LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Mountainside, NJ
![Photo of Mariel Gold, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cdab0018-28f0-4702-b8d3-6f27f4286c73/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mariel Gold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountainside, NJ 07092 (Online Only)
My therapy practice is currently dedicated to supporting women and mothers. My greatest passion is to provide supportive, heart-centered, counseling to new and expecting mothers as they transition through pregnancy, parenthood, and beyond.
My therapy practice is currently dedicated to supporting women and mothers. My greatest passion is to provide supportive, heart-centered, counseling to new and expecting mothers as they transition through pregnancy, parenthood, and beyond.
![Photo of Laura Morra, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/160b2656-e2df-4e10-b16d-d433814aae45/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Morra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountainside, NJ 07092
Are you facing a challenging situation in your life? Perhaps you are trying to recover from a difficult break-up. Or you may be trying to resolve conflicts in a relationship with a partner, family member, co-worker or boss. Your struggle may be an internal one, such as dealing with behavior that feels out of control, confusion over sexual orientation, gender identity or other issues affecting self-esteem. Utilizing a combination of mindfulness, cognitive therapy, insight oriented and trauma based approaches, my goal is to foster a compassionate view of yourself as you deal with life's challenges.
Are you facing a challenging situation in your life? Perhaps you are trying to recover from a difficult break-up. Or you may be trying to resolve conflicts in a relationship with a partner, family member, co-worker or boss. Your struggle may be an internal one, such as dealing with behavior that feels out of control, confusion over sexual orientation, gender identity or other issues affecting self-esteem. Utilizing a combination of mindfulness, cognitive therapy, insight oriented and trauma based approaches, my goal is to foster a compassionate view of yourself as you deal with life's challenges.
![Photo of Maria Sikoutris Di Iorio, MA, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/423f97ea-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Sikoutris Di Iorio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mountainside, NJ 07092
We specialize in Marriage and Family Therapy and treat couples and individuals. Marriage therapy focuses on the conflicts and disagreements between two people. All families experience some type of disagreement. Some families function in unhealthy patterns and therefore conflict exists. Families are affected when one member of the family is chronically ill, suffers from substance abuse, divorce and separation, single parenting, financial issues, etc, as well as a lack of communicating effectively. Family therapy may be the only setting where you will have the opportunity to hear how other family members are feeling.
We specialize in Marriage and Family Therapy and treat couples and individuals. Marriage therapy focuses on the conflicts and disagreements between two people. All families experience some type of disagreement. Some families function in unhealthy patterns and therefore conflict exists. Families are affected when one member of the family is chronically ill, suffers from substance abuse, divorce and separation, single parenting, financial issues, etc, as well as a lack of communicating effectively. Family therapy may be the only setting where you will have the opportunity to hear how other family members are feeling.
![Photo of Alex Lesaski, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64cc76d8-1adb-4771-87af-21bfe4a9025d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alex has clinical experience with people seeking therapy for substance abuse issues, co-occurring mental health issues, adjustment and life transitions, relationship issues, family issues, and personal/professional growth and development. He has experience working with adults of all ages in individual and group therapy. Alex believes it is important for the client to feel supported, heard, and understood but also challenged to figure out their own path through the therapeutic process. He believes addressing issues in therapy can help people make real changes in their lives and gain more insight and awareness in who they are.
Alex has clinical experience with people seeking therapy for substance abuse issues, co-occurring mental health issues, adjustment and life transitions, relationship issues, family issues, and personal/professional growth and development. He has experience working with adults of all ages in individual and group therapy. Alex believes it is important for the client to feel supported, heard, and understood but also challenged to figure out their own path through the therapeutic process. He believes addressing issues in therapy can help people make real changes in their lives and gain more insight and awareness in who they are.
![Photo of Lily Freier, LCSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09ee10c7-fed8-41e6-943b-f2aab6e2c1e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
EMDR and DBT therapy for adults. In person in Westfield and Telehealth. Searching for a therapist can seem daunting. After all, the relationship with your therapist is the foundation for healing. Trust, acceptance, and compassion allow you to explore your reasons for entering therapy and what you hope to get out it. Whether you are trying to heal from past experiences, overcome anxiety and depression, or make important decisions, I can help you develop insight, clarity, and skills that will last you far beyond your time in therapy. Your experience in therapy should leave you feeling balanced and prepared to tackle future challenges.
EMDR and DBT therapy for adults. In person in Westfield and Telehealth. Searching for a therapist can seem daunting. After all, the relationship with your therapist is the foundation for healing. Trust, acceptance, and compassion allow you to explore your reasons for entering therapy and what you hope to get out it. Whether you are trying to heal from past experiences, overcome anxiety and depression, or make important decisions, I can help you develop insight, clarity, and skills that will last you far beyond your time in therapy. Your experience in therapy should leave you feeling balanced and prepared to tackle future challenges.
![Photo of Edward H Callaghan, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb5de4c7-6ecb-4265-a522-e844de25707b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am the co-founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to poor school performance, distractibility, and motivation/drive. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between teens and their parents.
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am the co-founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to poor school performance, distractibility, and motivation/drive. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between teens and their parents.
![Photo of Lidia D Abrams - Resolve Community Counseling Center, Inc, PhD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51bf09eb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Resolve Community Counseling Center offers the services of 14 masters' and doctoral level mental health clinicians (LPCs, LAC's, LCADC's, PsyD), under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. We work with families and children of all ages, couples and adults experiencing a variety of mental health challenges. We also carry out psychological evaluations for clinical and forensic purposes. With our large clinical staff, we are able to accommodate the needs of most every person seeking assistance. We are a private nonprofit agency, with a mission to help our community members with low cost but quality, confidential and caring mental health services.
Resolve Community Counseling Center offers the services of 14 masters' and doctoral level mental health clinicians (LPCs, LAC's, LCADC's, PsyD), under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. We work with families and children of all ages, couples and adults experiencing a variety of mental health challenges. We also carry out psychological evaluations for clinical and forensic purposes. With our large clinical staff, we are able to accommodate the needs of most every person seeking assistance. We are a private nonprofit agency, with a mission to help our community members with low cost but quality, confidential and caring mental health services.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Kate Martin - Kate Martin: Therapy and Parenting Consultation, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f39abb3-b5d8-4f79-bb45-415388fd4176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kate Martin: Therapy and Parenting Consultation
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I help people cope with difficult situations and learn ways to manage stress at home, work, or school. People work with me to develop effective communication skills and the ability to advocate for themselves, their needs, and their interests. My clients find more meaning, purpose, and connection in their day-to-day lives by better understanding themselves and their capacity for self-compassion, peace, and joy. I also help people learn practical skills for managing time and responsibilities, navigate life transitions and changes, explore body image and relationships with food, and process LGBTQIA+ issues and experiences.
I help people cope with difficult situations and learn ways to manage stress at home, work, or school. People work with me to develop effective communication skills and the ability to advocate for themselves, their needs, and their interests. My clients find more meaning, purpose, and connection in their day-to-day lives by better understanding themselves and their capacity for self-compassion, peace, and joy. I also help people learn practical skills for managing time and responsibilities, navigate life transitions and changes, explore body image and relationships with food, and process LGBTQIA+ issues and experiences.
![Photo of Live Wonderfully Therapy - Live Wonderfully Therapy, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cb2b5b0-cf07-46aa-aa1b-8444a3f9d387/1/320x400.png)
Live Wonderfully Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090 (Online Only)
We help teens, adults, LGBTQIA+ folks, couples, families and parents manage anxiety, depression, relationship and parenting challenges. We are a female owned and operated virtual practice, led by Raelyn Sprenkle, LCSW, MEd, with over a decade of experience offering support. Our mission is to create a safe, judgment-free space for you to explore your emotions. We offer tailored therapy services, including individual, couples, and family therapy, all centered around your unique needs and goals.
We help teens, adults, LGBTQIA+ folks, couples, families and parents manage anxiety, depression, relationship and parenting challenges. We are a female owned and operated virtual practice, led by Raelyn Sprenkle, LCSW, MEd, with over a decade of experience offering support. Our mission is to create a safe, judgment-free space for you to explore your emotions. We offer tailored therapy services, including individual, couples, and family therapy, all centered around your unique needs and goals.
![Photo of Ryan Brown, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1e380a5-ee96-41ab-a2bd-6561a2c13939/25/320x400.jpeg)
Having served as the Director of Clinical Services at The LGBT Community Center in NYC, I have vast experience supervising other therapists.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, feeling overwhelmed or lost? Maybe you feel unfulfilled in your relationships, career, or other key areas of your life. If you are ready to explore these parts of yourself and interrupt patterns that are no longer serving you, then it may be time to engage in psychotherapy. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process which allows us to look at the areas that are causing distress, and identify ways to adjust your thoughts and behaviors to create positive change. I provide therapy in a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel comfortable expressing yourself openly and authentically.
Having served as the Director of Clinical Services at The LGBT Community Center in NYC, I have vast experience supervising other therapists.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, feeling overwhelmed or lost? Maybe you feel unfulfilled in your relationships, career, or other key areas of your life. If you are ready to explore these parts of yourself and interrupt patterns that are no longer serving you, then it may be time to engage in psychotherapy. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process which allows us to look at the areas that are causing distress, and identify ways to adjust your thoughts and behaviors to create positive change. I provide therapy in a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel comfortable expressing yourself openly and authentically.
![Photo of Denise Abatemarco, MA, LMHC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a30efa6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Samantha Merse, LAC, ATR-P, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cabc8eb3-b80b-48c5-b784-2b2679d85be7/2/320x400.png)
My ideal client is someone who is motivated and ready to work on themselves. They are a client who attends each session as scheduled and on time, coming into it with an open mind and willingness to grow. The client would ideally be an adult who is within the LGBTQIA+ community and is coming to me to work on bettering themselves. Their issues would include depression, anxiety, and questioning their gender and sexual identity.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated and ready to work on themselves. They are a client who attends each session as scheduled and on time, coming into it with an open mind and willingness to grow. The client would ideally be an adult who is within the LGBTQIA+ community and is coming to me to work on bettering themselves. Their issues would include depression, anxiety, and questioning their gender and sexual identity.
![Photo of Nicholas Stanco, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d07f2c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nicholas Stanco
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016 (Online Only)
Life is sometimes a difficult process especially when a partner or child needs, but doesn't want therapy. It can become very painful for yourself or the loved one whose behavior is affecting the whole family. You may even be combing these ads trying to sort out where to start. Sometimes you need someone who knows how to allow a person to open up in their own time. Someone who can work with them through their fears. I have experience in: Child Therapy, Addressing resistance, Mandated clients and LGBTQ concerns. I utilize a variety of techniques toward this aim including EMDR and Play (Sandtray) therapy.
Life is sometimes a difficult process especially when a partner or child needs, but doesn't want therapy. It can become very painful for yourself or the loved one whose behavior is affecting the whole family. You may even be combing these ads trying to sort out where to start. Sometimes you need someone who knows how to allow a person to open up in their own time. Someone who can work with them through their fears. I have experience in: Child Therapy, Addressing resistance, Mandated clients and LGBTQ concerns. I utilize a variety of techniques toward this aim including EMDR and Play (Sandtray) therapy.
![Photo of Danica L. Rozario - Mindkind Counseling Services LLC, LPC, ACS, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38d63444-e82d-4dc3-acd7-82af55f3b30e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindkind Counseling Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, NBCC
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
Specializing in Adolescent Care, LGBTQ+ issues, Minority-related stress and Grief counseling, I believe an individual has the capacity to improve their circumstance, when provided a safe space to "try on their strength".
Life can be hard and processing that reality makes it more livable. I am motivated to serve brave clients who have reached the decision to speak to heal.
Specializing in Adolescent Care, LGBTQ+ issues, Minority-related stress and Grief counseling, I believe an individual has the capacity to improve their circumstance, when provided a safe space to "try on their strength".
Life can be hard and processing that reality makes it more livable. I am motivated to serve brave clients who have reached the decision to speak to heal.
![Photo of Peter G. Vosseler - Voss's Corner Counseling Center, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2e99692-a54d-40e3-8363-34d4ec6e5cae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Voss's Corner Counseling Center, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fanwood, NJ 07023
"Restore Harmony & Peace Within" We offer individual and family counseling and supportive services utilizing a strengths and empowerment approach that focuses on cognitive-behavioral therapeutic techniques. We counsel clients from pre-adolescence through adulthood. Our practice focuses in treating adults with depression/major depression, bi-polar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, anger and stress management difficulties, gay/ lesbian factors and substance abuse issues. It is of utmost importance to assist the client in restructuring thought processes while stressing the power of positive thinking for positive results.
"Restore Harmony & Peace Within" We offer individual and family counseling and supportive services utilizing a strengths and empowerment approach that focuses on cognitive-behavioral therapeutic techniques. We counsel clients from pre-adolescence through adulthood. Our practice focuses in treating adults with depression/major depression, bi-polar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, anger and stress management difficulties, gay/ lesbian factors and substance abuse issues. It is of utmost importance to assist the client in restructuring thought processes while stressing the power of positive thinking for positive results.
![Photo of Leo Hirsch Massey, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2dd81660-bf5d-46b3-b64b-17b84026f990/4/320x400.jpeg)
Leo Hirsch Massey
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
I pursue ongoing education through institutional programs including Yale's and Rutgers' culturally sensitive care with LGBTQ+, Jewish, and Israeli clients.
Struggling with intrusive thoughts, downward spirals, lack of motivation, effects of trauma or feeling invalidated? Playing those “what if” scenarios again and again in your head? If you’re seeking an authentic, empathetic connection to overcome challenges around anxiety, trauma, depression, or identity issues then I am here for you. As a passionate therapist, I strive to understand your needs, whether you're a child, teenager, or young adult. Through evidence-based treatments, I'll provide you with the right tools to help reduce your worries and symptoms, while making sure you achieve your life goals!
I pursue ongoing education through institutional programs including Yale's and Rutgers' culturally sensitive care with LGBTQ+, Jewish, and Israeli clients.
Struggling with intrusive thoughts, downward spirals, lack of motivation, effects of trauma or feeling invalidated? Playing those “what if” scenarios again and again in your head? If you’re seeking an authentic, empathetic connection to overcome challenges around anxiety, trauma, depression, or identity issues then I am here for you. As a passionate therapist, I strive to understand your needs, whether you're a child, teenager, or young adult. Through evidence-based treatments, I'll provide you with the right tools to help reduce your worries and symptoms, while making sure you achieve your life goals!
![Photo of Jessica Perrella, MSW, MEd, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eabde243-1751-4c45-91e2-649437fa9e94/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Perrella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community and am a kink and poly affirming therapist.
I only have availability on Mondays at either 12 or 2pm. Hi! I'm Jess. Starting therapy can be REALLY hard! Making yourself vulnerable to a perfect stranger can feel uncomfortable - especially if you're dealing with sexuality or relationship concerns. I bring my most authentic self to the session, in the hope that you will, too. My hope is that our work together can improve your ability to manage big feelings, empower you with tools to handle life's challenges, and improve communication in your relationships.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community and am a kink and poly affirming therapist.
I only have availability on Mondays at either 12 or 2pm. Hi! I'm Jess. Starting therapy can be REALLY hard! Making yourself vulnerable to a perfect stranger can feel uncomfortable - especially if you're dealing with sexuality or relationship concerns. I bring my most authentic self to the session, in the hope that you will, too. My hope is that our work together can improve your ability to manage big feelings, empower you with tools to handle life's challenges, and improve communication in your relationships.
![Photo of Jay A Tunnicliffe - Cardinal Counseling Associates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c3cc362-ac16-402a-b548-e7949564a2ad/1/320x400.png)
Cardinal Counseling Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090 (Online Only)
Cardinal Counseling offers you caring, skilled, and empathetic psychotherapists who value you and put you at the center of your treatment! We have therapists with experience in all sorts of areas ranging from the LGBTQ+ population to our first responders to severe anxiety, so you can be sure your therapeutic needs will be met.
Struggling with practicing good mental wellness is sometimes not a choice, but healing is. Often life can leave you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, insecure, checked out, isolated, have racing thoughts or unwanted memories, struggling with everyday tasks (school, work, parenting, etc.), dealing with depression, anxiety and maybe undesirable thoughts. Our current mental wellness, whether healthy or not, impact adults, our youth and our relationships. Together in therapy, we will work with you to feel safe, maintain strength, set healthy boundaries and learn how to function better in life.
Cardinal Counseling offers you caring, skilled, and empathetic psychotherapists who value you and put you at the center of your treatment! We have therapists with experience in all sorts of areas ranging from the LGBTQ+ population to our first responders to severe anxiety, so you can be sure your therapeutic needs will be met.
Struggling with practicing good mental wellness is sometimes not a choice, but healing is. Often life can leave you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, insecure, checked out, isolated, have racing thoughts or unwanted memories, struggling with everyday tasks (school, work, parenting, etc.), dealing with depression, anxiety and maybe undesirable thoughts. Our current mental wellness, whether healthy or not, impact adults, our youth and our relationships. Together in therapy, we will work with you to feel safe, maintain strength, set healthy boundaries and learn how to function better in life.
![Photo of Kathleen Bakos, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/927705e0-acca-4369-b9a2-ad806334ecb3/2/320x400.jpeg)
It's hard to admit needing help sometimes. Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed, lost, or inertia about self-motivated change? If you're struggling with managing anxiety or depression, infertility, adoption issues, trauma, LGBTQ, ADHD, child behavior, mariage, or impulse control I can help. I will "meet you where you are" emotionally, and together we can navigate what you are experiencing. I want to walk with you while you find mental wellness, manage stressors, obtain clarity, and gain the peace of mind that you deserve. There's much healing in being heard, understood, and taking time to process emotions.
It's hard to admit needing help sometimes. Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed, lost, or inertia about self-motivated change? If you're struggling with managing anxiety or depression, infertility, adoption issues, trauma, LGBTQ, ADHD, child behavior, mariage, or impulse control I can help. I will "meet you where you are" emotionally, and together we can navigate what you are experiencing. I want to walk with you while you find mental wellness, manage stressors, obtain clarity, and gain the peace of mind that you deserve. There's much healing in being heard, understood, and taking time to process emotions.
![Photo of Katherine De Vito, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fdf3a9ef-23cc-46b3-af41-85671d19a58a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Katherine De Vito
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
I specialize in children, teens, and young adults with anxiety, stress, and school, relationship, and peer issues, as well as working with LGBTQ+ population.
Working with children, adolescents, and young adults is my passion and specialty. In working with my clients, my goal is to establish a connection and trusting therapeutic relationship in a nonjudgmental and safe environment that can encourage emotional growth. Each client is unique, so treatment will be tailored to individual needs. My approach is eclectic, incorporating various therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, psychodynamic, and solution-focused therapy. I hold a Masters of Science in Social Work from Columbia University and a Doctorate in Social Work from Rutgers University.
I specialize in children, teens, and young adults with anxiety, stress, and school, relationship, and peer issues, as well as working with LGBTQ+ population.
Working with children, adolescents, and young adults is my passion and specialty. In working with my clients, my goal is to establish a connection and trusting therapeutic relationship in a nonjudgmental and safe environment that can encourage emotional growth. Each client is unique, so treatment will be tailored to individual needs. My approach is eclectic, incorporating various therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, psychodynamic, and solution-focused therapy. I hold a Masters of Science in Social Work from Columbia University and a Doctorate in Social Work from Rutgers University.
See more therapy options for Mountainside
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Mountainside
- Berkeley Heights
- Chatham
- Cranford
- Fanwood
- Kenilworth
- Millburn
- New Providence
- Scotch Plains
- Short Hills
- Springfield
- Summit
- Westfield
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.