LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Charlotte, NC
Jared Brown
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
Jared’s passion is working with members of the LGBTQ+ community, adolescents, and men with concerns such as anxiety, behavioral issues, depression, identity exploration, and life transitions.
Every person has their own story, but can that story change and evolve from where it first began? Absolutely! Collaboratively creating the ending you wish to accomplish is the goal. Providing a safe space for you to explore concerns and recognizing strengths you already possess. Just as no seed instantly becomes a mighty oak, you too need time to sprout and grow. Jared describes himself as narrative and person-centered in his clinical approach but will adapt to meet your needs.
Jared’s passion is working with members of the LGBTQ+ community, adolescents, and men with concerns such as anxiety, behavioral issues, depression, identity exploration, and life transitions.
Every person has their own story, but can that story change and evolve from where it first began? Absolutely! Collaboratively creating the ending you wish to accomplish is the goal. Providing a safe space for you to explore concerns and recognizing strengths you already possess. Just as no seed instantly becomes a mighty oak, you too need time to sprout and grow. Jared describes himself as narrative and person-centered in his clinical approach but will adapt to meet your needs.
Lindsay B. Laufer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205 (Online Only)
I am passionate about supporting the Trans and LGBQ+ communities with specialized training in working with these populations.
Welcome. Visiting this page took courage and it speaks to your desire and readiness for change. It would be my privilege to assist you as a therapist with over 12 years experience helping individuals. I provide a safe, supportive space for my clients to process the challenges they are facing and move towards growth, healing, and healthy mental well-being. I can help you to explore and better understand how past difficult experiences play a role in your mental health, and how to heal from them. I am here to help you become the best version of yourself, build strength, and be a survivor of all things life has thrown your way.
I am passionate about supporting the Trans and LGBQ+ communities with specialized training in working with these populations.
Welcome. Visiting this page took courage and it speaks to your desire and readiness for change. It would be my privilege to assist you as a therapist with over 12 years experience helping individuals. I provide a safe, supportive space for my clients to process the challenges they are facing and move towards growth, healing, and healthy mental well-being. I can help you to explore and better understand how past difficult experiences play a role in your mental health, and how to heal from them. I am here to help you become the best version of yourself, build strength, and be a survivor of all things life has thrown your way.
Derrick Johnson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, LCAS, MAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
My practice serves primarily adults and focuses on those seeking assistance with issues surrounding substance abuse and dependence, LGBTQ issues, divorce, grief and loss, trauma/crisis as well as overall life developmental transitions. But, you may be asking, "how could you possibly understand me?" Great question, and after years of self searching and development I too found myself at the crossroad of change and sought therapy, that's life. Regardless the issue, you can work through it and I am here to help you.
My practice serves primarily adults and focuses on those seeking assistance with issues surrounding substance abuse and dependence, LGBTQ issues, divorce, grief and loss, trauma/crisis as well as overall life developmental transitions. But, you may be asking, "how could you possibly understand me?" Great question, and after years of self searching and development I too found myself at the crossroad of change and sought therapy, that's life. Regardless the issue, you can work through it and I am here to help you.
Elizabeth Ponds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Waitlist for new clients
Each client is the expert of their own experience and carries inherent worth and internal resources that I am honored to witness. I practice from a neuro-affirming, non-pathologizing paradigm, especially enjoying aiding autistic clients to validate and accommodate their authentic selves. I'm queer and agender, and many of my clients are LGBTQIA+, including ace/aro, bi/pan, and trans/nonbinary. <3 I see my clients as complex narrators of their unique stories, often wielding galactic inner landscapes that deserve to be celebrated and lugging burdens that no longer need to be shouldered.
Each client is the expert of their own experience and carries inherent worth and internal resources that I am honored to witness. I practice from a neuro-affirming, non-pathologizing paradigm, especially enjoying aiding autistic clients to validate and accommodate their authentic selves. I'm queer and agender, and many of my clients are LGBTQIA+, including ace/aro, bi/pan, and trans/nonbinary. <3 I see my clients as complex narrators of their unique stories, often wielding galactic inner landscapes that deserve to be celebrated and lugging burdens that no longer need to be shouldered.
Otten Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, RYT 500
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
Glad you found me. I specialize in adults, teens, & children (10+) in the areas of anxiety, addiction, LGBTQIA+ related challenges, mood instability, or for anyone seeking holistic counseling. My passion lies in helping individuals overcome various challenges including stress, work, school, substance use, identity, gender, OR transitions. Clients may seek me out for holistic practices, given my background in teaching yoga and as a Reiki practitioner. Your challenges are valid, and you are more than your symptoms or thoughts. Your struggles are valid & finding peace of mind is possible.
Glad you found me. I specialize in adults, teens, & children (10+) in the areas of anxiety, addiction, LGBTQIA+ related challenges, mood instability, or for anyone seeking holistic counseling. My passion lies in helping individuals overcome various challenges including stress, work, school, substance use, identity, gender, OR transitions. Clients may seek me out for holistic practices, given my background in teaching yoga and as a Reiki practitioner. Your challenges are valid, and you are more than your symptoms or thoughts. Your struggles are valid & finding peace of mind is possible.
Caroline Swindell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
My passion is working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples.
We live in a world where we are constantly expected to grow and change without even knowing ourselves. With all my clients, I see them as the experts of their own life and aim to create a supportive space for vulnerability and radical acceptance. If they are struggling to find to their inner voice, I work with them to do this by processing their life experiences and trauma. By following a person centered and eclectic strategy, we develop tools for a deeper self-understanding of their needs and boundaries. I love working with children, individuals, parents, and couples to become comfortable with self-acceptance and emotions.
My passion is working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples.
We live in a world where we are constantly expected to grow and change without even knowing ourselves. With all my clients, I see them as the experts of their own life and aim to create a supportive space for vulnerability and radical acceptance. If they are struggling to find to their inner voice, I work with them to do this by processing their life experiences and trauma. By following a person centered and eclectic strategy, we develop tools for a deeper self-understanding of their needs and boundaries. I love working with children, individuals, parents, and couples to become comfortable with self-acceptance and emotions.
Elizabeth V. Kerr
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
I specialize in working with individuals struggling with depression, trauma, and anxiety and clients who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
You’re here because you’re tired of living in the same old patterns; I’m ready to help. Therapy can be a powerful tool in this process by helping you gain insight, support, and confidence to develop new patterns and behaviors. I work collaboratively with individuals to identify the sources of their pain and empower them to resolve them. You're not alone & things can improve. And if you’re wondering if now is the right time, it probably is.
I specialize in working with individuals struggling with depression, trauma, and anxiety and clients who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community.
You’re here because you’re tired of living in the same old patterns; I’m ready to help. Therapy can be a powerful tool in this process by helping you gain insight, support, and confidence to develop new patterns and behaviors. I work collaboratively with individuals to identify the sources of their pain and empower them to resolve them. You're not alone & things can improve. And if you’re wondering if now is the right time, it probably is.
Deanna Lenker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
Not accepting new clients
If you are feeling down, depressed, or anxious then therapy might be the first step towards feeling better! As a therapist, I work with my clients to address issues around trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, self-esteem, identity issues, life transitions, and relationships. I particularly enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ community, college students, and women. I am geek, goth, and gamer-friendly! I am able to see clients residing in NC, SC, and VA. Please reach out via email to set up new patient appointments
If you are feeling down, depressed, or anxious then therapy might be the first step towards feeling better! As a therapist, I work with my clients to address issues around trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, self-esteem, identity issues, life transitions, and relationships. I particularly enjoy working with the LGBTQIA+ community, college students, and women. I am geek, goth, and gamer-friendly! I am able to see clients residing in NC, SC, and VA. Please reach out via email to set up new patient appointments
Jocelyn F Chrisley With Sweeneypsych
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
My practice is committed to supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello. I am a gentle, empathetic listener who helps clients find the questions underneath the questions. We will work together to connect the dots between past experiences and current emotions. I am non judgmental, honoring feelings and experiences that can be difficult to process in isolation. As a therapist, I commit to developing compassionate, supportive, forward moving relationships with my clients. We will use our sessions to explore your story, identify your authentic voice, and implement behaviors that assist in creating a life aligned with your values.
My practice is committed to supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello. I am a gentle, empathetic listener who helps clients find the questions underneath the questions. We will work together to connect the dots between past experiences and current emotions. I am non judgmental, honoring feelings and experiences that can be difficult to process in isolation. As a therapist, I commit to developing compassionate, supportive, forward moving relationships with my clients. We will use our sessions to explore your story, identify your authentic voice, and implement behaviors that assist in creating a life aligned with your values.
My therapeutic practice extends to adolescents and adults, with a special passion on LGBTQ+ and BIPOC individuals.
It is a privilege to walk alongside individuals who are willing to trust me to assist them as they grapple with depression, anxiety, grief, or other major life events. I like to approach all my clients with a genuine curiosity and collaborate with them to tailor our sessions towards your goals.
My therapeutic practice extends to adolescents and adults, with a special passion on LGBTQ+ and BIPOC individuals.
It is a privilege to walk alongside individuals who are willing to trust me to assist them as they grapple with depression, anxiety, grief, or other major life events. I like to approach all my clients with a genuine curiosity and collaborate with them to tailor our sessions towards your goals.
I am a licensed clinical social work (LCSW) with over 15 years of experience working in many therapeutic environments. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety , adjustment disorders, relationship issues, parenting challenges, defiant childhood behaviors, ADHD and LGBTQ issues. My style of therapy is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral, Humanistic, solution based, supportive and Multi-systemic Therapy.
I am a licensed clinical social work (LCSW) with over 15 years of experience working in many therapeutic environments. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety , adjustment disorders, relationship issues, parenting challenges, defiant childhood behaviors, ADHD and LGBTQ issues. My style of therapy is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral, Humanistic, solution based, supportive and Multi-systemic Therapy.
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Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA, RYT-500
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
I understand the challenges of finding a therapist, especially for Trans, LGBTQIA+ folx, or individuals in recovery from addiction.
Want to find a holistic approach within counseling? Desire to improve your personal, professional, OR academic life? I specialize in anxiety, addiction, & LGBTQIA+ affirming counseling. Your struggles are valid. You have the ability to tailor your counseling by utilizing traditional techniques OR holistic methods. I am here to empower you to achieve your goals. Authenticity & breaking stigma is important to me, so I'm proud to share I am a person in long term recovery (10 years without substances).
I understand the challenges of finding a therapist, especially for Trans, LGBTQIA+ folx, or individuals in recovery from addiction.
Want to find a holistic approach within counseling? Desire to improve your personal, professional, OR academic life? I specialize in anxiety, addiction, & LGBTQIA+ affirming counseling. Your struggles are valid. You have the ability to tailor your counseling by utilizing traditional techniques OR holistic methods. I am here to empower you to achieve your goals. Authenticity & breaking stigma is important to me, so I'm proud to share I am a person in long term recovery (10 years without substances).
O'Neale Atkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
Waitlist for new clients
Originally from South Carolina, I moved to Charlotte in 2011 to focus my experience to work with LGBTQ communities.
I believe that attention to mental health is a vital part of self-care and want to create a therapeutic space that supports and embraces people of all orientations and identities. I enjoy working with adults and older adolescent youth as they navigate life transitions and issues related to depression, anxiety, self-concept, and relationships.
Originally from South Carolina, I moved to Charlotte in 2011 to focus my experience to work with LGBTQ communities.
I believe that attention to mental health is a vital part of self-care and want to create a therapeutic space that supports and embraces people of all orientations and identities. I enjoy working with adults and older adolescent youth as they navigate life transitions and issues related to depression, anxiety, self-concept, and relationships.
Cady T Bartle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203 (Online Only)
Do you often struggle to stop negative thinking? Or to stop worrying about every possible bad outcome? Do you ever feel like a stranger in your own skin? Do you ever feel as though no one around you understands you or how you feel inside? You are not alone, and it is possible to feel differently. I offer individual therapy to anyone dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, gender identity, sexuality, and trauma. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and someone who has personally struggled with mental health in the past, I can empathize with those seeking relief and reassurance that change is possible.
Do you often struggle to stop negative thinking? Or to stop worrying about every possible bad outcome? Do you ever feel like a stranger in your own skin? Do you ever feel as though no one around you understands you or how you feel inside? You are not alone, and it is possible to feel differently. I offer individual therapy to anyone dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, gender identity, sexuality, and trauma. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and someone who has personally struggled with mental health in the past, I can empathize with those seeking relief and reassurance that change is possible.
Our therapists have led a number of groups, including anxiety, coping skills, depression, military, LGBTQ+, and TGD groups.
We have found that one of the most difficult steps in therapy is scheduling and attending the first appointment. Our aim is to reward that courage by collaboratively working with clients towards reaching their goals. Our methods are individually tailored to each client based on their needs. Our therapists are trained as generalists and work wide array of issues ranging from stress management, chronic medical conditions, life transitions, and gender affirmations to more severe concerns such as trauma. We specialize in working with LGBTQ+ adults. We use the Informed Consent Model for gender-affirming surgery letters. Email us!
Our therapists have led a number of groups, including anxiety, coping skills, depression, military, LGBTQ+, and TGD groups.
We have found that one of the most difficult steps in therapy is scheduling and attending the first appointment. Our aim is to reward that courage by collaboratively working with clients towards reaching their goals. Our methods are individually tailored to each client based on their needs. Our therapists are trained as generalists and work wide array of issues ranging from stress management, chronic medical conditions, life transitions, and gender affirmations to more severe concerns such as trauma. We specialize in working with LGBTQ+ adults. We use the Informed Consent Model for gender-affirming surgery letters. Email us!
Tatim Lace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a queer and gender-expansive affirming provider with lived experience as a queer and trans person.
Prior to private practice, I worked in a variety of community-based jobs including in-home family therapy, crisis response, domestic violence, and adolescents interfacing with the criminal justice system. Now I enjoy working mainly with young adults and adolescents, affirming their life experience and re-imagining what a full life looks like. I'm here for the clients who find themselves operating outside of societal norms and learning how to build their own path. My clinical lens is rooted in harm-reduction, person-in-environment and trauma-informed approaches.
I'm a queer and gender-expansive affirming provider with lived experience as a queer and trans person.
Prior to private practice, I worked in a variety of community-based jobs including in-home family therapy, crisis response, domestic violence, and adolescents interfacing with the criminal justice system. Now I enjoy working mainly with young adults and adolescents, affirming their life experience and re-imagining what a full life looks like. I'm here for the clients who find themselves operating outside of societal norms and learning how to build their own path. My clinical lens is rooted in harm-reduction, person-in-environment and trauma-informed approaches.
Cindy Lemberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28270
My specialties include trauma, anxiety, and LGBTQIA concerns.
**I am unable to accept new clients at this time** I provide clients with a safe and relaxed therapy experience to address the things that are causing stress in their lives. Regardless of background, culture or lifestyle, clients can expect an inviting space to explore thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment. I invite you to contact me for a free consultation to ask questions about my services or therapy in general.
My specialties include trauma, anxiety, and LGBTQIA concerns.
**I am unable to accept new clients at this time** I provide clients with a safe and relaxed therapy experience to address the things that are causing stress in their lives. Regardless of background, culture or lifestyle, clients can expect an inviting space to explore thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment. I invite you to contact me for a free consultation to ask questions about my services or therapy in general.
Raheem Forsythe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28273 (Online Only)
We cater to individuals of all ages and specialize in men's issues, LGBTQ+ support, trauma, and relational issues.
Welcome to Comfort Counseling Café Inc.! We are delighted to accept new patients virtually and offer our therapeutic services to you. My name is Raheem Forsythe, and I am the owner and licensed therapist with credentials in LCSW and LCASA. Our approach is to recognize your unique internal strengths and resourcefulness to empower you and guide you towards improving your resiliency.
We cater to individuals of all ages and specialize in men's issues, LGBTQ+ support, trauma, and relational issues.
Welcome to Comfort Counseling Café Inc.! We are delighted to accept new patients virtually and offer our therapeutic services to you. My name is Raheem Forsythe, and I am the owner and licensed therapist with credentials in LCSW and LCASA. Our approach is to recognize your unique internal strengths and resourcefulness to empower you and guide you towards improving your resiliency.
Comfort Counseling Cafe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28273
Specializing in LGBTQ, men's issues, and anxiety, I bring 5 years of expertise as the owner and therapist at Comfort Counseling Cafe.
Step into Comfort Counseling Cafe, where your well-being takes center stage! As the seasoned owner and therapist with 5 years of expertise, I, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate (LCASA), invite you to embark on a personalized journey to mental wellness. Your unique story begins here – let's craft a brighter chapter together!
Specializing in LGBTQ, men's issues, and anxiety, I bring 5 years of expertise as the owner and therapist at Comfort Counseling Cafe.
Step into Comfort Counseling Cafe, where your well-being takes center stage! As the seasoned owner and therapist with 5 years of expertise, I, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate (LCASA), invite you to embark on a personalized journey to mental wellness. Your unique story begins here – let's craft a brighter chapter together!
Clover McKinney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Clover and I am a licensed clinical therapist and addiction specialist in the state of North Carolina and I use she/her pronouns. I look forward to the opportunity of learning and working together as part of our therapeutic process. I enjoy working with folks who are gender diverse and members of the LGBTQIA+ community who experience unique stressors and conflicts with their day-to-day lives. I also love working with folks who struggle with substance use either in addition to other life stressors or on its own.
Hello! My name is Clover and I am a licensed clinical therapist and addiction specialist in the state of North Carolina and I use she/her pronouns. I look forward to the opportunity of learning and working together as part of our therapeutic process. I enjoy working with folks who are gender diverse and members of the LGBTQIA+ community who experience unique stressors and conflicts with their day-to-day lives. I also love working with folks who struggle with substance use either in addition to other life stressors or on its own.
See more therapy options for Charlotte
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Charlotte
- Belmont
- Harrisburg
- Huntersville
- Indian Trail
- Marvin
- Matthews
- Mint Hill
- Mount Holly
- Newell
- Pineville
- Stallings
- Weddington
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.