LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Summit, NJ
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.
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.
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.
Stephanie Willoughby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Summit, NJ 07901 (Online Only)
My practice is focused primarily on treating adults who identify as female and being a welcoming space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
My name is Stephanie & I have provided therapy exclusively via telehealth for the last 3 years (previously in person). If you have been struggling with depression or anxiety, particularly if related to a traumatic experience, I would love the opportunity to work with you to reduce your mood- or anxiety-related symptoms, & to help you experience a present that is not negatively impacted by events from your past. I place a high value on authenticity, empathy, & self-awareness as critical parts of the therapeutic process & aim to validate my clients’ experiences without judgment & provide the most basic of needs: to feel seen and heard
My practice is focused primarily on treating adults who identify as female and being a welcoming space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
My name is Stephanie & I have provided therapy exclusively via telehealth for the last 3 years (previously in person). If you have been struggling with depression or anxiety, particularly if related to a traumatic experience, I would love the opportunity to work with you to reduce your mood- or anxiety-related symptoms, & to help you experience a present that is not negatively impacted by events from your past. I place a high value on authenticity, empathy, & self-awareness as critical parts of the therapeutic process & aim to validate my clients’ experiences without judgment & provide the most basic of needs: to feel seen and heard
Nicholas Diaz (adolescent/teen specialist)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Summit, NJ 07901
I offer specialization in stress, trauma, LGBTQ-related issues and focus on neuro counseling to help develop long-lasting change.
All clients have their own unique, individual experiences that, while may overlap with others, are still inherently their own. I truly wish to help these individuals navigate whatever issues they are presenting with, which tend to be far from ideal.
I offer specialization in stress, trauma, LGBTQ-related issues and focus on neuro counseling to help develop long-lasting change.
All clients have their own unique, individual experiences that, while may overlap with others, are still inherently their own. I truly wish to help these individuals navigate whatever issues they are presenting with, which tend to be far from ideal.
I have published on the relationship between play and identity, female development, mother/daughter relationships, and transgender adolescents.
I see psychotherapy as a journey in which two individuals, therapist and patient, co-create the story of the patient's life. In doing so, together they connect disconnected parts of the self, acknowledge and resolve internal conflicts, work through old losses, and discover new options for leading a more purposeful and meaningful life. For parents, I provide consultation and parenting support when children are struggling. I also provide psychoanalytic clinical supervision focusing on helping clinicians deepen and strengthen the therapeutic relationship with their clients with the aim of reaching more meaningful growth and change.
I have published on the relationship between play and identity, female development, mother/daughter relationships, and transgender adolescents.
I see psychotherapy as a journey in which two individuals, therapist and patient, co-create the story of the patient's life. In doing so, together they connect disconnected parts of the self, acknowledge and resolve internal conflicts, work through old losses, and discover new options for leading a more purposeful and meaningful life. For parents, I provide consultation and parenting support when children are struggling. I also provide psychoanalytic clinical supervision focusing on helping clinicians deepen and strengthen the therapeutic relationship with their clients with the aim of reaching more meaningful growth and change.
The best psychotherapy builds upon a solid relationship between a client and therapist, allowing the client to take risks in examining themselves, acknowledge their strengths and weaknesses, process painful memories and use their strengths to create change. In my therapeutic work I focus on nurturing that relationship to facilitate my client's change and self-acceptance. I am well trained in psychoanalysis, psychoanalytic therapy and family/couples therapy as well as cognitive-behavioral and short term therapy techniques and use what my clients and I believe will best facilitate their goals in treatment.
The best psychotherapy builds upon a solid relationship between a client and therapist, allowing the client to take risks in examining themselves, acknowledge their strengths and weaknesses, process painful memories and use their strengths to create change. In my therapeutic work I focus on nurturing that relationship to facilitate my client's change and self-acceptance. I am well trained in psychoanalysis, psychoanalytic therapy and family/couples therapy as well as cognitive-behavioral and short term therapy techniques and use what my clients and I believe will best facilitate their goals in treatment.
My ideal client is open to insight and a different perspective. They are perhaps ready for a change and will walk a path that may be uncomfortable at times. My ideal client has dealt with everything from existential crises, searching for life's meaning, addiction, behavior issues, trauma, and attachment issues, to name a few that stand out.
My ideal client is open to insight and a different perspective. They are perhaps ready for a change and will walk a path that may be uncomfortable at times. My ideal client has dealt with everything from existential crises, searching for life's meaning, addiction, behavior issues, trauma, and attachment issues, to name a few that stand out.
I provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults suffering from a variety of emotional and mental health issues. In particular, I work well with those who struggle with anxiety, depression,and personal loss.
Parents, my work with your child is a collaborative effort. It includes your participation as well as involving other professionals such as teachers, guidance counselors, and physicians as appropriate.
I also work with couples who are having difficulty adjusting to changes in their lives or who are having problems connecting with each other.
I provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults suffering from a variety of emotional and mental health issues. In particular, I work well with those who struggle with anxiety, depression,and personal loss.
Parents, my work with your child is a collaborative effort. It includes your participation as well as involving other professionals such as teachers, guidance counselors, and physicians as appropriate.
I also work with couples who are having difficulty adjusting to changes in their lives or who are having problems connecting with each other.
Christine Mahoney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, SAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Summit, NJ 07901
Life is ever-changing and constantly throwing us curveballs - some good, some tough. However, we do not have to let the negative experiences that come our way define us or our lives. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) accepting new patients who want to begin their journey of understanding how to accept current life challenges and who are interested in learning how to more effectively cope in their lives.
Life is ever-changing and constantly throwing us curveballs - some good, some tough. However, we do not have to let the negative experiences that come our way define us or our lives. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) accepting new patients who want to begin their journey of understanding how to accept current life challenges and who are interested in learning how to more effectively cope in their lives.
At times we find ourselves at a difficult crossroad, uncertain how to grow and change in the face of our distress. With 35 years in private practice, my goal is to help individuals and couples find a path to unknot conflicts and develop more resilient and expansive modes of living. Many of the people I work with are embroiled in addictive behaviors such as alcohol and substance misuse, gambling, sex addiction and pornography. Others struggle with painful traumatic personal histories, chronic and acute illnesses, grief and loss. And still others are mired in destructive relationship patterns that undermine the quality of their lives.
At times we find ourselves at a difficult crossroad, uncertain how to grow and change in the face of our distress. With 35 years in private practice, my goal is to help individuals and couples find a path to unknot conflicts and develop more resilient and expansive modes of living. Many of the people I work with are embroiled in addictive behaviors such as alcohol and substance misuse, gambling, sex addiction and pornography. Others struggle with painful traumatic personal histories, chronic and acute illnesses, grief and loss. And still others are mired in destructive relationship patterns that undermine the quality of their lives.
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Psychotherapy is a unique experience, in that it is encouraged that you share all of your thoughts & feelings, to include those that you might withhold in other contexts. Ideally, you will have an experience of feeling affirmed/acknowledged, thoroughly listened to, and seen as a complex person. That said, it can take a long time to feel free enough to share yourself in this way, and it is important that we move at your pace, plus respect that there are reasons why certain pieces of you are protected away. Your symptoms/difficulties are there for various reasons. You lead the way; I will support you in your process.
Psychotherapy is a unique experience, in that it is encouraged that you share all of your thoughts & feelings, to include those that you might withhold in other contexts. Ideally, you will have an experience of feeling affirmed/acknowledged, thoroughly listened to, and seen as a complex person. That said, it can take a long time to feel free enough to share yourself in this way, and it is important that we move at your pace, plus respect that there are reasons why certain pieces of you are protected away. Your symptoms/difficulties are there for various reasons. You lead the way; I will support you in your process.
With over 14 years of experience as a Mental Health professional, which includes a ten year role as a Senior Investigator with the Department of Children and Families, Nyree has experience dealing with domestic violence, life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, impulse control, family issues, parenting skills, adolescent issues, substance abuse, trauma, panic disorder, self harm, and anger management. Drawing on this experience, she is currently serving as a private practitioner, helping her clients gain stability in their lives by better managing life's challenges, thereby creating the ability to identify distorted thinking and beliefs. Nyree is available for in office sessions and video conferencing.
With over 14 years of experience as a Mental Health professional, which includes a ten year role as a Senior Investigator with the Department of Children and Families, Nyree has experience dealing with domestic violence, life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, impulse control, family issues, parenting skills, adolescent issues, substance abuse, trauma, panic disorder, self harm, and anger management. Drawing on this experience, she is currently serving as a private practitioner, helping her clients gain stability in their lives by better managing life's challenges, thereby creating the ability to identify distorted thinking and beliefs. Nyree is available for in office sessions and video conferencing.
Mary R. Mastria, PhD, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Summit, NJ 07901
Dr. Mary Mastria has been in private practice for over 25 years. She works with adults and couples. Her practice areas include relationship issues, mood disorders, trauma, chronic pain & body image/eating issues. She has advanced training and a doctorate in clinical social work. She is also certified in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) and holds a NJ-state certification in child sexual abuse treatment. She has published research in the area of eating disorders . She serves as an adjunct professor at NYU & developed graduate curriculum in the areas of Anxiety, Practice, Trauma & Eating Disorders Treatment.
Dr. Mary Mastria has been in private practice for over 25 years. She works with adults and couples. Her practice areas include relationship issues, mood disorders, trauma, chronic pain & body image/eating issues. She has advanced training and a doctorate in clinical social work. She is also certified in Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) and holds a NJ-state certification in child sexual abuse treatment. She has published research in the area of eating disorders . She serves as an adjunct professor at NYU & developed graduate curriculum in the areas of Anxiety, Practice, Trauma & Eating Disorders Treatment.
Thank you for viewing my page and I hope I can help you on the path towards healing and personal growth. I strive to create a safe, genuine, and empathic space for clients to explore their inner experiences. I have expertise in working with issues of depression, anxiety, trauma/post-traumatic stress including complex trauma, relationship issues, reproductive health and infertility, life cycle changes including college transitions, new motherhood, and grief and loss. I have postgraduate certification in integrative trauma studies and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Thank you for viewing my page and I hope I can help you on the path towards healing and personal growth. I strive to create a safe, genuine, and empathic space for clients to explore their inner experiences. I have expertise in working with issues of depression, anxiety, trauma/post-traumatic stress including complex trauma, relationship issues, reproductive health and infertility, life cycle changes including college transitions, new motherhood, and grief and loss. I have postgraduate certification in integrative trauma studies and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
You or someone you care about may be going through a difficult time. I will create a safe and nurturing environment where we can process thoughts and feelings about life stressors and challenges, gain new insights and work towards new possibilities. Together we will work to develop compassionate curiosity while balancing change with self-acceptance.
You or someone you care about may be going through a difficult time. I will create a safe and nurturing environment where we can process thoughts and feelings about life stressors and challenges, gain new insights and work towards new possibilities. Together we will work to develop compassionate curiosity while balancing change with self-acceptance.
I am in-network with Aetna and Horizon BCBS. When you feel empty, or like there’s no one to talk to, you can trust that in our work together, I’ll meet you in those moments — free of judgement and full of compassion. I have had the privilege to provide therapy for a diverse group of clients with a variety of mental health issues such as navigating life transitions, struggles with self-esteem, depression, low mood, as well as anxiety.
I am in-network with Aetna and Horizon BCBS. When you feel empty, or like there’s no one to talk to, you can trust that in our work together, I’ll meet you in those moments — free of judgement and full of compassion. I have had the privilege to provide therapy for a diverse group of clients with a variety of mental health issues such as navigating life transitions, struggles with self-esteem, depression, low mood, as well as anxiety.
Are you concerned about yourself or a loved one’s feelings, mood, work or school performance and have been unsuccessful in assisting despite your best efforts? Not able to find the correct method or words to successfully help make positive and permanent changes? Has there been a major change in your or the family's life and feel powerless in your ability to help? Having marital disputes or disruptions that are very concerning? You are not alone. Real help is available. Many people have sought counseling assistance and made permanent and satisfying changes in their, or a family member’s life.
Are you concerned about yourself or a loved one’s feelings, mood, work or school performance and have been unsuccessful in assisting despite your best efforts? Not able to find the correct method or words to successfully help make positive and permanent changes? Has there been a major change in your or the family's life and feel powerless in your ability to help? Having marital disputes or disruptions that are very concerning? You are not alone. Real help is available. Many people have sought counseling assistance and made permanent and satisfying changes in their, or a family member’s life.
Engaging in therapy can be pivotal towards becoming more self-aware and improving your quality of life and relationships; congratulations on taking this step. Regardless of whether a specific trauma or event leads you to therapy, our work together will focus on who you are in your various environments and relationships, how your personal circumstances led you here, and how you can achieve the future you envision.
Engaging in therapy can be pivotal towards becoming more self-aware and improving your quality of life and relationships; congratulations on taking this step. Regardless of whether a specific trauma or event leads you to therapy, our work together will focus on who you are in your various environments and relationships, how your personal circumstances led you here, and how you can achieve the future you envision.
John B Mahoney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Summit, NJ 07901
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking out a therapist is the first big step in making positive change in your life. The therapeutic relationship is one that can aid you in enacting the change you feel you need in your life. We are our own most valuable resource, possessing valuable thoughts and experiences that alongside the safe, supportive environment of therapy can help you achieve the goals you have set to improve your life.
Seeking out a therapist is the first big step in making positive change in your life. The therapeutic relationship is one that can aid you in enacting the change you feel you need in your life. We are our own most valuable resource, possessing valuable thoughts and experiences that alongside the safe, supportive environment of therapy can help you achieve the goals you have set to improve your life.
See more therapy options for Summit
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Summit
- Berkeley Heights
- Chatham
- Cranford
- Kenilworth
- Madison
- Millburn
- Mountainside
- New Providence
- Short Hills
- Springfield
- Union
- 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.