LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Garden City, NY
As a member of the queer and gender expansive community, I am passionate about providing accessible LGBTQ+ affirming care.
The decision to begin therapy is an important step on your healing journey. By building partnerships that are founded on warmth, dignity, and non-judgment, I help clients grow in a way that is most aligned with their values. Together, we focus on promoting wellness by acknowledging the past, respecting the present, identifying goals for the future, and developing the skills needed to joyfully move in that direction. I use behavioral, exposure, cognitive, and acceptance-based approaches that are evidence-based.
As a member of the queer and gender expansive community, I am passionate about providing accessible LGBTQ+ affirming care.
The decision to begin therapy is an important step on your healing journey. By building partnerships that are founded on warmth, dignity, and non-judgment, I help clients grow in a way that is most aligned with their values. Together, we focus on promoting wellness by acknowledging the past, respecting the present, identifying goals for the future, and developing the skills needed to joyfully move in that direction. I use behavioral, exposure, cognitive, and acceptance-based approaches that are evidence-based.
Scott Zotto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SIFI, BFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
At times it may seem as if we're at odds with our mind. The thoughts and feelings we experience seem overwhelming. We can convince ourselves we're undeserving of contentment, love, happiness, success, acceptance, etc. Where does that come from and why is it so easy to believe? For those of us in the LGBTQIA+ community, there are added layers we need to work through, making it difficult for us to thrive. Therapy can play a meaningful role by providing a space to work through the layers, confront our hurtful thoughts and feelings, unburden ourselves of the past, and truly learn to thrive.
At times it may seem as if we're at odds with our mind. The thoughts and feelings we experience seem overwhelming. We can convince ourselves we're undeserving of contentment, love, happiness, success, acceptance, etc. Where does that come from and why is it so easy to believe? For those of us in the LGBTQIA+ community, there are added layers we need to work through, making it difficult for us to thrive. Therapy can play a meaningful role by providing a space to work through the layers, confront our hurtful thoughts and feelings, unburden ourselves of the past, and truly learn to thrive.
I provide support for children, teens, and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, LGBTQIA+ related concerns, and ADHD.
Embarking on the therapeutic journey marks the beginning of your self-directed path, one devoted to personal growth and self-betterment. Whether you are struggling with life's transitions, anxieties, depression, or self-confidence, know that I stand ready to walk alongside you. Your journey deserves a space where your voice is heard without judgment. Together, we'll navigate the depths of your emotions and experiences, seeking not just peace but transformation—a journey toward resilience and self-discovery.
I provide support for children, teens, and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, LGBTQIA+ related concerns, and ADHD.
Embarking on the therapeutic journey marks the beginning of your self-directed path, one devoted to personal growth and self-betterment. Whether you are struggling with life's transitions, anxieties, depression, or self-confidence, know that I stand ready to walk alongside you. Your journey deserves a space where your voice is heard without judgment. Together, we'll navigate the depths of your emotions and experiences, seeking not just peace but transformation—a journey toward resilience and self-discovery.
Rashel Shamtoob
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530 (Online Only)
My methods strongly emphasize cultural sensitivity and inclusion as I work closely with diverse populations, including individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ and cultural minority groups.
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with individuals, families and groups ages 10+. As a school social worker, I have tremendous experience working with children struggling with self-esteem, life transitions, family issues, self-harm, and behavioral diagnoses such as oppositional defiant and conduct disorder. I have extensive experience treating individuals with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, as well as issues with substance and alcohol use. I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where you can truly express yourself as we explore your past traumas and future goals together.
My methods strongly emphasize cultural sensitivity and inclusion as I work closely with diverse populations, including individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ and cultural minority groups.
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with individuals, families and groups ages 10+. As a school social worker, I have tremendous experience working with children struggling with self-esteem, life transitions, family issues, self-harm, and behavioral diagnoses such as oppositional defiant and conduct disorder. I have extensive experience treating individuals with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, as well as issues with substance and alcohol use. I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where you can truly express yourself as we explore your past traumas and future goals together.
Amanda Pagano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
Not accepting new clients
Therapy is a relationship where you are the driver and I am your navigator. I am here to help you meet your goals. I am an ally and closely work with the LGBTQ-IA community. I strive to create an affirming and safe environment for discussing concerns without judgment. My supportive and solution-based approaches are most effective in seeing positive changes take place. I include family members in treatment whenever appropriate to help build strength and supports. I have years of experience with adolescents and families. I also enjoy and work a great deal with educators/teachers and see many in my practice!
Therapy is a relationship where you are the driver and I am your navigator. I am here to help you meet your goals. I am an ally and closely work with the LGBTQ-IA community. I strive to create an affirming and safe environment for discussing concerns without judgment. My supportive and solution-based approaches are most effective in seeing positive changes take place. I include family members in treatment whenever appropriate to help build strength and supports. I have years of experience with adolescents and families. I also enjoy and work a great deal with educators/teachers and see many in my practice!
Lydia E. Rosa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
I am also experienced in working with the unique challenges that are faced by the LGBTQ community.
I have 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. Often people come to me because they feel overwhelmed, stuck or discouraged. My process is to empower people to help them identify and use their own unique experiences and qualities to achieve a sense of happiness and peace of mind. I specialize in working with adults and teenagers experiencing challenges with love, family, school or work. I have additional areas of specialty in co-dependency, OCD, grief, and trauma.
I am also experienced in working with the unique challenges that are faced by the LGBTQ community.
I have 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. Often people come to me because they feel overwhelmed, stuck or discouraged. My process is to empower people to help them identify and use their own unique experiences and qualities to achieve a sense of happiness and peace of mind. I specialize in working with adults and teenagers experiencing challenges with love, family, school or work. I have additional areas of specialty in co-dependency, OCD, grief, and trauma.
Heather Zawislak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530 (Online Only)
I'm glad you're here. You've probably read a lot of profiles before finding mine so I will get right to it; I can help. Therapy not just a place to talk; it's a place to land, recover, laugh, and definitely cry (that's good!). I welcome all, however my passion lies with supporting women and lgbt+ individuals through the challenges and traumas of life however new or old those may be. Things feel almost unrecognizable these days and so many of us are full of anxiety and fear about what could be or be taken away. Whether you are dealing with a long term concern or just need help working through recent things, I'm here to help.
I'm glad you're here. You've probably read a lot of profiles before finding mine so I will get right to it; I can help. Therapy not just a place to talk; it's a place to land, recover, laugh, and definitely cry (that's good!). I welcome all, however my passion lies with supporting women and lgbt+ individuals through the challenges and traumas of life however new or old those may be. Things feel almost unrecognizable these days and so many of us are full of anxiety and fear about what could be or be taken away. Whether you are dealing with a long term concern or just need help working through recent things, I'm here to help.
I am committed to social justice, am actively antiracist and antisexist, and a proud supporter of the LGBTQ+ community, dedicating my practice to fostering a safe, inclusive, and affirming space for individuals of all backgrounds and identities.
I want to help you face life’s daily hassles and other challenges that come up along the way. Together, we will come up with goals and we will work toward achieving those goals. We will work on building up your collection of coping strategies to help you navigate the world around you. We can work on relaxation skills if you are feeling stressed or ways to help you improve your communication and build better relationships with others.
I am committed to social justice, am actively antiracist and antisexist, and a proud supporter of the LGBTQ+ community, dedicating my practice to fostering a safe, inclusive, and affirming space for individuals of all backgrounds and identities.
I want to help you face life’s daily hassles and other challenges that come up along the way. Together, we will come up with goals and we will work toward achieving those goals. We will work on building up your collection of coping strategies to help you navigate the world around you. We can work on relaxation skills if you are feeling stressed or ways to help you improve your communication and build better relationships with others.
Christa J Schorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe that you can create the life that you want and deserve! I can help you understand and overcome the blocks that keep you stuck. As a trauma-informed therapist, I can help you understand how your current life situations are influenced by your past. I help you learn from your past, but not be defined or limited by it. I specialize in anxiety, divorce, LGBTQ issues, loss and life transitions.
I believe that you can create the life that you want and deserve! I can help you understand and overcome the blocks that keep you stuck. As a trauma-informed therapist, I can help you understand how your current life situations are influenced by your past. I help you learn from your past, but not be defined or limited by it. I specialize in anxiety, divorce, LGBTQ issues, loss and life transitions.
Valerie Graf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
Valerie Graf, LMSW, has dedicated most of her professional career to supporting individuals and couples across various life stages (ages 5 and up). She specializes in treating Anxiety, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Phobias, Identity Issues, Job Coaching, Autism, ADHD, OCD, LGBTQIA+ Care, and Peak Performance.
Valerie Graf, LMSW, has dedicated most of her professional career to supporting individuals and couples across various life stages (ages 5 and up). She specializes in treating Anxiety, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Phobias, Identity Issues, Job Coaching, Autism, ADHD, OCD, LGBTQIA+ Care, and Peak Performance.
Blossoming Lotus Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
Our clinicians have lived experiences as LGBTQIA+ community members, navigating gender identities, while some identifying as BIPOC.
Congratulations on taking a step closer to becoming your best self! Are you looking for an inclusive safe space where you can be honest and help heal past traumatic experiences? Do you identify as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community or questioning if you are? We work with folx in all stages of their coming out journey. We specialize working with BIPOC individuals, LGBTQIA+ community members and those in non-monogamous relationships. We provide affirming surgery letters after our first session because we believe you should not have to wait any longer to be your authentic self.
Our clinicians have lived experiences as LGBTQIA+ community members, navigating gender identities, while some identifying as BIPOC.
Congratulations on taking a step closer to becoming your best self! Are you looking for an inclusive safe space where you can be honest and help heal past traumatic experiences? Do you identify as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community or questioning if you are? We work with folx in all stages of their coming out journey. We specialize working with BIPOC individuals, LGBTQIA+ community members and those in non-monogamous relationships. We provide affirming surgery letters after our first session because we believe you should not have to wait any longer to be your authentic self.
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I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I provide generalist therapeutic services over the lifespan. My areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, adjustment, parenting support, PTSD and trauma. My approach is a person-centered philosophy with strength-based trauma-informed and using a collaborative approach that incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, coping skills, and psychotherapy. I consider trust and safety to be the most important and effective tools I provide during the therapeutic process.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I provide generalist therapeutic services over the lifespan. My areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, adjustment, parenting support, PTSD and trauma. My approach is a person-centered philosophy with strength-based trauma-informed and using a collaborative approach that incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, coping skills, and psychotherapy. I consider trust and safety to be the most important and effective tools I provide during the therapeutic process.
Katherine Angulo Leal is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Long Island University and a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Sociology from Queens College. Katherine believes that through supportive and empathic therapy, clients are able to work towards finding meaning in their lives. A person-centered approach empowers clients to believe in themselves by building their self-esteem and taking control of their emotions. Katherine can provide tools and help clients grow towards being emotionally resilient.
Katherine Angulo Leal is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Long Island University and a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Sociology from Queens College. Katherine believes that through supportive and empathic therapy, clients are able to work towards finding meaning in their lives. A person-centered approach empowers clients to believe in themselves by building their self-esteem and taking control of their emotions. Katherine can provide tools and help clients grow towards being emotionally resilient.
Charisse Civil is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York who has been practicing since 2023. Charisse graduated from Stony Brook University with her Bachelor's degree in Psychology, later going on to obtain her graduate degree in social work with a focus in Individual and Family counseling from Hunter College. Charisse has devoted her entire career to the fields of social services and mental health for over a decade within various diverse settings such as a hospital, mobile crisis team, outpatient treatment, and non-profit community agencies.
Charisse Civil is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York who has been practicing since 2023. Charisse graduated from Stony Brook University with her Bachelor's degree in Psychology, later going on to obtain her graduate degree in social work with a focus in Individual and Family counseling from Hunter College. Charisse has devoted her entire career to the fields of social services and mental health for over a decade within various diverse settings such as a hospital, mobile crisis team, outpatient treatment, and non-profit community agencies.
Erin Jefferson is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York who has been practicing since 2020. Erin has a knack for helping people of all ages navigate life's twists and turns. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck in a rut, or just need someone to talk to, Erin is here to lend an ear and offer practical solutions that work for you. With Erin, therapy isn't just about sitting in a stuffy office and spilling your guts "“ it's about creating a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, learn new coping strategies, and have a few laughs along the way.
Erin Jefferson is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York who has been practicing since 2020. Erin has a knack for helping people of all ages navigate life's twists and turns. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck in a rut, or just need someone to talk to, Erin is here to lend an ear and offer practical solutions that work for you. With Erin, therapy isn't just about sitting in a stuffy office and spilling your guts "“ it's about creating a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, learn new coping strategies, and have a few laughs along the way.
Dana Reeves is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Hofstra University with a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling. Dana follows a person-centered and strengths-based approach to working with clients. She focuses on empowering clients to face and work through their challenges with the use of unconditional positive regard, boundless optimism, empathy, hope and insight into one's emotions and life experiences that are impacting behaviors.
Dana Reeves is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated from Hofstra University with a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling. Dana follows a person-centered and strengths-based approach to working with clients. She focuses on empowering clients to face and work through their challenges with the use of unconditional positive regard, boundless optimism, empathy, hope and insight into one's emotions and life experiences that are impacting behaviors.
Jasmine Mathurin received a B.A. in Sociology at Boston College and her Masters in Social Work at Fordham University. She has a background that involves providing individual and group therapy to women, children, adolescents, and families battling various forms of mental illness, including depression, anxiety disorders, learning disabilities, phobias and attention disorders. She has received intensive training in the dynamics of Domestic Violence, Rape, Sexual Assault and the Neurobiology of Trauma. She has special interests in Narcissistic Abuse and Complex Trauma.
Jasmine Mathurin received a B.A. in Sociology at Boston College and her Masters in Social Work at Fordham University. She has a background that involves providing individual and group therapy to women, children, adolescents, and families battling various forms of mental illness, including depression, anxiety disorders, learning disabilities, phobias and attention disorders. She has received intensive training in the dynamics of Domestic Violence, Rape, Sexual Assault and the Neurobiology of Trauma. She has special interests in Narcissistic Abuse and Complex Trauma.
Amanda is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with more than 3 years of specializing with clients with acute and persistent mental illness. Some of these diagnoses include depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, psychosis, substance abuse disorders, and other diagnoses from the DSM-5. Amanda typically treats patients between the ages of 17 and 90, where she provides a non-judgmental environment that clients can express themselves comfortably and freely. In addition, she typically seeks to utilize a holistic approach with clients, due to believing that therapy is not always a "one-size-fits all" process.
Amanda is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with more than 3 years of specializing with clients with acute and persistent mental illness. Some of these diagnoses include depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, psychosis, substance abuse disorders, and other diagnoses from the DSM-5. Amanda typically treats patients between the ages of 17 and 90, where she provides a non-judgmental environment that clients can express themselves comfortably and freely. In addition, she typically seeks to utilize a holistic approach with clients, due to believing that therapy is not always a "one-size-fits all" process.
Jasmine Hennep is a therapist who has an unwavering ability to help motivate and also provide her clients with the skills and tools to fully understand their emotional processes. Jasmine is a dedicated and passionate counselor, who desires to devote her professional clinical skills to assist her clients shift to a positive mental state using a variety of holistic strategies. Jasmine works with adults and adolescents who are in need of finding coping strategies and resources in order to allow each individual and family she sees grow, learn and cope with their hardships.
Jasmine Hennep is a therapist who has an unwavering ability to help motivate and also provide her clients with the skills and tools to fully understand their emotional processes. Jasmine is a dedicated and passionate counselor, who desires to devote her professional clinical skills to assist her clients shift to a positive mental state using a variety of holistic strategies. Jasmine works with adults and adolescents who are in need of finding coping strategies and resources in order to allow each individual and family she sees grow, learn and cope with their hardships.
Christina Dunne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garden City, NY 11530 (Online Only)
In my career thus far I have worked with adults with disabilities and adolescents with emotional disturbances for 6 years. My passion is helping clients to better understand themselves and why they are the way they are. Seeing my clients adopt healthy coping and communication skills and utilizing them to start changing their lives for the better brings me immense joy. My specialties are adolescents, trauma work, and I often use cognitive and dialectical behavioral techniques in treatment.
In my career thus far I have worked with adults with disabilities and adolescents with emotional disturbances for 6 years. My passion is helping clients to better understand themselves and why they are the way they are. Seeing my clients adopt healthy coping and communication skills and utilizing them to start changing their lives for the better brings me immense joy. My specialties are adolescents, trauma work, and I often use cognitive and dialectical behavioral techniques in treatment.
See more therapy options for Garden City
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Garden City
- Albertson
- Carle Place
- East Meadow
- Franklin Square
- Hempstead
- Mineola
- New Hyde Park
- Roslyn Heights
- Uniondale
- West Hempstead
- Westbury
- Williston Park
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.