LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Millburn, NJ

Photo of Hilry Hazelwood, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hilry Hazelwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Millburn, NJ 07041
I help adults who are questioning their relationship with food, alcohol, or drugs and those facing infertility, pregnancy or post-partum challenges. As a queer therapist, I am experienced with and enjoy supporting fellow LGBTQIA+ community members. I work from a relational and trauma-informed perspective and incorporate tools from CBT, DBT, and motivational interviewing. Most importantly, though, I am guided by the person sitting in front of me. I will work to understand your unique therapy goals and partner with you on your journey. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I help adults who are questioning their relationship with food, alcohol, or drugs and those facing infertility, pregnancy or post-partum challenges. As a queer therapist, I am experienced with and enjoy supporting fellow LGBTQIA+ community members. I work from a relational and trauma-informed perspective and incorporate tools from CBT, DBT, and motivational interviewing. Most importantly, though, I am guided by the person sitting in front of me. I will work to understand your unique therapy goals and partner with you on your journey. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(201) 584-7203 View (201) 584-7203
Photo of Summer Brown - Summer Brown; Couples, Adults, Teens, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Summer Brown; Couples, Adults, Teens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
I love supporting young women of color, queer individuals and couples, and young professionals as they gain insight into their family’s generational patterns, heal from trauma, set boundaries, develop healthy sexual lives, and answer the question “who am I living for?” I welcome clients who identify as gender, sexual and racial minorities including non-monogamous and queer couples. I draw on things like art, music, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gottman Method couples counseling, and mindfulness techniques. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I love supporting young women of color, queer individuals and couples, and young professionals as they gain insight into their family’s generational patterns, heal from trauma, set boundaries, develop healthy sexual lives, and answer the question “who am I living for?” I welcome clients who identify as gender, sexual and racial minorities including non-monogamous and queer couples. I draw on things like art, music, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gottman Method couples counseling, and mindfulness techniques. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(908) 495-7698 View (908) 495-7698
Photo of Cecil Gauer - Cecil Gauer:  Adults, Couples, Gender Therapy, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cecil Gauer: Adults, Couples, Gender Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Millburn, NJ 07041
I work with couples and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, and LGBTQ+ identity and experiences. I approach therapy collaboratively, using strengths-based, social-justice-oriented, and solution-focused lenses. In my work with the Queer, I Therapy Center at RCC, I draw on my training in affirming care as well as my own experience as a bisexual, transgender man. With couples, I use Gottman Method relationship techniques to support traditional couples as well as polyamorous relationships. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I work with couples and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, and LGBTQ+ identity and experiences. I approach therapy collaboratively, using strengths-based, social-justice-oriented, and solution-focused lenses. In my work with the Queer, I Therapy Center at RCC, I draw on my training in affirming care as well as my own experience as a bisexual, transgender man. With couples, I use Gottman Method relationship techniques to support traditional couples as well as polyamorous relationships. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(862) 310-6750 View (862) 310-6750
Photo of Margaret Bolanos - Margaret Bolanos: Adults, Couples, Teens, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Bolanos: Adults, Couples, Teens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
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
(862) 701-0967 View (862) 701-0967
Photo of Addrisa (Addi) Ankrah - Addi Ankrah:  Seniors, Adults, Teens , MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Addi Ankrah: Seniors, Adults, Teens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
Do you ever think: "I thought I’d be further along at this point in my life", "I am stuck professionally", or "I can’t seem to end this relationship, and I know I can't stay in it?" I'm a therapist and adjunct professor that loves working with seniors, adults, teens, and the queer community to create meaningful relationships and better understand yourself. I am a non-judgmental listener and I’ll draw on CBT and mindfulness techniques as we navigate big life changes, debunk the grind culture, embrace the quiet, set boundaries, and build the life you want. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
Do you ever think: "I thought I’d be further along at this point in my life", "I am stuck professionally", or "I can’t seem to end this relationship, and I know I can't stay in it?" I'm a therapist and adjunct professor that loves working with seniors, adults, teens, and the queer community to create meaningful relationships and better understand yourself. I am a non-judgmental listener and I’ll draw on CBT and mindfulness techniques as we navigate big life changes, debunk the grind culture, embrace the quiet, set boundaries, and build the life you want. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(862) 322-6467 View (862) 322-6467
Photo of Izzy Nappa - Izzy Nappa: Adults, Couples, Teens, LSW, MSW, Counselor
Izzy Nappa: Adults, Couples, Teens
Counselor, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
Lastly, I am trained in the Gottman method and am part of the Queer, I team here at Resolution Counseling Center.
Building a trusting and authentic therapeutic relationship is important to grow a more compassionate relationship with yourself. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am passionate about assisting clients with identity acceptance, LGBTQIA+ care, trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues; I specialize in the social, emotional, and academic challenges of childhood. I utilize treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Strengths Perspective.
Lastly, I am trained in the Gottman method and am part of the Queer, I team here at Resolution Counseling Center.
Building a trusting and authentic therapeutic relationship is important to grow a more compassionate relationship with yourself. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am passionate about assisting clients with identity acceptance, LGBTQIA+ care, trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues; I specialize in the social, emotional, and academic challenges of childhood. I utilize treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Strengths Perspective.
(973) 526-0212 View (973) 526-0212
Photo of Israel Martinez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Israel Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041  (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.
(973) 587-8475 View (973) 587-8475
Photo of Doreen Chila-Jones, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Doreen Chila-Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Millburn, NJ 07041
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!
(908) 795-8135 View (908) 795-8135
Photo of Raelyn Sprenkle, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raelyn Sprenkle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Millburn, NJ 07041  (Online Only)
I help teens, women, parents and LGBTQIA+ folks to navigate anxiety, depression, parenting, and relationship intricacies. Are you feeling burnt out? Over worked at home, school and work? Does it feel like the pressures are mounting and you have no idea how to relax? Are you finding that your values are not aligning with those around you or that you aren't able to live your life in a way that is true to you? You are not alone! I'm here to help you find tangible skills to build peace and fulfillment in your life.
I help teens, women, parents and LGBTQIA+ folks to navigate anxiety, depression, parenting, and relationship intricacies. Are you feeling burnt out? Over worked at home, school and work? Does it feel like the pressures are mounting and you have no idea how to relax? Are you finding that your values are not aligning with those around you or that you aren't able to live your life in a way that is true to you? You are not alone! I'm here to help you find tangible skills to build peace and fulfillment in your life.
(732) 385-0696 View (732) 385-0696
Photo of Meredith Carleton, PsyD, ATR, Psychologist
Meredith Carleton
Psychologist, PsyD, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
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.
(973) 718-9845 View (973) 718-9845
Photo of John S. LoConte, PhD, Psychologist
John S. LoConte
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Millburn, NJ 07041
I have extensive experience with the LGBTQ+ community individually and in groups.
I am a psychologist, father, husband, poet, scientist, actor, and lover of the truth of how difficult it can be to navigate adulthood from 18-80. I strongly believe that too few clients know what makes a therapist effective enough to make a meaningful difference.I value humble, poignant, and open interpersonal connections with clients, above all else.I am a directive therapist who understands both sides of the couch and gives 100% to each individual.I am a trained scholar in behavioral heath, and I have specialties in depression, anxiety, OCD and child loss.I meld cognitive behavioral psychology with the rich tenets of Zen-Buddhism.
I have extensive experience with the LGBTQ+ community individually and in groups.
I am a psychologist, father, husband, poet, scientist, actor, and lover of the truth of how difficult it can be to navigate adulthood from 18-80. I strongly believe that too few clients know what makes a therapist effective enough to make a meaningful difference.I value humble, poignant, and open interpersonal connections with clients, above all else.I am a directive therapist who understands both sides of the couch and gives 100% to each individual.I am a trained scholar in behavioral heath, and I have specialties in depression, anxiety, OCD and child loss.I meld cognitive behavioral psychology with the rich tenets of Zen-Buddhism.
(973) 845-4192 View (973) 845-4192
Photo of Vincent J. Fitzgerald, LCSW, CFRC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vincent J. Fitzgerald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041  (Online Only)
Psychotherapy is a relationship in which client and clinician align in the hope of growth and change. I am ready to invest in people willing to invest in themselves, and I do so in a compassionate, and inclusive way. I am open to individuals, couples, and families, am sensitive to cultural and religious differential, and welcome all members of the LGBTQ community. Through our relationship, we will realize your potential, and actualize your highest self. When you are ready to connect, I will meet you where you are, and journey with your toward fulfillment.
Psychotherapy is a relationship in which client and clinician align in the hope of growth and change. I am ready to invest in people willing to invest in themselves, and I do so in a compassionate, and inclusive way. I am open to individuals, couples, and families, am sensitive to cultural and religious differential, and welcome all members of the LGBTQ community. Through our relationship, we will realize your potential, and actualize your highest self. When you are ready to connect, I will meet you where you are, and journey with your toward fulfillment.
(973) 828-8274 View (973) 828-8274
Photo of Sarah West, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Sarah West
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
Counseling Association invited Sarah to their conference, where she presented her lecture, “Out of the Closets and Into the Streets: Assisting the Coming Out Process for LGBTQ Youth,” which explored different stages of the coming out process and focused on improving reactions and responses for LGBTQ family members.
Sarah West is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of New Jersey and a certified School Counselor in both CT and NJ. Sarah earned her B.A. Degree in Psychology from LaSalle University. After graduating from LaSalle, Sarah attended graduate school at New Jersey City University, where she earned a M.A. Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. Sarah has worked both as a School Counselor and in private practice and joined The Massler Center in 2020. She believes that working as a team and having a positive counselor-client relationship is the foundation for successful treatment.
Counseling Association invited Sarah to their conference, where she presented her lecture, “Out of the Closets and Into the Streets: Assisting the Coming Out Process for LGBTQ Youth,” which explored different stages of the coming out process and focused on improving reactions and responses for LGBTQ family members.
Sarah West is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of New Jersey and a certified School Counselor in both CT and NJ. Sarah earned her B.A. Degree in Psychology from LaSalle University. After graduating from LaSalle, Sarah attended graduate school at New Jersey City University, where she earned a M.A. Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. Sarah has worked both as a School Counselor and in private practice and joined The Massler Center in 2020. She believes that working as a team and having a positive counselor-client relationship is the foundation for successful treatment.
(862) 256-7517 View (862) 256-7517
Photo of Ken Tedesco, MSW, LCSW, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ken Tedesco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCS
Verified Verified
Millburn, NJ 07041  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
He has extensive knowledge of the LGBTQ arena and gender identity issues.
Sometimes we all need a little help in our roles as parents, family members, and in our own self development. For most of us asking for help isn't easy. Therapy should be a safe and comfortable process with an emphasis on self empowerment. Whether its the young adolescent struggling with learning disabilities or sexual identity, or the adult learning to adjust to a new set of circumstances, therapy is a useful tool that helps with a range of issues. Ken Tedesco has gained experience in the full spectrum of psychiatric and substance abuse disorders working in varied inpatient and outpatient settings for over 20 years.
He has extensive knowledge of the LGBTQ arena and gender identity issues.
Sometimes we all need a little help in our roles as parents, family members, and in our own self development. For most of us asking for help isn't easy. Therapy should be a safe and comfortable process with an emphasis on self empowerment. Whether its the young adolescent struggling with learning disabilities or sexual identity, or the adult learning to adjust to a new set of circumstances, therapy is a useful tool that helps with a range of issues. Ken Tedesco has gained experience in the full spectrum of psychiatric and substance abuse disorders working in varied inpatient and outpatient settings for over 20 years.
(908) 645-0501 View (908) 645-0501
Photo of Amy B Herber, MA, LPC, SAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy B Herber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, SAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
It can be difficult to reach out and ask for help. But therapy does not have to be hard or painful, it is simply part of a journey to help us live a more balanced and joyful life. Whether it's coping with heightened emotional stress or anxiety, navigating through major life changes, addressing concerns related to substance use, LGBTQ +, or simply seeking personal growth, I will work with you in a kind, non-judgemental, supportive manner to meet you where you are and assist you in overcoming the challenges you face.
It can be difficult to reach out and ask for help. But therapy does not have to be hard or painful, it is simply part of a journey to help us live a more balanced and joyful life. Whether it's coping with heightened emotional stress or anxiety, navigating through major life changes, addressing concerns related to substance use, LGBTQ +, or simply seeking personal growth, I will work with you in a kind, non-judgemental, supportive manner to meet you where you are and assist you in overcoming the challenges you face.
(973) 791-7406 View (973) 791-7406
Photo of Stephanie Zeman - Turn Leaf Wellness, MEd, LCSW, LCADC, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Turn Leaf Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW, LCADC, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
She is highly qualified and holds experience working with families, young adults and adults struggling with anxiety, infidelity, infertility, relationship issues, sexual abuse, substance dependence, developmentally disabled adults, LGBTQ, and betrayal.
Stephanie assists with sexuality and relationship struggles by developing internal motivation to identify strengths for overcoming individual or partner barriers through a holistic approach. As a system’s therapist, Stephanie believes that it is integral to identify both internal and external systems when working with each client or couple. Her aspiration is to provide a non-judgmental environment for individuals, couples, and families for processing concerns through the use of an integrative approach. This approach allows individuals and couples to openly discuss concerns with their sexual functioning, expression, and trauma.
She is highly qualified and holds experience working with families, young adults and adults struggling with anxiety, infidelity, infertility, relationship issues, sexual abuse, substance dependence, developmentally disabled adults, LGBTQ, and betrayal.
Stephanie assists with sexuality and relationship struggles by developing internal motivation to identify strengths for overcoming individual or partner barriers through a holistic approach. As a system’s therapist, Stephanie believes that it is integral to identify both internal and external systems when working with each client or couple. Her aspiration is to provide a non-judgmental environment for individuals, couples, and families for processing concerns through the use of an integrative approach. This approach allows individuals and couples to openly discuss concerns with their sexual functioning, expression, and trauma.
(862) 505-2551 View (862) 505-2551
Photo of Gail Schrimmer, PhD, Psychologist
Gail Schrimmer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Millburn, NJ 07041
Schrimmer has researched Autism, the queer community, ecotherapy, patient satisfaction variables, and group psychotherapy.
Are you seeking individual or group therapy, a psychological evaluation, career testing, or career coaching? Air-filtrated indoor, telehealth, and outdoor sessions are offered, and most in-network insurance plans accepted. With over 20 years of therapy, testing, teaching, and supervising experience, and as both a clinical psychologist and a school psychologist, Dr. Schrimmer has a uniquely comprehensive practice. Calls generally receive a response by the next business day. In addition to daytime appointments, weekend and evening hours are available.
Schrimmer has researched Autism, the queer community, ecotherapy, patient satisfaction variables, and group psychotherapy.
Are you seeking individual or group therapy, a psychological evaluation, career testing, or career coaching? Air-filtrated indoor, telehealth, and outdoor sessions are offered, and most in-network insurance plans accepted. With over 20 years of therapy, testing, teaching, and supervising experience, and as both a clinical psychologist and a school psychologist, Dr. Schrimmer has a uniquely comprehensive practice. Calls generally receive a response by the next business day. In addition to daytime appointments, weekend and evening hours are available.
(973) 309-8756 View (973) 309-8756
Photo of Laurence J Horowitz, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurence J Horowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Millburn, NJ 07041
I see children, adolescents, and emerging young adults. Clients I see face challenges including but not limited to anxiety, bedwetting, self-esteem issues, identity exploration, or difficulties in social relationships. I provide a safe and supportive space where my clients and their parents can express themselves, find acceptance, and work toward success. Through the therapeutic process, we develop coping strategies for improving communication skills, fostering self-acceptance, achieving overall emotional well-being, and an overall more cohesive family system. For children, I specialize in child-centered play therapy, utilizing a
I see children, adolescents, and emerging young adults. Clients I see face challenges including but not limited to anxiety, bedwetting, self-esteem issues, identity exploration, or difficulties in social relationships. I provide a safe and supportive space where my clients and their parents can express themselves, find acceptance, and work toward success. Through the therapeutic process, we develop coping strategies for improving communication skills, fostering self-acceptance, achieving overall emotional well-being, and an overall more cohesive family system. For children, I specialize in child-centered play therapy, utilizing a
(201) 597-0565 View (201) 597-0565
Photo of Teal K. Paynter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teal K. Paynter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Millburn, NJ 07041
I work collaboratively with my clients to help create positive change. I see individuals and couples, using an integrative therapeutic approach grounded in psychodynamic and relational theories. I am trauma-informed and trained in evidence-based models including Emotionally Focused Therapy, the gold standard of relationship therapy, and Discernment Counseling, for couples on the brink. My clients are facing a range of circumstances, such as coping with depression, anxiety, stress, mood disorders, trauma, grief and and loss, chronic illness, struggling relationships, and life transitions.
I work collaboratively with my clients to help create positive change. I see individuals and couples, using an integrative therapeutic approach grounded in psychodynamic and relational theories. I am trauma-informed and trained in evidence-based models including Emotionally Focused Therapy, the gold standard of relationship therapy, and Discernment Counseling, for couples on the brink. My clients are facing a range of circumstances, such as coping with depression, anxiety, stress, mood disorders, trauma, grief and and loss, chronic illness, struggling relationships, and life transitions.
(862) 263-7041 View (862) 263-7041
Photo of Shannon Charles, MSW, LSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Charles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Millburn, NJ 07041
Scrolling through Psychology Today isn't the same as visiting your favorite social media platform! In fact, I'd venture to say that visiting this website was extremely intentional and you are one step closer to the divine intervention you seek.
Scrolling through Psychology Today isn't the same as visiting your favorite social media platform! In fact, I'd venture to say that visiting this website was extremely intentional and you are one step closer to the divine intervention you seek.
(973) 264-0460 View (973) 264-0460
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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.