LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Paramus, NJ
Diante has had experience working with clients presenting with various issues including but not limited to depression, sexual identity concerns ( LGBTQIA+), gender identity issues, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationships, marriage issues, familial issues and behavioral issues.
Diante Jordan, is a licensed associate marriage and family therapist (LAMFT) in New Jersey. He has experience working with children, adolescents and adults from a variety of populations and settings. Diante operates from the point of view that the client is the expert on themselves and through collaboration can overcome their personal challenges and become empowered to continue growing.
Diante has had experience working with clients presenting with various issues including but not limited to depression, sexual identity concerns ( LGBTQIA+), gender identity issues, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationships, marriage issues, familial issues and behavioral issues.
Diante Jordan, is a licensed associate marriage and family therapist (LAMFT) in New Jersey. He has experience working with children, adolescents and adults from a variety of populations and settings. Diante operates from the point of view that the client is the expert on themselves and through collaboration can overcome their personal challenges and become empowered to continue growing.
Whether it's for navigating a difficult time in your life, struggling to achieve your goals, or even feeling overwhelmed by current events, everyone needs support. The type of support I provide combines motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral therapies filtered through a trauma-informed, feminist, anti-oppression, and empowerment lens. In my practice, I strive to create a safe space that is culturally-sensitive and is affirming of all identities and spiritual paths, with a special interest in the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities, as well as adolescents.
Whether it's for navigating a difficult time in your life, struggling to achieve your goals, or even feeling overwhelmed by current events, everyone needs support. The type of support I provide combines motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioral therapies filtered through a trauma-informed, feminist, anti-oppression, and empowerment lens. In my practice, I strive to create a safe space that is culturally-sensitive and is affirming of all identities and spiritual paths, with a special interest in the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities, as well as adolescents.
Ilana Epstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652 (Online Only)
Ilana Epstein is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of New Jersey with just over 6 years of experience. Ilana aims to provide clients with a safe, non-judgmental environment, one that will offer clients the space they need to begin working towards their personal goals, while learning how to effectively manage and prioritize their mental and emotional well-being. Ilana has worked within a wide variety of treatment settings and has experience treating a diverse range of clinical needs, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, substance use disorders, and disordered eating.
Ilana Epstein is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of New Jersey with just over 6 years of experience. Ilana aims to provide clients with a safe, non-judgmental environment, one that will offer clients the space they need to begin working towards their personal goals, while learning how to effectively manage and prioritize their mental and emotional well-being. Ilana has worked within a wide variety of treatment settings and has experience treating a diverse range of clinical needs, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, substance use disorders, and disordered eating.
My clinical experience includes working with adolescents, teens, parents/guardians, and families in addressing trauma, grief, school refusal and avoidance, LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, and depression.
Sustainable change cannot occur overnight. In therapy, you will be a part of the therapeutic process. You will self-reflect, look inward, and work towards bettering these important life skills. I will ensure you feel empowered and involved in developing personal counseling goals. You will feel safe and supported within our counseling relationship to better the therapeutic process. Throughout my experience as both an educator and a counselor, I have worked with youth and families for over 10 years.
My clinical experience includes working with adolescents, teens, parents/guardians, and families in addressing trauma, grief, school refusal and avoidance, LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, and depression.
Sustainable change cannot occur overnight. In therapy, you will be a part of the therapeutic process. You will self-reflect, look inward, and work towards bettering these important life skills. I will ensure you feel empowered and involved in developing personal counseling goals. You will feel safe and supported within our counseling relationship to better the therapeutic process. Throughout my experience as both an educator and a counselor, I have worked with youth and families for over 10 years.
Rachel Dobkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
My specializations include working with LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families, as well as parenting support for parents of LGBTQ+ children.
Today you have taken the first step in your journey towards positive change, growth, and well-being. I strive to create a genuine, safe, and supportive environment for you to engage in self-reflection and remove obstacles to realizing your goals. We will empower you to embrace and nurture your most authentic selves. I work with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan from teen age through elder adulthood experiencing mood, trauma, adjustment, identity, relational, and developmental challenges.
My specializations include working with LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families, as well as parenting support for parents of LGBTQ+ children.
Today you have taken the first step in your journey towards positive change, growth, and well-being. I strive to create a genuine, safe, and supportive environment for you to engage in self-reflection and remove obstacles to realizing your goals. We will empower you to embrace and nurture your most authentic selves. I work with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan from teen age through elder adulthood experiencing mood, trauma, adjustment, identity, relational, and developmental challenges.
Cara Cuccinello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
I identify as queer, fat, with lived experience.
Available IN-PERSON & virtual! My passion is helping you navigate eating disorder recovery, distorted body image, and ending the dysfunctional diet/food-behavior spiral. Maybe you're new to recovery, or finding your way back. Our therapeutic relationship gives you a soft place to land and a firm place to launch from. Where you see constant anxiety, relational stress, perfectionism, chronic dysregulation, and shame, I see opportunity for growth. No matter why you're here, if you want to understand yourself, balance taking control and relinquishing it, and build a life worth living, I'm here to support you through it.
I identify as queer, fat, with lived experience.
Available IN-PERSON & virtual! My passion is helping you navigate eating disorder recovery, distorted body image, and ending the dysfunctional diet/food-behavior spiral. Maybe you're new to recovery, or finding your way back. Our therapeutic relationship gives you a soft place to land and a firm place to launch from. Where you see constant anxiety, relational stress, perfectionism, chronic dysregulation, and shame, I see opportunity for growth. No matter why you're here, if you want to understand yourself, balance taking control and relinquishing it, and build a life worth living, I'm here to support you through it.
These areas include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, anger management, life transitions, LGBTQIA+ issues, and substance use disorders.
There are times when we all need extra support to make it through the challenges we are facing. Lara helps empower clients to recognize their abilities to create positive changes in their lives and believe that they can take back control, even though life can be stressful. She's here to help when you are ready to start your mental health journey!
These areas include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, anger management, life transitions, LGBTQIA+ issues, and substance use disorders.
There are times when we all need extra support to make it through the challenges we are facing. Lara helps empower clients to recognize their abilities to create positive changes in their lives and believe that they can take back control, even though life can be stressful. She's here to help when you are ready to start your mental health journey!
Mark Modoski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, LCADC, DBT-C, CAMS II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652 (Online Only)
I see a large number of LGBTQ+ clients, combat veterans, police officers, school teachers, nurses, other therapists, union/shift workers and business professionals, among others.
I'm a unique therapist that treats a wide array of mental health disorders. We focus on resolving past and current issues/trauma, finding solutions and eliciting organic change. If we are not solving your problems, I am wasting your time. My practice goes far beyond talk therapy, we do work. We explore childhood, adolescent and other lifetime experiences that impact our psychological functioning. To permanently resolve our disorders we must revisit and resolve these thoughts, feelings and events. I utilize DBT as part of my treatment approach and we engage from the first minute we meet.
I see a large number of LGBTQ+ clients, combat veterans, police officers, school teachers, nurses, other therapists, union/shift workers and business professionals, among others.
I'm a unique therapist that treats a wide array of mental health disorders. We focus on resolving past and current issues/trauma, finding solutions and eliciting organic change. If we are not solving your problems, I am wasting your time. My practice goes far beyond talk therapy, we do work. We explore childhood, adolescent and other lifetime experiences that impact our psychological functioning. To permanently resolve our disorders we must revisit and resolve these thoughts, feelings and events. I utilize DBT as part of my treatment approach and we engage from the first minute we meet.
Redefining Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07653
Therapy is weird. I get it. You are sharing your secrets with a stranger. The relationship between the therapist and the client is the most important aspect of therapy. I have worked with single mothers, couples, families, children/teenagers, and the LGBT community. Working since 2007, there is not much I have not seen. I treat my clients like I would want my family members to be treated, with respect, compassion, sincerity and honesty. I also believe therapy can be fun as well as constructive and valuable.
Therapy is weird. I get it. You are sharing your secrets with a stranger. The relationship between the therapist and the client is the most important aspect of therapy. I have worked with single mothers, couples, families, children/teenagers, and the LGBT community. Working since 2007, there is not much I have not seen. I treat my clients like I would want my family members to be treated, with respect, compassion, sincerity and honesty. I also believe therapy can be fun as well as constructive and valuable.
I am a highly experienced, warm, NJ and NY licensed psychologist trained at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. Treatment specialties include: Women's Issues (incl. Relationships, Career, Family Issues), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder), Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorder, OCD), Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Impulse Control Difficulties (cutting, self-harm, oppositionality), Trauma, PTSD, and Sexual Abuse, Relationship Issues, and Gay/ Lesbian issues.
I am a highly experienced, warm, NJ and NY licensed psychologist trained at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. Treatment specialties include: Women's Issues (incl. Relationships, Career, Family Issues), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder), Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorder, OCD), Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Impulse Control Difficulties (cutting, self-harm, oppositionality), Trauma, PTSD, and Sexual Abuse, Relationship Issues, and Gay/ Lesbian issues.
I am profoundly dedicated to empowering adolescents, young adults, and families by enhancing their coping strategies, addressing anxiety and depression, navigating executive functioning challenges, managing peer relationships, and fostering better family communication. I firmly believe in the transformative power of mindfulness strategies to improve both mental and physical health. Moreover, I am unwavering in my commitment to creating a nurturing environment for LGBTQ+ youth, where they can freely explore their identities, experience acceptance, and develop resilient strategies to overcome the specific obstacles they face.
I am profoundly dedicated to empowering adolescents, young adults, and families by enhancing their coping strategies, addressing anxiety and depression, navigating executive functioning challenges, managing peer relationships, and fostering better family communication. I firmly believe in the transformative power of mindfulness strategies to improve both mental and physical health. Moreover, I am unwavering in my commitment to creating a nurturing environment for LGBTQ+ youth, where they can freely explore their identities, experience acceptance, and develop resilient strategies to overcome the specific obstacles they face.
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Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CMC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Wait! Let us support and help you through what current issue lead you to this search! The decision to move forward with therapy may seem daunting and uncomfortable. We are here to provide a safe and comfortable environment for you. You and your mental health are important and we are here to guide and support you through this part of your journey. We have experience in treating Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Self-harm, LGBTQ issues, self-esteem issues, family conflict and many more. We counsel children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. We provide a Person-Centered, Strength Based, Evidence Based approach.
Wait! Let us support and help you through what current issue lead you to this search! The decision to move forward with therapy may seem daunting and uncomfortable. We are here to provide a safe and comfortable environment for you. You and your mental health are important and we are here to guide and support you through this part of your journey. We have experience in treating Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Self-harm, LGBTQ issues, self-esteem issues, family conflict and many more. We counsel children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. We provide a Person-Centered, Strength Based, Evidence Based approach.
Carol Ann Cilona
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am accepting new clients at this time (Please Note: I do not Accept Medicaid or Medicare at this time). I have long-term/significant experience working with various ethnic demographics, cultures, religions, including LGBTQIA and Polyamorous clientele. I offer compassion, empathy, and understanding to each and every person. I will custom-tailor a treatment plan for you to achieve your goals. Moreover, I practice an egalitarian approach; meaning you will be respected as an equal partner in our work together. As my client, you can look forward to my undivided attention, flexibility in scheduling, and a warm and welcoming environment.
I am accepting new clients at this time (Please Note: I do not Accept Medicaid or Medicare at this time). I have long-term/significant experience working with various ethnic demographics, cultures, religions, including LGBTQIA and Polyamorous clientele. I offer compassion, empathy, and understanding to each and every person. I will custom-tailor a treatment plan for you to achieve your goals. Moreover, I practice an egalitarian approach; meaning you will be respected as an equal partner in our work together. As my client, you can look forward to my undivided attention, flexibility in scheduling, and a warm and welcoming environment.
Susan Ratner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience and specialized training in trauma, eating disorders, addiction/ substance abuse, couples work, LGBTQ issues/ support, grief and loss, working with adolescents and parenting, anxiety, low self esteem, life transitions, feelings of loneliness, disconnection, depression, relationship issues, feeling stuck/ failure to achieve goals.
My approach is collaborative, viewing therapy as a shared journey towards healing and growth. Together, we will work to develop insight, cultivate self compassion, process trauma and loss, and expand your coping skills to navigate the challenges you face with greater confidence and resilience. I am passionate about my work, and strive to create an open and accepting space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions and experiences.
I have extensive experience and specialized training in trauma, eating disorders, addiction/ substance abuse, couples work, LGBTQ issues/ support, grief and loss, working with adolescents and parenting, anxiety, low self esteem, life transitions, feelings of loneliness, disconnection, depression, relationship issues, feeling stuck/ failure to achieve goals.
My approach is collaborative, viewing therapy as a shared journey towards healing and growth. Together, we will work to develop insight, cultivate self compassion, process trauma and loss, and expand your coping skills to navigate the challenges you face with greater confidence and resilience. I am passionate about my work, and strive to create an open and accepting space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions and experiences.
Alexandria Ceravolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am currently accepting clients located in NY and NJ!I offer a space where clients can speak freely and be seen, heard, and understood. I work with clients who are seeking to rediscover who they are and help them live a more authentic and intentional life. I have a focus in supporting clients who are navigating their identity, future, relationships and survivors of trauma. In sessions, we work together to challenge and change patterns, reclaim your power, and transform into the best version of yourself. I welcome clients of a diverse background and those who are members of the LGBTQIA+, sex-positive, and kink community.
I am currently accepting clients located in NY and NJ!I offer a space where clients can speak freely and be seen, heard, and understood. I work with clients who are seeking to rediscover who they are and help them live a more authentic and intentional life. I have a focus in supporting clients who are navigating their identity, future, relationships and survivors of trauma. In sessions, we work together to challenge and change patterns, reclaim your power, and transform into the best version of yourself. I welcome clients of a diverse background and those who are members of the LGBTQIA+, sex-positive, and kink community.
I have experience treating many different issues including: depression, anxiety, bereavement, family conflict, divorce, relationship issues, self-esteem, social skills deficits, life transitions, LGBTQ issues, behavioral problems, and many others.
Therapy can be a life-changing and empowering experience. It is a courageous step towards personal growth, self-knowledge, and self-acceptance. I offer a non-judgmental and confidential space for you to explore your feelings and personal issues at a pace that is comfortable to you. I use a mix of different therapeutic techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, psycho-dynamic approaches, mindfulness, and many others.
I have experience treating many different issues including: depression, anxiety, bereavement, family conflict, divorce, relationship issues, self-esteem, social skills deficits, life transitions, LGBTQ issues, behavioral problems, and many others.
Therapy can be a life-changing and empowering experience. It is a courageous step towards personal growth, self-knowledge, and self-acceptance. I offer a non-judgmental and confidential space for you to explore your feelings and personal issues at a pace that is comfortable to you. I use a mix of different therapeutic techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, psycho-dynamic approaches, mindfulness, and many others.
Jesenia Vergel is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey with 27 years of experience. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from New York University, a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Montclair State University, and a Post-Masters from New Jersey City University.
Jesenia Vergel is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey with 27 years of experience. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from New York University, a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Montclair State University, and a Post-Masters from New Jersey City University.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!! I strive to create a non-judgmental environment for my clients where they feel welcomed, respected, heard, and have the support they deserve while collaboratively working towards their goals. The most rewarding part about being a mental health counselor is being able to witness individuals bettering themselves and overcoming obstacles whether they are big or small. As a counselor, I know that every individual is unique; therefore, I work with the client based on their needs and at a pace they are comfortable with, while also trying to challenge them in making steps towards their progress.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!! I strive to create a non-judgmental environment for my clients where they feel welcomed, respected, heard, and have the support they deserve while collaboratively working towards their goals. The most rewarding part about being a mental health counselor is being able to witness individuals bettering themselves and overcoming obstacles whether they are big or small. As a counselor, I know that every individual is unique; therefore, I work with the client based on their needs and at a pace they are comfortable with, while also trying to challenge them in making steps towards their progress.
My name is Scott Marqueling (pronounced "Mark-ling"), LMFT. I've been a practicing therapist for seven years, working in a variety of community-based settings with clients ranging from 5 to 65 years old.
My name is Scott Marqueling (pronounced "Mark-ling"), LMFT. I've been a practicing therapist for seven years, working in a variety of community-based settings with clients ranging from 5 to 65 years old.
Nadine Abdelaziz is a Licensed Associate Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional in New Jersey who Joined Lifestance in 2024. She has a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a Masters in Criminal Justice, and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. Through her clinical experience and education, Nadine has learned many skills that will help her aid the client on their journey. She offers patience, understanding, empathy and compassion. Outside of work, Nadine enjoys reading psychological thrillers, engaging in pyrography, and enjoying the sport of fencing.
Nadine Abdelaziz is a Licensed Associate Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional in New Jersey who Joined Lifestance in 2024. She has a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a Masters in Criminal Justice, and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. Through her clinical experience and education, Nadine has learned many skills that will help her aid the client on their journey. She offers patience, understanding, empathy and compassion. Outside of work, Nadine enjoys reading psychological thrillers, engaging in pyrography, and enjoying the sport of fencing.
See more therapy options for Paramus
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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.