LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Huntington, NY

Photo of Brian Saks, PsyD, Psychologist
Brian Saks
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
My specialties include but are not limited to: depression in adolescents and adults, anxiety disorders, relational conflicts, stress reduction, life transitions, career/school difficulties, and working with the LGBT community.
For many people, facing life's problems can be scary, and asking for help in confronting them seems down right impossible. If you are one of these people, therapy may be beneficial to you. Therapy can help you develop a deeper understanding of these challenging issues as well as a greater understanding of yourself and how you relate to others. By helping you articulate your thoughts and feelings, and gaining a better understanding of your past experiences, we can work together to help you live a more satisfying and meaningful life.
My specialties include but are not limited to: depression in adolescents and adults, anxiety disorders, relational conflicts, stress reduction, life transitions, career/school difficulties, and working with the LGBT community.
For many people, facing life's problems can be scary, and asking for help in confronting them seems down right impossible. If you are one of these people, therapy may be beneficial to you. Therapy can help you develop a deeper understanding of these challenging issues as well as a greater understanding of yourself and how you relate to others. By helping you articulate your thoughts and feelings, and gaining a better understanding of your past experiences, we can work together to help you live a more satisfying and meaningful life.
(631) 257-3145 View (631) 257-3145
Photo of Jade Shell, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jade Shell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMHC
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
Jade Shell is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York who has been practicing since 2020. Jade works primarily with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance misuse. She obtained both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from CUNY Queens College. Jade has clinical experience in a variety of settings, including community-based, reintegration, residential, and outpatient facilities. She also has experience working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ populations. Jade is very passionate about ending the stigma surrounding mental illness, especially within underserved communities.
Jade Shell is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York who has been practicing since 2020. Jade works primarily with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance misuse. She obtained both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from CUNY Queens College. Jade has clinical experience in a variety of settings, including community-based, reintegration, residential, and outpatient facilities. She also has experience working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ populations. Jade is very passionate about ending the stigma surrounding mental illness, especially within underserved communities.
(631) 825-8390 View (631) 825-8390
Photo of Noelle Katherine Watters, LMHC, Limited, License
Noelle Katherine Watters
LMHC, Limited, License
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
My areas of treatment include ADHD, ODD, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, suicidal behavior, non-suicidal self-injury, LGBTQIA+ youth, gender dysphoria, eating disorders and complex co-occurring conditions.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with a limited permit. My anticipated date for full licensure is on or before January 1, 2026. My most recent educational background includes a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Long Island University. My experience includes working in an outpatient environment. I am able to provide comprehensive care to children, adolescents, young adults, parents, and families managing a wide range of complex behavioral and emotional difficulties.
My areas of treatment include ADHD, ODD, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, suicidal behavior, non-suicidal self-injury, LGBTQIA+ youth, gender dysphoria, eating disorders and complex co-occurring conditions.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with a limited permit. My anticipated date for full licensure is on or before January 1, 2026. My most recent educational background includes a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Long Island University. My experience includes working in an outpatient environment. I am able to provide comprehensive care to children, adolescents, young adults, parents, and families managing a wide range of complex behavioral and emotional difficulties.
(516) 973-4700 View (516) 973-4700
Photo of Eva M. Ash - Ash Psychological Services LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Ash Psychological Services LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
I have specific experience with stress management, college student mental health issues, and LGBTQIA issues.
Currently closed to new therapy clients. Open for pre adoption psych evaluations, supervision of other professionals, and brief parenting, career, or health coaching clients. Closed now for: Individual therapy and couples counseling.
I have specific experience with stress management, college student mental health issues, and LGBTQIA issues.
Currently closed to new therapy clients. Open for pre adoption psych evaluations, supervision of other professionals, and brief parenting, career, or health coaching clients. Closed now for: Individual therapy and couples counseling.
(631) 892-6261 View (631) 892-6261
Photo of Amber Hall - Mind Body and Soul Counseling LLC, MEd, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mind Body and Soul Counseling LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
I have special knowledge in navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodivergence, LGBTQ+, chronic illness, self identity, and more.
My name is Amber Hall, MHC-LP. I’ve found my most valuable learning to come from a continued pursuit of knowledge and personalized path that has led me to interact with a multitude of cultures, beliefs, and individuals as well as a connection with nature. I aspire to take the knowledge and experiences gained throughout life to show compassion and help others with their personalized path. No matter where you are starting from transformation is possible. Most of us judge ourselves more harshly than others and we perceive that everyone else has it figured out when the reality is they probably do not because being a human is difficult.
I have special knowledge in navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodivergence, LGBTQ+, chronic illness, self identity, and more.
My name is Amber Hall, MHC-LP. I’ve found my most valuable learning to come from a continued pursuit of knowledge and personalized path that has led me to interact with a multitude of cultures, beliefs, and individuals as well as a connection with nature. I aspire to take the knowledge and experiences gained throughout life to show compassion and help others with their personalized path. No matter where you are starting from transformation is possible. Most of us judge ourselves more harshly than others and we perceive that everyone else has it figured out when the reality is they probably do not because being a human is difficult.
(518) 318-9437 View (518) 318-9437
Photo of Wendell D Miller, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendell D Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
I treat teens, adults, couples and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Wendell has over 16 years experience working with clients from a wide array of backgrounds. He specializes in solution focused therapy for his clients in individual counseling, couples counseling, relationship counseling, depression, anxiety, addiction/substance misuse, trauma, anger management, family support and LGBTQ+ related therapies. He also has extensive experience in supporting families and clients with cognitive and neurological deficits such as stroke and traumatic brain injury. Additionally, Wendell supports families affected by substance misuse and anger management concerns. Wendell is License for both New York and CT.
I treat teens, adults, couples and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Wendell has over 16 years experience working with clients from a wide array of backgrounds. He specializes in solution focused therapy for his clients in individual counseling, couples counseling, relationship counseling, depression, anxiety, addiction/substance misuse, trauma, anger management, family support and LGBTQ+ related therapies. He also has extensive experience in supporting families and clients with cognitive and neurological deficits such as stroke and traumatic brain injury. Additionally, Wendell supports families affected by substance misuse and anger management concerns. Wendell is License for both New York and CT.
(516) 400-4303 View (516) 400-4303
Photo of Leslie Portillo, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Leslie Portillo
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with BIPOC & LGBTQ+ individuals who are struggling with self-esteem, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Do you feel intimidated to express your personal life and struggles? Does this leave you feeling overwhelmed or stressed? You are not alone and I encourage you to take this next step in your healing journey. Although you may struggle to see your worth today, I'm here to remind you that you deserve a fulfilling future full of peace, self-love, and happiness. I love creating healing spaces where one can connect with their higher self. I use the creative process to explore emotions, reduce anxiety, increase self-esteem, and resolve other psychological conflicts.
I have a passion for working with BIPOC & LGBTQ+ individuals who are struggling with self-esteem, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Do you feel intimidated to express your personal life and struggles? Does this leave you feeling overwhelmed or stressed? You are not alone and I encourage you to take this next step in your healing journey. Although you may struggle to see your worth today, I'm here to remind you that you deserve a fulfilling future full of peace, self-love, and happiness. I love creating healing spaces where one can connect with their higher self. I use the creative process to explore emotions, reduce anxiety, increase self-esteem, and resolve other psychological conflicts.
(631) 840-6733 View (631) 840-6733
Photo of Fallon Kane - Kane Psychology PLLC, PhD, Psychologist
Kane Psychology PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
Areas of therapeutic expertise include, but are not limited to: Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD); Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD); school stress; social anxiety; and LGBTQIA+ issues.
We are a group practice focused on providing excellent clinical care to children, adolsecents, and adults. As founder and owner of Kane Psychology, Fallon Kane has been working with families in the area for six years. Dr. Kane completed her Clinical Psychology Ph.D at the Derner School of Psychology, with a concentration in child and family studies. Vivan Giang, Noelle Watters, Joshua Glazer, and Meg Kane form the rest of the team, and are supervised by Dr. Kane. At Kane Psychology, we pride ourselves on having a warm, empathetic approach which quickly allows young people to feel at ease and fully engage in the therapeutic process.
Areas of therapeutic expertise include, but are not limited to: Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD); Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD); school stress; social anxiety; and LGBTQIA+ issues.
We are a group practice focused on providing excellent clinical care to children, adolsecents, and adults. As founder and owner of Kane Psychology, Fallon Kane has been working with families in the area for six years. Dr. Kane completed her Clinical Psychology Ph.D at the Derner School of Psychology, with a concentration in child and family studies. Vivan Giang, Noelle Watters, Joshua Glazer, and Meg Kane form the rest of the team, and are supervised by Dr. Kane. At Kane Psychology, we pride ourselves on having a warm, empathetic approach which quickly allows young people to feel at ease and fully engage in the therapeutic process.
(516) 447-8463 View (516) 447-8463
Photo of Antonio Ruberto Jr, MS, LCSW-R, CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Antonio Ruberto Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW-R, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
With 15 years of experience at the New York City LGBT Center, most recently as their Senior Director of Behavioral Health, I have extensive knowledge and expertise working across the spectrum mental health and substance use issues and concerns.
As a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience working with diverse populations and issues, I believe that every individual can achieve a more authentic understanding of themselves, their background, the more challenging aspects of their lives, as well as identifying positive attributes and assets. Through the use of a diverse set of treatment strategies and via an intersectional lens which acknowledges systemic impacts, my clients are able to set achievable objectives and goals, moving forward in life with a better understanding of themselves and the environment around them.
With 15 years of experience at the New York City LGBT Center, most recently as their Senior Director of Behavioral Health, I have extensive knowledge and expertise working across the spectrum mental health and substance use issues and concerns.
As a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience working with diverse populations and issues, I believe that every individual can achieve a more authentic understanding of themselves, their background, the more challenging aspects of their lives, as well as identifying positive attributes and assets. Through the use of a diverse set of treatment strategies and via an intersectional lens which acknowledges systemic impacts, my clients are able to set achievable objectives and goals, moving forward in life with a better understanding of themselves and the environment around them.
(917) 397-0764 View (917) 397-0764
Photo of Rosara Torrisi, LCSW-R, MEd, CST, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosara Torrisi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MEd, CST, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
I am dedicated to helping people work through life's unique challenges. I am here to assist you in reaching new solutions and working toward your goals. I can support individuals in coping with depression, anxiety, sexual identity or orientation, life skills for young adults, and sexual dysfunction. Couples or those in relationships may be seeking therapy for communication and relationship skills, sexual enrichment, mismatched desire, premarital counseling, or erectile and orgasm difficulties. I am an LGBT-Affirmative, Kink-Aware, and Poly-Inclusive therapist. I was Voted the number 1 Sex Therapist on Long Island for 2015 and 2017.
I am dedicated to helping people work through life's unique challenges. I am here to assist you in reaching new solutions and working toward your goals. I can support individuals in coping with depression, anxiety, sexual identity or orientation, life skills for young adults, and sexual dysfunction. Couples or those in relationships may be seeking therapy for communication and relationship skills, sexual enrichment, mismatched desire, premarital counseling, or erectile and orgasm difficulties. I am an LGBT-Affirmative, Kink-Aware, and Poly-Inclusive therapist. I was Voted the number 1 Sex Therapist on Long Island for 2015 and 2017.
(516) 279-2446 View (516) 279-2446
Photo of Jill Balk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Balk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
I also work with people who have sexual identity issues as well as those who have chosen to actualize a gay or lesbian lifestyle.
My office is warm and inviting and often I have visitors in the form of a canine who will spend time. I have been told that my clients find this guest very comforting and therapeutic. I have been in private practice for the last 20+ years working with people in couples, individually, and within the context of their families. I believe that the relationship between myself and the other is crucial to our successful working together. I look forward to meeting with you and working through your issues on your journey towards health and a happier and more fulfilling life.
I also work with people who have sexual identity issues as well as those who have chosen to actualize a gay or lesbian lifestyle.
My office is warm and inviting and often I have visitors in the form of a canine who will spend time. I have been told that my clients find this guest very comforting and therapeutic. I have been in private practice for the last 20+ years working with people in couples, individually, and within the context of their families. I believe that the relationship between myself and the other is crucial to our successful working together. I look forward to meeting with you and working through your issues on your journey towards health and a happier and more fulfilling life.
(631) 593-5425 View (631) 593-5425
Photo of Stephanie Nicolas - Live Love Loud Mental Health Counseling PLLC.  , LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Live Love Loud Mental Health Counseling PLLC.
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
We specialize in working with College students, individuals with Physical Disabilities and other Life Challenges, professional development of mental health counselors, Adjusting to Life Transitions, Advocacy, Depression, Emotional Intelligence, Illness and Medical Issues, Identity Issues, LGBTQ, Multicultural Concerns, Overwhelm, Self Esteem, and Stress.
My name is Stephanie and i'm the proud owner of Live, Love, Loud Mental Health Counseling PLLC. We work with adults and seniors, individuals, couples, families and groups struggling with anxiety, depression, and identity issues. We help by allowing you to tell your story, tap into your individual strengths to facilitate healing, achieve greater emotional intelligence, develop healthier communication styles and overcome your life challenges. Within a Strength-based, Client-centered environment, we utilize an eclectic approach using elements of Solution Focused Brief Therapy, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Positive Psychology
We specialize in working with College students, individuals with Physical Disabilities and other Life Challenges, professional development of mental health counselors, Adjusting to Life Transitions, Advocacy, Depression, Emotional Intelligence, Illness and Medical Issues, Identity Issues, LGBTQ, Multicultural Concerns, Overwhelm, Self Esteem, and Stress.
My name is Stephanie and i'm the proud owner of Live, Love, Loud Mental Health Counseling PLLC. We work with adults and seniors, individuals, couples, families and groups struggling with anxiety, depression, and identity issues. We help by allowing you to tell your story, tap into your individual strengths to facilitate healing, achieve greater emotional intelligence, develop healthier communication styles and overcome your life challenges. Within a Strength-based, Client-centered environment, we utilize an eclectic approach using elements of Solution Focused Brief Therapy, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Positive Psychology
(516) 207-0983 View (516) 207-0983
Photo of Juan Francisco Perez, LMSW
Juan Francisco Perez
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
As a queer, non-binary clinician, I also recognize the unique ways those of us in the LGBTQ+ community may live our lives, and as such will help to ensure that the skills you build affirm your lifestyle.
You might be at a point in your life where navigating relationships causes you a lot of stress and uncertainty. You may have just gotten out of a relationship and feel like you’re making the same mistakes over and over again or that you can’t tell what you’re doing wrong. Perhaps you’re still in a relationship but are unsure about how to feel about it. Maybe you’re not sure what kind of relationship you would like to have with your family. Or maybe you're realizing that your friendships aren’t satisfying in the ways you wished they would be.
As a queer, non-binary clinician, I also recognize the unique ways those of us in the LGBTQ+ community may live our lives, and as such will help to ensure that the skills you build affirm your lifestyle.
You might be at a point in your life where navigating relationships causes you a lot of stress and uncertainty. You may have just gotten out of a relationship and feel like you’re making the same mistakes over and over again or that you can’t tell what you’re doing wrong. Perhaps you’re still in a relationship but are unsure about how to feel about it. Maybe you’re not sure what kind of relationship you would like to have with your family. Or maybe you're realizing that your friendships aren’t satisfying in the ways you wished they would be.
(347) 934-6947 View (347) 934-6947
Photo of Sarah Levinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Levinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
I am passionate about relationship dynamics, sexuality, sexual orientation, gender identity, communication and intimacy with a focus on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I counsel individuals, couples and moresomes on creative relationship structures such as consensual non-monogamy. I also work extensively with mood related challenges, including anxiety, depression and OCD, as well as career transitions. As a member of the polyamorous, LGBTQ, and burner communities, I share my extensive personal and professional experience with clients.
I am passionate about relationship dynamics, sexuality, sexual orientation, gender identity, communication and intimacy with a focus on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I counsel individuals, couples and moresomes on creative relationship structures such as consensual non-monogamy. I also work extensively with mood related challenges, including anxiety, depression and OCD, as well as career transitions. As a member of the polyamorous, LGBTQ, and burner communities, I share my extensive personal and professional experience with clients.
(646) 941-5998 View (646) 941-5998
Photo of Catherine Jannuzzi, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT, Art Therapist
Catherine Jannuzzi
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
I am also knowledgeable in LGBT issues, Buddhism, and spirituality.
I am skilled at helping adults with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, life transitions, improving coping tools, and increasing self-esteem. I use creative approaches in a supportive environment to provide the best care I can for each individual person. Interventions range from traditional talk therapy to mindfulness techniques to engaging one's creativity through art or writing. I also specialize in psychotherapy for older adults and caregivers for medical and mental health issues including dementia.
I am also knowledgeable in LGBT issues, Buddhism, and spirituality.
I am skilled at helping adults with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, life transitions, improving coping tools, and increasing self-esteem. I use creative approaches in a supportive environment to provide the best care I can for each individual person. Interventions range from traditional talk therapy to mindfulness techniques to engaging one's creativity through art or writing. I also specialize in psychotherapy for older adults and caregivers for medical and mental health issues including dementia.
(631) 546-0486 View (631) 546-0486
Photo of Vanessa Taboada, LMHC, MS, Counselor
Vanessa Taboada
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
I am LGBTQIA+ allied.
Life is a journey of self discovery. It can sometimes surprise us, throw us a bit of a curveball, and leave us feeling overwhelmed, stuck, and lost. These feelings can cause depression, anxiety, or both. If this resonates with you, I can help. I strongly believe that therapy and the therapeutic relationship between a client and their therapist can lead the way to the progress and change that you are looking for.
I am LGBTQIA+ allied.
Life is a journey of self discovery. It can sometimes surprise us, throw us a bit of a curveball, and leave us feeling overwhelmed, stuck, and lost. These feelings can cause depression, anxiety, or both. If this resonates with you, I can help. I strongly believe that therapy and the therapeutic relationship between a client and their therapist can lead the way to the progress and change that you are looking for.
(516) 916-6622 View (516) 916-6622
Photo of Avery Klotsche, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Avery Klotsche
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life transitions often lead us to feel overwhelmed. While people close to us may be supportive, we may not always feel able to share with them our doubts and discomfort. Whether we’re holding our own or a loved one's sexuality or gender identity; navigating changes in our primary relationships, or reflecting on adverse experiences, having a safe space to reflect and process is invaluable. My practice serves adult clients who have struggled with anxiety, live with trauma or grief, or who experience the world as members or allies of the LGBTQ+ community. My approach is conversational, strengths-based, and results-oriented.
Life transitions often lead us to feel overwhelmed. While people close to us may be supportive, we may not always feel able to share with them our doubts and discomfort. Whether we’re holding our own or a loved one's sexuality or gender identity; navigating changes in our primary relationships, or reflecting on adverse experiences, having a safe space to reflect and process is invaluable. My practice serves adult clients who have struggled with anxiety, live with trauma or grief, or who experience the world as members or allies of the LGBTQ+ community. My approach is conversational, strengths-based, and results-oriented.
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Photo of Randie London, PsyD, Psychologist
Randie London
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
Dr. Taylor is a Licensed Psychologist. She has served students for over 15 years in the school setting as a secondary level School Psychologist. She utilizes a cognitive-behavioral approach in empowering pre-teens, adolescents, adults, and families to manage life’s obstacle. Areas of expertise include, but are not limited to: anxiety-related disorders, school refusal, depression, family and relationship issues, adjustment disorders and school consultation. Dr. Taylor is especially passionate about employing an affirmative approach with LGBTQ youth and adults and strongly believes in the home-school partnership.
Dr. Taylor is a Licensed Psychologist. She has served students for over 15 years in the school setting as a secondary level School Psychologist. She utilizes a cognitive-behavioral approach in empowering pre-teens, adolescents, adults, and families to manage life’s obstacle. Areas of expertise include, but are not limited to: anxiety-related disorders, school refusal, depression, family and relationship issues, adjustment disorders and school consultation. Dr. Taylor is especially passionate about employing an affirmative approach with LGBTQ youth and adults and strongly believes in the home-school partnership.
(631) 212-1871 View (631) 212-1871
Photo of Yasmeen Gabrielle Tuten, MHC-LP, NCC
Yasmeen Gabrielle Tuten
MHC-LP, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
“If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change”- Wayne Dyer. Are you ready to take the first step toward being your true self? My goal is to create a warm and supportive environment for you to express your true emotions and build a strong sense of self. I understand taking the first step can be difficult and I am here to guide you.
“If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change”- Wayne Dyer. Are you ready to take the first step toward being your true self? My goal is to create a warm and supportive environment for you to express your true emotions and build a strong sense of self. I understand taking the first step can be difficult and I am here to guide you.
(516) 614-6038 View (516) 614-6038
Photo of Rebecca Fontanetta, PsyD, Psychologist
Rebecca Fontanetta
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
Dr. Rebecca A. Fontanetta is a board-certified pediatric neuropsychologist who received her doctoral degree in clinical psychology with a concentration in neuropsychology from Nova Southeastern University. She completed her clinical psychology internship at St. Vincent Neuroscience Institute-St. Vincent Hospital and fellowships at both Mass General for Children at NSMC and Stony Brook Medicine. Originally from Long Island, Dr. Fontanetta specializes in the evaluation and therapeutic treatment of children with brain-based behavior and psychiatric disorders.
Dr. Rebecca A. Fontanetta is a board-certified pediatric neuropsychologist who received her doctoral degree in clinical psychology with a concentration in neuropsychology from Nova Southeastern University. She completed her clinical psychology internship at St. Vincent Neuroscience Institute-St. Vincent Hospital and fellowships at both Mass General for Children at NSMC and Stony Brook Medicine. Originally from Long Island, Dr. Fontanetta specializes in the evaluation and therapeutic treatment of children with brain-based behavior and psychiatric disorders.
(631) 529-2918 View (631) 529-2918
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.