LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Dellwood, MN
You always seem to lose the tug-of-war between your needs and the needs of others. The idea of setting boundaries at work and home feels more like a distant dream than a doable plan. Every day begins with great intentions, but by the time the sun sets, the demands of others have overwhelmed you. People have told you to take time for yourself, but It's hard to imagine what you would do for fun (if you ever had time for fun again). It doesn’t help that your inner voice has become a relentless critic, and your burnout has reached a point where doing a small task feels like climbing a mountain.
You always seem to lose the tug-of-war between your needs and the needs of others. The idea of setting boundaries at work and home feels more like a distant dream than a doable plan. Every day begins with great intentions, but by the time the sun sets, the demands of others have overwhelmed you. People have told you to take time for yourself, but It's hard to imagine what you would do for fun (if you ever had time for fun again). It doesn’t help that your inner voice has become a relentless critic, and your burnout has reached a point where doing a small task feels like climbing a mountain.
More Therapists Nearby
Over the course of my mental health career, I have worked with ages 7-81. I enjoy the diversity of my clients and working with each person on their own unique journey. I have a particular interest in working with people who are struggling with Anxiety, neurodivergence, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. However, I enjoy working with all ages, identities, and backgrounds.
Over the course of my mental health career, I have worked with ages 7-81. I enjoy the diversity of my clients and working with each person on their own unique journey. I have a particular interest in working with people who are struggling with Anxiety, neurodivergence, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. However, I enjoy working with all ages, identities, and backgrounds.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. My passions include providing affirming care with LGBTQIA+ clients and non-monogamous/polyamorous relationships. I specialize in parent-child relationships trained in Play Therapy for treatment with children. Further focuses include couples relationship counseling, conflict resolution, sex and intimacy, complex trauma, substance use disorders, neurodivergence, chronic medical conditions, and social injustice. My approach equips clients with personal and relational skills aligned with their inherent strengths to achieve resiliency, balance, and growth.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. My passions include providing affirming care with LGBTQIA+ clients and non-monogamous/polyamorous relationships. I specialize in parent-child relationships trained in Play Therapy for treatment with children. Further focuses include couples relationship counseling, conflict resolution, sex and intimacy, complex trauma, substance use disorders, neurodivergence, chronic medical conditions, and social injustice. My approach equips clients with personal and relational skills aligned with their inherent strengths to achieve resiliency, balance, and growth.
Shannon Himango
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
I am LGBTQIA affirmative.
Taking the step to reach out for therapy, on our own or with a partner/family member, is a brave move. Relationships and life in general can offer great sources of joy as well as frustrations, and when talking with our family and friends, we may edit or limit what we say for fear of judgment, or burdening them. Reflecting and expressing ourselves freely with a neutral, non-judgmental helping professional is an excellent way to increase self awareness and insight about the challenges we encounter, even if we aren’t quite certain what to say.
I am LGBTQIA affirmative.
Taking the step to reach out for therapy, on our own or with a partner/family member, is a brave move. Relationships and life in general can offer great sources of joy as well as frustrations, and when talking with our family and friends, we may edit or limit what we say for fear of judgment, or burdening them. Reflecting and expressing ourselves freely with a neutral, non-judgmental helping professional is an excellent way to increase self awareness and insight about the challenges we encounter, even if we aren’t quite certain what to say.
I particularly enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ population and other marginalized communities using an anti-racist, social justice lens.
I come to the therapy profession with a PhD in musicology, having spent 20 years working as a music professor, private teacher and professional musician. I find that many of the same skills apply in teaching and in therapy. My approach to therapy focuses on seeing clients not only as individuals but as part of interlocking networks of family, friends, colleagues, organizations, etc. I view much of my work as helping clients to evolve in these networks in ways that support them as individuals and work for their health and, potentially, the health of those around them.
I particularly enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ population and other marginalized communities using an anti-racist, social justice lens.
I come to the therapy profession with a PhD in musicology, having spent 20 years working as a music professor, private teacher and professional musician. I find that many of the same skills apply in teaching and in therapy. My approach to therapy focuses on seeing clients not only as individuals but as part of interlocking networks of family, friends, colleagues, organizations, etc. I view much of my work as helping clients to evolve in these networks in ways that support them as individuals and work for their health and, potentially, the health of those around them.
Dr. CJ is an Integrative, Holistic Psychotherapist. She graduated from Argosy University with a Doctorate in Marriage & Family therapy, and is also licensed in Marriage & Family therapy. Dr. CJ believes in honoring and healing the magnificence and wholeness of each individual through a biopsychosocialspiritual approach to integrated health and wellness, collaborating with and guiding her clients to navigate situations on the path of life they have chosen to explore. Dr. CJ is certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Trauma Therapy, Biofeedback, and Integrative Functional Nutrition.
Dr. CJ is an Integrative, Holistic Psychotherapist. She graduated from Argosy University with a Doctorate in Marriage & Family therapy, and is also licensed in Marriage & Family therapy. Dr. CJ believes in honoring and healing the magnificence and wholeness of each individual through a biopsychosocialspiritual approach to integrated health and wellness, collaborating with and guiding her clients to navigate situations on the path of life they have chosen to explore. Dr. CJ is certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Trauma Therapy, Biofeedback, and Integrative Functional Nutrition.
Katherine Falk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Maplewood, MN 55109 (Online Only)
Katherine received her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology in 2014 from the University of St. Thomas and is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Minnesota. She enjoys working with adults, couples, and families and has experience in various contexts including community-based and out patient settings. She believes in a holistic approach to mental health and is committed to helping clients achieve their personal goals through evidence-based and strength-based approaches.
Katherine received her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology in 2014 from the University of St. Thomas and is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Minnesota. She enjoys working with adults, couples, and families and has experience in various contexts including community-based and out patient settings. She believes in a holistic approach to mental health and is committed to helping clients achieve their personal goals through evidence-based and strength-based approaches.
Dr. Joel Schirvar is a Pediatric Neuropsychologist in Minnesota who has been practicing since 1995. He completed a Two-Year Fellowship in Pediatric Neuropsychology at the University of Minnesota Medical School, Department of Neurology, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Pediatric Neuropsychology Clinic, a Doctoral internship at Minneapolis Veterans Administration Medical Center, and a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology with Child and Family specialty from Minnesota School of Professional Psychology.
Dr. Joel Schirvar is a Pediatric Neuropsychologist in Minnesota who has been practicing since 1995. He completed a Two-Year Fellowship in Pediatric Neuropsychology at the University of Minnesota Medical School, Department of Neurology, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Pediatric Neuropsychology Clinic, a Doctoral internship at Minneapolis Veterans Administration Medical Center, and a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology with Child and Family specialty from Minnesota School of Professional Psychology.
Drew is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He graduated from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota with a Master of Arts Degree in Counseling and Psychological Services, and a Graduate Certificate in Addiction Studies. Drew uses an integrative style drawing from cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused and strengths-based techniques, as well as existential approaches to facilitate growth within his clients.
Drew is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He graduated from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota with a Master of Arts Degree in Counseling and Psychological Services, and a Graduate Certificate in Addiction Studies. Drew uses an integrative style drawing from cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused and strengths-based techniques, as well as existential approaches to facilitate growth within his clients.
Taylor West
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55110
Waitlist for new clients
“What mental health needs is more sunlight, more candor, and more unashamed conversation.” — Glenn Close
“What mental health needs is more sunlight, more candor, and more unashamed conversation.” — Glenn Close
Taren is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Minnesota. She received her Bachelor of Science in Community Psychology and Chemical Dependency from Saint Cloud State University, as well as a Master of Arts in Adlerian Counseling and Psychotherapy from Adler Graduate School. Taren has worked in various settings including in-home therapy with children and families, as well as outpatient treatment with individuals affected by chemical dependency. Taren provides encouragement, empathy, skills, and support to help her clients grow and reach their goals. Taren enjoys working with individual adults and youth.
Taren is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Minnesota. She received her Bachelor of Science in Community Psychology and Chemical Dependency from Saint Cloud State University, as well as a Master of Arts in Adlerian Counseling and Psychotherapy from Adler Graduate School. Taren has worked in various settings including in-home therapy with children and families, as well as outpatient treatment with individuals affected by chemical dependency. Taren provides encouragement, empathy, skills, and support to help her clients grow and reach their goals. Taren enjoys working with individual adults and youth.
I have been a therapist for twenty years and have helped individuals recover from trauma. I have worked to help people navigate their journey in the aftermath of trauma and work to foster a sense of resiliency. My work is compassion focused, culturally aware and works to build ones empowerment.
I have been a therapist for twenty years and have helped individuals recover from trauma. I have worked to help people navigate their journey in the aftermath of trauma and work to foster a sense of resiliency. My work is compassion focused, culturally aware and works to build ones empowerment.
Kimberly Knoll
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55110 (Online Only)
You are smart and resourceful, but feeling stuck. This is so deeply human. We are relational beings. Why would us needing support be any different? Therapy helps you get unstuck, takes it to the next level and challenges you.
You are smart and resourceful, but feeling stuck. This is so deeply human. We are relational beings. Why would us needing support be any different? Therapy helps you get unstuck, takes it to the next level and challenges you.
I work collaboratively with my clients to establish their goals, their treatment plan, and how we will work together. One of my main priorities is to establish and maintain an environment conducive to your growth. I aim to make sessions productive through our strong relationship and treatment practices supported by research. As someone with marginalized identities, I am particularly interested in working with others with similar identities including race, gender identity, sexual orientation, and beyond kink and vanilla practices. However, I love to meet and work with all.
I work collaboratively with my clients to establish their goals, their treatment plan, and how we will work together. One of my main priorities is to establish and maintain an environment conducive to your growth. I aim to make sessions productive through our strong relationship and treatment practices supported by research. As someone with marginalized identities, I am particularly interested in working with others with similar identities including race, gender identity, sexual orientation, and beyond kink and vanilla practices. However, I love to meet and work with all.
Claudia Petcu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LPsy, LGSW
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
You know by now that the process of transitioning through whatever situation you are dealing with in your life can be very difficult and painful. Partnering with a professional will help you get through the stormy waters, manage the difficulties and the pain, and access the resources you really need to get out of the storm. My areas of expertise are relationships, depression, loss of motivation, anxiety, stress, trauma, sexual abuse and sexual addiction and issues, domestic abuse, and fears of all kinds. I help people release their blockages so they can free themselves and continue to continue to live their lives to the fullest.
You know by now that the process of transitioning through whatever situation you are dealing with in your life can be very difficult and painful. Partnering with a professional will help you get through the stormy waters, manage the difficulties and the pain, and access the resources you really need to get out of the storm. My areas of expertise are relationships, depression, loss of motivation, anxiety, stress, trauma, sexual abuse and sexual addiction and issues, domestic abuse, and fears of all kinds. I help people release their blockages so they can free themselves and continue to continue to live their lives to the fullest.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression and would like to make changes in your life? Have you been faced with transitions such as relocating, career shift, or relationship struggles? Leaving a partner or community can be painful and isolating. By working together in a supportive environment we can find positive solutions to life's problems. I enjoy providing therapy for clients with anxiety and depression, as well as assisting adults with life transitions such as relationships, career, and relocating. I believe that honesty and a sense of humor create positive relationships.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression and would like to make changes in your life? Have you been faced with transitions such as relocating, career shift, or relationship struggles? Leaving a partner or community can be painful and isolating. By working together in a supportive environment we can find positive solutions to life's problems. I enjoy providing therapy for clients with anxiety and depression, as well as assisting adults with life transitions such as relationships, career, and relocating. I believe that honesty and a sense of humor create positive relationships.
I like to do relational work with partners and individuals--trying to navigate how to be in relationship with others can be really stressful and feel impossible. Common issues I work with are boundaries, communication, infidelity, maternal mental health, new parenting dynamics, self-esteem, family-of-origin issues, deconstructing and reconstructing faith, tools for a better relationship, and small "t" and big "T" traumas.
I like to do relational work with partners and individuals--trying to navigate how to be in relationship with others can be really stressful and feel impossible. Common issues I work with are boundaries, communication, infidelity, maternal mental health, new parenting dynamics, self-esteem, family-of-origin issues, deconstructing and reconstructing faith, tools for a better relationship, and small "t" and big "T" traumas.
Vicenta del Carmen Valero
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55110
Trabajo con adultos de color y personas GLBTQ que buscan ayuda con identidad étnica/racial, trauma racial, trauma sexual or fisico, y salud química. El racismo, la opresión, el género, la sexualidad, el envejecimiento, la clase social, y la pobreza pueden afectar nuestro bienestar y salud fisica y mental o nos causan el desarrollar creencias de quien somos que nos impiden vivir nuestra mejor vida. Aprovechando de su conocimientos y sabiduría interna, le proporciono un espacio seguro donde el enfoque de nuestros esfuerzos se centra en la recuperación emocional y el alcanzar paz en su vida.
Trabajo con adultos de color y personas GLBTQ que buscan ayuda con identidad étnica/racial, trauma racial, trauma sexual or fisico, y salud química. El racismo, la opresión, el género, la sexualidad, el envejecimiento, la clase social, y la pobreza pueden afectar nuestro bienestar y salud fisica y mental o nos causan el desarrollar creencias de quien somos que nos impiden vivir nuestra mejor vida. Aprovechando de su conocimientos y sabiduría interna, le proporciono un espacio seguro donde el enfoque de nuestros esfuerzos se centra en la recuperación emocional y el alcanzar paz en su vida.
Feeling uncertain about global, personal, or relational events? You might be struggling in your relationship or navigating difficulties with family. Maybe you're feeling exhausted from stress, anxiety, chronic illness, OCD, or moving to or from Minnesota. Many of my clients facing these or other challenges build a reservoir of peace and balance through therapy. We'll help you grow not only for the moment but for the long term—so you can withstand change that comes your way. Even in times of doubt, the journey of re-becoming holds hope. Please let me know if you'd rather meet online via secure video or outdoors in Washington County.
Feeling uncertain about global, personal, or relational events? You might be struggling in your relationship or navigating difficulties with family. Maybe you're feeling exhausted from stress, anxiety, chronic illness, OCD, or moving to or from Minnesota. Many of my clients facing these or other challenges build a reservoir of peace and balance through therapy. We'll help you grow not only for the moment but for the long term—so you can withstand change that comes your way. Even in times of doubt, the journey of re-becoming holds hope. Please let me know if you'd rather meet online via secure video or outdoors in Washington County.
From the Mississippi to the St. Croix River, I am dedicated to providing quality mental health services to White Bear Lake Area. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I offer individual and family therapy that suits your unique needs.
From the Mississippi to the St. Croix River, I am dedicated to providing quality mental health services to White Bear Lake Area. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I offer individual and family therapy that suits your unique needs.
See more therapy options for Dellwood
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Dellwood
- Arden Hills
- Centerville
- Hugo
- Lake Elmo
- Little Canada
- Mahtomedi
- Maplewood
- Oakdale
- Roseville
- Shoreview
- Vadnais Heights
- White Bear Lake
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.