety of settings for over the past 15 years- community mental health, residential facilities, military clinics, and via telehealth. I have seen a broad range of issues- anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, life changes, postpartum struggles, family violence, struggles with identity, and many more.
(667) 200-1389 View (667) 200-1389
Photo of Sheri Gruner, MS, LCPC, NCC
Sheri Gruner
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment for all clients, strives to be culturally competent, and is LGBTQ+ affirming.
My ideal client is anyone that may be desiring support with anxiety, depression, stress, and difficulty adjusting to major life changes. I have worked in various settings including an inpatient hospital, outpatient clinics, and mobile crisis. My primary clients are adolescent, young adult, & adult clients.
I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment for all clients, strives to be culturally competent, and is LGBTQ+ affirming.
My ideal client is anyone that may be desiring support with anxiety, depression, stress, and difficulty adjusting to major life changes. I have worked in various settings including an inpatient hospital, outpatient clinics, and mobile crisis. My primary clients are adolescent, young adult, & adult clients.
(410) 397-7210 View (410) 397-7210
Photo of Honor Quinn, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Honor Quinn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
I welcome clients of all ages, backgrounds, and identities, and I’m am LGBTQ+ affirming.
Hi there! I’m Honor, a Licensed Master Social Worker at Ellie Mental Health, and I’m here to help you feel supported and understood. My passion is fostering well-being through a personalized approach to mental health care. I have a background from the University of Kentucky, where I focused on working with adults and adolescents in different settings—clinical, home, and school—and I’ve also gained valuable experience supporting individuals in the foster care system.
I welcome clients of all ages, backgrounds, and identities, and I’m am LGBTQ+ affirming.
Hi there! I’m Honor, a Licensed Master Social Worker at Ellie Mental Health, and I’m here to help you feel supported and understood. My passion is fostering well-being through a personalized approach to mental health care. I have a background from the University of Kentucky, where I focused on working with adults and adolescents in different settings—clinical, home, and school—and I’ve also gained valuable experience supporting individuals in the foster care system.
(410) 267-3706 View (410) 267-3706
Photo of Ruth Milsten, MSW, LCSW-C, CYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth Milsten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, CYT
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Hi there! Thanks for stopping by my site. I'm at: www.reclaimwellnesstherapy.com. I work with women, 18 and up, dealing with childhood trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, anxiety, people pleasing, low self esteem, high sensitivity issues, attachment concerns, and life transitions/struggles. I also work with couples on the following: pre-marital counseling, learning about and improving communication, increasing co-regulation/attunement and coping with current stressors. I'm LGBTQIA+, Kink, CNM and Polyamory aware and allied.
Hi there! Thanks for stopping by my site. I'm at: www.reclaimwellnesstherapy.com. I work with women, 18 and up, dealing with childhood trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, anxiety, people pleasing, low self esteem, high sensitivity issues, attachment concerns, and life transitions/struggles. I also work with couples on the following: pre-marital counseling, learning about and improving communication, increasing co-regulation/attunement and coping with current stressors. I'm LGBTQIA+, Kink, CNM and Polyamory aware and allied.
(410) 266-7864 View (410) 266-7864
Photo of Nancy Graham, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
My practice can help with: Adolescent/Child Services, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Grief, Child Abuse, Stress, Crisis Intervention, Domestic Violence, LGBTQ Issues, Gender Identity, Depression, PTSD, Learning Differences, Life Management Counseling, Family Therapy, Divorce, Mediation, Workplace Conflict/EAP, Mood Disorders & Parenting Issues.
During my 30 years in the social work profession I have had an array of experiences that have focused on crisis work with families and individuals experiencing: trauma, loss, depression, grief, anxiety, low self-esteem, housing & employment issues, and family challenges. In my more recent practice years, I have enjoyed working with the LGBTQ community as a straight ally, and advocating for equal rights and fair treatment for all. I am also certified as a divorce mediator, and I provide clinical supervision to graduate level social work professionals seeking their LCSW-C licensure. Licensed in: MD/VA/FL.
My practice can help with: Adolescent/Child Services, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Grief, Child Abuse, Stress, Crisis Intervention, Domestic Violence, LGBTQ Issues, Gender Identity, Depression, PTSD, Learning Differences, Life Management Counseling, Family Therapy, Divorce, Mediation, Workplace Conflict/EAP, Mood Disorders & Parenting Issues.
During my 30 years in the social work profession I have had an array of experiences that have focused on crisis work with families and individuals experiencing: trauma, loss, depression, grief, anxiety, low self-esteem, housing & employment issues, and family challenges. In my more recent practice years, I have enjoyed working with the LGBTQ community as a straight ally, and advocating for equal rights and fair treatment for all. I am also certified as a divorce mediator, and I provide clinical supervision to graduate level social work professionals seeking their LCSW-C licensure. Licensed in: MD/VA/FL.
(410) 401-4909 View (410) 401-4909
Photo of Brittney Mazie, MS, LGPC, Counselor
Brittney Mazie
Counselor, MS, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21403
Brittney enjoys working with children, adolescents, and young adults. Brittney has a passion for working with survivors of intimate partner violence, members of the queer community, and individuals coping with chronic health issues. Brittney acknowledges that clients are the experts in their lives and utilizes a person-centered approach to ensure clients feel well supported.
Brittney enjoys working with children, adolescents, and young adults. Brittney has a passion for working with survivors of intimate partner violence, members of the queer community, and individuals coping with chronic health issues. Brittney acknowledges that clients are the experts in their lives and utilizes a person-centered approach to ensure clients feel well supported.
(667) 242-9369 View (667) 242-9369
Photo of Bradley Lake, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bradley Lake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
I am a generalist, however, I have particular areas of specialty: Group Therapy, Couples Therapy, Anxiety, Depression, Gay and Lesbian Issues and ADHD (adolescent and adult).
I provide individual, couples, and group psychotherapy, as well as supervision to clinicians. I create a safe working environment where I will caringly challenge you to learn, explore, and ultimately grow. Everyone has a rich internal world full of aspirations. Everyone needs to be seen and heard to recognize and achieve their goals. However, we often feel stuck, lost or depressed. We need to be challenged to see from new perspectives, to feel profoundly, and to make life changes. I am here to help you, to see and hear you, to challenge you to grow and make your external life reflect your internal world.
I am a generalist, however, I have particular areas of specialty: Group Therapy, Couples Therapy, Anxiety, Depression, Gay and Lesbian Issues and ADHD (adolescent and adult).
I provide individual, couples, and group psychotherapy, as well as supervision to clinicians. I create a safe working environment where I will caringly challenge you to learn, explore, and ultimately grow. Everyone has a rich internal world full of aspirations. Everyone needs to be seen and heard to recognize and achieve their goals. However, we often feel stuck, lost or depressed. We need to be challenged to see from new perspectives, to feel profoundly, and to make life changes. I am here to help you, to see and hear you, to challenge you to grow and make your external life reflect your internal world.
(202) 517-0967 View (202) 517-0967
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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.