LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Sanford, NC
Leah Showalter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27330
I am passionate about working with adolescents, young adults, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello, my name is Leah Showalter and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. Seeking help for yourself or for your teen? If you are an individual struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, women's issues, life transitions, stress, and more, I would love to partner with you on your journey to healing. My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Person-Centered Therapy. I also enjoy using Holistic approaches such as Mindfulness-based techniques.
I am passionate about working with adolescents, young adults, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello, my name is Leah Showalter and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. Seeking help for yourself or for your teen? If you are an individual struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, women's issues, life transitions, stress, and more, I would love to partner with you on your journey to healing. My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Person-Centered Therapy. I also enjoy using Holistic approaches such as Mindfulness-based techniques.
I work with individuals, children, adolescents, teens, adults, couples, families, and persons in the LGBTQ+ community! My clinical interests include working with those affected by trauma, personality disorders, Autism, ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions, as my own life is affected by the differences and challenges my daughter’s Autism has introduced us to throughout her life. I have experience in trauma-focused CBT and DBT for those affected by childhood trauma, abuse, and sexual trauma. I also have experience with the foster-care system, single-parent households & blended families.
I work with individuals, children, adolescents, teens, adults, couples, families, and persons in the LGBTQ+ community! My clinical interests include working with those affected by trauma, personality disorders, Autism, ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions, as my own life is affected by the differences and challenges my daughter’s Autism has introduced us to throughout her life. I have experience in trauma-focused CBT and DBT for those affected by childhood trauma, abuse, and sexual trauma. I also have experience with the foster-care system, single-parent households & blended families.
A Stable Connection Counseling Center
Counselor, LCMHCA, MSEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Sanford, NC 27330
In addition to graduate degrees in education and counseling (and 20+ years of experience), Sandy is trained to work with children/adolescents, support veterans and first responders, help clients deal with trauma (including TF-CBT), grief counseling, managing anxiety and depression, supporting the LGBTQ community and providing equine assisted psychotherapy.
Are you satisfied with your life or feeling lost and wondering if there is more for you? Do you feel stuck, repeating the same thoughts or patterns? Do you worry about the little things or the big things? Are you able to tackle the bumps that life throws at you, or do you have trouble managing the roller-coaster of life? If your answer is yes (or even maybe), then counseling could be helpful to you.
In addition to graduate degrees in education and counseling (and 20+ years of experience), Sandy is trained to work with children/adolescents, support veterans and first responders, help clients deal with trauma (including TF-CBT), grief counseling, managing anxiety and depression, supporting the LGBTQ community and providing equine assisted psychotherapy.
Are you satisfied with your life or feeling lost and wondering if there is more for you? Do you feel stuck, repeating the same thoughts or patterns? Do you worry about the little things or the big things? Are you able to tackle the bumps that life throws at you, or do you have trouble managing the roller-coaster of life? If your answer is yes (or even maybe), then counseling could be helpful to you.
As a mental health counselor, I am dedicated to helping individuals and couples overcome their struggles and achieve a fulfilling life. I hold strong values of compassion, empathy, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background, beliefs, or sexual orientation. I have experience working with individuals, couples, parents, and families. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and ENM affirming.
As a mental health counselor, I am dedicated to helping individuals and couples overcome their struggles and achieve a fulfilling life. I hold strong values of compassion, empathy, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background, beliefs, or sexual orientation. I have experience working with individuals, couples, parents, and families. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and ENM affirming.
David Z Pfeffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PTSD, EMDR
Verified Verified
Sanford, NC 27332
I believe balance is the key to leading a happy, successful life. The focus of my practice is helping individuals, couples, & families in overcoming life's difficulties. I believe in a proactive, collaborative approach to counseling, where you are actively engaged in making real changes in your life. We will develop develop a plan of action to turn these goals into a reality.
Whether you're young or old, an individual, a couple, or a family, call me today and take the first step to living a positive, balanced life.
I believe balance is the key to leading a happy, successful life. The focus of my practice is helping individuals, couples, & families in overcoming life's difficulties. I believe in a proactive, collaborative approach to counseling, where you are actively engaged in making real changes in your life. We will develop develop a plan of action to turn these goals into a reality.
Whether you're young or old, an individual, a couple, or a family, call me today and take the first step to living a positive, balanced life.
Hi everyone! I look forward to getting to know you and moving forward on your journey together. I presently work with older teens and adult around various life concerns. I primarily see clients via telehealth though have some flexibility for inpatient clients in NC. My experience includes working with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, life transitions, relationship struggles, identity, and sexuality. I work with various modalities including EMDR, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, holistic therapy, reality therapy and much more. I am licensed in several states (NC, FL, WV, SC, CO, CA) but am based in NC myself.
Hi everyone! I look forward to getting to know you and moving forward on your journey together. I presently work with older teens and adult around various life concerns. I primarily see clients via telehealth though have some flexibility for inpatient clients in NC. My experience includes working with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, life transitions, relationship struggles, identity, and sexuality. I work with various modalities including EMDR, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, holistic therapy, reality therapy and much more. I am licensed in several states (NC, FL, WV, SC, CO, CA) but am based in NC myself.
Laura Bethany Bruce
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27330
Are you finding yourself in the “vicious cycle” of anxiety or depression? Do you feel like some days you are functioning on auto pilot? This can be incredibly draining. I have found that sometimes our experiences, whether good or bad, can shape the way our thought patterns affect our moods and decisions and too often these thought patterns tangle themselves in an ever-weaving web. I primarily practice from a cognitive processing perspective, which is intended to help you untangle that web and begin to remove yourself from the vicious cycle of maladaptive, anxiety and depression-invoking thoughts.
Are you finding yourself in the “vicious cycle” of anxiety or depression? Do you feel like some days you are functioning on auto pilot? This can be incredibly draining. I have found that sometimes our experiences, whether good or bad, can shape the way our thought patterns affect our moods and decisions and too often these thought patterns tangle themselves in an ever-weaving web. I primarily practice from a cognitive processing perspective, which is intended to help you untangle that web and begin to remove yourself from the vicious cycle of maladaptive, anxiety and depression-invoking thoughts.
At Counseling Connections, we are committed to fostering a therapeutic environment grounded in trust, safety, and genuine care. Our core values center on building meaningful relationships that empower clients to achieve autonomy and self-agency. We believe in the transformative power of authentic connection and are devoted to enhancing the well-being of individuals, couples, and families throughout North Carolina. Our team of clinicians is distinguished not only by their rigorous educational backgrounds but also by their specialized training and certifications.
At Counseling Connections, we are committed to fostering a therapeutic environment grounded in trust, safety, and genuine care. Our core values center on building meaningful relationships that empower clients to achieve autonomy and self-agency. We believe in the transformative power of authentic connection and are devoted to enhancing the well-being of individuals, couples, and families throughout North Carolina. Our team of clinicians is distinguished not only by their rigorous educational backgrounds but also by their specialized training and certifications.
Linda Annette (Anne) Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sanford, NC 27330 (Online Only)
I offer psychotherapy to people who are in emotional distress, often related to childhood experiences, trauma, current stressors, illness, relationship issues, grief, etc.
I offer psychotherapy to people who are in emotional distress, often related to childhood experiences, trauma, current stressors, illness, relationship issues, grief, etc.
Laura Wooten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27330 (Online Only)
Welcome! Therapy is a collaborative process where together we identify areas for personal growth and develop skills that can support you in finding balance and reaching your goals. Are you experiencing anxiety or depression and finding it hard to get through each day? Having difficulty sleeping or navigating emotional ups and downs? Are you going through a life transition, such as college or grad school, divorce, a new partnership or parenthood? Are you dealing with the impact of past trauma? Rediscover your inner strength, with practical tools, support, and encouragement every step of the way.
Welcome! Therapy is a collaborative process where together we identify areas for personal growth and develop skills that can support you in finding balance and reaching your goals. Are you experiencing anxiety or depression and finding it hard to get through each day? Having difficulty sleeping or navigating emotional ups and downs? Are you going through a life transition, such as college or grad school, divorce, a new partnership or parenthood? Are you dealing with the impact of past trauma? Rediscover your inner strength, with practical tools, support, and encouragement every step of the way.
Kim Elaine Knoeller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sanford, NC 27332 (Online Only)
A connection with my clients is the first thing that others will say is strong about my work. Building a trusting relationship in which there is safety, genuine care, interest, and validation is at the core of good therapy and is my strength. My interventions are soft and leave each of my clients feelings they have authority in their own lives, they can love and respect and care about themselves, showing themselves compassion at every turn. Your goals are my goals always.
A connection with my clients is the first thing that others will say is strong about my work. Building a trusting relationship in which there is safety, genuine care, interest, and validation is at the core of good therapy and is my strength. My interventions are soft and leave each of my clients feelings they have authority in their own lives, they can love and respect and care about themselves, showing themselves compassion at every turn. Your goals are my goals always.
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Are you experiencing anxiety or depression when it comes to school, work, or home life? Are you a parent having difficulty navigating through parenthood? Do you have a child or teen that are struggling emotionally? Are you having a hard time getting over a breakup? My name is Michaela Adkins, LCSWA and I am here to help you through these challenges.I am currently a licensed mental health therapist in the state of North Carolina. I have a passion for helping people heal holistically, meaning body, mind, and soul.
Are you experiencing anxiety or depression when it comes to school, work, or home life? Are you a parent having difficulty navigating through parenthood? Do you have a child or teen that are struggling emotionally? Are you having a hard time getting over a breakup? My name is Michaela Adkins, LCSWA and I am here to help you through these challenges.I am currently a licensed mental health therapist in the state of North Carolina. I have a passion for helping people heal holistically, meaning body, mind, and soul.
Carolina Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sanford, NC 27330
Engaging in counseling with a trusted Licensed Professionals can not only improve your emotional health, but your physical health as well! Finding resolution can result in an overall healthier you!
Engaging in counseling with a trusted Licensed Professionals can not only improve your emotional health, but your physical health as well! Finding resolution can result in an overall healthier you!
Amy Trousdale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27330
Waitlist for new clients
Let’s sit down together and start changing your narrative to reflect the best version of you. Navigating through life can be stressful and difficult however you do not have to walk this path alone. Through identifying negative thought patterns or learning how old behavior patterns have not always served you well, I am confident we can get you on a path to a brighter future.
Let’s sit down together and start changing your narrative to reflect the best version of you. Navigating through life can be stressful and difficult however you do not have to walk this path alone. Through identifying negative thought patterns or learning how old behavior patterns have not always served you well, I am confident we can get you on a path to a brighter future.
I welcome adults, families, or couples. If you are feeling sad and unmotivated, having difficulties with certain life transitions, relationship concerns, or family conflict. I can assist you and your family. Your decision to engage in counseling is admirable, as counseling involves being committed, having a willingness to change, and vulnerability. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental, trustworthy space for you to gain insight and clarity, and help you resolve the concerns that keep you from enjoying your life.
I welcome adults, families, or couples. If you are feeling sad and unmotivated, having difficulties with certain life transitions, relationship concerns, or family conflict. I can assist you and your family. Your decision to engage in counseling is admirable, as counseling involves being committed, having a willingness to change, and vulnerability. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental, trustworthy space for you to gain insight and clarity, and help you resolve the concerns that keep you from enjoying your life.
Welcome. Are you experiencing difficulties with relationships, children, spirituality, sex, or work? It often happens that many of us need a little help now and then. In my years of practice, I've seen how depression and anxiety can affect people's lives and can cause a great deal of guilt and frustration. Life is a journey, both joyous and painful. I believe that no one purposely tries to mess up their life, however, once caught up in our own situations we often cannot see the "forest for the trees", making it difficult to see things any differently during stressfull times.
Welcome. Are you experiencing difficulties with relationships, children, spirituality, sex, or work? It often happens that many of us need a little help now and then. In my years of practice, I've seen how depression and anxiety can affect people's lives and can cause a great deal of guilt and frustration. Life is a journey, both joyous and painful. I believe that no one purposely tries to mess up their life, however, once caught up in our own situations we often cannot see the "forest for the trees", making it difficult to see things any differently during stressfull times.
Tim Wooten
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LCMHC, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27330 (Online Only)
As a counselor, I work from a person-centered approach to therapy, partnering with you to meet you where you are, leverage individual strengths, and identify areas of growth and resilience. I enjoy working with people experiencing anxiety and panic disorders as well as those working to heal from past trauma. If you experience feelings of dread, difficulty sleeping, worries about health, your loved ones or yourself, lack of motivation or loss of interest in activities, therapy can be a place to process these concerns and develop ways to ease your symptoms.
As a counselor, I work from a person-centered approach to therapy, partnering with you to meet you where you are, leverage individual strengths, and identify areas of growth and resilience. I enjoy working with people experiencing anxiety and panic disorders as well as those working to heal from past trauma. If you experience feelings of dread, difficulty sleeping, worries about health, your loved ones or yourself, lack of motivation or loss of interest in activities, therapy can be a place to process these concerns and develop ways to ease your symptoms.
Hello! I’ve worked as a licensed counselor since 2017, with previous experience as a social worker. My focus is working with adults who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depressive symptoms, relational difficulties, family issues, substance use, and severe mental illnesses. My theoretical orientation is an integration of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Behavioral Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Mindfulness. I have learned that no two people are the same and that everyone must be treated individually and holistically.
Hello! I’ve worked as a licensed counselor since 2017, with previous experience as a social worker. My focus is working with adults who have experienced trauma, anxiety, depressive symptoms, relational difficulties, family issues, substance use, and severe mental illnesses. My theoretical orientation is an integration of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Behavioral Therapy (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Mindfulness. I have learned that no two people are the same and that everyone must be treated individually and holistically.
I have immediate openings and I welcome the opportunity to assist you in resolving your life's challenges and concerns. I am happy to provide counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. I specialize in working with people struggling through any type of difficulties where it be childhood trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic, unanticipated life events, family and marital problems and substance use.
I have immediate openings and I welcome the opportunity to assist you in resolving your life's challenges and concerns. I am happy to provide counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. I specialize in working with people struggling through any type of difficulties where it be childhood trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic, unanticipated life events, family and marital problems and substance use.
Carolina Counseling Services - Cameron, NC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sanford, NC 27330
There can be a lot of obstacles to living the life you want, therapy can help. We have appointments available with independently contracted therapists who enjoy working with couples, adults, teens and children. We contract with experienced, licensed clinicians that can help you work through what may be holding you back.
There can be a lot of obstacles to living the life you want, therapy can help. We have appointments available with independently contracted therapists who enjoy working with couples, adults, teens and children. We contract with experienced, licensed clinicians that can help you work through what may be holding you back.
See more therapy options for Sanford
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Sanford
- Cameron
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- Fuquay Varina
- Holly Springs
- Lillington
- Pinehurst
- Pittsboro
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- Spring Lake
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- Whispering Pines
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.