LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Edina, MN
Casey Nielsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439 (Online Only)
I do most of my work with people in the LGBTQ+ community, people in any stage of substance use recovery and/or with co-occurring disorders, and those who have experienced various forms of trauma.
Hi there. You’ve taken the first step by considering mental health therapy and I think that’s pretty rad! Please know that you are deserving of healing, compassion, and a safe space. In our work together, I’m going to listen to you. I’m going to approach you with unconditional positive regard: showing you complete support and acceptance. This directly ties into some of my values like harm reduction and sex positivity. All are welcome here, wherever you are on your journey. I’m trauma-informed and exercise that in my work. I incorporate modalities that promote healing, resilience, and empowerment.
I do most of my work with people in the LGBTQ+ community, people in any stage of substance use recovery and/or with co-occurring disorders, and those who have experienced various forms of trauma.
Hi there. You’ve taken the first step by considering mental health therapy and I think that’s pretty rad! Please know that you are deserving of healing, compassion, and a safe space. In our work together, I’m going to listen to you. I’m going to approach you with unconditional positive regard: showing you complete support and acceptance. This directly ties into some of my values like harm reduction and sex positivity. All are welcome here, wherever you are on your journey. I’m trauma-informed and exercise that in my work. I incorporate modalities that promote healing, resilience, and empowerment.
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, or chronic pain? Are you part of the LGBTQ+ community? I have a passion for helping people like you to navigate difficult circumstances in life through various forms of therapy to reach purposeful change. I am also trained in Brainspotting, a somatic treatment approach designed to help you access and process painful emotions and memories.
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, or chronic pain? Are you part of the LGBTQ+ community? I have a passion for helping people like you to navigate difficult circumstances in life through various forms of therapy to reach purposeful change. I am also trained in Brainspotting, a somatic treatment approach designed to help you access and process painful emotions and memories.
I work with my clients on tuning into their embodied wisdom and abundant creativity so that they can live their lives out of desire, not fear. I enjoy supporting individuals experiencing relational conflict, grief and loss, or those recovering from adversity and trauma, in order to live and love authentically. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples, and families, from adolescence to adulthood. I am passionate about understanding the unique neurological and sensory processes of neurodivergent individuals and the intersectionality of operating in a society that wasn’t built for us.
I work with my clients on tuning into their embodied wisdom and abundant creativity so that they can live their lives out of desire, not fear. I enjoy supporting individuals experiencing relational conflict, grief and loss, or those recovering from adversity and trauma, in order to live and love authentically. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples, and families, from adolescence to adulthood. I am passionate about understanding the unique neurological and sensory processes of neurodivergent individuals and the intersectionality of operating in a society that wasn’t built for us.
I identify as a queer, cisgender therapist with extensive experience both professionally and personally within the LGBTQ+ communities.
I am a passionate, knowledgeable, and resilient licensed mental health professional who has worked with diverse client populations in clinical, supervisory, and managerial roles for over 15 years in the following settings: nonprofit community mental health clinics; an eating disorder clinic; a mood, anxiety, and self-injury clinic; Ecopsychology focused programming; a HIV/AIDS advocacy agency; mental health crisis/suicide phone lines and text lines; mobile crisis outreach teams; IRTS and crisis residential; and K-12 Day Treatment.
I identify as a queer, cisgender therapist with extensive experience both professionally and personally within the LGBTQ+ communities.
I am a passionate, knowledgeable, and resilient licensed mental health professional who has worked with diverse client populations in clinical, supervisory, and managerial roles for over 15 years in the following settings: nonprofit community mental health clinics; an eating disorder clinic; a mood, anxiety, and self-injury clinic; Ecopsychology focused programming; a HIV/AIDS advocacy agency; mental health crisis/suicide phone lines and text lines; mobile crisis outreach teams; IRTS and crisis residential; and K-12 Day Treatment.
Hey There! I'm Bee. I am a quirky, non binary, queer and neurodivergent therapist who has a social justice, existential and feminist lens when it comes to therapy. My focus is on exploring personal identity. What does it mean to be Queer in a heteronormative world? What are your own values versus values imposed by society? I use this lens to work with clients on complex trauma, dissociation and gender identity.
Hey There! I'm Bee. I am a quirky, non binary, queer and neurodivergent therapist who has a social justice, existential and feminist lens when it comes to therapy. My focus is on exploring personal identity. What does it mean to be Queer in a heteronormative world? What are your own values versus values imposed by society? I use this lens to work with clients on complex trauma, dissociation and gender identity.
I am trauma-informed, trans and queer-allied and am informed in issues specific to those with disabilities.
I work alongside those experiencing life transitions, identity concerns, relationship issues, ADHD, autism and trauma within both individual and sociocultural contexts. Sometimes what we need is to express ourselves in a compassionate, non-judgemental space to talk about and process lived experiences, as well as identify opportunities for change. In speaking about our concerns, rather than keeping them to ourselves, we can slow down and re-examine our lives. Examples of goals for therapy can include increased self-awareness, acceptance and learning new ways of coping.
I am trauma-informed, trans and queer-allied and am informed in issues specific to those with disabilities.
I work alongside those experiencing life transitions, identity concerns, relationship issues, ADHD, autism and trauma within both individual and sociocultural contexts. Sometimes what we need is to express ourselves in a compassionate, non-judgemental space to talk about and process lived experiences, as well as identify opportunities for change. In speaking about our concerns, rather than keeping them to ourselves, we can slow down and re-examine our lives. Examples of goals for therapy can include increased self-awareness, acceptance and learning new ways of coping.
Jac Stringer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439 (Online Only)
I help trans people advocate for their rights and safety, provide trans-focused education, and work with parents, families, and guardians to better understand and support their trans loved ones.
I am a trans-genderqueer femme, disabled radical activist & social worker. I practice trauma-focused feminist therapy exclusively for trans youth & young adults ages 13-30 & EMDR for ages 16+. I provide healthcare letters for all ages, youth and adults, in one 30 min session. My specialties surround gender & sexuality, & trauma survivors experiencing depression, bipolar, anxiety, self-harm, suicidality, disability, body image, disordered eating, DID, dissociation, & histories with abuse & violence. I am body, sex, & kink positive, poly-inclusive, value accountability, & recognize the intersectional impact of systematic oppression.
I help trans people advocate for their rights and safety, provide trans-focused education, and work with parents, families, and guardians to better understand and support their trans loved ones.
I am a trans-genderqueer femme, disabled radical activist & social worker. I practice trauma-focused feminist therapy exclusively for trans youth & young adults ages 13-30 & EMDR for ages 16+. I provide healthcare letters for all ages, youth and adults, in one 30 min session. My specialties surround gender & sexuality, & trauma survivors experiencing depression, bipolar, anxiety, self-harm, suicidality, disability, body image, disordered eating, DID, dissociation, & histories with abuse & violence. I am body, sex, & kink positive, poly-inclusive, value accountability, & recognize the intersectional impact of systematic oppression.
Being a gay man, I also work a lot with LGBTQ+ issues.
I know choosing a therapist can be difficult. I like to provide an atmosphere that is nurturing and focused on helping you achieve your goals. I do this using easily understood techniques that have been consistently shown effective through research. We'll work together to understand your problems and implement practical solutions, all couched in collaboration and kindness. I'll work hard to help you and I welcome the opportunity to do so. Ultimately, I hope to help you feel empowered enough such that you no longer need me.
Being a gay man, I also work a lot with LGBTQ+ issues.
I know choosing a therapist can be difficult. I like to provide an atmosphere that is nurturing and focused on helping you achieve your goals. I do this using easily understood techniques that have been consistently shown effective through research. We'll work together to understand your problems and implement practical solutions, all couched in collaboration and kindness. I'll work hard to help you and I welcome the opportunity to do so. Ultimately, I hope to help you feel empowered enough such that you no longer need me.
I also have more extensive experience working in the field of substance abuse/addiction including people who are in recovery or are in relationship with someone in recovery, and LGBTQIA individuals and couples.
Virtual and in-person appointments available Fridays and Saturdays. I tend to work with clients who are moving away from unhealthy habits, seek better work/life balance, want more fulfilling relationships, and are actively working to create the life they desire. You may find that Individual therapy could also revamp your relationship(s) through the process of learning new self-care habits, reducing your anxiety/depression, finding new ways to deepen your connections, and exploring new parts of yourself that will foster increased self-esteem.
I also have more extensive experience working in the field of substance abuse/addiction including people who are in recovery or are in relationship with someone in recovery, and LGBTQIA individuals and couples.
Virtual and in-person appointments available Fridays and Saturdays. I tend to work with clients who are moving away from unhealthy habits, seek better work/life balance, want more fulfilling relationships, and are actively working to create the life they desire. You may find that Individual therapy could also revamp your relationship(s) through the process of learning new self-care habits, reducing your anxiety/depression, finding new ways to deepen your connections, and exploring new parts of yourself that will foster increased self-esteem.
Nicole specializes in working with youth and young adults, aged 10-26 and primarily works with transgender youth, gender identity exploration, sexual orientation exploration, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.
Nicole is an empathetic, direct, and nonjudgmental therapist who utilizes compassion and humor in their work with youth. As a Japanese American and member of the LGBTQ+ community, Nicole is passionate about providing a social justice lens and safe space to discuss systemic oppression, implicit biases, the current political environment, and the impact of these environmental stressors on the therapeutic relationship and our collective mental health.
Nicole specializes in working with youth and young adults, aged 10-26 and primarily works with transgender youth, gender identity exploration, sexual orientation exploration, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.
Nicole is an empathetic, direct, and nonjudgmental therapist who utilizes compassion and humor in their work with youth. As a Japanese American and member of the LGBTQ+ community, Nicole is passionate about providing a social justice lens and safe space to discuss systemic oppression, implicit biases, the current political environment, and the impact of these environmental stressors on the therapeutic relationship and our collective mental health.
Grace Goins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55424
Waitlist for new clients
I am LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC affirming.
I value authenticity and candor in my work with clients, and enjoy "real talk." My typical client would say they’re a high achiever, “successful” on paper, and struggle with symptoms of anxiety, perfectionism, depression, low self esteem, or challenges with relationships and boundaries. I work with individuals who have a history of relational trauma or injury, grief and loss, or are navigating life transitions or changes.
I am LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC affirming.
I value authenticity and candor in my work with clients, and enjoy "real talk." My typical client would say they’re a high achiever, “successful” on paper, and struggle with symptoms of anxiety, perfectionism, depression, low self esteem, or challenges with relationships and boundaries. I work with individuals who have a history of relational trauma or injury, grief and loss, or are navigating life transitions or changes.
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Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
I'm an LGBTQIA+ affirming licensed drug and alcohol therapist with a master's in clinical mental health counseling.
Positive mental health is a right for all, critical to managing daily life, and necessary to realize one's full potential and authentic self. Although life can saddle us with trauma and extreme stress, counseling gives us the tools and support to understand the roots of our stress and develop through it. Therapy promotes and emphasizes wellness, empowerment, and growth. It's a powerful way to explore and optimize our holistic wellbeing. Contacting a professional for therapy can feel intimidating. However, seeking counseling early on can help deescalate issues and equip us with tools to manage and prevent future issues.
I'm an LGBTQIA+ affirming licensed drug and alcohol therapist with a master's in clinical mental health counseling.
Positive mental health is a right for all, critical to managing daily life, and necessary to realize one's full potential and authentic self. Although life can saddle us with trauma and extreme stress, counseling gives us the tools and support to understand the roots of our stress and develop through it. Therapy promotes and emphasizes wellness, empowerment, and growth. It's a powerful way to explore and optimize our holistic wellbeing. Contacting a professional for therapy can feel intimidating. However, seeking counseling early on can help deescalate issues and equip us with tools to manage and prevent future issues.
Katie O'Dowd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
Waitlist for new clients
I strive to create a therapy space that is non-judgmental, culturally responsive, anti-oppressive, anti-racist, LGBTQIA affirming & sex positive.
Hi there! I’m so glad you’re considering therapy, a brave first step in itself. I enjoy working with adult and emerging adult populations, and I have a particular affinity for working with emerging adults and college/graduate students. I believe that a large part of healing happens in relationship with others, and I’m here to build a collaborative partnership with you where together we can create a path towards a more fulfilling life. I use a person-centered, interpersonal, and psychodynamic approach to therapy, while remaining adaptive to the unique needs of each client. I look forward to hearing what brings you here.
I strive to create a therapy space that is non-judgmental, culturally responsive, anti-oppressive, anti-racist, LGBTQIA affirming & sex positive.
Hi there! I’m so glad you’re considering therapy, a brave first step in itself. I enjoy working with adult and emerging adult populations, and I have a particular affinity for working with emerging adults and college/graduate students. I believe that a large part of healing happens in relationship with others, and I’m here to build a collaborative partnership with you where together we can create a path towards a more fulfilling life. I use a person-centered, interpersonal, and psychodynamic approach to therapy, while remaining adaptive to the unique needs of each client. I look forward to hearing what brings you here.
Ashley N Mercer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55424
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating individuals and couples who are struggling with issues related to sexual problems, gender identity, LGBTQ issues, postpartum depression and anxiety, and relationship problems.
My goal as a therapist is to help you find the very best aspects of yourself. I work to help you create healthy and dynamic relationships and to generate meaningful change. My approach to therapy is centered in a strong belief in the science of psychology and counseling, blended with the arts of empathy and compassion. In my work with you, I strive to honor who you are, your values, and the path you have traveled.
I specialize in treating individuals and couples who are struggling with issues related to sexual problems, gender identity, LGBTQ issues, postpartum depression and anxiety, and relationship problems.
My goal as a therapist is to help you find the very best aspects of yourself. I work to help you create healthy and dynamic relationships and to generate meaningful change. My approach to therapy is centered in a strong belief in the science of psychology and counseling, blended with the arts of empathy and compassion. In my work with you, I strive to honor who you are, your values, and the path you have traveled.
I’m so glad you’re here and thinking about coming to therapy! I see adolescents and adults, and I specialize in working with teens and young adults. I have a lot of experience working with folks who are experiencing anxiety, self-harm, problems with eating/body image, identity exploration, and family/relationship concerns. I identify as queer, and I work from a harm reduction, sex positive, trans-allied, feminist, fat acceptance/HAES lens.
I’m so glad you’re here and thinking about coming to therapy! I see adolescents and adults, and I specialize in working with teens and young adults. I have a lot of experience working with folks who are experiencing anxiety, self-harm, problems with eating/body image, identity exploration, and family/relationship concerns. I identify as queer, and I work from a harm reduction, sex positive, trans-allied, feminist, fat acceptance/HAES lens.
Gautham Krishnan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439 (Online Only)
I use a queer affirmative, trauma-informed, sex positive and fat positive lens, being cognizant of the structural and systemic challenges faced by socio-politically disadvantaged minority groups.
Growing up in India, mental healthcare was often stigmatized. Learning about mental health and psychology was instrumental for me in my personal journey. I want to use my experiences to provide an approach to therapy that is destigmatized and decolonized in its foundation. Whether you want to build your self-awareness, reshape how you cope when feeling intense emotions, recognize impact of historical and present social and economic structures, therapy can be a great platform to start or simply maintain the tools that you have learned.
I use a queer affirmative, trauma-informed, sex positive and fat positive lens, being cognizant of the structural and systemic challenges faced by socio-politically disadvantaged minority groups.
Growing up in India, mental healthcare was often stigmatized. Learning about mental health and psychology was instrumental for me in my personal journey. I want to use my experiences to provide an approach to therapy that is destigmatized and decolonized in its foundation. Whether you want to build your self-awareness, reshape how you cope when feeling intense emotions, recognize impact of historical and present social and economic structures, therapy can be a great platform to start or simply maintain the tools that you have learned.
Leah N Shanks
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, NCC, ACS, LSC
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with a wide variety of people from different backgrounds and am LGBTQ+-affirming.
My counseling lens is supportive, strengths based solution focused, and I use cognitive behavioral and mindfulness approaches in my work. I provide a non-judgmental active approach to counseling. In a caring yet straightforward way I get to know you, help you to set meaningful counseling goals, take action, and be accountable toward reaching your goals to live your best life. If you are looking for someone to help you be accountable, then I am a good fit! As a mother of 2 (one in college), I understand the complexities of balancing family and work. Tired of feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? I can help!
I enjoy working with a wide variety of people from different backgrounds and am LGBTQ+-affirming.
My counseling lens is supportive, strengths based solution focused, and I use cognitive behavioral and mindfulness approaches in my work. I provide a non-judgmental active approach to counseling. In a caring yet straightforward way I get to know you, help you to set meaningful counseling goals, take action, and be accountable toward reaching your goals to live your best life. If you are looking for someone to help you be accountable, then I am a good fit! As a mother of 2 (one in college), I understand the complexities of balancing family and work. Tired of feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? I can help!
I especially enjoy working with adults who have a loved one managing mental illness/PTSD, healthcare professionals, military/veteran personnel/couples, LGBTQ+ individuals/couples, and theatre artists.
Asking for help takes courage. We all face challenges in life – perhaps difficulties with depression or anxiety, relationship problems, physical health, trauma, finances, etc. More broadly, sometimes we feel alone and struggle with figuring out our meaning and purpose in life. You don’t have to walk through difficult times alone, and I would be honored to offer support in your journey. I’ve been a licensed clinical psychologist for over 25 years, and have had the privilege of serving individuals and couples in diverse settings. I approach therapy in a collaborative and empowering manner, and help clients draw upon their strengths.
I especially enjoy working with adults who have a loved one managing mental illness/PTSD, healthcare professionals, military/veteran personnel/couples, LGBTQ+ individuals/couples, and theatre artists.
Asking for help takes courage. We all face challenges in life – perhaps difficulties with depression or anxiety, relationship problems, physical health, trauma, finances, etc. More broadly, sometimes we feel alone and struggle with figuring out our meaning and purpose in life. You don’t have to walk through difficult times alone, and I would be honored to offer support in your journey. I’ve been a licensed clinical psychologist for over 25 years, and have had the privilege of serving individuals and couples in diverse settings. I approach therapy in a collaborative and empowering manner, and help clients draw upon their strengths.
Jenny has experience with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief counseling, life transitions, marital counseling, woman's issues, LGBTQ issues, multi ethnic counseling, co-parenting/blended family issues, divorce issues, and job related distress, She integrates Strength Based, Narrative, CBT, DBT, Experiential, Milan Systemic & Solution Focused Therapies.
Currently accepting new clients; individuals and couples. Hi, I'm Jenny Johnson a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and MFT Board Approved Supervisor. I am a collaborative, eclectic, and strength-based therapist with over ten years of extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families in English and Spanish. My philosophy on therapy is simple in nature. Humbly, you are the expert of your own life. Together, using your strengths and my training, we will find ways to process your past experiences and find tools to lead your best and balanced life!
Jenny has experience with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief counseling, life transitions, marital counseling, woman's issues, LGBTQ issues, multi ethnic counseling, co-parenting/blended family issues, divorce issues, and job related distress, She integrates Strength Based, Narrative, CBT, DBT, Experiential, Milan Systemic & Solution Focused Therapies.
Currently accepting new clients; individuals and couples. Hi, I'm Jenny Johnson a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and MFT Board Approved Supervisor. I am a collaborative, eclectic, and strength-based therapist with over ten years of extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families in English and Spanish. My philosophy on therapy is simple in nature. Humbly, you are the expert of your own life. Together, using your strengths and my training, we will find ways to process your past experiences and find tools to lead your best and balanced life!
I specialize in helping clients issues related to gender and sexuality, particularly within the queer, kink, and polyamorous/non-monogamous communities.
I use cognitive behavioral therapy to help people improve their mental health. I believe that each person deserves treatment tailored to their experience and needs. In session, I help people change patterns of unhealthy thoughts or behaviors and examine meaning of life experiences. As a counselor, I am open-minded, analytical, and casual while allowing space for challenging clients to improve their lives. I practice from an informed consent perspective aimed at reducing barriers to care and emphasizing bodily autonomy. This often involves writing letters of support for medical transition services.
I specialize in helping clients issues related to gender and sexuality, particularly within the queer, kink, and polyamorous/non-monogamous communities.
I use cognitive behavioral therapy to help people improve their mental health. I believe that each person deserves treatment tailored to their experience and needs. In session, I help people change patterns of unhealthy thoughts or behaviors and examine meaning of life experiences. As a counselor, I am open-minded, analytical, and casual while allowing space for challenging clients to improve their lives. I practice from an informed consent perspective aimed at reducing barriers to care and emphasizing bodily autonomy. This often involves writing letters of support for medical transition services.
See more therapy options for Edina
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Edina
- Bloomington
- Crystal
- Eden Prairie
- Golden Valley
- Hopkins
- Minneapolis
- Minnetonka
- New Hope
- Richfield
- Robbinsdale
- Saint Louis Park
- Wayzata
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.