LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Research Triangle, NC
Nakita Noël LCSW Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C
Verified Verified
Research Triangle, NC 27713
BIPOC, LGBTQIA+).
I am a queer, Black, fully-licensed therapist (LCSW) with over 10 years of clinical experience. I’ve worked with individuals as they face a terminal diagnosis; with patients who have experienced losses in their relationships and livelihood due to mental illness or a chronic condition; with couples as they navigate role shifts, parenting, and caregiving of elder family members; with clients whose life experience of social marginalization have led to depression; and with those presenting to their primary care doctor for stomach pain and heart palpitations, only to learn that anxiety is the root cause.
BIPOC, LGBTQIA+).
I am a queer, Black, fully-licensed therapist (LCSW) with over 10 years of clinical experience. I’ve worked with individuals as they face a terminal diagnosis; with patients who have experienced losses in their relationships and livelihood due to mental illness or a chronic condition; with couples as they navigate role shifts, parenting, and caregiving of elder family members; with clients whose life experience of social marginalization have led to depression; and with those presenting to their primary care doctor for stomach pain and heart palpitations, only to learn that anxiety is the root cause.
Katie Totten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Research Triangle, NC 27713
Waitlist for new clients
I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and believe everyone should have a safe place to heal.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or unsatisfied in life? Are you struggling to accept and love your body? You may be feeling stuck or lost, but living a values based, fulfilling life is possible. My goal is to support clients to creating a life they desire through consistent empathy and unconditional positive regard. Therapy can be a powerful tool in increasing quality of life and the therapeutic relationship is essential in this process. I am a Health at Every Size (HAES) aligned provider. Note: I am newer to this practice (but not to being a therapist), so I have sessions available almost immediately. I'd love to help.
I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and believe everyone should have a safe place to heal.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or unsatisfied in life? Are you struggling to accept and love your body? You may be feeling stuck or lost, but living a values based, fulfilling life is possible. My goal is to support clients to creating a life they desire through consistent empathy and unconditional positive regard. Therapy can be a powerful tool in increasing quality of life and the therapeutic relationship is essential in this process. I am a Health at Every Size (HAES) aligned provider. Note: I am newer to this practice (but not to being a therapist), so I have sessions available almost immediately. I'd love to help.
Maybe you’re tired of obsessing about your next meal and struggling with your body image every time you look in the mirror. Perhaps you’re constantly questioning if you’re enough, battling the belief that you need to be perfect in order to be loved. You might be someone who has trouble setting boundaries because your strong empathy leads you to prioritize others over yourself. Or, maybe you're someone who feels unseen and unsteady in a world that doesn’t affirm or offer safety for your identities. If any of this sounds familiar, then hi! I'm Ashley, owner of Bad Ash Therapy, and you’ve found the right place. :)
Maybe you’re tired of obsessing about your next meal and struggling with your body image every time you look in the mirror. Perhaps you’re constantly questioning if you’re enough, battling the belief that you need to be perfect in order to be loved. You might be someone who has trouble setting boundaries because your strong empathy leads you to prioritize others over yourself. Or, maybe you're someone who feels unseen and unsteady in a world that doesn’t affirm or offer safety for your identities. If any of this sounds familiar, then hi! I'm Ashley, owner of Bad Ash Therapy, and you’ve found the right place. :)
Megan Proctor
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Research Triangle, NC 27713 (Online Only)
Are you interested in emancipation from intrusive thoughts? If so, you're in the right place! Helping empower clients to tame their inner critic and live in the present moment in order to find peace is my passion.
Are you interested in emancipation from intrusive thoughts? If so, you're in the right place! Helping empower clients to tame their inner critic and live in the present moment in order to find peace is my passion.
Ariel Rogers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Research Triangle, NC 27713 (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples to enhance their ability to cope in times of hardship, transitional periods and to problem solve life's many nuanced experiences. We collaborate and explore how the dynamic of engagement with self and others are connected to the most pressing issues.
I work with individuals and couples to enhance their ability to cope in times of hardship, transitional periods and to problem solve life's many nuanced experiences. We collaborate and explore how the dynamic of engagement with self and others are connected to the most pressing issues.
Sarah Harrocks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Research Triangle, NC 27713
We are all journeying through life. At times the path you are traveling becomes unclear and may require action to move the debris blocking your way. Debris may show up as depression, anxiety, self-doubt, or even fear. There may also have been something along your journey which caused you great pain that could be hindering your ability to move forward in life. Counseling can support you with clearing the way so that you may see yourself and your path more clearly, allowing you to live the life you most desire.
We are all journeying through life. At times the path you are traveling becomes unclear and may require action to move the debris blocking your way. Debris may show up as depression, anxiety, self-doubt, or even fear. There may also have been something along your journey which caused you great pain that could be hindering your ability to move forward in life. Counseling can support you with clearing the way so that you may see yourself and your path more clearly, allowing you to live the life you most desire.
Tisha Fauntleroy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Research Triangle, NC 27713 (Online Only)
Life is like an ocean of possibilities. There are times in life that you are floating along just fine, times were you are riding high on the waves, and then there are times you feel like you are caught in a strong under current, struggling to keep from drowning. Whether you are dealing with depression, emotional challenges, trauma, relationship issues, or difficult life transitions and circumstances, you do not have to navigate them alone. My role as your therapist is to support and challenge you to reach your personal goals, with compassion and understanding, in an empathetic, judgment free partnership.
Life is like an ocean of possibilities. There are times in life that you are floating along just fine, times were you are riding high on the waves, and then there are times you feel like you are caught in a strong under current, struggling to keep from drowning. Whether you are dealing with depression, emotional challenges, trauma, relationship issues, or difficult life transitions and circumstances, you do not have to navigate them alone. My role as your therapist is to support and challenge you to reach your personal goals, with compassion and understanding, in an empathetic, judgment free partnership.
As a therapist, I foundationally work from the belief that all humans deserve to feel safe and at home in their bodies. In this messy world, we can often find ourselves not trusting our bodies and wanting to change them. Sometimes within that mess, people may find themselves coping in ways that do not address their deep, underlying needs. I believe in this therapeutic process, you can reconnect with those needs and serve them more intentionally, healing the deepest parts of yourself. My goal is not only to help you find that healing, but to also enjoy and accept the messiness along the way.
As a therapist, I foundationally work from the belief that all humans deserve to feel safe and at home in their bodies. In this messy world, we can often find ourselves not trusting our bodies and wanting to change them. Sometimes within that mess, people may find themselves coping in ways that do not address their deep, underlying needs. I believe in this therapeutic process, you can reconnect with those needs and serve them more intentionally, healing the deepest parts of yourself. My goal is not only to help you find that healing, but to also enjoy and accept the messiness along the way.
Joe Gilbert
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, CMMT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Research Triangle, NC 27713
Waitlist for new clients
It is no measure of health to be well adjusted to a profoundly sick society. - Quote by J. Krishnamurti. Thank you for taking the time to read over my profile. I am very grateful to offer counseling for adults who are looking for a welcoming place to rest, reflect, and create a path forward that is in line with their values. I often describe my approach as relational, process-oriented counseling for the human condition. My ideal clients are those who have become tired of the self-improvement hamster wheel, and have begun to sense (perhaps through meditation, psychedelics, art) the potential freedom beyond their personal story.
It is no measure of health to be well adjusted to a profoundly sick society. - Quote by J. Krishnamurti. Thank you for taking the time to read over my profile. I am very grateful to offer counseling for adults who are looking for a welcoming place to rest, reflect, and create a path forward that is in line with their values. I often describe my approach as relational, process-oriented counseling for the human condition. My ideal clients are those who have become tired of the self-improvement hamster wheel, and have begun to sense (perhaps through meditation, psychedelics, art) the potential freedom beyond their personal story.
More Therapists Nearby
Shelagh Patricia Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707 (Online Only)
I enjoy collaborating with folks who are committed to personal growth and open communication; as a queer therapist, I deeply appreciate working with other folks in my community. Supporting individuals in their personal evolution, assisting them in developing healthier coping mechanisms, and enhancing self-awareness and self-acceptance is my calling. I have 13 years of experience providing support to individuals and families facing a broad range of challenges including depression, anxiety, medical issues, end-of-life care/hospice, recovery from abusive situations, trauma, and significant life changes.
I enjoy collaborating with folks who are committed to personal growth and open communication; as a queer therapist, I deeply appreciate working with other folks in my community. Supporting individuals in their personal evolution, assisting them in developing healthier coping mechanisms, and enhancing self-awareness and self-acceptance is my calling. I have 13 years of experience providing support to individuals and families facing a broad range of challenges including depression, anxiety, medical issues, end-of-life care/hospice, recovery from abusive situations, trauma, and significant life changes.
Nancy Kent
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC-S, CCTP
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713 (Online Only)
I've counseled on parenting, LGBTQ, medical/chronic health and developmental disability, career and other life transitions.
I've always wanted to incorporate animals into therapeutic activities. My family has all rescues and I’ve volunteered with APS of Durham for over 10 years. Animal assisted therapy is generally done with the therapist's personal animal. My pre-Covid sessions were typically in home with you and your pet, developing more connection and emotional support. I moved my small practice to tele-health but try to be available and flexible to meet when you need. It’s also important that the therapy is a fit for what you need and you can be yourself. I’m building a therapy space in Hendersonville early 2025 for in person sessions.
I've counseled on parenting, LGBTQ, medical/chronic health and developmental disability, career and other life transitions.
I've always wanted to incorporate animals into therapeutic activities. My family has all rescues and I’ve volunteered with APS of Durham for over 10 years. Animal assisted therapy is generally done with the therapist's personal animal. My pre-Covid sessions were typically in home with you and your pet, developing more connection and emotional support. I moved my small practice to tele-health but try to be available and flexible to meet when you need. It’s also important that the therapy is a fit for what you need and you can be yourself. I’m building a therapy space in Hendersonville early 2025 for in person sessions.
With of this in mind, I identify as a white, queer, single, middle-class person with no children.
To future clients, I find that sharing about myself in the beginning of our relationship can help create a better sense of the lenses through which I approach the world and therapy. I believe my training is only one of the lenses that helps me understand and work with problems and clients. My personal experiences also inform what I see and what I do not see. It is possible that my personal identities may be helpful or a limitation in our work together – so I think it is helpful to learn your thoughts about this too. I think it is important to be able to discuss this throughout our journey together if relevant.
With of this in mind, I identify as a white, queer, single, middle-class person with no children.
To future clients, I find that sharing about myself in the beginning of our relationship can help create a better sense of the lenses through which I approach the world and therapy. I believe my training is only one of the lenses that helps me understand and work with problems and clients. My personal experiences also inform what I see and what I do not see. It is possible that my personal identities may be helpful or a limitation in our work together – so I think it is helpful to learn your thoughts about this too. I think it is important to be able to discuss this throughout our journey together if relevant.
Michelle Topal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713
I am a cisgender woman who has been part of and serving the queer community for 30 years, with a focus on those who defy labels and who identify along the gender continuum.
Appointments Available. If you are looking for someone who understands the stress for many of us in these divisive, uncertain social and political times, I am here to help. You will find me down to earth, direct, kind, with a sometimes wicked sense of humor. For over 25 years I’ve provided the easy, affirming and safe space for teens, adults, parents, families, couples and the LGBTQ+ community to be authentic and open. My informal, conversational style has been particularly helpful in connecting with teens, especially in their exploration of sexual and gender identity. If I sound like a fit for you, reach out. I want to help.
I am a cisgender woman who has been part of and serving the queer community for 30 years, with a focus on those who defy labels and who identify along the gender continuum.
Appointments Available. If you are looking for someone who understands the stress for many of us in these divisive, uncertain social and political times, I am here to help. You will find me down to earth, direct, kind, with a sometimes wicked sense of humor. For over 25 years I’ve provided the easy, affirming and safe space for teens, adults, parents, families, couples and the LGBTQ+ community to be authentic and open. My informal, conversational style has been particularly helpful in connecting with teens, especially in their exploration of sexual and gender identity. If I sound like a fit for you, reach out. I want to help.
I am a white, queer, nerdy, and sex-positive individual.
Life and relationships can be stressful or painful at times. I am passionate about working with families, romantic partnerships, and individuals to move through the stress and pain towards healing and authentic connection. I specialize in working with families of adolescents, romantic partnerships, and individuals through a systemic lens. I will work with you to reconnect to your personal and relational strengths to address the concerns you bring with you to therapy. The therapy modalities that I pull from are Emotionally Focused Therapy, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, structural therapy, and mindfulness.
I am a white, queer, nerdy, and sex-positive individual.
Life and relationships can be stressful or painful at times. I am passionate about working with families, romantic partnerships, and individuals to move through the stress and pain towards healing and authentic connection. I specialize in working with families of adolescents, romantic partnerships, and individuals through a systemic lens. I will work with you to reconnect to your personal and relational strengths to address the concerns you bring with you to therapy. The therapy modalities that I pull from are Emotionally Focused Therapy, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, structural therapy, and mindfulness.
Therapy for Queer People of Color
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707 (Online Only)
Therapy for Queer People of Color is a mental health network and group therapy practice striving to learn, grow, and contribute in a meaningful way to the lives of QPOC.
Therapy for Queer People of Color exclusively centers the mental health and wellness needs of queer and trans people of color. Our 100% virtual practice offers relief from traffic, zero travel expenses, and convenient hours.
Therapy for Queer People of Color is a mental health network and group therapy practice striving to learn, grow, and contribute in a meaningful way to the lives of QPOC.
Therapy for Queer People of Color exclusively centers the mental health and wellness needs of queer and trans people of color. Our 100% virtual practice offers relief from traffic, zero travel expenses, and convenient hours.
As an LGBTQIA+ sex therapist with personal and professional experience in the neurodiverse community, I use a system theory and strength-based approach with clients to work through challenges related to relationship boundaries, familial conflict, gender identity, sexual orientation, sexual health, anxiety, depression and healing from sexual trauma.
Sex has long been considered a taboo topic and so is often difficult to talk about. I believe it’s important to openly engage in vulnerable discussions about sex, sexuality, and gender. By doing so, we can work together to break down stigmas and create easier access to education and resources, ultimately leading to better sexual health and wellness. At Carolina Sexual Wellness Center, I welcome the opportunity to foster open dialogue with my clients, especially those from underrepresented groups with intersecting identities who lack easy access to tailored sexual health resources.
As an LGBTQIA+ sex therapist with personal and professional experience in the neurodiverse community, I use a system theory and strength-based approach with clients to work through challenges related to relationship boundaries, familial conflict, gender identity, sexual orientation, sexual health, anxiety, depression and healing from sexual trauma.
Sex has long been considered a taboo topic and so is often difficult to talk about. I believe it’s important to openly engage in vulnerable discussions about sex, sexuality, and gender. By doing so, we can work together to break down stigmas and create easier access to education and resources, ultimately leading to better sexual health and wellness. At Carolina Sexual Wellness Center, I welcome the opportunity to foster open dialogue with my clients, especially those from underrepresented groups with intersecting identities who lack easy access to tailored sexual health resources.
Dr. Mary Woodson
Counselor, PhD, LCAS, LCMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707 (Online Only)
I specialize working with with BIPOC (black, indigenous, people of color), various religious, and LGBTQIA+ communities.
If you or your teenager can answer yes to ANY of these questions, let's schedule a time to meet conveniently online: Feeling hopeless or like things aren't going to get better? Having difficulty speaking up for yourself or communicating with others?Is it hard adjusting to change? Do you wish you had a clear plan towards reaching your goals? Do you deal with stress? Are you in an open, poly, or non-monogamous relationship (ENM)? Do you have negative thoughts or struggle with low self-esteem? Are you starting to use alcohol or drugs to cope with your problems and worried it may be getting out of control?
I specialize working with with BIPOC (black, indigenous, people of color), various religious, and LGBTQIA+ communities.
If you or your teenager can answer yes to ANY of these questions, let's schedule a time to meet conveniently online: Feeling hopeless or like things aren't going to get better? Having difficulty speaking up for yourself or communicating with others?Is it hard adjusting to change? Do you wish you had a clear plan towards reaching your goals? Do you deal with stress? Are you in an open, poly, or non-monogamous relationship (ENM)? Do you have negative thoughts or struggle with low self-esteem? Are you starting to use alcohol or drugs to cope with your problems and worried it may be getting out of control?
Stephens Whitehurst
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713
Waitlist for new clients
As a neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, I value the importance of a safe, non-judgmental, and warm environment where you feel genuinely accepted and respected. I regard building a partnership with my clients as essential to creating and achieving their therapeutic goals. My passion involves working with neurodivergent clients of all ages. I have over nine years of experience working with autistic individuals with co-occurring mental health diagnoses such as anxiety, OCD, and depression. Additionally, I have experience working with individuals with other developmental as well as physical disabilities.
As a neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, I value the importance of a safe, non-judgmental, and warm environment where you feel genuinely accepted and respected. I regard building a partnership with my clients as essential to creating and achieving their therapeutic goals. My passion involves working with neurodivergent clients of all ages. I have over nine years of experience working with autistic individuals with co-occurring mental health diagnoses such as anxiety, OCD, and depression. Additionally, I have experience working with individuals with other developmental as well as physical disabilities.
As a sex therapist, I work with clients across identities and orientations, as well as individuals, couples, and partners. My services include supporting those with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, traumas, sexual orientation, gender identity, and polyamory and non-monogamy. My ideal sex therapy client is willing to commit to therapeutic work together in a trusting, empathetic, and honest environment. I have specialized knowledge about those who identify as LGBTQIA+ and am an out queer, trans therapist serving my community.
As a sex therapist, I work with clients across identities and orientations, as well as individuals, couples, and partners. My services include supporting those with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, traumas, sexual orientation, gender identity, and polyamory and non-monogamy. My ideal sex therapy client is willing to commit to therapeutic work together in a trusting, empathetic, and honest environment. I have specialized knowledge about those who identify as LGBTQIA+ and am an out queer, trans therapist serving my community.
Louise Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with folks who are seeking to build satisfaction, authenticity, and fulfillment in their lives. Many of those that I have worked with have faced challenges related to life transitions, neurdivergence, LGBTQIA+ identity, systemic oppression, interpersonal relationships, and trauma. I believe that the therapeutic relationship as a collaboration between client and therapist; ultimately, that you, the client, are the experts of their own life.
I enjoy working with folks who are seeking to build satisfaction, authenticity, and fulfillment in their lives. Many of those that I have worked with have faced challenges related to life transitions, neurdivergence, LGBTQIA+ identity, systemic oppression, interpersonal relationships, and trauma. I believe that the therapeutic relationship as a collaboration between client and therapist; ultimately, that you, the client, are the experts of their own life.
See more therapy options for Research Triangle
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Research Triangle
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- Durham
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- Morrisville
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- Research Triangle Park
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.