LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Maplewood, NJ
Many of the children I see identify as LGBTQIA or questioning.
Children who are questioning their gender identity need to be heard and believed. Parents who are lost in this process.....You've come to the right place! Children's gender identity is innate and it is a gift. In order for a child to achieve self esteem, confidence and self expression skills they must first be surrounded by a supportive family as well as develop a healthy pride in who and what they are or may become in time. Gender is fluid and needs to be honored in all stages and at all ages. That work starts here!
Many of the children I see identify as LGBTQIA or questioning.
Children who are questioning their gender identity need to be heard and believed. Parents who are lost in this process.....You've come to the right place! Children's gender identity is innate and it is a gift. In order for a child to achieve self esteem, confidence and self expression skills they must first be surrounded by a supportive family as well as develop a healthy pride in who and what they are or may become in time. Gender is fluid and needs to be honored in all stages and at all ages. That work starts here!
My areas of interest and specialties are Anxiety, stress, working with the LGBTQ+ community, Grief, Trauma, Relationship issues: conflict, boundary setting, people pleasing.
I am a queer identifying therapist and I like to think of therapy as a big exploration that allows the feelings and emotions you are having to come in fully without judgement. And you gotta feel it to heal it. We get curious together about what is happening for you and explore. Once you become aware of unconscious patterns, you make them conscious. That awareness can help to create change and make a huge difference in your life. I am also a big proponent of self-compassion work and can't stress enough how important it is to give ourselves just as much kindness as we give our loved ones.
My areas of interest and specialties are Anxiety, stress, working with the LGBTQ+ community, Grief, Trauma, Relationship issues: conflict, boundary setting, people pleasing.
I am a queer identifying therapist and I like to think of therapy as a big exploration that allows the feelings and emotions you are having to come in fully without judgement. And you gotta feel it to heal it. We get curious together about what is happening for you and explore. Once you become aware of unconscious patterns, you make them conscious. That awareness can help to create change and make a huge difference in your life. I am also a big proponent of self-compassion work and can't stress enough how important it is to give ourselves just as much kindness as we give our loved ones.
Additionally, I have a background in gender studies and enjoy working with the LGBTQ community.
We all feel overwhelmed at times. Whether you’re experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship or career issues, I can help you to gain insight and make sustainable change. If something in your life feels off, let's work together to address it so that you can live up to your fullest potential.
Additionally, I have a background in gender studies and enjoy working with the LGBTQ community.
We all feel overwhelmed at times. Whether you’re experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship or career issues, I can help you to gain insight and make sustainable change. If something in your life feels off, let's work together to address it so that you can live up to your fullest potential.
Kelli Morin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040 (Online Only)
With training and experience in a range of settings, I am equipped to address a wide range of issues including LGBTQ+, identity exploration, sex and intimacy, anxiety, depression, life transitions, women's issues, & grief and bereavement.
Finding a therapist is a lot like dating. It takes time and patience to find the right one. Once you find the right match, and eventually you will, all the hard work will feel more than worth it. With a true understanding of what it takes to seek out someone to talk to, I strive to offer an empathetic, practical and collaborative approach to therapy. My focus is on creating a strong therapeutic alliance that is not only nurturing, but challenges you to step outside your comfort zone and embrace change.
With training and experience in a range of settings, I am equipped to address a wide range of issues including LGBTQ+, identity exploration, sex and intimacy, anxiety, depression, life transitions, women's issues, & grief and bereavement.
Finding a therapist is a lot like dating. It takes time and patience to find the right one. Once you find the right match, and eventually you will, all the hard work will feel more than worth it. With a true understanding of what it takes to seek out someone to talk to, I strive to offer an empathetic, practical and collaborative approach to therapy. My focus is on creating a strong therapeutic alliance that is not only nurturing, but challenges you to step outside your comfort zone and embrace change.
Allison Berwald, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040 (Online Only)
This world can be hard at times, particularly for people whose lives aren't included in the dominant narrative. As a therapist specializing in supporting LGBTQIA+ adults and teens, my goal is to combat the impact of these challenges and promote healing. I help clients to develop compassionate self-understanding, encourage authenticity, uncover deep personal truths, and hopefully attain fulfillment on their terms. I use a trauma-informed, intersectional, anti-oppressive lens.
This world can be hard at times, particularly for people whose lives aren't included in the dominant narrative. As a therapist specializing in supporting LGBTQIA+ adults and teens, my goal is to combat the impact of these challenges and promote healing. I help clients to develop compassionate self-understanding, encourage authenticity, uncover deep personal truths, and hopefully attain fulfillment on their terms. I use a trauma-informed, intersectional, anti-oppressive lens.
Amy C. Cox-Martins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Currently I am accepting new therapy clients and I provide a safe haven where one can open-up and explore their thoughts and feelings. Sometimes situations or emotions have caused stumbling blocks in one's life. Together we can understand the core of the problem and progress to optimum mental health. Through building a relationship between therapist and client, we can work through even the most difficult of mental health concerns. I have been in private licensed psychotherapy practice since 1991. My current specializations and certification, transgender, non binary, LBGTQ. and EMDR I offer in person and virtual sessions.
Currently I am accepting new therapy clients and I provide a safe haven where one can open-up and explore their thoughts and feelings. Sometimes situations or emotions have caused stumbling blocks in one's life. Together we can understand the core of the problem and progress to optimum mental health. Through building a relationship between therapist and client, we can work through even the most difficult of mental health concerns. I have been in private licensed psychotherapy practice since 1991. My current specializations and certification, transgender, non binary, LBGTQ. and EMDR I offer in person and virtual sessions.
Israel Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040 (Online Only)
I am a certified sex therapist (AASECT) and trained relationship therapist (The Couples Institute) who has been working with LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM individuals on a professional basis for over fifteen years, including clinical positions at the NYC LGBT Community Center and Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC).
My practice specializes in work with the LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM communities. Are you worried that most therapists will not truly understand you or that you will have to censor yourself in therapy because of your sexual and/or gender minority status? I had these same concerns and they motivated me to become a psychotherapist who could help others like me. We will work together in a safe and relaxing environment to discover and actualize the solutions you need in order to live a more fulfilling life.
I am a certified sex therapist (AASECT) and trained relationship therapist (The Couples Institute) who has been working with LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM individuals on a professional basis for over fifteen years, including clinical positions at the NYC LGBT Community Center and Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC).
My practice specializes in work with the LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM communities. Are you worried that most therapists will not truly understand you or that you will have to censor yourself in therapy because of your sexual and/or gender minority status? I had these same concerns and they motivated me to become a psychotherapist who could help others like me. We will work together in a safe and relaxing environment to discover and actualize the solutions you need in order to live a more fulfilling life.
As a queer therapist, Kels understands the challenges are unique to LGBTQ youth.
Kels Savage, LSW (She/Her) is a Licensed Social Worker dedicated to working with LGBTQ young people and their families. With a strong commitment to providing a space for LGBTQ youth that fosters understanding, acceptance and self-reflection, Kels draws on a young people’s strengths, helping them to explore and determine what they need to feel at ease with themselves and among their peers and families. Kels is a graduate of Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College, CUNY where she obtained her MSW in 2017. She also holds a BFA from Brooklyn College (summa cum laude).
As a queer therapist, Kels understands the challenges are unique to LGBTQ youth.
Kels Savage, LSW (She/Her) is a Licensed Social Worker dedicated to working with LGBTQ young people and their families. With a strong commitment to providing a space for LGBTQ youth that fosters understanding, acceptance and self-reflection, Kels draws on a young people’s strengths, helping them to explore and determine what they need to feel at ease with themselves and among their peers and families. Kels is a graduate of Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College, CUNY where she obtained her MSW in 2017. She also holds a BFA from Brooklyn College (summa cum laude).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to mental health. Psychotherapy and building a trusting and non-judgmental relationship with my patients is my priority. I believe that each person I work with is capable of experiencing happiness, self love and peace. I am highly skilled in helping patients with depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse and parenting issues. I have specialized in working with the LGBT Community through mental health and young adult community programs for the last 17 years.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to mental health. Psychotherapy and building a trusting and non-judgmental relationship with my patients is my priority. I believe that each person I work with is capable of experiencing happiness, self love and peace. I am highly skilled in helping patients with depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse and parenting issues. I have specialized in working with the LGBT Community through mental health and young adult community programs for the last 17 years.
I help people dealing with a range of issues and concerns, including work and career stress, relationship issues and difficult life transitions.
I believe that the therapy relationship has the ability to provide healing, growth and change. Finding a therapist who helps you feel safe, supported and challenged is central to this process. My style is warm and curious as well as direct and challenging. I am an active participant in the process as we seek out the hard and stuck places that get in the way of balance and meaningful relationships.
I help people dealing with a range of issues and concerns, including work and career stress, relationship issues and difficult life transitions.
I believe that the therapy relationship has the ability to provide healing, growth and change. Finding a therapist who helps you feel safe, supported and challenged is central to this process. My style is warm and curious as well as direct and challenging. I am an active participant in the process as we seek out the hard and stuck places that get in the way of balance and meaningful relationships.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in NY & NJ, and my specialties include working the LGBTQ+ clients, and adolescents/young adults.
Pain is inevitable in life, but does need to stop us from living fully and beautifully. Through therapy I aim to help those I work with live deeper, happier lives with more balance and fulfillment. I believe that a strong, supportive relationship between the therapist and client is a fundamental factor in treatment. I see therapy as a collaborative process and empower those I work with to help direct the course of treatment. Additionally, I take a holistic view that includes attending to societal power structures that can contribute to and exacerbate the difficulties people face.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in NY & NJ, and my specialties include working the LGBTQ+ clients, and adolescents/young adults.
Pain is inevitable in life, but does need to stop us from living fully and beautifully. Through therapy I aim to help those I work with live deeper, happier lives with more balance and fulfillment. I believe that a strong, supportive relationship between the therapist and client is a fundamental factor in treatment. I see therapy as a collaborative process and empower those I work with to help direct the course of treatment. Additionally, I take a holistic view that includes attending to societal power structures that can contribute to and exacerbate the difficulties people face.
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This becomes possible by reducing anxiety, acquiring positive coping strategies, cultivating healthy relationships, and navigating challenging life transitions.
My Name is Dr. Meredith Carleton, and I am a Licensed Psychologist and Registered Creative Arts Therapist. I offer my clients a warm and welcoming environment that promotes connection and growth. My treatment style is very eclectic, integrating psychodynamic and family systems fundamentals with creative techniques and cognitive behavioral (CBT) interventions. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and other mood issues, as well as trauma, ADHD, and behavioral concerns. I serve clients across the lifespan, with additional expertise in issues relevant to children, adolescents, emerging adults (age 18-25) and LGBTQ individuals.
This becomes possible by reducing anxiety, acquiring positive coping strategies, cultivating healthy relationships, and navigating challenging life transitions.
My Name is Dr. Meredith Carleton, and I am a Licensed Psychologist and Registered Creative Arts Therapist. I offer my clients a warm and welcoming environment that promotes connection and growth. My treatment style is very eclectic, integrating psychodynamic and family systems fundamentals with creative techniques and cognitive behavioral (CBT) interventions. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression and other mood issues, as well as trauma, ADHD, and behavioral concerns. I serve clients across the lifespan, with additional expertise in issues relevant to children, adolescents, emerging adults (age 18-25) and LGBTQ individuals.
Leora Perlman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with individuals coping with trauma, sensitive sexual issues, and challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals.
My work is dedicated to helping you embrace who you are in order to live a fulfilling and balanced life. I focus on developing your ability to understand the powerful connection between your mind and body. This insight facilitates a path toward healing from current and past challenges. During the course of our work, I will help you develop your "Emotional Intelligence" (understanding of what motivates feelings and actions) and acquire the tools needed to overcome barriers blocking growth and change. Once you gain these coping skills, you will find yourself open to loving relationships, living in the present and creating a more fulfilling life.
I specialize in working with individuals coping with trauma, sensitive sexual issues, and challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals.
My work is dedicated to helping you embrace who you are in order to live a fulfilling and balanced life. I focus on developing your ability to understand the powerful connection between your mind and body. This insight facilitates a path toward healing from current and past challenges. During the course of our work, I will help you develop your "Emotional Intelligence" (understanding of what motivates feelings and actions) and acquire the tools needed to overcome barriers blocking growth and change. Once you gain these coping skills, you will find yourself open to loving relationships, living in the present and creating a more fulfilling life.
Chanta Blue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
I specialize in working with young adults, women of color ( trans & moc-inclusive), and folks in romantic relationships who are interested in improving their self-esteem, experiencing sexual difficulties, premarital counseling or are frustrated by societal expectations.
Relationships can be tough to manage no matter what the circumstances. But there's hope for the relationship you want, maybe you just need a little help. I am known as the therapist who empowers, educates, and supports those who are looking to become their most authentic and unapologetic selves. Whether you struggle with sexual challenges, are getting frustrated with your dating options, or you are looking for ways to explore your sexuality, I provide a safe and comfortable environment that makes sharing easy and less threatening.
I specialize in working with young adults, women of color ( trans & moc-inclusive), and folks in romantic relationships who are interested in improving their self-esteem, experiencing sexual difficulties, premarital counseling or are frustrated by societal expectations.
Relationships can be tough to manage no matter what the circumstances. But there's hope for the relationship you want, maybe you just need a little help. I am known as the therapist who empowers, educates, and supports those who are looking to become their most authentic and unapologetic selves. Whether you struggle with sexual challenges, are getting frustrated with your dating options, or you are looking for ways to explore your sexuality, I provide a safe and comfortable environment that makes sharing easy and less threatening.
I am a non-binary/ queer psychologist, speaker, and consultant with extensive expertise in gender identity/ transgender care (PsyPact certified for telehealth in 39 US States). Empowering LGBTQ+ people while creating more affirming mental health, medical, educational, and business settings is my passion. Offerings: 1)Adult Individual Therapy - Let's find and nourish your most authentic self, with a strong, warm relationship between us as the core of our work. Treatment tailored to your goals and strengths, liberation and trauma informed. 2)Surgical, Hormone Evaluations. 3)Speaking/Training for providers, educators, and the public.
I am a non-binary/ queer psychologist, speaker, and consultant with extensive expertise in gender identity/ transgender care (PsyPact certified for telehealth in 39 US States). Empowering LGBTQ+ people while creating more affirming mental health, medical, educational, and business settings is my passion. Offerings: 1)Adult Individual Therapy - Let's find and nourish your most authentic self, with a strong, warm relationship between us as the core of our work. Treatment tailored to your goals and strengths, liberation and trauma informed. 2)Surgical, Hormone Evaluations. 3)Speaking/Training for providers, educators, and the public.
Congratulations on taking another step towards wellness for yourself or your child! Looking for the right therapist can be a challenge, but the process of therapy can truly transform your life. Whether you are seeking a short-term solution-based approach or a longer, more in-depth exploration, my role in your journey is to support, guide, and encourage you to reach your goals. Areas of specialty include adoption, ADHD, behavioral issues with children, racial, ethnic, and gender identity, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Congratulations on taking another step towards wellness for yourself or your child! Looking for the right therapist can be a challenge, but the process of therapy can truly transform your life. Whether you are seeking a short-term solution-based approach or a longer, more in-depth exploration, my role in your journey is to support, guide, and encourage you to reach your goals. Areas of specialty include adoption, ADHD, behavioral issues with children, racial, ethnic, and gender identity, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Couples Therapy: Resolution Counseling Ctr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
You want your committed relationship to work, you want to communicate more effectively, and you want to enjoy life with your spouse or partner. Our team of therapists specialize in Gottman Method couples counseling, an approach that distills decades of relationship research into practical strategies that promote healing and connection. Our approach starts with a thorough assessment and customized treatment plan that will equip you and your partner to move in a better direction. We are LGBTQ-affirming. View openings and request your first appointment: www.resolutioncc.com/team
You want your committed relationship to work, you want to communicate more effectively, and you want to enjoy life with your spouse or partner. Our team of therapists specialize in Gottman Method couples counseling, an approach that distills decades of relationship research into practical strategies that promote healing and connection. Our approach starts with a thorough assessment and customized treatment plan that will equip you and your partner to move in a better direction. We are LGBTQ-affirming. View openings and request your first appointment: www.resolutioncc.com/team
Danielle Tischer: Adults Teens Families
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
I work with teens and adults. I specialize in helping you work through depression, anxiety, life transitions, and substance misuse. I utilize Motivational Interviewing which is a collaborative partnership designed to evoke the change you want to make. I focus on an individualized approach, utilizing Partnership, Acceptance, Compassion and Evocation to help you heal from trauma. I graduated with my Masters in Social Work from the University of Connecticut with a focus in addiction issues. I currently offer Telehealth sessions Monday-Friday. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I work with teens and adults. I specialize in helping you work through depression, anxiety, life transitions, and substance misuse. I utilize Motivational Interviewing which is a collaborative partnership designed to evoke the change you want to make. I focus on an individualized approach, utilizing Partnership, Acceptance, Compassion and Evocation to help you heal from trauma. I graduated with my Masters in Social Work from the University of Connecticut with a focus in addiction issues. I currently offer Telehealth sessions Monday-Friday. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
Dr. Jonathan Lebolt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, CGP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Each crisis in our lives is an opportunity for healing and growth. My primary approach is relational psychoanalytic, meaning I help patients use the healing power of the therapeutic relationship to uncover and work on their deepest conflicts. An interactive and empathic therapist, I offer advice and support when needed, and I share my own experiences when I think they will be helpful. Though I have extensive, in-depth training, I rely greatly on intuition and humor in my work.
Each crisis in our lives is an opportunity for healing and growth. My primary approach is relational psychoanalytic, meaning I help patients use the healing power of the therapeutic relationship to uncover and work on their deepest conflicts. An interactive and empathic therapist, I offer advice and support when needed, and I share my own experiences when I think they will be helpful. Though I have extensive, in-depth training, I rely greatly on intuition and humor in my work.
Timothy Bracaglia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Handling complex issues of Sex, Gender, Relationships & Sexuality-related struggles; Anxiety, Stress & Depression; Substance Use & Related Issues... None of these is easy to navigate. Each stressors can be uniquely and incredibly difficult to manage thus causing pain, hopelessness, anxiety, & depression; often seemingly paralyzing. Thankfully, there is help, there is hope. You are not broken and together we can find your path. Please, call ( / leave a VM) or email me today. With my non-judgmental approach my only goal is to help you meet your own personal goals, to achieve your own vision of fulfillment; whatever that may look like.
Handling complex issues of Sex, Gender, Relationships & Sexuality-related struggles; Anxiety, Stress & Depression; Substance Use & Related Issues... None of these is easy to navigate. Each stressors can be uniquely and incredibly difficult to manage thus causing pain, hopelessness, anxiety, & depression; often seemingly paralyzing. Thankfully, there is help, there is hope. You are not broken and together we can find your path. Please, call ( / leave a VM) or email me today. With my non-judgmental approach my only goal is to help you meet your own personal goals, to achieve your own vision of fulfillment; whatever that may look like.
See more therapy options for Maplewood
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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.