LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in University City, MO
One important mission for me is to provide lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer communities an affirming therapeutic environment where one's sexual orientation and gender identity are understood and supported, free from the judgment that homosexual, bisexual or transgender experiences are pathological.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I administer, interpret, and prepare culturally sensitive reports based on psychological test data. Cultural considerations play a crucial role in understanding an individual’s beliefs, learning styles, educational attainment, and values and which provide a foundation for her or his pursue of happiness, attainment of career success, and development of a sense of purpose and situatedness. I conduct aptitude and achievement evaluations, assessments to evaluate an individual’s intellectual and emotional intelligence, assessments to evaluate an individual’s personality and social functioning.
One important mission for me is to provide lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer communities an affirming therapeutic environment where one's sexual orientation and gender identity are understood and supported, free from the judgment that homosexual, bisexual or transgender experiences are pathological.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I administer, interpret, and prepare culturally sensitive reports based on psychological test data. Cultural considerations play a crucial role in understanding an individual’s beliefs, learning styles, educational attainment, and values and which provide a foundation for her or his pursue of happiness, attainment of career success, and development of a sense of purpose and situatedness. I conduct aptitude and achievement evaluations, assessments to evaluate an individual’s intellectual and emotional intelligence, assessments to evaluate an individual’s personality and social functioning.
Are you looking to make a change but keep getting stuck in old, unsatisfying patterns? Is there a life transition (for example, opening up a relationship or a later-in-life coming out) you're having trouble with? I'm a queer therapist passionate about working with people who want support in navigating life's complexities. Together, in a non-judgmental space, we will find approaches that work to repair attachment wounds, address past traumas, and get curious about limiting beliefs so you can live a more expansive and authentic life.
Are you looking to make a change but keep getting stuck in old, unsatisfying patterns? Is there a life transition (for example, opening up a relationship or a later-in-life coming out) you're having trouble with? I'm a queer therapist passionate about working with people who want support in navigating life's complexities. Together, in a non-judgmental space, we will find approaches that work to repair attachment wounds, address past traumas, and get curious about limiting beliefs so you can live a more expansive and authentic life.
Celine Noelle Reinoso
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130 (Online Only)
As a queer woman of color, I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities.
You might be feeling gravity pulling you down, or fighting hard to keep afloat. Your friends and family might not understand, and you feel like all you have is yourself in your corner. You have been working hard to keep yourself safe–but what if you didn’t have to work so hard anymore? Let me be someone to offer a moment of relief, companionship, and compassion.
As a queer woman of color, I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities.
You might be feeling gravity pulling you down, or fighting hard to keep afloat. Your friends and family might not understand, and you feel like all you have is yourself in your corner. You have been working hard to keep yourself safe–but what if you didn’t have to work so hard anymore? Let me be someone to offer a moment of relief, companionship, and compassion.
Alyssa Aleesa Nagel-Wild
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130 (Online Only)
I am EMDR trained through the EMDR Institute, Emotionally-Focused Therapy trained, observe guidelines of Association for Spiritual, Ethical, and Religious Values in Counseling, am ENM/polyam and Queer welcoming, and have completed a 200-hour yoga teacher training.
Currently accepting limited individual clients for telehealth in Missouri and Oregon. I specialize in the areas of relationship and attachment issues, later-in-life autism diagnoses (or suspected autism), difficult life experiences, depression, and anxiety, ENM/polyamory, and exploring existence/spirituality. I am Queer welcoming, sex positive, and ENM relationship experienced. I work with ages 18+. I believe firmly in the power of radical acceptance. Whatever the experience may be...noticing, accepting, expressing, and finding true choice helps us get underneath the symptoms to facilitate true growth and empowerment.
I am EMDR trained through the EMDR Institute, Emotionally-Focused Therapy trained, observe guidelines of Association for Spiritual, Ethical, and Religious Values in Counseling, am ENM/polyam and Queer welcoming, and have completed a 200-hour yoga teacher training.
Currently accepting limited individual clients for telehealth in Missouri and Oregon. I specialize in the areas of relationship and attachment issues, later-in-life autism diagnoses (or suspected autism), difficult life experiences, depression, and anxiety, ENM/polyamory, and exploring existence/spirituality. I am Queer welcoming, sex positive, and ENM relationship experienced. I work with ages 18+. I believe firmly in the power of radical acceptance. Whatever the experience may be...noticing, accepting, expressing, and finding true choice helps us get underneath the symptoms to facilitate true growth and empowerment.
Tiffany J Walehwa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
I am trauma-informed therapist that has experience working with a diverse population that includes children, adolescents and adults. Dedicated to creating an inclusive environment, I continue my training throughout the year to effectively serve marginalized communities, including those related to the LGBTQIA community. Born and raised in St. Louis City, I am aware of some of the treasures and challenges that come from living in the area. However, I remain committed to serving the systemic issues that face the clientele in other states, including California and Texas. I strive to provide a safe, client-focused environment.
I am trauma-informed therapist that has experience working with a diverse population that includes children, adolescents and adults. Dedicated to creating an inclusive environment, I continue my training throughout the year to effectively serve marginalized communities, including those related to the LGBTQIA community. Born and raised in St. Louis City, I am aware of some of the treasures and challenges that come from living in the area. However, I remain committed to serving the systemic issues that face the clientele in other states, including California and Texas. I strive to provide a safe, client-focused environment.
Melissa T Scolaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of special interest or experience include: anxiety, depression, gay and lesbian issues, women's issues including fertility and parenting, men's issues, veterans (trauma, PTSD), grief/loss, life transition, sexuality, attachment, adoption, marriage/couples, premarital work.
When the challenges of life and relationship present you with complex dilemmas and create painful or uncomfortable symptoms, therapy offers an opportunity for healing and long-lasting psychological change.
The power of therapy is in the way it expands your choice in behaviors or ways of seeing others, yourself and your life circumstances.
Through a compassionate journey of self-exploration I will help you work toward a fuller understanding of yourself which will lead to greater choice in how you live, love, work and play.
It is a privilege to join you on your journey of self-discovery and healing.
Areas of special interest or experience include: anxiety, depression, gay and lesbian issues, women's issues including fertility and parenting, men's issues, veterans (trauma, PTSD), grief/loss, life transition, sexuality, attachment, adoption, marriage/couples, premarital work.
When the challenges of life and relationship present you with complex dilemmas and create painful or uncomfortable symptoms, therapy offers an opportunity for healing and long-lasting psychological change.
The power of therapy is in the way it expands your choice in behaviors or ways of seeing others, yourself and your life circumstances.
Through a compassionate journey of self-exploration I will help you work toward a fuller understanding of yourself which will lead to greater choice in how you live, love, work and play.
It is a privilege to join you on your journey of self-discovery and healing.
Cherese M Alcorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130
Her therapy, tailored for people of color and the LGBTQIA+ community, offers a distinct path of healing, insight, and growth.
Are you struggling to prioritize your own needs, but you’re able to take care of everyone else’s? Are you exhausted but unable to rest peacefully? Do you doubt yourself and minimize your accomplishments? Mental health care is different for people of color and LGBTQIA+ individuals. You may face unique hardships, including discrimination, affecting your mental health. Traditional therapy can feel inadequate, but, as a black female therapist, Cherese M. Alcorn, MSW, LCSW, offers a profound understanding and empathetic approach. She aids high-achievers in balancing their mind, body, and spirit so they can lead effectively.
Her therapy, tailored for people of color and the LGBTQIA+ community, offers a distinct path of healing, insight, and growth.
Are you struggling to prioritize your own needs, but you’re able to take care of everyone else’s? Are you exhausted but unable to rest peacefully? Do you doubt yourself and minimize your accomplishments? Mental health care is different for people of color and LGBTQIA+ individuals. You may face unique hardships, including discrimination, affecting your mental health. Traditional therapy can feel inadequate, but, as a black female therapist, Cherese M. Alcorn, MSW, LCSW, offers a profound understanding and empathetic approach. She aids high-achievers in balancing their mind, body, and spirit so they can lead effectively.
Psychosocial Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MPH, CSE
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
Our practice is explicitly queer and trans-affirming, sex-positive, pro-abortion, and feminist.
We work with individuals on a variety of different issues directly impacting their lives: pregnancy, abortion, sexuality, gender identity, relationships, and the intersection of these experiences with religion/spirituality. The things we most need to talk about are often the things that make us uncomfortable, challenge our worldview, or are deemed “socially unacceptable”. Exploring these issues and our feelings in a safe environment expands our horizons and helps us to better understand ourselves and the world around us. Learning allows us to grow and develop as human beings. Personal growth can help us heal.
Our practice is explicitly queer and trans-affirming, sex-positive, pro-abortion, and feminist.
We work with individuals on a variety of different issues directly impacting their lives: pregnancy, abortion, sexuality, gender identity, relationships, and the intersection of these experiences with religion/spirituality. The things we most need to talk about are often the things that make us uncomfortable, challenge our worldview, or are deemed “socially unacceptable”. Exploring these issues and our feelings in a safe environment expands our horizons and helps us to better understand ourselves and the world around us. Learning allows us to grow and develop as human beings. Personal growth can help us heal.
Emily Lombardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is LGBTQ+ affirming, Health At Every Size informed & challenges systems of oppression.
Young adulthood is an exciting journey of SELF discovery- so why is it so easy to obsess about the approval of OTHERS? Whether it’s food & body image, academics, or relationships, the pressure to compete & compare is not only overwhelming, it implies personal failure when we fall short of unrealistic standards. Imagine the possibilities if we all felt empowered to embrace uncertainty & authenticity- rejoicing in the knowledge that we don’t owe anyone perfection at the expense of being ourselves.
My approach is LGBTQ+ affirming, Health At Every Size informed & challenges systems of oppression.
Young adulthood is an exciting journey of SELF discovery- so why is it so easy to obsess about the approval of OTHERS? Whether it’s food & body image, academics, or relationships, the pressure to compete & compare is not only overwhelming, it implies personal failure when we fall short of unrealistic standards. Imagine the possibilities if we all felt empowered to embrace uncertainty & authenticity- rejoicing in the knowledge that we don’t owe anyone perfection at the expense of being ourselves.
Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
At Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy, we specialize in brief and long-term therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. We believe everyone possess within themselves the potential for transformation, growth, and healing, and have experience helping clients address a variety of concerns: anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, identity development, LGBTQ+ issues, healthy relationships, career concerns, women's issues, eating and body image concerns, substance use, trauma, and living with chronic illness.
At Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy, we specialize in brief and long-term therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. We believe everyone possess within themselves the potential for transformation, growth, and healing, and have experience helping clients address a variety of concerns: anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, identity development, LGBTQ+ issues, healthy relationships, career concerns, women's issues, eating and body image concerns, substance use, trauma, and living with chronic illness.
Brandon Noel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130
I am a US Marine Corps combat veteran, and I enjoy working with young and older adults in areas related to anxiety, depression, relationships, identity (including LGBTQ+), self-esteem, family dynamics, and trauma/PTSD (including veterans).
Each day brings new challenges. Some involve our families or our jobs or our relationships, but all involve our minds. Healing begins with the recognition that these battles are not obstacles, but doorways, to a better life — opportunities to develop ourselves in ways we couldn’t previously imagine. You possess the capacity for greatness. You have a purpose! Awareness and the vulnerability to trust another human are keys to unlocking your potential in these ways. Therapy provides an outlet to experience yourself as such, and to work toward the harmony and inner peace you’ve longed for.
I am a US Marine Corps combat veteran, and I enjoy working with young and older adults in areas related to anxiety, depression, relationships, identity (including LGBTQ+), self-esteem, family dynamics, and trauma/PTSD (including veterans).
Each day brings new challenges. Some involve our families or our jobs or our relationships, but all involve our minds. Healing begins with the recognition that these battles are not obstacles, but doorways, to a better life — opportunities to develop ourselves in ways we couldn’t previously imagine. You possess the capacity for greatness. You have a purpose! Awareness and the vulnerability to trust another human are keys to unlocking your potential in these ways. Therapy provides an outlet to experience yourself as such, and to work toward the harmony and inner peace you’ve longed for.
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My clinical interests include anxiety, depression, stress management, LGBTQ+ identity development and navigating life transitions.
Have you been considering therapy but don't know where to start? Start here! My name is Missy (she/her) and I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate your next steps. I know that life can feel difficult and quite complicated at times. I believe therapy can help by providing a safe space to process events, thoughts and emotions. Together, we can explore and learn different tools and strategies to help you navigate current and past challenges. It is never too late to start working on your wellness.
My clinical interests include anxiety, depression, stress management, LGBTQ+ identity development and navigating life transitions.
Have you been considering therapy but don't know where to start? Start here! My name is Missy (she/her) and I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate your next steps. I know that life can feel difficult and quite complicated at times. I believe therapy can help by providing a safe space to process events, thoughts and emotions. Together, we can explore and learn different tools and strategies to help you navigate current and past challenges. It is never too late to start working on your wellness.
Anessa Kemna
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130 (Online Only)
I work with adults who are neurodivergent, part of the LGBTQIA+ community, living with disabilities, and who have experienced academic trauma.
Do you feel like you’re always saying “I should be able to…” followed by a huge wave of shame? Are you constantly hounded by an inner critic who never shuts up? Do you feel like you just can’t get the hang of existing in the world? If you do, you’re not alone. Lots of us are trying to live by a manual that never seems to work quite right. It doesn't work right because it’s written by a society that doesn’t consider your individual needs. It says there’s one way to do things, and if you can’t do it that way, there’s something wrong with you. I want to help you write a manual that's truly created for you.
I work with adults who are neurodivergent, part of the LGBTQIA+ community, living with disabilities, and who have experienced academic trauma.
Do you feel like you’re always saying “I should be able to…” followed by a huge wave of shame? Are you constantly hounded by an inner critic who never shuts up? Do you feel like you just can’t get the hang of existing in the world? If you do, you’re not alone. Lots of us are trying to live by a manual that never seems to work quite right. It doesn't work right because it’s written by a society that doesn’t consider your individual needs. It says there’s one way to do things, and if you can’t do it that way, there’s something wrong with you. I want to help you write a manual that's truly created for you.
I am a licensed psychologist offering online therapy in 39 states. I am an integrative psychotherapist and bring curiosity, warmth, compassion, and a sense of humor to the therapeutic relationship. I consider societal and cultural influences while helping clients to explore their relationship/intimacy issues, sexuality, identity, struggles with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health concerns. I take a sex positive approach and am attuned to the needs of poly, non-monogamous, open, kink, and BDSM clients. I find Clients do best when they understand the science associated with their struggles and mental health.
I am a licensed psychologist offering online therapy in 39 states. I am an integrative psychotherapist and bring curiosity, warmth, compassion, and a sense of humor to the therapeutic relationship. I consider societal and cultural influences while helping clients to explore their relationship/intimacy issues, sexuality, identity, struggles with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health concerns. I take a sex positive approach and am attuned to the needs of poly, non-monogamous, open, kink, and BDSM clients. I find Clients do best when they understand the science associated with their struggles and mental health.
Feeling fractured from your once-strong sense of self can be confusing, isolating, and painful. Oftentimes these feelings can arise from societal pressures to conform, living in a sex-negative society, or relationship and systemic trauma. Sex & relationship therapy can be a good fit for improving the relational quality of your life and accessing desire as a tool for living well. I specialize in supporting individuals and relationships (of all styles) who struggle to access authenticity and wholeness in their daily lives. I work best with engaged clients who practice active self reflection.
Feeling fractured from your once-strong sense of self can be confusing, isolating, and painful. Oftentimes these feelings can arise from societal pressures to conform, living in a sex-negative society, or relationship and systemic trauma. Sex & relationship therapy can be a good fit for improving the relational quality of your life and accessing desire as a tool for living well. I specialize in supporting individuals and relationships (of all styles) who struggle to access authenticity and wholeness in their daily lives. I work best with engaged clients who practice active self reflection.
Interested in understanding how past challenges impact life today? Curious about what is getting in the way of your ability to genuinely enjoy a life worth celebrating? We can work together to understand what is happening for you today and open possibilities for your future. Together we identify the best way to address your long or short-term goals.
Interested in understanding how past challenges impact life today? Curious about what is getting in the way of your ability to genuinely enjoy a life worth celebrating? We can work together to understand what is happening for you today and open possibilities for your future. Together we identify the best way to address your long or short-term goals.
Nicholas Maio-Aether
MAMFT, MSPSY, LBA, CSC, IBA
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
NOTE: I do have a waitlist, currently, but I am Clinical Director/Supervisor of some amazing clinicians who adhere to the same models and philosophy as I. Utilizing systemic principles and effective methodology, I work with clients of all backgrounds, sexualities, genders, and relationship dynamics. Clients come to me to work on sexual and/or sociosexual concerns, including low desire, infidelity, lack of partnership skills, poor impulsivity control, coming out, inner shame, exploring new dynamics and/or kinks, and also for vaginal pain and erectile dysfunction.
NOTE: I do have a waitlist, currently, but I am Clinical Director/Supervisor of some amazing clinicians who adhere to the same models and philosophy as I. Utilizing systemic principles and effective methodology, I work with clients of all backgrounds, sexualities, genders, and relationship dynamics. Clients come to me to work on sexual and/or sociosexual concerns, including low desire, infidelity, lack of partnership skills, poor impulsivity control, coming out, inner shame, exploring new dynamics and/or kinks, and also for vaginal pain and erectile dysfunction.
Robert Hackleman LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University City, MO 63130
I can help by providing tools to escape feeling anxious, depressed, fearful, overworked, underappreciated, or overwhelmed. It has been reported that the single most important factor in determining the success of therapy is not the therapeutic model the practitioner uses, rather it is the therapeutic relationship. Knowing this, I strive to make you feel comfortable and begin to trust the therapeutic process. As we explore problems and dilemmas, you will gain new insights and perspectives.
I can help by providing tools to escape feeling anxious, depressed, fearful, overworked, underappreciated, or overwhelmed. It has been reported that the single most important factor in determining the success of therapy is not the therapeutic model the practitioner uses, rather it is the therapeutic relationship. Knowing this, I strive to make you feel comfortable and begin to trust the therapeutic process. As we explore problems and dilemmas, you will gain new insights and perspectives.
Do you feel like you have been treading water for ages, barely able to keep your head above water? Or maybe you couldn’t tread any longer and have just been drowning? Maybe you’ve been searching for a lifeline, a pathway back to you. The you before all the hurt, pain, and confusion. You, who had a strong sense of self and who was not afraid to live authentically and vibrantly. But every time those bad experiences rise to the surface, you push them down. And the truth is that pushing it all down is just as tiring as you imagine addressing them head on would be. I know that you're tired of saying you’re okay when you are far from it.
Do you feel like you have been treading water for ages, barely able to keep your head above water? Or maybe you couldn’t tread any longer and have just been drowning? Maybe you’ve been searching for a lifeline, a pathway back to you. The you before all the hurt, pain, and confusion. You, who had a strong sense of self and who was not afraid to live authentically and vibrantly. But every time those bad experiences rise to the surface, you push them down. And the truth is that pushing it all down is just as tiring as you imagine addressing them head on would be. I know that you're tired of saying you’re okay when you are far from it.
Jamie Kraushaar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
University City, MO 63130
I strive to help clients feel accepted and supported while providing a safe space to work towards mental health goals in Missouri and Florida. I use an evidence based therapeutic approach to construct healthy solutions to life concerns. We will work on discovering your coping abilities, resources, skills and strengths to help you navigate success in life.
I strive to help clients feel accepted and supported while providing a safe space to work towards mental health goals in Missouri and Florida. I use an evidence based therapeutic approach to construct healthy solutions to life concerns. We will work on discovering your coping abilities, resources, skills and strengths to help you navigate success in life.
See more therapy options for University 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.