LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in East Rutherford, NJ
![Photo of Ilona (Missy) Giordano, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0316eb8a-63bd-4346-b856-2e42923853d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ilona (Missy) Giordano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
East Rutherford, NJ 07073 (Online Only)
I am a down to earth counselor whose style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered and mindfulness therapy's. I am always open to more approaches if the direction is necessary. I am kind and pride myself on being open and honest with my clients. Connection and Understanding produce trust. As trust begins to happen, Validation can start to begin and then the changing/healing whatever process you need to go through can and will begin.
I am a down to earth counselor whose style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered and mindfulness therapy's. I am always open to more approaches if the direction is necessary. I am kind and pride myself on being open and honest with my clients. Connection and Understanding produce trust. As trust begins to happen, Validation can start to begin and then the changing/healing whatever process you need to go through can and will begin.
![Photo of Judy Noone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/342e013c-0cb2-40e6-bcf9-f04653897eca/2/320x400.jpeg)
Judy Noone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Rutherford, NJ 07073 (Online Only)
I'm glad you found your way to my page. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and/or stress, I want to empower you to reshape your thoughts, behaviors and emotions in order to overcome challenges and achieve your goals. I'll provide a safe space for you to explore what it is that is holding you back, discover new perspectives, and develop a sense of self-compassion.
I'm glad you found your way to my page. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and/or stress, I want to empower you to reshape your thoughts, behaviors and emotions in order to overcome challenges and achieve your goals. I'll provide a safe space for you to explore what it is that is holding you back, discover new perspectives, and develop a sense of self-compassion.
![Photo of Deborah Vargas, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02d03ae5-50d7-481b-b285-2604f3bccef5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Vargas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
East Rutherford, NJ 07073 (Online Only)
Hi, feeling like life's a bit of a whirlwind lately? Whether it's anxiety keeping you up at night, feeling disconnected from others and yourself, or having trouble balancing work, family, social life & self-care, you're not alone in this journey. At Honeybee Therapy and Wellness, we're all about helping you navigate this rollercoaster called life in the most authentic & healthy way possible. If you're looking to create a healthier relationship with yourself and others, stop the people pleasing and perfectionism tendencies, or just need a safe space to unravel it all, I'm here to listen, support, & challenge you through your healing.
Hi, feeling like life's a bit of a whirlwind lately? Whether it's anxiety keeping you up at night, feeling disconnected from others and yourself, or having trouble balancing work, family, social life & self-care, you're not alone in this journey. At Honeybee Therapy and Wellness, we're all about helping you navigate this rollercoaster called life in the most authentic & healthy way possible. If you're looking to create a healthier relationship with yourself and others, stop the people pleasing and perfectionism tendencies, or just need a safe space to unravel it all, I'm here to listen, support, & challenge you through your healing.
![Photo of Kiara Sarner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5014763-a1b5-4fab-b448-df64294d42ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kiara Sarner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Rutherford, NJ 07073 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Kiara-a licensed social worker who specializes in DBT (great for coping skills, getting "unstuck", and building a life worth living). My goal as a therapist is to make you feel safe to express yourself and explore wherever you are at in life.
Hello! I'm Kiara-a licensed social worker who specializes in DBT (great for coping skills, getting "unstuck", and building a life worth living). My goal as a therapist is to make you feel safe to express yourself and explore wherever you are at in life.
![Photo of Dr. Sheena - Rafat Smith, EdD, MA, CLC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c3cc476-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sheena - Rafat Smith
Counselor, EdD, MA, CLC, LPC
Verified Verified
East Rutherford, NJ 07073 (Online Only)
With over ten years of experience specializing in helping others find their authentic self. If you desire to live a life of purpose, or need clear direction, or even want to learn how to cope with past traumatic experience, I can assist with helping you create a new life, build long lasting relationships or even find your soul mate. It's time to invest in yourself! Let's partner together to get your best results and get you the life you deserve.
With over ten years of experience specializing in helping others find their authentic self. If you desire to live a life of purpose, or need clear direction, or even want to learn how to cope with past traumatic experience, I can assist with helping you create a new life, build long lasting relationships or even find your soul mate. It's time to invest in yourself! Let's partner together to get your best results and get you the life you deserve.
![Photo of Megan Dickerson, BSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/707e3d4a-8916-4df3-8b24-b4711a64b16f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Dickerson
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Rutherford, NJ 07073 (Online Only)
Are you struggling or have you struggled in the past? Mental health is important and I want to be able to support you. Some days you may feel on top of the world when other days you feel like you can't get out of bed due to a debilitating sense of stress, depression, and anxiety. My experiences have led me to work with individuals who may feel stuck or alone navigating through a difficult time in life whether that has to do with school, work, relationships, or life in general. I am here to provide a supportive and safe non-judgmental space. Together we will explore your stressors and create a plan to help you reach your goals.
Are you struggling or have you struggled in the past? Mental health is important and I want to be able to support you. Some days you may feel on top of the world when other days you feel like you can't get out of bed due to a debilitating sense of stress, depression, and anxiety. My experiences have led me to work with individuals who may feel stuck or alone navigating through a difficult time in life whether that has to do with school, work, relationships, or life in general. I am here to provide a supportive and safe non-judgmental space. Together we will explore your stressors and create a plan to help you reach your goals.
![Photo of Suzy Takvorian, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f80c53ec-e016-47e2-97f2-b49c923d70c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Suzy Takvorian
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
East Rutherford, NJ 07073 (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Suzy. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, and feel overwhelmed? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, and health? Have you lost motivation? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Are you struggling with your child/ren? I help people manage their anxieties, and depression, to avoid burnout. Together, we can identify your strengths, and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole-self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness, and self-care strategies, to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
Hi there, I'm Suzy. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, and feel overwhelmed? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work, and health? Have you lost motivation? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Are you struggling with your child/ren? I help people manage their anxieties, and depression, to avoid burnout. Together, we can identify your strengths, and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole-self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness, and self-care strategies, to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
![Photo of Roxane Pakit, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4df2e4d5-7e07-40a2-827a-61672faf18f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Roxane Pakit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Rutherford, NJ 07073 (Online Only)
Hi! I have been a licensed clinical social worker for the past 40 years, and I am licensed to practice in NJ. I am in the process of reinstating my NY license. I grew up on Long Island, NY and attended Adelphi University for my Master Degree. Later, moved to NJ. Today, I live in VA and have been doing online therapy for the past 2+ years.
Hi! I have been a licensed clinical social worker for the past 40 years, and I am licensed to practice in NJ. I am in the process of reinstating my NY license. I grew up on Long Island, NY and attended Adelphi University for my Master Degree. Later, moved to NJ. Today, I live in VA and have been doing online therapy for the past 2+ years.
![Photo of Jennifer Brea, LPC, NCC, EdS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52b7fd48-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Brea
Counselor, LPC, NCC, EdS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East Rutherford, NJ 07073
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking counseling therapy takes courage, willingness to invite change, exploring difficulties, and learning new strategies. We will work together to learn healthy coping skills, to assist you in navigating challenges faced throughout life's journey. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, thoughts of self-doubt, negative beliefs, or a sense of hopelessness, counseling therapy will provide a safe space to talk. My goal is to ensure you feel safe, supported, and empowered to manage whatever comes your way.
Seeking counseling therapy takes courage, willingness to invite change, exploring difficulties, and learning new strategies. We will work together to learn healthy coping skills, to assist you in navigating challenges faced throughout life's journey. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, thoughts of self-doubt, negative beliefs, or a sense of hopelessness, counseling therapy will provide a safe space to talk. My goal is to ensure you feel safe, supported, and empowered to manage whatever comes your way.
![Photo of Janine Hurley-Nicoll, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/403ff912-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Janine Hurley-Nicoll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Rutherford, NJ 07073
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Randi Garfinkel, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/050866c2-34fd-48ac-9bad-43bb6266c5a4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Randi Garfinkel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Passaic, NJ 07055 (Online Only)
For over 15 years I have worked with teens, young adults and adults looking for help with relationships, depression, anxiety, self esteem, trauma, LGBTQ and young professionals looking to strengthen their sense of self.
Many of us struggle through the challenging times in life and seeking treatment is often a courageous first step. My goal is to provide compassionate, trustworthy, and nonjudgmental support, as we partner together on a journey of coping, healing, and thriving. I believe the therapist-client relationship is incredibly important, therefore I strive to establish an honest and warm working relationship with each client. In doing so, together we can then explore your relationships and other patterns in your life. That exploration leads to insights and understanding, geared toward discovering new ideas and finding solutions.
For over 15 years I have worked with teens, young adults and adults looking for help with relationships, depression, anxiety, self esteem, trauma, LGBTQ and young professionals looking to strengthen their sense of self.
Many of us struggle through the challenging times in life and seeking treatment is often a courageous first step. My goal is to provide compassionate, trustworthy, and nonjudgmental support, as we partner together on a journey of coping, healing, and thriving. I believe the therapist-client relationship is incredibly important, therefore I strive to establish an honest and warm working relationship with each client. In doing so, together we can then explore your relationships and other patterns in your life. That exploration leads to insights and understanding, geared toward discovering new ideas and finding solutions.
![Photo of Chelsey Soltis, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d5a06a1-3771-438c-9661-28dd78050ce7/1/320x400.png)
Chelsey Soltis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Clifton, NJ 07013 (Online Only)
Are you navigating challenges associated with gender identity, sexuality, or relationships and looking for somebody to talk to who understands? Or maybe you are coming to therapy for help with other challenges and would feel more comfortable with a therapist who is part of the LGBTQ+ community. Either way, I am here to provide a warm, supportive, and collaborative space, where you feel safe to discuss and explore the things that are most important to you. It is often difficult to recognize the behaviors or thought patterns keeping us stuck.
Are you navigating challenges associated with gender identity, sexuality, or relationships and looking for somebody to talk to who understands? Or maybe you are coming to therapy for help with other challenges and would feel more comfortable with a therapist who is part of the LGBTQ+ community. Either way, I am here to provide a warm, supportive, and collaborative space, where you feel safe to discuss and explore the things that are most important to you. It is often difficult to recognize the behaviors or thought patterns keeping us stuck.
![Photo of Graceann Furnari, PsyD, BCBA-D, LBA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a244070-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! In my practice I support adolescents, young adults, and families who are navigating issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, and many other concerns. I am particularly passionate about supporting teens and young adults seeking gender and sexuality affirming care and who are looking to create positive change in their lives. In addition, as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a parent, I am especially equipped to support parents in the LGBTQ+ community seeking parenting and relationship support.
Welcome! In my practice I support adolescents, young adults, and families who are navigating issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, and many other concerns. I am particularly passionate about supporting teens and young adults seeking gender and sexuality affirming care and who are looking to create positive change in their lives. In addition, as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a parent, I am especially equipped to support parents in the LGBTQ+ community seeking parenting and relationship support.
![Photo of Margaret Bolanos - Margaret Bolanos: Adults, Couples, Teens, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae719b8c-f553-4086-85a8-2f0053ef4f52/3/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Bolanos: Adults, Couples, Teens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Passaic, NJ 07055
I am part of our Queer, I Team, the first in-network center providing therapy by and for the community in NJ.
I am a queer Latina therapist and I love to support teens, couples, and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, interpersonal violence, first-generation experiences, sexual orientation, sexual relationships, and gender identity. I use cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma-focused techniques with teens and adults and Gottman Method couples counseling. I care about creating a safe space to explore strengths and challenges, set goals, and walk through the healing journey. I can work in English or Spanish and offer in-person and telehealth sessions. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I am part of our Queer, I Team, the first in-network center providing therapy by and for the community in NJ.
I am a queer Latina therapist and I love to support teens, couples, and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, interpersonal violence, first-generation experiences, sexual orientation, sexual relationships, and gender identity. I use cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma-focused techniques with teens and adults and Gottman Method couples counseling. I care about creating a safe space to explore strengths and challenges, set goals, and walk through the healing journey. I can work in English or Spanish and offer in-person and telehealth sessions. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
![Photo of Devin Mcmanus, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f45348a6-d198-466b-938e-b21eb395b363/1/320x400.jpeg)
Devin M McManus is a Licensed Associated Counselor (LAC) who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from King's College (Wilkes-Barre, PA) with a degree in Psychology (BA) and from William Paterson University (Wayne, NJ) with a degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology (MA). Devin believes in using a variety of approaches to help her clients, with a primary focus in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness approaches. She believes that no single approach is the right fit for every person and works with the client on identifying the approaches that work best for them.
Devin M McManus is a Licensed Associated Counselor (LAC) who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from King's College (Wilkes-Barre, PA) with a degree in Psychology (BA) and from William Paterson University (Wayne, NJ) with a degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology (MA). Devin believes in using a variety of approaches to help her clients, with a primary focus in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness approaches. She believes that no single approach is the right fit for every person and works with the client on identifying the approaches that work best for them.
![Photo of Peter McMullen, LAC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4425ae59-d2f1-4a45-a4da-0aef5b21c482/1/320x400.jpeg)
Peter McMullen, LAPC Peter McMullen is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2022. He has a BA in English from Boston College and an MA in Mental Health Counseling from New York University. Many people wait the entirety of their lives for the "perfect time" to make improvements, yet this moment merely does not exist. We are all human and therefore face adversity or struggle in some capacity, whether it be individually as humans or collectively as a society.
Peter McMullen, LAPC Peter McMullen is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2022. He has a BA in English from Boston College and an MA in Mental Health Counseling from New York University. Many people wait the entirety of their lives for the "perfect time" to make improvements, yet this moment merely does not exist. We are all human and therefore face adversity or struggle in some capacity, whether it be individually as humans or collectively as a society.
![Photo of Val Ventura, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddae8836-2c6f-4f4c-a4d0-9b417f3749f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Val Ventura is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2013. She has a BA in Psychology from Rutgers University and an MA in Clinical Psychology from William Paterson University. Val has an eclectic training background that allows her to create a person centered and goal-oriented treatment plan and adapt her therapeutic approach to fit the unique identity and needs of her patients to help them not only heal but thrive. Val has a history of working with children, adults, and families from all backgrounds.
Val Ventura is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2013. She has a BA in Psychology from Rutgers University and an MA in Clinical Psychology from William Paterson University. Val has an eclectic training background that allows her to create a person centered and goal-oriented treatment plan and adapt her therapeutic approach to fit the unique identity and needs of her patients to help them not only heal but thrive. Val has a history of working with children, adults, and families from all backgrounds.
![Photo of Claudia Chavez, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ab47da6-c9b3-41a9-880a-c25ebe1c620e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Education and experience: I received my Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from William Paterson University. I am a Licensed Associate Counselor, as well as a National Certified Counselor. My experience has allowed me to work with diverse populations of various ages with different issues. These include anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, parenting, sexual abuse, and assertiveness. My therapeutic treatment approaches include Person-Centered, Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness and Play Therapy in individual and group settings.
Education and experience: I received my Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from William Paterson University. I am a Licensed Associate Counselor, as well as a National Certified Counselor. My experience has allowed me to work with diverse populations of various ages with different issues. These include anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, parenting, sexual abuse, and assertiveness. My therapeutic treatment approaches include Person-Centered, Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness and Play Therapy in individual and group settings.
![Photo of Christina De Lucia, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e5b1fe4-5b73-4e40-9d45-9c7ed6e3f2b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christina De Lucia is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2018. Christina holds empathy for each client and offers a patient, compassionate approach which considers each client's individuals needs as well as strengths. Christina specializes in areas such as depression, anxiety/stress, trauma, and relationship issues. She offers a range of therapeutic styles and modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral, Holistic/Spiritual, Integrative, as well as Psychoanalytical.
Christina De Lucia is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2018. Christina holds empathy for each client and offers a patient, compassionate approach which considers each client's individuals needs as well as strengths. Christina specializes in areas such as depression, anxiety/stress, trauma, and relationship issues. She offers a range of therapeutic styles and modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral, Holistic/Spiritual, Integrative, as well as Psychoanalytical.
![Photo of Doris E Ruiz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/911d767c-00b4-485b-ae51-15f2ce0022a4/1/320x400.png)
Doris E Ruiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rutherford, NJ 07070 (Online Only)
My name is Doris I 'am licensed clinical social worker with 20 years clinical experience. I’m also an Afghanistan Veteran who directed a combat stress control facility as a deployed provider . I’m trained psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, and mind-body approaches to healing, I am able to be flexible in my approached to working with you and offer you the most effective treatments available.
My name is Doris I 'am licensed clinical social worker with 20 years clinical experience. I’m also an Afghanistan Veteran who directed a combat stress control facility as a deployed provider . I’m trained psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, and mind-body approaches to healing, I am able to be flexible in my approached to working with you and offer you the most effective treatments available.
See more therapy options for East Rutherford
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for East Rutherford
- Belleville
- Clifton
- Hackensack
- Lodi
- Lyndhurst
- Nutley
- Passaic
- Rochelle Park
- Rutherford
- Saddle Brook
- Secaucus
- Wood Ridge
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.