LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Traverse City, MI
Katie Placek
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW, MSc
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
Not accepting new clients
However, I specialize in/with LGBTQIA+, young adults, depression, anxiety and relationships.
Connection, connection, connection! Although it can take time, clients should feel safe and validated to start their healing process. I use a strength based approach to help clients explore and discover how to 'do hard things' in a healthy way.
However, I specialize in/with LGBTQIA+, young adults, depression, anxiety and relationships.
Connection, connection, connection! Although it can take time, clients should feel safe and validated to start their healing process. I use a strength based approach to help clients explore and discover how to 'do hard things' in a healthy way.
Michael A Acosta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
I also have a special interest in providing services to members of the LGBTQ+ community in a manner that affirms who they are and what they desire in life.
With a background in child welfare and school social work, I am especially well qualified to assist with parenting and school related issues. However, my professional expertise and life experiences also qualify me to assist adults and adolescents in reaching their life goals. Utilizing a solution oriented, eclectic, humanistic approach we will work together to define those goals and use your personal strengths to achieve them.
I also have a special interest in providing services to members of the LGBTQ+ community in a manner that affirms who they are and what they desire in life.
With a background in child welfare and school social work, I am especially well qualified to assist with parenting and school related issues. However, my professional expertise and life experiences also qualify me to assist adults and adolescents in reaching their life goals. Utilizing a solution oriented, eclectic, humanistic approach we will work together to define those goals and use your personal strengths to achieve them.
Douglas Adam Glick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
A catalyst may be a person or a thing that precipitates a change. When you see the change, you can be the change! As a licensed clinical social worker I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, groups and families in the areas of trauma and resilience, anxiety, depression, as well as grief and loss. As a member of the gay community, a presenter and writer in this field, I have worked with folks that are moving toward being fully integrated in their lives. Matching what we know about our inner selves with our outer selves and celebrating ourselves within our communities, may require some assistance along the way.
A catalyst may be a person or a thing that precipitates a change. When you see the change, you can be the change! As a licensed clinical social worker I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, groups and families in the areas of trauma and resilience, anxiety, depression, as well as grief and loss. As a member of the gay community, a presenter and writer in this field, I have worked with folks that are moving toward being fully integrated in their lives. Matching what we know about our inner selves with our outer selves and celebrating ourselves within our communities, may require some assistance along the way.
Christina Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686 (Online Only)
Also, working with LGBTQIA+ and questioning adults and teens addressing many areas of life including sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, and relationship counseling for LGBTQ couples, parents, or families.
I take a holistic whole health approach to help those looking to find balance and stability within many areas of their lives including family, relationships, careers, school, identity, self-worth, and mental health symptom management. I practice with a solution focused outlook that is person centered on making goals and developing skills specific to every unique client. My specialties include treating mood disorders, anxiety, trauma related symptoms, intimacy issues, self-esteem, and self-acceptance.
Also, working with LGBTQIA+ and questioning adults and teens addressing many areas of life including sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, and relationship counseling for LGBTQ couples, parents, or families.
I take a holistic whole health approach to help those looking to find balance and stability within many areas of their lives including family, relationships, careers, school, identity, self-worth, and mental health symptom management. I practice with a solution focused outlook that is person centered on making goals and developing skills specific to every unique client. My specialties include treating mood disorders, anxiety, trauma related symptoms, intimacy issues, self-esteem, and self-acceptance.
Arielle Saracinello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49696 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a queer therapist, I am exceedingly passionate about creating space for clients in underserved populations and understand firsthand just how crucial that type of support can be. I am sex positive, kink knowledgeable and kink affirming. I meet every client where they are at, and see them as a person, not a set of symptoms to be "solved" or "fixed". I am incredibly excited to be a human who gets to empower other humans to be their best selves. I enjoy working with clients of all backgrounds and walks of life, and am part of the communities I serve.
As a queer therapist, I am exceedingly passionate about creating space for clients in underserved populations and understand firsthand just how crucial that type of support can be. I am sex positive, kink knowledgeable and kink affirming. I meet every client where they are at, and see them as a person, not a set of symptoms to be "solved" or "fixed". I am incredibly excited to be a human who gets to empower other humans to be their best selves. I enjoy working with clients of all backgrounds and walks of life, and am part of the communities I serve.
Michigan Safe Space LGBT+ Therapy & Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684 (Online Only)
We focus on providing virtual mental health therapy for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex, queer, polyamorous, asexual, non-traditional, and allies in a safe, non-judgemental, secure, and trauma informed manner.
We welcome you. We will welcome you regardless of your present status; anxious, sad, angry, lonely, happy, questioning, depressed, lost or otherwise. We will welcome you regardless of your current family situation, relationship or marital status or lack thereof. We will welcome you if you have been to therapy in the past, are looking to come in for the first time, or have no idea what to expect. We will not judge you based upon your personal history, age, race, ethnic background, appearance, sexual orientation or gender identity. We welcome all beliefs, religions, spirituality, and affiliations. We welcome you.
We focus on providing virtual mental health therapy for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex, queer, polyamorous, asexual, non-traditional, and allies in a safe, non-judgemental, secure, and trauma informed manner.
We welcome you. We will welcome you regardless of your present status; anxious, sad, angry, lonely, happy, questioning, depressed, lost or otherwise. We will welcome you regardless of your current family situation, relationship or marital status or lack thereof. We will welcome you if you have been to therapy in the past, are looking to come in for the first time, or have no idea what to expect. We will not judge you based upon your personal history, age, race, ethnic background, appearance, sexual orientation or gender identity. We welcome all beliefs, religions, spirituality, and affiliations. We welcome you.
Ryver Maddern
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49686 (Online Only)
I specialize in LGBTQIA+ topics including, Gender Identity, Sexuality, Religious Trauma, and Complex Trauma. I have a strong background in social justice and believe every person deserves dignity and respect. I collaborate with my clients to process past trauma, face present-day stressors, and set future goals in a way that suits their unique needs. My practice includes Trauma-Informed Therapy, Intersectional Feminist Theory, and Strengths-Based Therapy. I have lived experience navigating our society as a visibly trans/queer/lesbian and neurodivergent individual in Northern Michigan. My wife and I live upstate with our three cats!
I specialize in LGBTQIA+ topics including, Gender Identity, Sexuality, Religious Trauma, and Complex Trauma. I have a strong background in social justice and believe every person deserves dignity and respect. I collaborate with my clients to process past trauma, face present-day stressors, and set future goals in a way that suits their unique needs. My practice includes Trauma-Informed Therapy, Intersectional Feminist Theory, and Strengths-Based Therapy. I have lived experience navigating our society as a visibly trans/queer/lesbian and neurodivergent individual in Northern Michigan. My wife and I live upstate with our three cats!
Chey Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49685 (Online Only)
"There is no taboo; there is ONLY consent." Sagacity Counseling was born from a deep belief in justice, access, and community. I support affirming and accepting care of all kinds. I work specifically with clients on: Sexuality: Kink- and Trauma-informed Care. Identity: Racial identity formation and stress. LGBTQIA identity formation and stress. Religious trauma and recovery. Academic success: College, Grad school. Work-related stress.
"There is no taboo; there is ONLY consent." Sagacity Counseling was born from a deep belief in justice, access, and community. I support affirming and accepting care of all kinds. I work specifically with clients on: Sexuality: Kink- and Trauma-informed Care. Identity: Racial identity formation and stress. LGBTQIA identity formation and stress. Religious trauma and recovery. Academic success: College, Grad school. Work-related stress.
Suppression 2 Expression Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49686 (Online Only)
Many of our therapists are part of the LGBTQ+ community, and have experienced symptoms related to neurodivergence, anxiety, and depression themselves.
Accepting New Clients - We believe that you are the master of your own life and that therapy is a joint process that we can navigate together. We are here to help you develop the tools and understanding needed to create the life you want and meet your goals. Our mission is to provide more accessible services to underserved clients. Our counselors can help with a variety of different concerns, such as struggles related to anxiety, ADHD, autism, depression, self esteem, LGBTQ+ related concerns, self-harm, OCD, substance use, relationship issues, chronic illness, family conflict, and more. We are best reached by email.
Many of our therapists are part of the LGBTQ+ community, and have experienced symptoms related to neurodivergence, anxiety, and depression themselves.
Accepting New Clients - We believe that you are the master of your own life and that therapy is a joint process that we can navigate together. We are here to help you develop the tools and understanding needed to create the life you want and meet your goals. Our mission is to provide more accessible services to underserved clients. Our counselors can help with a variety of different concerns, such as struggles related to anxiety, ADHD, autism, depression, self esteem, LGBTQ+ related concerns, self-harm, OCD, substance use, relationship issues, chronic illness, family conflict, and more. We are best reached by email.
Grace Rowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
As a queer, non-binary, and neurodivergent practitioner I personally understand how nerve wracking it can be to start your therapeutic journey with an unknown provider. As a trauma informed therapist I am committed to having a client-centered and collaborative approach catered to your personal growth and healing. I am passionate about working with individuals walking through anxiety, depression, adjustment, PTSD, C-PTSD, as well as queer and gender identity issues. I work with both individuals and couples to meet client determined goals, and hope to create a productive and safe place to heal and grow.
As a queer, non-binary, and neurodivergent practitioner I personally understand how nerve wracking it can be to start your therapeutic journey with an unknown provider. As a trauma informed therapist I am committed to having a client-centered and collaborative approach catered to your personal growth and healing. I am passionate about working with individuals walking through anxiety, depression, adjustment, PTSD, C-PTSD, as well as queer and gender identity issues. I work with both individuals and couples to meet client determined goals, and hope to create a productive and safe place to heal and grow.
Karen Andrea Mueller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Karen and I am a therapist with a passion for helping individuals navigate trauma and LGBTQ-related issues as well as depression, anxiety, parenting and pregnancy concerns. Over my 20+ years of experience in this field, I have witnessed the transformative power of therapy and am committed to being a guiding light on your path to healing and growth. My approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, and I firmly believe in meeting my clients exactly where they are. Creating a safe and non-judgmental space, I encourage you to express your emotions and experiences openly.
Hello! My name is Karen and I am a therapist with a passion for helping individuals navigate trauma and LGBTQ-related issues as well as depression, anxiety, parenting and pregnancy concerns. Over my 20+ years of experience in this field, I have witnessed the transformative power of therapy and am committed to being a guiding light on your path to healing and growth. My approach is rooted in empathy and understanding, and I firmly believe in meeting my clients exactly where they are. Creating a safe and non-judgmental space, I encourage you to express your emotions and experiences openly.
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Rachael T Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
I am licensed in Michigan with 20 years of counseling experience. I have worked to help people cope with stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, C-PTSD, trauma and abuse as well as attachment and intimacy related issues. I have had the privilege of working with a wide variety of people with various racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as those in the LGBTQ+ community. I believe in a strength-based and resilience-informed approach to therapy.
I am licensed in Michigan with 20 years of counseling experience. I have worked to help people cope with stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, C-PTSD, trauma and abuse as well as attachment and intimacy related issues. I have had the privilege of working with a wide variety of people with various racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as those in the LGBTQ+ community. I believe in a strength-based and resilience-informed approach to therapy.
I specialize in racial identity, adoption, LGBTQ+, social justice, and spirituality.
We can get stuck in unhealthy relational patterns with ourselves and others that impact our mood and sense of self. We fear disconnection, rejection, and loneliness. What we desire is to be heard, known, and valued by others. What I hope to provide is a space and partner to acknowledge and express our needs, understand our roles, set boundaries with others, and feel safe and secure in ourselves. Together we can foster a deeper understanding of yourself and provide tools to help cope with life's challenges.
I specialize in racial identity, adoption, LGBTQ+, social justice, and spirituality.
We can get stuck in unhealthy relational patterns with ourselves and others that impact our mood and sense of self. We fear disconnection, rejection, and loneliness. What we desire is to be heard, known, and valued by others. What I hope to provide is a space and partner to acknowledge and express our needs, understand our roles, set boundaries with others, and feel safe and secure in ourselves. Together we can foster a deeper understanding of yourself and provide tools to help cope with life's challenges.
Hello and welcome! Here's a bit about me. I graduated with my masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regis University in Denver, Colorado and then relocated to Traverse City shortly after. I also hold a masters degree in College Student Affairs from Eastern Illinois University. I currently work with older teens (18+), young adults, and adults who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, stress management, LGBTQIA+ Community, trauma/PTSD, and substance use disorders.
Hello and welcome! Here's a bit about me. I graduated with my masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regis University in Denver, Colorado and then relocated to Traverse City shortly after. I also hold a masters degree in College Student Affairs from Eastern Illinois University. I currently work with older teens (18+), young adults, and adults who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, stress management, LGBTQIA+ Community, trauma/PTSD, and substance use disorders.
Breanna M. Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684 (Online Only)
I am also an LGBTQ+, gender affirming, and polyamorous/non-monogamy affirming therapist.
Life can be confusing and, at times, difficult to navigate. The path to personal development and growth is not always linear. Wherever you may be on your personal journey, I will meet you there. Together, we will utilize evidence-based practices to explore any unproductive thought patterns to change the way the brain processes and responds to our environment. Our goal; to improve overall quality of life. I work from a strength-based, person-centered model, and believe the only person who can determine what is best for you is, of course, YOU!
I am also an LGBTQ+, gender affirming, and polyamorous/non-monogamy affirming therapist.
Life can be confusing and, at times, difficult to navigate. The path to personal development and growth is not always linear. Wherever you may be on your personal journey, I will meet you there. Together, we will utilize evidence-based practices to explore any unproductive thought patterns to change the way the brain processes and responds to our environment. Our goal; to improve overall quality of life. I work from a strength-based, person-centered model, and believe the only person who can determine what is best for you is, of course, YOU!
Stacey R. Krause
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, GC-C, CCATP, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49696 (Online Only)
I have been working with individuals and couples for 26 years. I see ages 14 and up. I enjoy helping couples and teens. My interests include communication skills, anger management, self-harm, relationship issues, parenting, depression, bi-polar and adjustment disorders. I also am an LGBTQ+ ally and military friendly.
I have been working with individuals and couples for 26 years. I see ages 14 and up. I enjoy helping couples and teens. My interests include communication skills, anger management, self-harm, relationship issues, parenting, depression, bi-polar and adjustment disorders. I also am an LGBTQ+ ally and military friendly.
Greater Michigan Gender Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
We provide referrals to trans friendly professionals such as physicians, attorneys, speech therapists, surgeons and more so you are assured a positive experience if you decide to transition.
Are you wondering if you were given the wrong gender label at birth? Have you decided it is time to explore your gender? These issues create difficult situations in every area of life, relationships, work, health, family and social life. Through therapy these issues can be explored and your path can be developed.
We provide referrals to trans friendly professionals such as physicians, attorneys, speech therapists, surgeons and more so you are assured a positive experience if you decide to transition.
Are you wondering if you were given the wrong gender label at birth? Have you decided it is time to explore your gender? These issues create difficult situations in every area of life, relationships, work, health, family and social life. Through therapy these issues can be explored and your path can be developed.
Heidi Fraser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686
LGBTQ trained and sensitive.
Your pain does not define you. But, it sure does taint our view of ourselves. It's hard to see the best version of us. I would love to help you see how wonderful you are! I offer appointment times after work hours or on the weekends. You will find me to be a fun therapist who thrives on incorporating all aspects of emotion into her sessions. We may cry, but we will laugh too! We will take about fear, but we will take about courage too! I truly believe that the most change occurs when you feel like you can connect with your therapist! Give me a call and I'll get you in for an appointment as soon as I can!
LGBTQ trained and sensitive.
Your pain does not define you. But, it sure does taint our view of ourselves. It's hard to see the best version of us. I would love to help you see how wonderful you are! I offer appointment times after work hours or on the weekends. You will find me to be a fun therapist who thrives on incorporating all aspects of emotion into her sessions. We may cry, but we will laugh too! We will take about fear, but we will take about courage too! I truly believe that the most change occurs when you feel like you can connect with your therapist! Give me a call and I'll get you in for an appointment as soon as I can!
My work with clients is culturally sensitive and inclusive, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities.
My imagination is captivated by how intricate and interconnected our stories are with the world around us, both in our intimate relationships and in the culture and society in which we live. Oftentimes these stories can weave patterns of disconnection between oneself and others, leaving us feeling stuck, and in need of care and tending. In my work, I offer a heartfelt and empathic space to explore your experience in the world. Whether it’s finding self-acceptance, moving through anxiety or depression, or navigating relationship challenges, I meet you where you’re at and help you find your inner resources for healing.
My work with clients is culturally sensitive and inclusive, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities.
My imagination is captivated by how intricate and interconnected our stories are with the world around us, both in our intimate relationships and in the culture and society in which we live. Oftentimes these stories can weave patterns of disconnection between oneself and others, leaving us feeling stuck, and in need of care and tending. In my work, I offer a heartfelt and empathic space to explore your experience in the world. Whether it’s finding self-acceptance, moving through anxiety or depression, or navigating relationship challenges, I meet you where you’re at and help you find your inner resources for healing.
Rebecca Layton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49686
Waitlist for new clients
My focus is working with women and LGBTQ+ individuals, especially those in the helping professions and educational fields, with special emphasis on Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Women's Issue and Infertility.
Similarly to many of you, the pandemic created an opportunity for me to re-evaluate my choices and to step out of that comfort zone and move towards something new. Exploring new paths can be intimidating but it is also exciting. What I hope to provide for each of my clients as we work together: a place where it is safe to be both vulnerable and brave as you work towards healing and towards your own goals. My professional mission is to help each person determine their goals and needs, then build on their strengths to reach them. This is never a linear process but I can provide an open, safe, and judgment free environment.
My focus is working with women and LGBTQ+ individuals, especially those in the helping professions and educational fields, with special emphasis on Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Women's Issue and Infertility.
Similarly to many of you, the pandemic created an opportunity for me to re-evaluate my choices and to step out of that comfort zone and move towards something new. Exploring new paths can be intimidating but it is also exciting. What I hope to provide for each of my clients as we work together: a place where it is safe to be both vulnerable and brave as you work towards healing and towards your own goals. My professional mission is to help each person determine their goals and needs, then build on their strengths to reach them. This is never a linear process but I can provide an open, safe, and judgment free environment.
See more therapy options for Traverse City
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Traverse City
See More LGBTQ+ TherapistsNearby Searches for Traverse City
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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.