LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Independence, MO
![Photo of Jennifer (Jenni) D Liles, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52964237-d5a4-47de-baa4-abfea9b9c893/1/320x400.png)
Jennifer (Jenni) D Liles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64050 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
For LGBTQ+ people and to the polyamorous and kink communities.
Jennifer (Jenni) Liles is the owner of Responsive Mental Health Services LLC. I believe that all of us can live fulfilling lives that contains moments of joy in between and around the difficult times. Therapy should allow us to experience ourselves as valuable human beings with something to offer. I would like to help you achieve that. I have extensive experiencing helping people through trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety, and out the other side. I work from a queer-friendly and neurodivergent perspective with people aged 12 and up.
For LGBTQ+ people and to the polyamorous and kink communities.
Jennifer (Jenni) Liles is the owner of Responsive Mental Health Services LLC. I believe that all of us can live fulfilling lives that contains moments of joy in between and around the difficult times. Therapy should allow us to experience ourselves as valuable human beings with something to offer. I would like to help you achieve that. I have extensive experiencing helping people through trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety, and out the other side. I work from a queer-friendly and neurodivergent perspective with people aged 12 and up.
![Photo of Charity Ann Clavey, LCSW, LSCSW, LCAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0148f113-a51c-4eef-9553-12bf9e586b03/3/320x400.jpeg)
Charity Ann Clavey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64055 (Online Only)
I am licensed in the states of Missouri, Kansas, and Utah as a LSCSW, LCSW, and LCAC. I am trained in Trauma Informed Care, CBT trained, and thoroughly trained in Motivational Interviewing/Person Centered approaches to ensure that my clients are able to make progress with issues that are important to and for them. I use modern approaches to help individuals achieve goals and make personal improvements in their lives. My passion is to help you through difficult, accomplish your goals, and have the life you want. I ALSO focus on the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am licensed in the states of Missouri, Kansas, and Utah as a LSCSW, LCSW, and LCAC. I am trained in Trauma Informed Care, CBT trained, and thoroughly trained in Motivational Interviewing/Person Centered approaches to ensure that my clients are able to make progress with issues that are important to and for them. I use modern approaches to help individuals achieve goals and make personal improvements in their lives. My passion is to help you through difficult, accomplish your goals, and have the life you want. I ALSO focus on the LGBTQIA+ community.
![Photo of Sarah Middleton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b571ba72-c9cf-4cb5-afb4-c6df8dbf902e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Middleton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64056 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have trained as a child and family therapist working with trauma and acute crisis situations. I now offer Telehealth services for youth and adults throughout the state of Missouri. I am trained in several modalities, with specific competency training in working with queer and transgender individuals, neurodivergence, disability, as well as caregivers wanting to better support their children. I also have training in play therapy and several body-based perspectives, including polyvagal theory and MNRI.
I have trained as a child and family therapist working with trauma and acute crisis situations. I now offer Telehealth services for youth and adults throughout the state of Missouri. I am trained in several modalities, with specific competency training in working with queer and transgender individuals, neurodivergence, disability, as well as caregivers wanting to better support their children. I also have training in play therapy and several body-based perspectives, including polyvagal theory and MNRI.
![Photo of Addie Cutler, PLMFT, LMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d4cabf2-174c-41c1-9a99-0377c18232cc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Addie Cutler
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
I am LGBTQ+ affirming and recognize systemic contributions to well-being.
You wish your relationship and life felt more connected, authentic, and whole. You desire to show up as your best self, but find that it’s so much harder than it should be. You tell yourself that you should forgive, move on, commit; and that you should have changed already! You feel bogged down by anxiety and fear, wondering if things can really change. You hope to find deep connection and healing, and hope that therapy is the next step on your path. Let’s walk together toward the life you desire!
I am LGBTQ+ affirming and recognize systemic contributions to well-being.
You wish your relationship and life felt more connected, authentic, and whole. You desire to show up as your best self, but find that it’s so much harder than it should be. You tell yourself that you should forgive, move on, commit; and that you should have changed already! You feel bogged down by anxiety and fear, wondering if things can really change. You hope to find deep connection and healing, and hope that therapy is the next step on your path. Let’s walk together toward the life you desire!
![Photo of Darla Belflower, LCSW, LSCSW, LAC, CRAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3350f5df-1329-4287-844e-460157e0dada/1/320x400.jpeg)
Darla Belflower
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW, LAC, CRAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64052 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people who have substance use disorders, part of the LGBTQ+ community, mood disorders and trauma.
Licensed in both Missouri and Kansas, I have over 30 years of experience working with people who have substance use disorder, trauma, and most behavioral health disorders. We all strive for wellness, but sometimes, events, circumstances, or behaviors get in the way of achieving that for ourselves. By actively listening and understanding your challenges, we will collaborate to set goals you want to work on. We will also create a path for you to reach those goals. Reach out to see if I am a good fit to guide you on your journey to wellness.
I specialize in working with people who have substance use disorders, part of the LGBTQ+ community, mood disorders and trauma.
Licensed in both Missouri and Kansas, I have over 30 years of experience working with people who have substance use disorder, trauma, and most behavioral health disorders. We all strive for wellness, but sometimes, events, circumstances, or behaviors get in the way of achieving that for ourselves. By actively listening and understanding your challenges, we will collaborate to set goals you want to work on. We will also create a path for you to reach those goals. Reach out to see if I am a good fit to guide you on your journey to wellness.
![Photo of Aimee Hubbard, MS, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd84bf64-2b79-4b9f-8bcc-d02b9934d631/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aimee Hubbard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
Relationships face so many challenges, but I'm here to help couples navigate these ups and downs. In our sessions, I aim to offer expertise while honoring your lived experience. I take a trauma informed and non-judgmental approach that blends compassion with humor to help you find the best path forward. Embracing diversity and supporting the LGBTQ+ community are integral parts of my practice, ensuring that everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Beyond my formal education, I'm a lifelong learner that is committed to providing the best care.
Relationships face so many challenges, but I'm here to help couples navigate these ups and downs. In our sessions, I aim to offer expertise while honoring your lived experience. I take a trauma informed and non-judgmental approach that blends compassion with humor to help you find the best path forward. Embracing diversity and supporting the LGBTQ+ community are integral parts of my practice, ensuring that everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Beyond my formal education, I'm a lifelong learner that is committed to providing the best care.
![Photo of Rebecca Deason, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ecf516d-8e68-4f52-a805-d5c904dcec41/2/320x400.png)
I am also an advocate for suicide prevention, women's rights, and LGBTQ+ youth.
Imagine a place where your emotions find understanding and your struggles meet compassion. Therapy can be that place. Your journey is completely your own, and I'm here to honor and respect every part of it. In our therapeutic space, there's no judgment—just a genuine understanding of what you've been through and how you feel. Your thoughts and feelings are valued, and will play a crucial role in our sessions. We'll explore the opportunities for growth, learning, and transformation together, creating a space where your journey is met with understanding, support, and the possibility of meaningful change.
I am also an advocate for suicide prevention, women's rights, and LGBTQ+ youth.
Imagine a place where your emotions find understanding and your struggles meet compassion. Therapy can be that place. Your journey is completely your own, and I'm here to honor and respect every part of it. In our therapeutic space, there's no judgment—just a genuine understanding of what you've been through and how you feel. Your thoughts and feelings are valued, and will play a crucial role in our sessions. We'll explore the opportunities for growth, learning, and transformation together, creating a space where your journey is met with understanding, support, and the possibility of meaningful change.
![Photo of Collin Jeremiah Pearman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f28d47c7-67dc-4920-b5f6-24d227f90cb7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Collin Jeremiah Pearman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64057 (Online Only)
If you've been feeling like you're too broken, if you can't see the way forward out of the difficult circumstances in your life, or if you've been wondering, "What's the point of all this?" I want you to know you're in the right place. If you're looking to transform your relationships or change the way you think so you can get out of the hole you've been stuck in and finally feel like you're doing more than "surviving," give me a shout. Let's talk. You deserve a safe person to sort through all the messiness with, and I'd love to be that person. I help depressed, anxious, and traumatized people find peace, purpose, and a way forward.
If you've been feeling like you're too broken, if you can't see the way forward out of the difficult circumstances in your life, or if you've been wondering, "What's the point of all this?" I want you to know you're in the right place. If you're looking to transform your relationships or change the way you think so you can get out of the hole you've been stuck in and finally feel like you're doing more than "surviving," give me a shout. Let's talk. You deserve a safe person to sort through all the messiness with, and I'd love to be that person. I help depressed, anxious, and traumatized people find peace, purpose, and a way forward.
![Photo of Charlie Health](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9f1b5d2-f0d1-4009-b176-14a4c962e60b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-mo
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-mo
![Photo of Christy L Stephens, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53e37650-6cc5-4d92-9a0e-f6a761045945/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christy L Stephens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64050
Are you emotionally and physically exhausted at the end of each day? Do personal relationships leave you wounded and questioning your value? We should talk. Life experiences often leave us feeling emotionally crushed and overwhelmed. Together we can sort through these experiences and determine your unique path to healing. I believe in the inherent value of every individual and their capacity to be whole, happy and free from persistent emotional pain. Let's discover the approach that feels good and makes the most sense on your way to a happier, healthier you.
Are you emotionally and physically exhausted at the end of each day? Do personal relationships leave you wounded and questioning your value? We should talk. Life experiences often leave us feeling emotionally crushed and overwhelmed. Together we can sort through these experiences and determine your unique path to healing. I believe in the inherent value of every individual and their capacity to be whole, happy and free from persistent emotional pain. Let's discover the approach that feels good and makes the most sense on your way to a happier, healthier you.
![Photo of Anna E Reid, BSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0ece9ca-5598-4957-a167-2b49e22e7b0a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anna E Reid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
In this post-Covid-19 world, stress and disconnection are high, which negatively impact mental health and wellness. I provide support to adolescents, young adults and adults using tools, skills and resources to manage stress, anxiety, depression and more. Together, we create an individualized treatment plan towards your goals, and live your one life well.
In this post-Covid-19 world, stress and disconnection are high, which negatively impact mental health and wellness. I provide support to adolescents, young adults and adults using tools, skills and resources to manage stress, anxiety, depression and more. Together, we create an individualized treatment plan towards your goals, and live your one life well.
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![Photo of Nicholas A Simons-Bracken, MSW, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48c44c3f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicholas A Simons-Bracken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64055
My ideal client is a client that wants therapy. A client that is willing to work a treatment plan and willing to go out of their way for their success.
My ideal client is a client that wants therapy. A client that is willing to work a treatment plan and willing to go out of their way for their success.
![Photo of Katie McCurter, MA, LPC, CTMH, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec657608-7ec4-47b2-9fb2-7ad54f933afb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie McCurter
Counselor, MA, LPC, CTMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64058 (Online Only)
Life, laughter, and love are important to living life wholeheartedly, but psychological pain can get in the way. Abuse in the context of a close relationship or a family can create the most pervasive and persistent psych-ache, and may be passed from generation to generation. Whether the source of pain is past trauma, worry about the future, or even current jobs or relationships, I am here to help! I often see clients whose trauma began in domestic abuse in the forms of emotional, psychological, physical, sexual, or financial abuses.
Life, laughter, and love are important to living life wholeheartedly, but psychological pain can get in the way. Abuse in the context of a close relationship or a family can create the most pervasive and persistent psych-ache, and may be passed from generation to generation. Whether the source of pain is past trauma, worry about the future, or even current jobs or relationships, I am here to help! I often see clients whose trauma began in domestic abuse in the forms of emotional, psychological, physical, sexual, or financial abuses.
![Photo of Nadirah Habeebullah, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08d2cb8c-9f68-44c9-af28-7af42facbfe1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Trauma sucks! It's had you on an emotional roller coaster for a while, and lately there are more downs than ups. You try your best, but you can't stop spiraling. Your emotions feel so unstable and you feel depressed even when things are fine. Plus there's intense anger, intrusive thoughts, seemingly random anxiety, fallouts with friends and loved ones, and/or a host of chaotic relationships. You want to feel balanced, in control of your emotions. You want to have healthy relationships that bring more joy than stress. You want to enjoy your life instead of just survive it, but you don't know how. That's why you're here.
Trauma sucks! It's had you on an emotional roller coaster for a while, and lately there are more downs than ups. You try your best, but you can't stop spiraling. Your emotions feel so unstable and you feel depressed even when things are fine. Plus there's intense anger, intrusive thoughts, seemingly random anxiety, fallouts with friends and loved ones, and/or a host of chaotic relationships. You want to feel balanced, in control of your emotions. You want to have healthy relationships that bring more joy than stress. You want to enjoy your life instead of just survive it, but you don't know how. That's why you're here.
![Photo of Fior Sandoval, LSCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bbaea95-1ac2-416c-971e-3a9dda91b5ad/4/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling sad, depressed, anxious, angry, mean, inadequate, unworthy, etc.? Is it difficult to understand and accept those feelings? Typically, we reject what hurts us and only welcome and entertain the "feel good" moments and emotions. Your story is important. I am here to listen and support you as you go through your journey in becoming the person you want to be. I will honor your uniqueness and help you identify what is important to you, your needs and your strengths. You have everything you need within you to succeed.
Are you feeling sad, depressed, anxious, angry, mean, inadequate, unworthy, etc.? Is it difficult to understand and accept those feelings? Typically, we reject what hurts us and only welcome and entertain the "feel good" moments and emotions. Your story is important. I am here to listen and support you as you go through your journey in becoming the person you want to be. I will honor your uniqueness and help you identify what is important to you, your needs and your strengths. You have everything you need within you to succeed.
![Photo of Marie Suzanne Styles, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a4607c9-6ded-4e2c-923d-0be2ebbb2d52/2/320x400.jpeg)
I consider what my client and their environment can bring to their process of healing. I believe that I am an active participant, encouraging the process of change alongside my client. My goal is to offer support and strategies so that my clients can decide for themselves what is appropriate for them. I strive to help my clients gain perspective and a deeper understanding of their lives so they are empowered to make meaningful breakthroughs for themselves. In addition to individual therapy, I enjoy working with couples helping them to relate better with one another or to cope with family issues in healthier ways.
I consider what my client and their environment can bring to their process of healing. I believe that I am an active participant, encouraging the process of change alongside my client. My goal is to offer support and strategies so that my clients can decide for themselves what is appropriate for them. I strive to help my clients gain perspective and a deeper understanding of their lives so they are empowered to make meaningful breakthroughs for themselves. In addition to individual therapy, I enjoy working with couples helping them to relate better with one another or to cope with family issues in healthier ways.
![Photo of Mary Younger, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/480605ab-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Looking to gain a better perspective on life? Improve self-esteem? Stop the racing thoughts, anxiety, constant worry and depression? I provide supportive therapy to help people realize they can make these positive changes and know they are not alone.
Looking to gain a better perspective on life? Improve self-esteem? Stop the racing thoughts, anxiety, constant worry and depression? I provide supportive therapy to help people realize they can make these positive changes and know they are not alone.
![Photo of Patrice Dumas Veraguth, RN, MSN, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f0ca2a4-6f53-483b-bf6a-9ed1b6cbb7d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patrice Dumas Veraguth
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, MSN, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64057 (Online Only)
I am a compassionate and dedicated psychotherapist with a strong commitment to helping individuals navigate through challenging life situations. With over 25 years of experience in the field, I have worked with a diverse range of clients and developed a deep understanding of the complexities of the human mind. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and trust. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors
I am a compassionate and dedicated psychotherapist with a strong commitment to helping individuals navigate through challenging life situations. With over 25 years of experience in the field, I have worked with a diverse range of clients and developed a deep understanding of the complexities of the human mind. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and trust. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors
![Photo of Chris Cobb, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9bf587-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chris Cobb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
Your family may be feeling like it is being turned upside down as your developing young adult struggles to find their place in the world. I work within the family system to re-establish the balance that is necessary for a healthy, growing family and find order within the chaos. Teens and young people may appear to be rebelling; fighting back against all of the families efforts to offer guidance and support. We can work together to turn this energy into a productivity and success in academic, social, and all other aspects of life.
Your family may be feeling like it is being turned upside down as your developing young adult struggles to find their place in the world. I work within the family system to re-establish the balance that is necessary for a healthy, growing family and find order within the chaos. Teens and young people may appear to be rebelling; fighting back against all of the families efforts to offer guidance and support. We can work together to turn this energy into a productivity and success in academic, social, and all other aspects of life.
![Photo of Tara Yardley, LPC, EdS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b301a9a-d9e4-46f4-a2e9-5b6806a3f868/4/320x400.jpeg)
Do you wonder if what you are feeling is normal? Are you having relationship concerns or feeling depressed? Are you irritable or unsure of what is going on in your life? Does your child struggle with emotion regulation or behavioral concerns? Maybe you are considering a major life change? I am here to provide you with the support and confidence you need to cope. Have you recently started questioning your life experiences, dealing with a lost loved one or need support for your child. Through counseling we can identify what you are feeling, how to deal with stress, what are healthy relationships and effective ways to cope with life.
Do you wonder if what you are feeling is normal? Are you having relationship concerns or feeling depressed? Are you irritable or unsure of what is going on in your life? Does your child struggle with emotion regulation or behavioral concerns? Maybe you are considering a major life change? I am here to provide you with the support and confidence you need to cope. Have you recently started questioning your life experiences, dealing with a lost loved one or need support for your child. Through counseling we can identify what you are feeling, how to deal with stress, what are healthy relationships and effective ways to cope with life.
See more therapy options for Independence
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Independence
- Belton
- Blue Springs
- Gladstone
- Grain Valley
- Kansas City
- Kearney
- Lees Summit
- Liberty
- North Kansas City
- Parkville
- Platte Woods
- Raytown
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.