LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Orange, NJ
Jaivonne W. Seary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, NJ 07050 (Online Only)
For queer, trans, and people of color, therapy has historically been stigmatized, mistrusting, or inaccessible. As a Latinx, Lesbian/ Queer Woman and Psychotherapist, I ensure an affordable, safe space, and lived experiences that can help ease some of those concerns and ensure my clients receive affirmative care. I provide virtual trauma-informed, clinical psychotherapy to adult QTPOC individuals, couples, and groups. Using an eclectic therapeutic approach, I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship issues, and trauma-related stress through my NJ-based practice Journey to Better.
For queer, trans, and people of color, therapy has historically been stigmatized, mistrusting, or inaccessible. As a Latinx, Lesbian/ Queer Woman and Psychotherapist, I ensure an affordable, safe space, and lived experiences that can help ease some of those concerns and ensure my clients receive affirmative care. I provide virtual trauma-informed, clinical psychotherapy to adult QTPOC individuals, couples, and groups. Using an eclectic therapeutic approach, I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship issues, and trauma-related stress through my NJ-based practice Journey to Better.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
Being a Marriage and Family Therapist has given me the opportunity to step outside of the clinical box and work with an array of different mental and behavioral health issues. Having established positive therapeutic relationships with children, individuals, couples, and families has allowed me to gain insight into the daily struggles we all face from time to time. Whether it be anxiety, depression, lack of communication, defiant child-parent dynamics, or phase of life circumstances, I believe there is always an opportunity to make positive changes and start living a life we are truly excited about.
Being a Marriage and Family Therapist has given me the opportunity to step outside of the clinical box and work with an array of different mental and behavioral health issues. Having established positive therapeutic relationships with children, individuals, couples, and families has allowed me to gain insight into the daily struggles we all face from time to time. Whether it be anxiety, depression, lack of communication, defiant child-parent dynamics, or phase of life circumstances, I believe there is always an opportunity to make positive changes and start living a life we are truly excited about.
Are you currently going through a difficult period of adjustment or often feel weighed down by anxiety or depression? Dr. Catherine Philemon can help you work on your healing process by addressing deeper rooted psychological traumas and helping you feel empowered. She specializes in treating anxiety and depressive disorders, and has worked with populations dealing with a variety of life stressors such as difficulties with adjustments, grief, intimacy, interpersonal relationships, career changes, personal growth, and self-esteem.
Are you currently going through a difficult period of adjustment or often feel weighed down by anxiety or depression? Dr. Catherine Philemon can help you work on your healing process by addressing deeper rooted psychological traumas and helping you feel empowered. She specializes in treating anxiety and depressive disorders, and has worked with populations dealing with a variety of life stressors such as difficulties with adjustments, grief, intimacy, interpersonal relationships, career changes, personal growth, and self-esteem.
Path Of Discovery Counseling Services, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, NJ 07050 (Online Only)
Path of Discovery Counseling Services provides a safe space where people of color achieve authentic and peaceful lives through mental health services rooted in culturally affirming methods.
Path of Discovery Counseling Services provides a safe space where people of color achieve authentic and peaceful lives through mental health services rooted in culturally affirming methods.
More Therapists Nearby
My approach is especially sensitive to the unique challenges faced by people of color and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Congratulations on Trusting the Process & taking the leap into the journey towards your best self. Life can often be overwhelming, particularly for those grappling with anxiety, trauma, and racially based challenges. These struggles can manifest in various ways, such as persistent worry, flashbacks, a constant sense of being on edge, and feelings of isolation. It's essential to understand that the healing process is a journey, not a destination. Together, we will work through these pain points, fostering resilience and personal growth every step of the way.
My approach is especially sensitive to the unique challenges faced by people of color and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Congratulations on Trusting the Process & taking the leap into the journey towards your best self. Life can often be overwhelming, particularly for those grappling with anxiety, trauma, and racially based challenges. These struggles can manifest in various ways, such as persistent worry, flashbacks, a constant sense of being on edge, and feelings of isolation. It's essential to understand that the healing process is a journey, not a destination. Together, we will work through these pain points, fostering resilience and personal growth every step of the way.
Many of the children I see identify as LGBTQIA+ or questioning as well as Neurodivergent.
Children between the ages of 5-19 who are questioning their gender identity, those who struggle with ADHD and executive dysfunction, Autism Spectrum disorder and of course the anxiety and depression that often accompany these diagnosis. The goals for many of the youth I work with include removing obstacles that impede school performance and self regulation skills. I frequently consult with child study teams, psychiatrists as well as a host of other medical professionals including pediatric endocrinologists for families considering puberty blockers and HRT for their child.
Many of the children I see identify as LGBTQIA+ or questioning as well as Neurodivergent.
Children between the ages of 5-19 who are questioning their gender identity, those who struggle with ADHD and executive dysfunction, Autism Spectrum disorder and of course the anxiety and depression that often accompany these diagnosis. The goals for many of the youth I work with include removing obstacles that impede school performance and self regulation skills. I frequently consult with child study teams, psychiatrists as well as a host of other medical professionals including pediatric endocrinologists for families considering puberty blockers and HRT for their child.
Matthew Sidler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
Is shame or fear of vulnerability getting in the way of connection or sex? Are you and your partner struggling to be on the same page emotionally or sexually? Despite being hardwired for connection, self-doubt, anxiety, depression, and other everyday obstacles tend to get in the way. Struggles related to sexual desire, performance, or physical functioning are so often burdened by shame or embarrassment. As a sex and relationship therapist, I work with clients to develop greater comfort around these topics. While my practice is inclusive of all people, I aim to provide a safe space for LGBTQIA+ clients.
Is shame or fear of vulnerability getting in the way of connection or sex? Are you and your partner struggling to be on the same page emotionally or sexually? Despite being hardwired for connection, self-doubt, anxiety, depression, and other everyday obstacles tend to get in the way. Struggles related to sexual desire, performance, or physical functioning are so often burdened by shame or embarrassment. As a sex and relationship therapist, I work with clients to develop greater comfort around these topics. While my practice is inclusive of all people, I aim to provide a safe space for LGBTQIA+ clients.
Max Laffend: Couples, Adults, LGBTQ
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newark, NJ 07103
I am also part of the Queer, I Team at Resolution Counseling Center, which is the only in-network group of affirming providers (that we know of!) in NJ.
As a Queer/ LGBTQ individual who has worked extensively within my community, I have learned that everyone has their own idea of what it means to suffer, but we need not approach it alone nor without help. First and foremost, I believe that individual needs and each relationship is unique; this informs the work I do with clients. If you are not feeling seen or heard in your relationships with others, be they romantic or otherwise, we can work together to build the needed skills for you or you and your partner to better navigate needs. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I am also part of the Queer, I Team at Resolution Counseling Center, which is the only in-network group of affirming providers (that we know of!) in NJ.
As a Queer/ LGBTQ individual who has worked extensively within my community, I have learned that everyone has their own idea of what it means to suffer, but we need not approach it alone nor without help. First and foremost, I believe that individual needs and each relationship is unique; this informs the work I do with clients. If you are not feeling seen or heard in your relationships with others, be they romantic or otherwise, we can work together to build the needed skills for you or you and your partner to better navigate needs. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
James Vincent Mahon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, MSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
I have specialized in treatment with gay and lesbian clients for the past 36 years.
Contemporary life causes emotional/ mental conflict and stress. As your therapist, I will assist you in achieving authentic self-knowledge. "Knowledge Is Power". Through mirroring, I will reflect YOU to yourself; that knowledge can empower you in your life to resolve conflicts, mitigate anxieties/ depressive states and enhance/ maximize productive relationships.
With 36 years of clinical practice especially serving the GLBT community, this work has enhanced my ability to be sensitive and insightful into the general human condition.
The curative aspect of treatment is relational. I assist the client in developing a therapeutic alliance with me to promote mental and emotional health.
I have specialized in treatment with gay and lesbian clients for the past 36 years.
Contemporary life causes emotional/ mental conflict and stress. As your therapist, I will assist you in achieving authentic self-knowledge. "Knowledge Is Power". Through mirroring, I will reflect YOU to yourself; that knowledge can empower you in your life to resolve conflicts, mitigate anxieties/ depressive states and enhance/ maximize productive relationships.
With 36 years of clinical practice especially serving the GLBT community, this work has enhanced my ability to be sensitive and insightful into the general human condition.
The curative aspect of treatment is relational. I assist the client in developing a therapeutic alliance with me to promote mental and emotional health.
Jose M Perez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I also offer special skills for individuals in need of assistance with gender identification, including but not limited to coming out to family and friends, HIV diagnosis and various other issues confronting the gay and lesbian community.
Making the call for counseling is often the first step you can take in beginning the healing process. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in New Jersey. I can counsel individuals, couples and families and specialize in working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship problems or life transitions including but not limited to divorce, loss of a job or death of a loved one. I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment to foster your own individual strength.
I also offer special skills for individuals in need of assistance with gender identification, including but not limited to coming out to family and friends, HIV diagnosis and various other issues confronting the gay and lesbian community.
Making the call for counseling is often the first step you can take in beginning the healing process. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in New Jersey. I can counsel individuals, couples and families and specialize in working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship problems or life transitions including but not limited to divorce, loss of a job or death of a loved one. I strive to create a safe and comfortable environment to foster your own individual strength.
Pierce Bourget: Adults Couples Teens, LGBTQ
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07103
Guided by my experience as a gay & nonbinary person, I assist clients navigating poly relationships, ADHD, recovery & sobriety, relationship issues, & LGBTQIA community issues. I integrate anti-oppressive & anti-racist approaches by actively listening to diverse perspectives & working collaboratively with clients to create an inclusive environment. With teens, I ally closely with parents to develop a plan that works to connect better at home & engage in sustainable change. With adults & couples, I use evidence-based methods to gain insight into your patterns & communicate effectively. Book online with me at www.resolutioncc.com/team
Guided by my experience as a gay & nonbinary person, I assist clients navigating poly relationships, ADHD, recovery & sobriety, relationship issues, & LGBTQIA community issues. I integrate anti-oppressive & anti-racist approaches by actively listening to diverse perspectives & working collaboratively with clients to create an inclusive environment. With teens, I ally closely with parents to develop a plan that works to connect better at home & engage in sustainable change. With adults & couples, I use evidence-based methods to gain insight into your patterns & communicate effectively. Book online with me at www.resolutioncc.com/team
Francesca Scirocco
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, PhD Can
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042 (Online Only)
I am a self-identified queer therapist.
Most of the folx I work with identify as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, or double (+) minority, but everyone is welcome! You and I will work as a team to identify your authentic needs and see what works for you! I take a cultural, eclectic approach of holistic and evidenced based practices to help you heal and grow through your life experiences and trauma.
I am a self-identified queer therapist.
Most of the folx I work with identify as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, or double (+) minority, but everyone is welcome! You and I will work as a team to identify your authentic needs and see what works for you! I take a cultural, eclectic approach of holistic and evidenced based practices to help you heal and grow through your life experiences and trauma.
Institute for Personal Growth — Jersey City
Psychologist, PhD, LCSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
We work with PTSD/trauma (including EMDR), anger management, couples/marriage and family counseling, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, trans/non-binary/GNC youth and adults, ketamine therapy, EMDR, and more.
On the fence about therapy? Ask for the first session free, to see if it's right for you, no commitment. IPG has around 30 therapists, with 400+ years combined experience, in 3 offices throughout NJ (Jersey City, Highland Park, Freehold). Since 1983 we've combined compassionate care with high-level expertise. We see individuals, couples, families, adults, children and adolescents, from every walk of life. Our large and diverse clinical staff means we cover practically every specialty, population, mental health issue, and form of treatment there is, and chances are we can accommodate your schedule, location, and other needs.
We work with PTSD/trauma (including EMDR), anger management, couples/marriage and family counseling, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, trans/non-binary/GNC youth and adults, ketamine therapy, EMDR, and more.
On the fence about therapy? Ask for the first session free, to see if it's right for you, no commitment. IPG has around 30 therapists, with 400+ years combined experience, in 3 offices throughout NJ (Jersey City, Highland Park, Freehold). Since 1983 we've combined compassionate care with high-level expertise. We see individuals, couples, families, adults, children and adolescents, from every walk of life. Our large and diverse clinical staff means we cover practically every specialty, population, mental health issue, and form of treatment there is, and chances are we can accommodate your schedule, location, and other needs.
Israel Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
South Orange, NJ 07079 (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).
I specialize 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).
I specialize 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 have extensive experience working with creative professionals, the LGBT community, and stressed out New Yorkers of all varieties.
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming because it is crucial to find the right fit. Knowing this, I aim to create a strong therapeutic relationship with an emphasis on trust and acceptance. My style is interactive, practical, and infused with sensitivity and a sense of humor. We'll work collaboratively to set goals, identify barriers to growth, increase coping skills, and build on existing strengths. My aim is to assist you to access your own inner wisdom and resilience.
I have extensive experience working with creative professionals, the LGBT community, and stressed out New Yorkers of all varieties.
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming because it is crucial to find the right fit. Knowing this, I aim to create a strong therapeutic relationship with an emphasis on trust and acceptance. My style is interactive, practical, and infused with sensitivity and a sense of humor. We'll work collaboratively to set goals, identify barriers to growth, increase coping skills, and build on existing strengths. My aim is to assist you to access your own inner wisdom and resilience.
I mostly work with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, and life transitions.
I believe therapy is a caring, supportive, challenging, and collaborative process of exploring areas of your life that are concerning to you and you'd like to learn how to manage better. I follow a strengths-based, person-centered approach where we discuss and explore areas of your life you are concerned about and I assist you in making the real changes you seek. I'm easy going guy who uses humor, homework, insight readings, and other resources to support and challenge you to create change in your life.
I mostly work with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, and life transitions.
I believe therapy is a caring, supportive, challenging, and collaborative process of exploring areas of your life that are concerning to you and you'd like to learn how to manage better. I follow a strengths-based, person-centered approach where we discuss and explore areas of your life you are concerned about and I assist you in making the real changes you seek. I'm easy going guy who uses humor, homework, insight readings, and other resources to support and challenge you to create change in your life.
My experience lies in helping clients (children, adolescents, adults) navigate mental health and wellness concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, social anxiety & fear, anger management issues, life transitions, family and relationship issues, parenting skills, academic & career motivation, oppositional behavior, etc. I utilize evidence-based treatment modalities (CBT & DBT) while incorporating a person-centered approach that borrows from existential and spiritual wellness philosophies. I specialize in working with clients from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ community, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
My experience lies in helping clients (children, adolescents, adults) navigate mental health and wellness concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, social anxiety & fear, anger management issues, life transitions, family and relationship issues, parenting skills, academic & career motivation, oppositional behavior, etc. I utilize evidence-based treatment modalities (CBT & DBT) while incorporating a person-centered approach that borrows from existential and spiritual wellness philosophies. I specialize in working with clients from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ community, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Marielle Fanzini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in individuals and couples, family members of the LGBTQ+ community, relationship issues, women’s issues, PCOS, sex/intimacy, body image work, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Okay, by now you may have read a bunch of profiles and may be feeling overwhelmed. But you’re doing it, you’re taking steps to take care of yourself and that’s what matters. The world is messy, life is messy, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Here’s where I come in. I will never forget you are a real person sitting across from me and I will meet you where you are. Sometimes that means supporting you and validating your experience. Sometimes it's guiding you to shift your perspective. But, no matter what, it's always coming from a place of support, collaboration and maybe even some humor.
I specialize in individuals and couples, family members of the LGBTQ+ community, relationship issues, women’s issues, PCOS, sex/intimacy, body image work, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Okay, by now you may have read a bunch of profiles and may be feeling overwhelmed. But you’re doing it, you’re taking steps to take care of yourself and that’s what matters. The world is messy, life is messy, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Here’s where I come in. I will never forget you are a real person sitting across from me and I will meet you where you are. Sometimes that means supporting you and validating your experience. Sometimes it's guiding you to shift your perspective. But, no matter what, it's always coming from a place of support, collaboration and maybe even some humor.
Nicole Purwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvington, NJ 07111 (Online Only)
I am additionally LGBTQIA+ affirming and welcome all.
Hi. My name is Nicole Purwin, and I’m an LCSW licensed in the state of NJ. I have over 20 years of experience working in mental health with a multitude of clientele and their loved ones. I am a graduate of both Fordham University and Rutgers University. In my practice and artistry, I strive to provide a therapeutic safe space where all clients truly feel seen, heard and non-judged. I integrate my style and treatment dependent upon each individual and their wants/needs.
I am additionally LGBTQIA+ affirming and welcome all.
Hi. My name is Nicole Purwin, and I’m an LCSW licensed in the state of NJ. I have over 20 years of experience working in mental health with a multitude of clientele and their loved ones. I am a graduate of both Fordham University and Rutgers University. In my practice and artistry, I strive to provide a therapeutic safe space where all clients truly feel seen, heard and non-judged. I integrate my style and treatment dependent upon each individual and their wants/needs.
See more therapy options for Orange
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Orange
- Belleville
- Bloomfield
- East Orange
- Glen Ridge
- Harrison
- Irvington
- Maplewood
- Montclair
- Newark
- South Orange
- Verona
- West Orange
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.