LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Forest Hills, NY
Yuriem Espinal-Seery
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Waitlist for new clients
I seek to facilitate healing and affirm clients of marginalized identities including BIPOC, LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and disabled folks.
Embarking on a journey toward healing and purpose can be equally hopeful and daunting. Maybe you have experienced trauma that is currently resurfacing in disruptive ways. Or, you have challenges with engaging in fulfilling relationships. Perhaps you're starting to realize that your familiar coping strategies have stopped serving you. Whatever the hurdle is, I'm glad you're here. I work with folks who have granted themselves the permission and grace to explore issues related to their emotional distress, intersecting identities, complex trauma, maladaptive relational patterns, addictive behaviors, and self-acceptance.
I seek to facilitate healing and affirm clients of marginalized identities including BIPOC, LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and disabled folks.
Embarking on a journey toward healing and purpose can be equally hopeful and daunting. Maybe you have experienced trauma that is currently resurfacing in disruptive ways. Or, you have challenges with engaging in fulfilling relationships. Perhaps you're starting to realize that your familiar coping strategies have stopped serving you. Whatever the hurdle is, I'm glad you're here. I work with folks who have granted themselves the permission and grace to explore issues related to their emotional distress, intersecting identities, complex trauma, maladaptive relational patterns, addictive behaviors, and self-acceptance.
Shaina Beshkin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Hills, NY 11375 (Online Only)
My primary focus is on LGBT+, immigrant, adoptee, sex worker, and disabled populations.
Hello! We have yet to meet, but I’m already proud of you for seeking help. It’s incredibly hard and frustrating, especially if you’ve done it before, but the fact that you’ve started searching is a big deal. Were you told to "get over it?" Or, had your concerns and struggles dismissed? In my practice, we don't get over our difficulties - we work through them, and that takes time. I want to be there to help you through that journey. To feel supported and cared for. To heal in a safe, judgment-free space. And to gain a sense of control over your life.
My primary focus is on LGBT+, immigrant, adoptee, sex worker, and disabled populations.
Hello! We have yet to meet, but I’m already proud of you for seeking help. It’s incredibly hard and frustrating, especially if you’ve done it before, but the fact that you’ve started searching is a big deal. Were you told to "get over it?" Or, had your concerns and struggles dismissed? In my practice, we don't get over our difficulties - we work through them, and that takes time. I want to be there to help you through that journey. To feel supported and cared for. To heal in a safe, judgment-free space. And to gain a sense of control over your life.
My specialty is working with Transgender individuals Understanding and accepting one's gender-identity is paramount to "Having a Better Life" Together, in a supportive environment, we can attend to concerns you may have, including: Becoming comfortable with a gender identity, gender expression (Crossdressing) finding and building community and so much more!.
My name is Dr. Gennifer Herley and I am the President of Gender Solutions NY and I am a proud Transwoman as well!. I help Individuals, Couples and Families understand gender identity issues. Are you feeling alone and struggling with your Gender Identity? If you are looking for an experienced empathetic person to talk with about any issue surrounding your Gender Identity....Let's Talk! I have expertise in following areas: LGBTQ Counseling with a focus on the Transgender Issues, Hormone evaluation letters. Adoption/Infertility, Individual & Couples Counseling, , Gender Expression (Crossdressing) as well as Businesses Consulting.
My specialty is working with Transgender individuals Understanding and accepting one's gender-identity is paramount to "Having a Better Life" Together, in a supportive environment, we can attend to concerns you may have, including: Becoming comfortable with a gender identity, gender expression (Crossdressing) finding and building community and so much more!.
My name is Dr. Gennifer Herley and I am the President of Gender Solutions NY and I am a proud Transwoman as well!. I help Individuals, Couples and Families understand gender identity issues. Are you feeling alone and struggling with your Gender Identity? If you are looking for an experienced empathetic person to talk with about any issue surrounding your Gender Identity....Let's Talk! I have expertise in following areas: LGBTQ Counseling with a focus on the Transgender Issues, Hormone evaluation letters. Adoption/Infertility, Individual & Couples Counseling, , Gender Expression (Crossdressing) as well as Businesses Consulting.
I'm passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges and find fulfillment. With a specialization in LGBTQ issues, anxiety, depression, and innovative therapies like Geek therapy, I provide a safe and supportive space for clients of all ages to explore their emotions, build resilience, and achieve personal growth.
I'm passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges and find fulfillment. With a specialization in LGBTQ issues, anxiety, depression, and innovative therapies like Geek therapy, I provide a safe and supportive space for clients of all ages to explore their emotions, build resilience, and achieve personal growth.
Susan Marie Horvatits
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NYSCPS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forest Hills, NY 11375 (Online Only)
Focuses include: crisis, trauma, LGBTQIA+, Domestic Violence, Cultural Sensitivity, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Empowerment, Advocacy, Agency, CBT, SFBT, DBT, REBT, and Existential Therapy.
The most integral aspect of counseling is coming from a person centered, peer and trauma informed focus that is collaborative and culturally sensitive, meaning, providing you with the autonomy and agency to decide what coping skills, care, and approach is best suited for you. Working as a team is imperative in order for each session to feel like a conversation and not something purely clinical. Providing you with resources you need and desire, along with actively listening, being empathic, and present, creates the ideal atmosphere for healing. It is my honor and privilege to be of assistance to you.
Focuses include: crisis, trauma, LGBTQIA+, Domestic Violence, Cultural Sensitivity, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Empowerment, Advocacy, Agency, CBT, SFBT, DBT, REBT, and Existential Therapy.
The most integral aspect of counseling is coming from a person centered, peer and trauma informed focus that is collaborative and culturally sensitive, meaning, providing you with the autonomy and agency to decide what coping skills, care, and approach is best suited for you. Working as a team is imperative in order for each session to feel like a conversation and not something purely clinical. Providing you with resources you need and desire, along with actively listening, being empathic, and present, creates the ideal atmosphere for healing. It is my honor and privilege to be of assistance to you.
Frustrated, stuck, or unfulfilled in an area of your life? You're not alone. Amid a global pandemic, along with the current social and political climate, knowing how to begin healing can be a challenge. Life is complicated and it can be difficult to reach out to gain the support and encouragement that you need to succeed. But don’t worry, I’ll be your ally on this journey - supporting and helping you along the way. As a Black male therapist in NYC, I specialize in working with individuals & couples, who at times feel powerless and are often marginalized - including immigrants, people of color, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Frustrated, stuck, or unfulfilled in an area of your life? You're not alone. Amid a global pandemic, along with the current social and political climate, knowing how to begin healing can be a challenge. Life is complicated and it can be difficult to reach out to gain the support and encouragement that you need to succeed. But don’t worry, I’ll be your ally on this journey - supporting and helping you along the way. As a Black male therapist in NYC, I specialize in working with individuals & couples, who at times feel powerless and are often marginalized - including immigrants, people of color, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Lisa Kallman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375 (Online Only)
Lisa specializes in treating women with anxiety; and also has extensive experience working with LGBTQIA+, maternal mental health, and health care providers. In collaborative work together, she will integrate various helpful tools, with an emphasis on mindfulness. Lisa will help you to stop avoiding and struggling with difficult emotions; and facilitate changing your relationship with anxiety. She can also work with you around assertiveness and boundary-setting skills, as well as adjusting to various life transitions (e.g. relationships, professional, infertility).
Lisa specializes in treating women with anxiety; and also has extensive experience working with LGBTQIA+, maternal mental health, and health care providers. In collaborative work together, she will integrate various helpful tools, with an emphasis on mindfulness. Lisa will help you to stop avoiding and struggling with difficult emotions; and facilitate changing your relationship with anxiety. She can also work with you around assertiveness and boundary-setting skills, as well as adjusting to various life transitions (e.g. relationships, professional, infertility).
I have experience providing therapy to LGBTQIA+ individuals who are managing stressful relationships, family dynamics, or coming out/exploring identity.
I welcome you to my practice where together we can explore whatever it is that brought you here in a safe space. I value building relationships with my clients through deep and reflective listening to ensure that I’m understanding you and your situation as best as possible. I have a background working within multi-cultural contexts both domestically and abroad and have an understanding of the impact of having to readjust to a new culture.
I have experience providing therapy to LGBTQIA+ individuals who are managing stressful relationships, family dynamics, or coming out/exploring identity.
I welcome you to my practice where together we can explore whatever it is that brought you here in a safe space. I value building relationships with my clients through deep and reflective listening to ensure that I’m understanding you and your situation as best as possible. I have a background working within multi-cultural contexts both domestically and abroad and have an understanding of the impact of having to readjust to a new culture.
Sirron Psychodynamic Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Hills, NY 11375 (Online Only)
I earned my Masters of Social Work (M.S.W.) from the Columbia University School of Social Work at Columbia University, and my Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) from the Rutgers University School of Social Work. I am currently undergoing advanced training at the National Institute for the Psychotherapies (NIP), a progressive psychoanalytic training institute. I have worked in community mental health centers, inpatient psychiatric units, and jails. I have extensive experience with trauma, depression, LGBTQIA+, race/cultural identity, anxiety, couples, CPTSD, substance use, life transitions, codependency, and personality disorders.
I earned my Masters of Social Work (M.S.W.) from the Columbia University School of Social Work at Columbia University, and my Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) from the Rutgers University School of Social Work. I am currently undergoing advanced training at the National Institute for the Psychotherapies (NIP), a progressive psychoanalytic training institute. I have worked in community mental health centers, inpatient psychiatric units, and jails. I have extensive experience with trauma, depression, LGBTQIA+, race/cultural identity, anxiety, couples, CPTSD, substance use, life transitions, codependency, and personality disorders.
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in trauma, stress, depression, anxiety, and couples therapy with partners who identify within the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ community. In therapy, I work to build confidence, resilience, and copings skills. We can talk about the multidimensionality of your identity to navigate the impact of societal stress and discover ways to feel your feelings in an increasingly difficult world.
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in trauma, stress, depression, anxiety, and couples therapy with partners who identify within the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ community. In therapy, I work to build confidence, resilience, and copings skills. We can talk about the multidimensionality of your identity to navigate the impact of societal stress and discover ways to feel your feelings in an increasingly difficult world.
I work warmly and compassionately with individuals and couples, listening attentively and responding to your specific needs. Emotional safety and respect are key in my work as I help clients find relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, transitions and difficult life circumstances. As a trained Imago couples therapist I bring my knowledge and understanding of relationships to my work with both individuals and couples. I specialize in working with gay and lesbian clients.
I work warmly and compassionately with individuals and couples, listening attentively and responding to your specific needs. Emotional safety and respect are key in my work as I help clients find relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, transitions and difficult life circumstances. As a trained Imago couples therapist I bring my knowledge and understanding of relationships to my work with both individuals and couples. I specialize in working with gay and lesbian clients.
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Melissa is currently working towards her degree in Licensed Mental Health Counseling at Alfred University. She received her license in Bilingual School Counseling (Spanish-proficiency) in 2014 from CUNY Queens College and graduated magna cum laude. She has since been serving the highly diverse youth population throughout Queens, New York, including communities of color, LGBTQ+ and the differently-abled. In addition, Melissa is a restorative practitioner who is trained in restoring harm among people and spaces through a lens of anti-racism, equity and inclusion. She is currently undergoing trauma-informed psychotherapy training.
Melissa is currently working towards her degree in Licensed Mental Health Counseling at Alfred University. She received her license in Bilingual School Counseling (Spanish-proficiency) in 2014 from CUNY Queens College and graduated magna cum laude. She has since been serving the highly diverse youth population throughout Queens, New York, including communities of color, LGBTQ+ and the differently-abled. In addition, Melissa is a restorative practitioner who is trained in restoring harm among people and spaces through a lens of anti-racism, equity and inclusion. She is currently undergoing trauma-informed psychotherapy training.
Minds Together, LCSWs.PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDBT, SIFI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Clinicians are specialized in Art therapy, Drug and Alcohol, LGBTQIA, Cognitive and Client-Center Therapy approach provided.
SE HABLA ESPAÑOL. DUE TO COVID19, SESSIONS ARE VIA TELEHEALTH. OFFICE VISITS WITH SAFETY PROTOCOLS (NYS GUIDELINES). Minds Together, LCSW.PC. provides a safe and unique setting dedicated in improving one's mental and emotional health through our professional and compassionate staff. Our mission is to improve our community one individual at a time through our culturally diverse and motivated clinicians with the hope that every person seeking treatment with us feels safe, empowered and most important treated as an individual and not as a patient.
Clinicians are specialized in Art therapy, Drug and Alcohol, LGBTQIA, Cognitive and Client-Center Therapy approach provided.
SE HABLA ESPAÑOL. DUE TO COVID19, SESSIONS ARE VIA TELEHEALTH. OFFICE VISITS WITH SAFETY PROTOCOLS (NYS GUIDELINES). Minds Together, LCSW.PC. provides a safe and unique setting dedicated in improving one's mental and emotional health through our professional and compassionate staff. Our mission is to improve our community one individual at a time through our culturally diverse and motivated clinicians with the hope that every person seeking treatment with us feels safe, empowered and most important treated as an individual and not as a patient.
I believe representation matters greatly and as a queer bicultural therapist, I am committed to building a rapport founded on inclusivity, safety, and belonging.
I strive to foster authentic therapeutic relationships with my clients through culturally inclusive, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed care. I specialize in psychodynamic, intersectional, and holistic approaches to psychotherapy. My theoretical orientations draw from Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, and Nervous System Regulation to address trauma within the body. It would be my honor to be a part of my clients' healing journeys and help them gain the self-awareness and empowerment needed to live their authentic truths.
I believe representation matters greatly and as a queer bicultural therapist, I am committed to building a rapport founded on inclusivity, safety, and belonging.
I strive to foster authentic therapeutic relationships with my clients through culturally inclusive, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed care. I specialize in psychodynamic, intersectional, and holistic approaches to psychotherapy. My theoretical orientations draw from Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, and Nervous System Regulation to address trauma within the body. It would be my honor to be a part of my clients' healing journeys and help them gain the self-awareness and empowerment needed to live their authentic truths.
Jean Tamara Geffen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375
I work with gay and lesbian clients and especially enjoy doing couple work.
People often ask me "How do you listen to people's problems all day?" I am inspired by the people I meet who often have difficult backgrounds and lives, yet are willing to work hard to grow and be happy, healthy, human beings. I am touched by their commitment and dedication to work on themselves instead of being angry, miserable people. What more important investment is there than investing time and energy in oneself?
I work with gay and lesbian clients and especially enjoy doing couple work.
People often ask me "How do you listen to people's problems all day?" I am inspired by the people I meet who often have difficult backgrounds and lives, yet are willing to work hard to grow and be happy, healthy, human beings. I am touched by their commitment and dedication to work on themselves instead of being angry, miserable people. What more important investment is there than investing time and energy in oneself?
Are you interested in developing skills to enhance self-care and effectively navigate and heal from trauma? As a Hispanic therapist, I specialize in applying Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help individuals from diverse backgrounds, including BIPOC and LGBTQIA communities, overcome mental and emotional challenges.
Are you interested in developing skills to enhance self-care and effectively navigate and heal from trauma? As a Hispanic therapist, I specialize in applying Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help individuals from diverse backgrounds, including BIPOC and LGBTQIA communities, overcome mental and emotional challenges.
Angela Christina Ferri
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Forest Hills, NY 11375 (Online Only)
I also cultivate positive, long-term relationships with diverse cultures and the LGBT+ community.
As a licensed mental health counselor, I specialize in supporting young adults who are grappling with issues of anger, low self-esteem and the anxiety associated with school performance. My goal is to empower individuals to take proactive steps in caring for themselves, fostering a sense of motivation and helping them become the best versions of themselves.
I also cultivate positive, long-term relationships with diverse cultures and the LGBT+ community.
As a licensed mental health counselor, I specialize in supporting young adults who are grappling with issues of anger, low self-esteem and the anxiety associated with school performance. My goal is to empower individuals to take proactive steps in caring for themselves, fostering a sense of motivation and helping them become the best versions of themselves.
Eileen Mercado, LCSW, graduated with a master's degree in social work from the Hunter College Silberman School of Social Work and a bachelor's degree in psychology from Marymount College, Tarrytown. She is bilingual and has extensive experience providing individual, couples and family psychotherapy in both English and Spanish to children and adults. She provides non-judgmental care for clients who experience depression and anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD, bereavement, and difficulty in interpersonal and work relationships.
Eileen Mercado, LCSW, graduated with a master's degree in social work from the Hunter College Silberman School of Social Work and a bachelor's degree in psychology from Marymount College, Tarrytown. She is bilingual and has extensive experience providing individual, couples and family psychotherapy in both English and Spanish to children and adults. She provides non-judgmental care for clients who experience depression and anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD, bereavement, and difficulty in interpersonal and work relationships.
Dr. Elizabeth Owen, PhD Dr. Elizabeth Owen has more than 20 years of experience providing services to people in various settings; hospitalized, outpatient, and those with criminal justice involvement. Liz is a published author on trauma and topics within forensic psychology. She graduated in 2001 with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Columbia University and continues to teach in the program she graduated from. Her primary approach is a deep and abiding respect for people and their individual experiences.
Dr. Elizabeth Owen, PhD Dr. Elizabeth Owen has more than 20 years of experience providing services to people in various settings; hospitalized, outpatient, and those with criminal justice involvement. Liz is a published author on trauma and topics within forensic psychology. She graduated in 2001 with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Columbia University and continues to teach in the program she graduated from. Her primary approach is a deep and abiding respect for people and their individual experiences.
Vito is a Licensed Mental Health Counseling, whose perspective on therapy emphasizes building an effective rapport with the client through unconditional compassion, support, validation and trust. He is a graduate of New York University's Mental Health and Wellness program. Vito has been in the field of mental health for approximately 6 years where he provided therapeutic services to a wide variety of clients with both acute and chronic mental health conditions. Each of these modalities has show success with many of Vito's past clients and will continue to be effect for future clients.
Vito is a Licensed Mental Health Counseling, whose perspective on therapy emphasizes building an effective rapport with the client through unconditional compassion, support, validation and trust. He is a graduate of New York University's Mental Health and Wellness program. Vito has been in the field of mental health for approximately 6 years where he provided therapeutic services to a wide variety of clients with both acute and chronic mental health conditions. Each of these modalities has show success with many of Vito's past clients and will continue to be effect for future clients.
See more therapy options for Forest Hills
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Forest Hills
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- Glendale
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- Kew Gardens
- Maspeth
- Middle Village
- Ozone Park
- Rego Park
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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.