LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Boonton, NJ

Photo of Lenny Gallo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lenny Gallo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boonton, NJ 07005  (Online Only)
People create meaningful change when they feel heard and validated. What I love about being a therapist is the ability to be a part of that process and help them adjust their perspective, confront challenges, and realize their worth and potential so they can create a value driven life. While my primary specialty is in anxiety/panic disorders and OCD, I work in a variety of areas, including creative/entertainment/sports professionals, men’s issues, sex/porn addiction, trauma, body and muscle dysmorphia, LGBTQ+ concerns, and anger management.
People create meaningful change when they feel heard and validated. What I love about being a therapist is the ability to be a part of that process and help them adjust their perspective, confront challenges, and realize their worth and potential so they can create a value driven life. While my primary specialty is in anxiety/panic disorders and OCD, I work in a variety of areas, including creative/entertainment/sports professionals, men’s issues, sex/porn addiction, trauma, body and muscle dysmorphia, LGBTQ+ concerns, and anger management.
(973) 314-2627 View (973) 314-2627
Photo of Chana Friedman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chana Friedman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boonton, NJ 07005
I am a family systems trained relational therapist who practices through a trauma informed, culturally aware, and LGBTQ+ friendly lens. I believe that the therapeutic process is a collaborative one in which you are the expert in your life and already possess strengths that can be harnessed to address difficulties. 

In my role as therapist, I will assist you in exploring and processing difficult experiences, finding creative ways to resolve problems, and increase your ability to cope with challenges. The primary goal we will work toward is for you to achieve healthy and balanced function in all areas of life.
I am a family systems trained relational therapist who practices through a trauma informed, culturally aware, and LGBTQ+ friendly lens. I believe that the therapeutic process is a collaborative one in which you are the expert in your life and already possess strengths that can be harnessed to address difficulties. 

In my role as therapist, I will assist you in exploring and processing difficult experiences, finding creative ways to resolve problems, and increase your ability to cope with challenges. The primary goal we will work toward is for you to achieve healthy and balanced function in all areas of life.
(973) 218-4576 View (973) 218-4576
Photo of Sara Fagan, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Fagan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boonton, NJ 07005
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in anxiety, trauma and the LGBTQIA+ community.
It is my passion to help my clients create the life they desire. My clients are often highly sensitive people, perfectionists, creatives or empaths. Life is hard and my goal is to help you feel a little more comfortable in your own skin.
I specialize in anxiety, trauma and the LGBTQIA+ community.
It is my passion to help my clients create the life they desire. My clients are often highly sensitive people, perfectionists, creatives or empaths. Life is hard and my goal is to help you feel a little more comfortable in your own skin.
(551) 239-1995 View (551) 239-1995
Photo of Heidi L Brady, LPC, MFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heidi L Brady
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MFT
Verified Verified
Boonton, NJ 07005
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years of experience in the mental health field. Helping adults, adolescents, and pre-teens struggling with anxiety, depression, stress-management, self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ issues and relationships are my specialties. My friendly, non-judgmental, compassionate approach creates a space where it is safe to share, discover and explore the issues you are bringing to therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years of experience in the mental health field. Helping adults, adolescents, and pre-teens struggling with anxiety, depression, stress-management, self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ issues and relationships are my specialties. My friendly, non-judgmental, compassionate approach creates a space where it is safe to share, discover and explore the issues you are bringing to therapy.
(973) 358-8873 View (973) 358-8873
Photo of Alexa Taylor Sharpe, MA, LAC, Counselor
Alexa Taylor Sharpe
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Boonton, NJ 07005
I’ve established and facilitated group sessions for the LGBTQIA+ community, specifically for those in recovery.
Do you lack positive self-worth and self-esteem? I want to support you and assist you in rebuilding your confidence to effectively care for your mental health. Have you suffered a traumatic experience? It's possible that you haven’t processed the trauma or established effective coping skills to manage the symptoms you continue to suffer. Maybe, you’ve attempted to resolve the symptoms associated to your trauma with substances or other harmful coping, in an attempt to escape your reality. I want to help you understand your triggers and I want to help you to begin to accept yourself.
I’ve established and facilitated group sessions for the LGBTQIA+ community, specifically for those in recovery.
Do you lack positive self-worth and self-esteem? I want to support you and assist you in rebuilding your confidence to effectively care for your mental health. Have you suffered a traumatic experience? It's possible that you haven’t processed the trauma or established effective coping skills to manage the symptoms you continue to suffer. Maybe, you’ve attempted to resolve the symptoms associated to your trauma with substances or other harmful coping, in an attempt to escape your reality. I want to help you understand your triggers and I want to help you to begin to accept yourself.
(973) 604-0287 View (973) 604-0287
Photo of Nicole Garamella, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Garamella
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boonton, NJ 07005  (Online Only)
My predominant focus is with couples and families, with a focus in neurodivergence, difficult life transitions, infidelity recovery, intimacy issues, blended family matters, family planning, and trauma. With individuals, I work with trauma, anxiety, ASD and ADHD, depression, LGBTQIA issues, and self esteem building. My main goal is to meet clients where they are in the moment. The focus of treatment is to create a safe space in which people can explore and understand their internal parts and systems, and disrupt old relational patterns that leave them feeling stuck and unsatisfied.
My predominant focus is with couples and families, with a focus in neurodivergence, difficult life transitions, infidelity recovery, intimacy issues, blended family matters, family planning, and trauma. With individuals, I work with trauma, anxiety, ASD and ADHD, depression, LGBTQIA issues, and self esteem building. My main goal is to meet clients where they are in the moment. The focus of treatment is to create a safe space in which people can explore and understand their internal parts and systems, and disrupt old relational patterns that leave them feeling stuck and unsatisfied.
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Photo of Stephanie McGhee, MSW, LCSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie McGhee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
Boonton, NJ 07005
Waitlist for new clients
We all face struggles in life. Maybe relationships or sexual behavior seem "crazy” or consuming. Or, maybe you struggle with extreme eating habits, spending or another kind of compulsive behavior. Maybe your job exposes you to daily risk and tragedy and you're feeling the weight of it. You may struggle to manage emotions, anxiety, loneliness, grief. All my clients deal with these kinds of things. It’s no coincidence they've also usually dealt with abuse, family dysfunction or trauma. Many have PTSD, CPTSD or dissociative disorder.
We all face struggles in life. Maybe relationships or sexual behavior seem "crazy” or consuming. Or, maybe you struggle with extreme eating habits, spending or another kind of compulsive behavior. Maybe your job exposes you to daily risk and tragedy and you're feeling the weight of it. You may struggle to manage emotions, anxiety, loneliness, grief. All my clients deal with these kinds of things. It’s no coincidence they've also usually dealt with abuse, family dysfunction or trauma. Many have PTSD, CPTSD or dissociative disorder.
(862) 702-6502 View (862) 702-6502
Photo of Kim Traina-Nolan, MA, LPAT, LCAT, ATR-BC, LPC, Art Therapist
Kim Traina-Nolan
Art Therapist, MA, LPAT, LCAT, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boonton, NJ 07005
Hi I’m Kim Traina-Nolan I help anxious, depressed and insecure teens explore overwhelming emotion and maladaptive behaviors through Art psychotherapy so they can feel confident enough ‘to say everything’ and grow strong emotionally. I do my best work with teens who struggle with poor self image, who are experiencing conflict in relationships and who want to end self defeating or suicidal thoughts and self injurious behaviors.
Hi I’m Kim Traina-Nolan I help anxious, depressed and insecure teens explore overwhelming emotion and maladaptive behaviors through Art psychotherapy so they can feel confident enough ‘to say everything’ and grow strong emotionally. I do my best work with teens who struggle with poor self image, who are experiencing conflict in relationships and who want to end self defeating or suicidal thoughts and self injurious behaviors.
(862) 377-6539 View (862) 377-6539
Photo of Lisa Ellis, MA, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Ellis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Boonton, NJ 07005  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself constantly consumed by worry, plagued by intrusive thoughts, haunted by nightmares, or struggling to manage your emotions? Are there certain places or people that you avoid out of fear? It seems like you have difficulty trusting yourself or others. It's leaving you feeling exhausted, debilitated, and unable to truly live life to the fullest. For too long, you've shouldered the weight of anxiety and past traumas. You've survived, but at what cost? It's time to break free from the burdens that hold you back and discover the life you deserve.
Do you find yourself constantly consumed by worry, plagued by intrusive thoughts, haunted by nightmares, or struggling to manage your emotions? Are there certain places or people that you avoid out of fear? It seems like you have difficulty trusting yourself or others. It's leaving you feeling exhausted, debilitated, and unable to truly live life to the fullest. For too long, you've shouldered the weight of anxiety and past traumas. You've survived, but at what cost? It's time to break free from the burdens that hold you back and discover the life you deserve.
(201) 350-1562 View (201) 350-1562
Photo of Gail Belluardo, LCSW, NCPsyA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gail Belluardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
Boonton, NJ 07005
I enjoy working with clients with a variety of issues. These include anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, parenting, sexual abuse, identity issues, employment, menopause, spirituality and assertiveness. Every person is unique so I focus on helping them realize their strengths as well as the areas they would like to grow and develop in. My approach is positive and affirmative. As a result of my comprehensive training, I am able to tailor therapy to each individual's needs and desires.
I enjoy working with clients with a variety of issues. These include anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, parenting, sexual abuse, identity issues, employment, menopause, spirituality and assertiveness. Every person is unique so I focus on helping them realize their strengths as well as the areas they would like to grow and develop in. My approach is positive and affirmative. As a result of my comprehensive training, I am able to tailor therapy to each individual's needs and desires.
(973) 607-3796 View (973) 607-3796
Photo of Emily K Ryzuk, MA, EdS, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily K Ryzuk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Boonton, NJ 07005
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, specializing in trauma, sexuality and infertility issues. With my background of running the Sexual Assault Center for Morris County, I am also specialized in working with sexual assault survivors.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, specializing in trauma, sexuality and infertility issues. With my background of running the Sexual Assault Center for Morris County, I am also specialized in working with sexual assault survivors.
(973) 233-4695 View (973) 233-4695
Photo of Jaime Langford, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaime Langford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boonton, NJ 07005
You can't stop worrying, even when it seems like there's nothing to worry about. You feel tired, irritated, or constantly on autopilot. Socializing is overwhelming and exhausting. This is not the life you pictured for yourself.
You can't stop worrying, even when it seems like there's nothing to worry about. You feel tired, irritated, or constantly on autopilot. Socializing is overwhelming and exhausting. This is not the life you pictured for yourself.
(862) 263-9595 View (862) 263-9595
Photo of Wilda Mesias, PhD, Psychologist
Wilda Mesias
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boonton, NJ 07005
Not accepting new clients
Having worked as a licensed psychologist and certified psychoanalyst for over 28 years, I have vast experience in helping people overcome a wide range of difficulties—from trauma, depression, personality disorders and anxiety to parenting, grieving, and life changes. Individuals, couples, and families make up my practice, and I work with age groups spanning infancy to adulthood. In an empathic and judgment-free space, I offer those who work with me a liberating process of healing, self-discovery, and the realization of their unique potential.
Having worked as a licensed psychologist and certified psychoanalyst for over 28 years, I have vast experience in helping people overcome a wide range of difficulties—from trauma, depression, personality disorders and anxiety to parenting, grieving, and life changes. Individuals, couples, and families make up my practice, and I work with age groups spanning infancy to adulthood. In an empathic and judgment-free space, I offer those who work with me a liberating process of healing, self-discovery, and the realization of their unique potential.
(973) 949-7231 View (973) 949-7231

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lauren Giangrasso, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Giangrasso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054  (Online Only)
Sometimes we need guidance, support, and a sounding board when this life thing gets tough. I will work with you on concerns including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, queer issues, relationships, body image, and self-esteem. My practice is deeply rooted in client-centeredness, meaning I meet you where you are and work to build a collaborative & curious relationship, with your specific goals in mind. I'm committed to providing a safe, affirming, judgment-free space to help guide you while you’re in the driver's seat of your sessions.
Sometimes we need guidance, support, and a sounding board when this life thing gets tough. I will work with you on concerns including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, queer issues, relationships, body image, and self-esteem. My practice is deeply rooted in client-centeredness, meaning I meet you where you are and work to build a collaborative & curious relationship, with your specific goals in mind. I'm committed to providing a safe, affirming, judgment-free space to help guide you while you’re in the driver's seat of your sessions.
(862) 418-1284 View (862) 418-1284
Photo of Jennifer K. Scerbo, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer K. Scerbo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mountain Lakes, NJ 07046
I have other areas of interest as well including the LGBTQ(+) community.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a focus on adults and young adults seeking individual counseling. My work experience is around women's issues, domestic violence, financial abuse, diagnostics, anxiety, and depression, along with case managment in exploring all treatment and resource options.
I have other areas of interest as well including the LGBTQ(+) community.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a focus on adults and young adults seeking individual counseling. My work experience is around women's issues, domestic violence, financial abuse, diagnostics, anxiety, and depression, along with case managment in exploring all treatment and resource options.
(862) 701-1712 View (862) 701-1712
Photo of Christina Andino, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Andino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mountain Lakes, NJ 07046
I have experience working with teens, adults, and couples of various backgrounds, including people of color, LGBTQIA+, foster care, adoption, and Military/Veteran communities.
You have tried everything you could to feel better, but you’ve reached the point where you need some extra help. The anxiety, depression, and/or trauma that are weighing on you daily has started to impact your job or school performance and relationships. You are feeling burnt out. Therapy may be new to you and it’s common to feel nervous about starting the process. We can work together and create a plan to help you manage and decrease stress. I will teach you healthy skills to use for coping, communication, reframing thoughts, and changing behaviors. I can help you feel empowered so that you are more in control of your life.
I have experience working with teens, adults, and couples of various backgrounds, including people of color, LGBTQIA+, foster care, adoption, and Military/Veteran communities.
You have tried everything you could to feel better, but you’ve reached the point where you need some extra help. The anxiety, depression, and/or trauma that are weighing on you daily has started to impact your job or school performance and relationships. You are feeling burnt out. Therapy may be new to you and it’s common to feel nervous about starting the process. We can work together and create a plan to help you manage and decrease stress. I will teach you healthy skills to use for coping, communication, reframing thoughts, and changing behaviors. I can help you feel empowered so that you are more in control of your life.
(201) 514-6689 View (201) 514-6689
Photo of Victoria DaCorte, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Victoria DaCorte
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034
Victoria DaCorte is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in New Jersey with four years of experience. She graduated from Felician University. Victoria believes in a treatment philosophy that includes EFT/CBT. She offers Individual Therapy, Family/Couples Therapy, Case Management, and Group Therapy. In her spare time, Victoria enjoys hiking, and kayaking.
Victoria DaCorte is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in New Jersey with four years of experience. She graduated from Felician University. Victoria believes in a treatment philosophy that includes EFT/CBT. She offers Individual Therapy, Family/Couples Therapy, Case Management, and Group Therapy. In her spare time, Victoria enjoys hiking, and kayaking.
(862) 666-3459 View (862) 666-3459
Photo of Conor Noonan, LAC, Counselor
Conor Noonan
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034
Conor Noonan is a Licensed Associate Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2024. Conor believes he can help a client by creating a safe and comfortable space for them to discuss what is on their mind. Conor can also make the client the sole focus of the session and nothing else, whether that be listening and understanding what they are saying or providing accurate therapeutic interventions that may be useful for them. Outside of work, Conor enjoys running, strength training, and watching movies.
Conor Noonan is a Licensed Associate Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2024. Conor believes he can help a client by creating a safe and comfortable space for them to discuss what is on their mind. Conor can also make the client the sole focus of the session and nothing else, whether that be listening and understanding what they are saying or providing accurate therapeutic interventions that may be useful for them. Outside of work, Conor enjoys running, strength training, and watching movies.
(862) 420-9592 View (862) 420-9592
Photo of Charles J Calantone, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charles J Calantone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034
I earned my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from William Paterson University. Over the past few years at LifeStance, I have worked with clients of a wide range of cultural backgrounds, ages, and mental health diagnoses. Prior to my time as an outpatient counselor, I also worked as an in-home counselor and completed an internship in an intensive outpatient program. My approach to therapy starts with creating a comfortable, supportive atmosphere where my clients are free to truly be themselves. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in a positive therapy outcome.
I earned my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from William Paterson University. Over the past few years at LifeStance, I have worked with clients of a wide range of cultural backgrounds, ages, and mental health diagnoses. Prior to my time as an outpatient counselor, I also worked as an in-home counselor and completed an internship in an intensive outpatient program. My approach to therapy starts with creating a comfortable, supportive atmosphere where my clients are free to truly be themselves. I believe a strong therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in a positive therapy outcome.
(862) 420-9121 View (862) 420-9121
Photo of Cara Maloney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cara Maloney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Hiawatha, NJ 07034
Cara Maloney, LCSW received her Master in Social Work degree from Ramapo College of New Jersey. She has more than 6 years of experience working in various capacities with adolescents, families, and adults. Cara has a passion for helping young adults and parents through their family planning, reproductive health journey, and parenting years as it is known to be a challenging time for many people.
Cara Maloney, LCSW received her Master in Social Work degree from Ramapo College of New Jersey. She has more than 6 years of experience working in various capacities with adolescents, families, and adults. Cara has a passion for helping young adults and parents through their family planning, reproductive health journey, and parenting years as it is known to be a challenging time for many people.
(862) 358-4520 View (862) 358-4520
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.