LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Schenectady, NY
Our clinicians are dedicated to being LGBTQIA+ and QTPOC allies, trauma-informed, neurodivergence-affirming, fat liberation focused and anti-body oppression/terrorism, sex & kink-affirming, anti-ableist, decolonizing, and anti-capitalist.
When life feels impossible, you deserve somewhere that can offer safety, care, and empowerment to help you face the challenges of this world. Our mission at Prism Counseling & Advocacy is to give the LGBTQIA+ community a space to feel free; to nurture our community, our culture, our language, our rhythm, and our souls. We offer individual therapy, family therapy, couple/partner therapy, group therapy, and harm reduction services for both substance use difficulties and disordered eating. We believe in every persons right to live a full and beautiful life - with the right support and understanding we hope to make this a reality.
Our clinicians are dedicated to being LGBTQIA+ and QTPOC allies, trauma-informed, neurodivergence-affirming, fat liberation focused and anti-body oppression/terrorism, sex & kink-affirming, anti-ableist, decolonizing, and anti-capitalist.
When life feels impossible, you deserve somewhere that can offer safety, care, and empowerment to help you face the challenges of this world. Our mission at Prism Counseling & Advocacy is to give the LGBTQIA+ community a space to feel free; to nurture our community, our culture, our language, our rhythm, and our souls. We offer individual therapy, family therapy, couple/partner therapy, group therapy, and harm reduction services for both substance use difficulties and disordered eating. We believe in every persons right to live a full and beautiful life - with the right support and understanding we hope to make this a reality.
I welcome LGBTQ individuals and couples.
I work with individuals to assist them in discovering or rediscovering their self respect, uniqueness and joy. My role as therapist includes offering support, safety, confidentiality and guidance. My goal for each person is for them to thrive in whatever life is uniquely theirs.
I welcome LGBTQ individuals and couples.
I work with individuals to assist them in discovering or rediscovering their self respect, uniqueness and joy. My role as therapist includes offering support, safety, confidentiality and guidance. My goal for each person is for them to thrive in whatever life is uniquely theirs.
I am an internationally recognized expert in transgender care with 25 years experience working with transsexual, transgender and gender variant people of all ages, especially young gender variant children, and their families. When someone is contemplating a gender transition it is my approach to work with the whole family as everyone transitions in a gender transition. I have a solid record of success in workplace transitions for clients My expertise lends itself to working with transgender clients from many varied racial, cultural, religious and ethnic backgrounds.
I also work with lesbian, gay, bisexual clients across the full spectrum of issues.
I am an internationally recognized expert in transgender care with 25 years experience working with transsexual, transgender and gender variant people of all ages, especially young gender variant children, and their families. When someone is contemplating a gender transition it is my approach to work with the whole family as everyone transitions in a gender transition. I have a solid record of success in workplace transitions for clients My expertise lends itself to working with transgender clients from many varied racial, cultural, religious and ethnic backgrounds.
I also work with lesbian, gay, bisexual clients across the full spectrum of issues.
Bradley Gross At Nassau Psychology Pc
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Schenectady, NY 12302 (Online Only)
His concentrations included LGBTQ therapy, child development, college and career planning, domestic violence and human sexuality specializing with adolescents and young adults.
Book an appointment online via our website nassaupsychology.org! Graduating in 2020 from Long Island University, Bradley focused on Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. He has about three years experience working with grades 6-12 in a school setting providing individual counseling, academic counseling, group counseling, college advising, peer mediation, student mentoring and guidance. He worked with low functioning populations in an intensive outpatient clinic and with those living inpatient at Pilgrim State Psychiatric Center and Sagamore Children's Psychiatric Center.
His concentrations included LGBTQ therapy, child development, college and career planning, domestic violence and human sexuality specializing with adolescents and young adults.
Book an appointment online via our website nassaupsychology.org! Graduating in 2020 from Long Island University, Bradley focused on Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. He has about three years experience working with grades 6-12 in a school setting providing individual counseling, academic counseling, group counseling, college advising, peer mediation, student mentoring and guidance. He worked with low functioning populations in an intensive outpatient clinic and with those living inpatient at Pilgrim State Psychiatric Center and Sagamore Children's Psychiatric Center.
Tami Williams At Nassau Psychology Pc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Schenectady, NY 12008 (Online Only)
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Tami is board certified in New York State and holds a graduate degree in social work from Adelphi University. She has clinical experience working with adults, children and families with mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression and Trauma. Tami has worked with people of various ages, members of the LGBTQ community and also worked in various settings including an outpatient behavioral health facility, transitional independent living and via telehealth behavioral health.
Book an appointment online through our website www.nassaupsychology.org! Tami is board certified in New York State and holds a graduate degree in social work from Adelphi University. She has clinical experience working with adults, children and families with mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression and Trauma. Tami has worked with people of various ages, members of the LGBTQ community and also worked in various settings including an outpatient behavioral health facility, transitional independent living and via telehealth behavioral health.
Colby Enides
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, CASAC-T
Verified Verified
Schenectady, NY 12306 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Today’s world can seem overwhelming and exhausting to many of us. Sometimes, even getting out of bed seems like a chore. Anxiety can feel like it has a vice grip on your life. Imagine if you didn’t have to feel this way. It is possible. I have a history of working with individuals that struggle with addictions, people in the criminal justice system, and those who suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, c-PTSD, eating disorders, mood disorders, the LGBTQIA population, and couples struggling in their relationships. The therapies I offer focus on helping to alleviate the negative symptoms that can come with these battles.
Today’s world can seem overwhelming and exhausting to many of us. Sometimes, even getting out of bed seems like a chore. Anxiety can feel like it has a vice grip on your life. Imagine if you didn’t have to feel this way. It is possible. I have a history of working with individuals that struggle with addictions, people in the criminal justice system, and those who suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, c-PTSD, eating disorders, mood disorders, the LGBTQIA population, and couples struggling in their relationships. The therapies I offer focus on helping to alleviate the negative symptoms that can come with these battles.
Jackie Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMP
Verified Verified
Schenectady, NY 12345
Waitlist for new clients
I have been in private practice for 20+ years and have learned the joy and pain of finding purpose in the human condition with and through my clients. I have vast experience in coping/healing from various traumas, PTSD, separation, shame, a strong background in trust issues, and all types of relationships, as well as a forte for LGBTQIA relationships and parenting.
I have been in private practice for 20+ years and have learned the joy and pain of finding purpose in the human condition with and through my clients. I have vast experience in coping/healing from various traumas, PTSD, separation, shame, a strong background in trust issues, and all types of relationships, as well as a forte for LGBTQIA relationships and parenting.
Thomas Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CASAC-M, I-EMDR, CCTP
Verified Verified
Schenectady, NY 12304 (Online Only)
Life can be filled with unexpected challenges, stress, and uncertainty. My passion is to assist children and adolescents in overcoming personal struggles. With over six years of clinical experience, I have helped individuals with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief/loss, work/school issues, and relationship problems. Together, we will identify your unique needs and goals in a safe, non-judgmental therapy setting. You can begin the journey towards feeling better about yourself and your life through therapeutic support.
Life can be filled with unexpected challenges, stress, and uncertainty. My passion is to assist children and adolescents in overcoming personal struggles. With over six years of clinical experience, I have helped individuals with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief/loss, work/school issues, and relationship problems. Together, we will identify your unique needs and goals in a safe, non-judgmental therapy setting. You can begin the journey towards feeling better about yourself and your life through therapeutic support.
New Perspectives Mental Health Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Schenectady, NY 12309
New Perspectives is accepting new clients for sports performance! We are a private mental health counseling practice in Albany, New York that offers counseling services to individuals 18 years of age and up. We offer personable service, and expertise in a relaxed setting that is ideal for your therapeutic journey. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, sports performance, self-esteem, grief and loss, trauma, or stress we can help you.
New Perspectives is accepting new clients for sports performance! We are a private mental health counseling practice in Albany, New York that offers counseling services to individuals 18 years of age and up. We offer personable service, and expertise in a relaxed setting that is ideal for your therapeutic journey. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, sports performance, self-esteem, grief and loss, trauma, or stress we can help you.
Danny Wang - Expansive Therapy
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Schenectady, NY 12301
There’s nothing I find more gratifying than helping my clients redefining purpose in their lives. While we are in a constant struggle with the expectations of others, we often lose sight of who we are ourselves. We negotiate, toil, and sacrifice—sometimes without even knowing why.
There’s nothing I find more gratifying than helping my clients redefining purpose in their lives. While we are in a constant struggle with the expectations of others, we often lose sight of who we are ourselves. We negotiate, toil, and sacrifice—sometimes without even knowing why.
Lotus Integrative Mental Health Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, TCTSY-F
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Schenectady, NY 12303
Waitlist for new clients
Are you hoping to heal from a trauma and/or achieve interpersonal success? Have you tried to solve this before with little to no results? Are you hopeless that you will never find inner healing and peace and be able to live your life to your fullest potential? Are you afraid that you will always have to live with your trauma, the nightmares, flashbacks, trust issues, and/or not feeling safe? You clicked on the right profile if you answered yes to any of those questions. I understand! My name is Tara Benicasa, and I own Lotus Integrative Mental Health Counseling.
Are you hoping to heal from a trauma and/or achieve interpersonal success? Have you tried to solve this before with little to no results? Are you hopeless that you will never find inner healing and peace and be able to live your life to your fullest potential? Are you afraid that you will always have to live with your trauma, the nightmares, flashbacks, trust issues, and/or not feeling safe? You clicked on the right profile if you answered yes to any of those questions. I understand! My name is Tara Benicasa, and I own Lotus Integrative Mental Health Counseling.
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Karin Earle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Schenectady, NY 12305 (Online Only)
There is a universal human need for our stories to be told, heard, and understood. Perhaps your story has painful memories that have caused anxiety, stress, and depression to enter your life. Maybe your family or personal relationships have hurt you and you desire to have healthier relationships. It is my goal to provide you with a safe place to explore and process your past and present stories as a means to access growth, healing, insight, and positive change. As Samwise said to Frodo, “There’s some good in this world, and it’s worth fighting for”- J.R.R. Tolkien.
There is a universal human need for our stories to be told, heard, and understood. Perhaps your story has painful memories that have caused anxiety, stress, and depression to enter your life. Maybe your family or personal relationships have hurt you and you desire to have healthier relationships. It is my goal to provide you with a safe place to explore and process your past and present stories as a means to access growth, healing, insight, and positive change. As Samwise said to Frodo, “There’s some good in this world, and it’s worth fighting for”- J.R.R. Tolkien.
I started my career of service as a Youth Advocate for Youth Advocate Programs in Ulster County. I graduated from Marist College with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a minor in business where I was conferred membership into Sigma Alpha Pi, The National Society of Leadership and Success. I earned a Bachelor of Technology in Therapeutic Horsemanship cum laude from SUNY Cobleskill. I am a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor and Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning. I recently completed a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Capella University.
I started my career of service as a Youth Advocate for Youth Advocate Programs in Ulster County. I graduated from Marist College with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a minor in business where I was conferred membership into Sigma Alpha Pi, The National Society of Leadership and Success. I earned a Bachelor of Technology in Therapeutic Horsemanship cum laude from SUNY Cobleskill. I am a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor and Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning. I recently completed a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through Capella University.
From adolescence to adulthood, we are constantly going through developmental milestones that can be quite difficult. If it seems like during these important transitions in life you require assisting navigating your way through, I am here to help guide you. Life is a journey of ups and downs, trials and tribulations; having an experienced therapist can help shape your perspective to a more positive direction.
From adolescence to adulthood, we are constantly going through developmental milestones that can be quite difficult. If it seems like during these important transitions in life you require assisting navigating your way through, I am here to help guide you. Life is a journey of ups and downs, trials and tribulations; having an experienced therapist can help shape your perspective to a more positive direction.
LeeAnn Swager
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, IMFT-S, MA MFT, MSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Schenectady, NY 12305 (Online Only)
If you are dealing with anxiety, poor body image, trust or intimacy issues, suicidal thoughts, mood swings, a complicated relationship with eating, and recent or past traumas, I want you to know that feeling grounded and connected is within reach. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families with these exact concerns for years. Your life's problems may seem impossible or difficult to overcome, and you may feel anxious about "explaining it all" to a therapist who is also a stranger. My goal is to lay those fears to rest.
If you are dealing with anxiety, poor body image, trust or intimacy issues, suicidal thoughts, mood swings, a complicated relationship with eating, and recent or past traumas, I want you to know that feeling grounded and connected is within reach. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families with these exact concerns for years. Your life's problems may seem impossible or difficult to overcome, and you may feel anxious about "explaining it all" to a therapist who is also a stranger. My goal is to lay those fears to rest.
Change is hard, whether you are trying to stop anxious thoughts, be a better parent, let go of eating disorder behavior, or save your marriage. If you wish to bring change into your life, and have been unable to do it on your own, I can help. I am an expert in the science of change and hold a certificate in the field of Positive Psychology. I am a strength based therapist. Collaboratively and creatively we can discover the tools to enable you to move from a painful state to comfort and resilience, where you can flourish and become the best version of yourself.
Change is hard, whether you are trying to stop anxious thoughts, be a better parent, let go of eating disorder behavior, or save your marriage. If you wish to bring change into your life, and have been unable to do it on your own, I can help. I am an expert in the science of change and hold a certificate in the field of Positive Psychology. I am a strength based therapist. Collaboratively and creatively we can discover the tools to enable you to move from a painful state to comfort and resilience, where you can flourish and become the best version of yourself.
Laura Colón Feliciano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schenectady, NY 12304 (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression and stress related to the impact of our everyday experiences can interfere with the ability to experience joy, even when engaging in things that might have previously offered us opportunities to feel happiness and comfort. This often stems from the narratives, thoughts, values, and beliefs that we've created based on our lived experiences and interactions with others as well as the adversity felt as we work to navigate through family, cultural, and societal pressures. Together we will work to rewrite our narratives and ground ourselves as we embrace an appreciation of our authentic selves.
Anxiety, depression and stress related to the impact of our everyday experiences can interfere with the ability to experience joy, even when engaging in things that might have previously offered us opportunities to feel happiness and comfort. This often stems from the narratives, thoughts, values, and beliefs that we've created based on our lived experiences and interactions with others as well as the adversity felt as we work to navigate through family, cultural, and societal pressures. Together we will work to rewrite our narratives and ground ourselves as we embrace an appreciation of our authentic selves.
Hey, welcome. I know the process of trying to find the right therapist can feel overwhelming. When I’ve looked for therapists for myself or as referrals for others, what I generally want to know is who the therapist is, what kind of person they are. Will they get me? Will they judge me? Are they going to actually call me on my stuff, but, in a nice way? These questions make sense. Therapy is vulnerable, it can be raw and real in ways we generally aren’t, even in very close relationships. Change is often hard and sometimes really scary but if you’re ready, I will meet you there.
Hey, welcome. I know the process of trying to find the right therapist can feel overwhelming. When I’ve looked for therapists for myself or as referrals for others, what I generally want to know is who the therapist is, what kind of person they are. Will they get me? Will they judge me? Are they going to actually call me on my stuff, but, in a nice way? These questions make sense. Therapy is vulnerable, it can be raw and real in ways we generally aren’t, even in very close relationships. Change is often hard and sometimes really scary but if you’re ready, I will meet you there.
Theresa A. Jenkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Schenectady, NY 12305 (Online Only)
Where do you go when you have had enough? Do you believe in something or someone greater than yourself? Do you believe in trusting the process towards a better life? Asking for help does not make us weak. To be a better me I had to let go and let God! Carrying life burdens and trauma can lead to continuous depression and sadness. I want to work with you to try different ways to help you be released from the bondage of self. The healing process begins when you are ready and know that I am here!
Where do you go when you have had enough? Do you believe in something or someone greater than yourself? Do you believe in trusting the process towards a better life? Asking for help does not make us weak. To be a better me I had to let go and let God! Carrying life burdens and trauma can lead to continuous depression and sadness. I want to work with you to try different ways to help you be released from the bondage of self. The healing process begins when you are ready and know that I am here!
Welcome to my reimagined counseling practice--now, purely virtual! Do you feel like a square peg in a round hole? Are you out of touch with who you are and what you really want? Do you sometimes lie awake nights worrying, "Is this IT?" You know you need a change, but you're not sure how to take the first step. Somewhere along the way, you may have started doing what others thought was best for you instead of trusting your own gut. Perhaps you're unhappy because you and your job aren't a good fit. Maybe you feel overwhelmed with stress from all sides.
Welcome to my reimagined counseling practice--now, purely virtual! Do you feel like a square peg in a round hole? Are you out of touch with who you are and what you really want? Do you sometimes lie awake nights worrying, "Is this IT?" You know you need a change, but you're not sure how to take the first step. Somewhere along the way, you may have started doing what others thought was best for you instead of trusting your own gut. Perhaps you're unhappy because you and your job aren't a good fit. Maybe you feel overwhelmed with stress from all sides.
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Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Schenectady
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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.