LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Valley Stream, NY

Photo of Shannon Ward, MS, MHC-LP
Shannon Ward
MS, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11580
Shannon "Shay" Ward is a mental health counselor in the process of completing their requisite post masters experience at NYCTWC in Rockville Centre, NY. They specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults presenting with anxiety, depression, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, life transitions, low self-esteem and relationship difficulties. They also have extensive experience working with women, mothers, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Shannon "Shay" Ward is a mental health counselor in the process of completing their requisite post masters experience at NYCTWC in Rockville Centre, NY. They specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults presenting with anxiety, depression, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, life transitions, low self-esteem and relationship difficulties. They also have extensive experience working with women, mothers, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
(516) 583-0250 View (516) 583-0250
Photo of Erica F Zajac, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica F Zajac
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11581
Hi! Welcome to Sex Positive Therapy! I am a sex positive therapist and supervisor working with a wide range of issues. I have been practicing since 2006 and worked with a wide range of issues. I am a unique and eclectic therapist that challenges my clients to move towards emotional/behavioral change and work on their core attachment issues. My areas of speciality are: Borderline Personality/Narcissistic Personality disorders, Trauma/PTSD/CPTSD, Abuse/DV, Gender/sexuality, ENM/Poly, Kink/BDSM, and/or LGBTQIA+ folx. My approach is client focused and collaborative and I see my work with clients as a journey we take together.
Hi! Welcome to Sex Positive Therapy! I am a sex positive therapist and supervisor working with a wide range of issues. I have been practicing since 2006 and worked with a wide range of issues. I am a unique and eclectic therapist that challenges my clients to move towards emotional/behavioral change and work on their core attachment issues. My areas of speciality are: Borderline Personality/Narcissistic Personality disorders, Trauma/PTSD/CPTSD, Abuse/DV, Gender/sexuality, ENM/Poly, Kink/BDSM, and/or LGBTQIA+ folx. My approach is client focused and collaborative and I see my work with clients as a journey we take together.
(929) 205-5426 View (929) 205-5426
Photo of Annmarie Fuchs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annmarie Fuchs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11580  (Online Only)
I am so very privileged to have the opportunity to connect with you. I have over five years experience working in the inpatient psychiatry setting with ages consisting of adolescents all the way up to geriatrics. I have worked in hospitals, schools, and outpatient clinic settings and now have the opportunity to pursue private practice. I am a fierce advocate of the LGBTQ+ community among all underserved populations.
I am so very privileged to have the opportunity to connect with you. I have over five years experience working in the inpatient psychiatry setting with ages consisting of adolescents all the way up to geriatrics. I have worked in hospitals, schools, and outpatient clinic settings and now have the opportunity to pursue private practice. I am a fierce advocate of the LGBTQ+ community among all underserved populations.
(516) 980-4721 View (516) 980-4721
Photo of Stephanie Staco, LMHC, LPC, CMHC, CCHt
Stephanie Staco
LMHC, LPC, CMHC, CCHt
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11581  (Online Only)
I have first hand experience as a member of the neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, and kink communities, and thus have a unique ability to provide insight and support to other members of those communities. I was inspired to become a therapist because of my own experiences with therapy and a desire to help those in marginalized communities
I have first hand experience as a member of the neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, and kink communities, and thus have a unique ability to provide insight and support to other members of those communities. I was inspired to become a therapist because of my own experiences with therapy and a desire to help those in marginalized communities
(516) 614-4749 View (516) 614-4749
Photo of Meghan McDonough, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meghan McDonough
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11581  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and I believe the diversity of individuals I've encountered helps me relate well to new clients.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Upstate NY and work with clients statewide through telehealth. I enjoy working with both individuals and couples. My approach varies on the specific needs of each client, but I feel that I am a guide who is learning alongside you. I will always be coming from a systems perspective, meaning I am thinking about outside influences (family, romantic partners, friends, job, etc.) and how they interplay/impact you.
I enjoy working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and I believe the diversity of individuals I've encountered helps me relate well to new clients.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Upstate NY and work with clients statewide through telehealth. I enjoy working with both individuals and couples. My approach varies on the specific needs of each client, but I feel that I am a guide who is learning alongside you. I will always be coming from a systems perspective, meaning I am thinking about outside influences (family, romantic partners, friends, job, etc.) and how they interplay/impact you.
(347) 647-2296 View (347) 647-2296
Photo of Magdalena Medina, LMHC, CASAC, Counselor
Magdalena Medina
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Stream, NY 11580  (Online Only)
Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with people from all walks of life, children, adolescents, adults, as well as people in the LGBTQIA+ community.
I believe that everyone deserves to be seen/heard, and has the potential for growth. I am passionate about leading people through various transitions in their lives. Using a guided and empathetic approach, I'm ready to empower you through our sessions together, helping you overcome whatever is holding back your full potential - whether it's a mental health issue or general life stressor. I intend on working with you to provide you the tools needed to navigate any issues/stressors that may be impacting your current daily functioning and quality of life.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with people from all walks of life, children, adolescents, adults, as well as people in the LGBTQIA+ community.
I believe that everyone deserves to be seen/heard, and has the potential for growth. I am passionate about leading people through various transitions in their lives. Using a guided and empathetic approach, I'm ready to empower you through our sessions together, helping you overcome whatever is holding back your full potential - whether it's a mental health issue or general life stressor. I intend on working with you to provide you the tools needed to navigate any issues/stressors that may be impacting your current daily functioning and quality of life.
(631) 202-0888 View (631) 202-0888
Photo of Mona El-Shahat, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, Counselor
Mona El-Shahat
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Valley Stream, NY 11580  (Online Only)
I have worked with a diverse group of people with a primary focus on underrepresented groups including BIPOC, biracial, multiracial, LGBTQIA+, immigrant and first-gen communities, international students, Muslim communities and women.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who believes therapy is a collaborative journey. I take a person-centered, holistic, empathetic and culturally sensitive approach to help clients work towards achieving their goals. I operate from a multicultural lens and utilize a client-centered, trauma informed approach in my work. I provide a confidential, open-minded and supportive space where you will feel seen, heard and understood. Through this collaborative journey we will work on setting and meeting your goals.
I have worked with a diverse group of people with a primary focus on underrepresented groups including BIPOC, biracial, multiracial, LGBTQIA+, immigrant and first-gen communities, international students, Muslim communities and women.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who believes therapy is a collaborative journey. I take a person-centered, holistic, empathetic and culturally sensitive approach to help clients work towards achieving their goals. I operate from a multicultural lens and utilize a client-centered, trauma informed approach in my work. I provide a confidential, open-minded and supportive space where you will feel seen, heard and understood. Through this collaborative journey we will work on setting and meeting your goals.
(929) 207-5812 View (929) 207-5812
Photo of Dr. Jessica Thalhamer, DC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Jessica Thalhamer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11580  (Online Only)
My passion is working with individuals who face challenges with addiction/substance abuse, athletes, depression, anxiety, healthy communication/boundaries, LGBTQ+, life transitions, living with chronic illness/pain, mood disorders, perinatal, parenthood, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault/rape, trauma, PTSD, Women's Health.
Accepting New Clients! Available Appointment Slots are listed on my website. or call 631-834-8647. I look forward to hearing from you! - Finding the right therapist can be difficult. I have over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health and integrated holistic approaches. As a child. I was interested in the mind, medicine, and alternative healing. I was eager to learn about these topics and devoured myself in literature on these topics. Very spiritually driven as a child, I began my lifelong path of helping others. From a very young age I understood that the mind, body and soul are connected.
My passion is working with individuals who face challenges with addiction/substance abuse, athletes, depression, anxiety, healthy communication/boundaries, LGBTQ+, life transitions, living with chronic illness/pain, mood disorders, perinatal, parenthood, survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault/rape, trauma, PTSD, Women's Health.
Accepting New Clients! Available Appointment Slots are listed on my website. or call 631-834-8647. I look forward to hearing from you! - Finding the right therapist can be difficult. I have over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health and integrated holistic approaches. As a child. I was interested in the mind, medicine, and alternative healing. I was eager to learn about these topics and devoured myself in literature on these topics. Very spiritually driven as a child, I began my lifelong path of helping others. From a very young age I understood that the mind, body and soul are connected.
(631) 856-1312 View (631) 856-1312
Photo of Liam Amoroso, Liam Amoroso, LMHC, Counselor
Liam Amoroso
Counselor, Liam Amoroso, LMHC
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11581
Waitlist for new clients
If you are finding yourself struggling often with your sense of self, traumatic experiences or interpersonal challenges, I would absolutely love to help you through my approach; I provoke deep insight in my clients through an empathetic multidisciplinary approach in order for them to gain a deeper understanding of themselves so we can cultivate healthy approaches and solutions to their challenges.
If you are finding yourself struggling often with your sense of self, traumatic experiences or interpersonal challenges, I would absolutely love to help you through my approach; I provoke deep insight in my clients through an empathetic multidisciplinary approach in order for them to gain a deeper understanding of themselves so we can cultivate healthy approaches and solutions to their challenges.
(718) 550-0382 View (718) 550-0382
Photo of Clinton Michael Clovis - The New Hope Mental Health Counseling Services, MSEd, LMHC, CCTS-F, CAMS II, Counselor
The New Hope Mental Health Counseling Services
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC, CCTS-F, CAMS II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Stream, NY 11580
The New Hope Mental Health Counseling Services is a group practice staffed by a mixed group of licensed clinicians trained to handle every area of life. We work with children who present with aggressive and disruptive behaviors, including ADHD, individuals involved in the criminal justice system, struggling with drug, recovery and family related problems. Our clients receives support for Anger Management, marriage, trauma, and parenting. Our clinicians utilize an eclectic approach to address your needs. We also offer medication therapy for ADHD, bipolar, anxiety and other mood disorders where needed.
The New Hope Mental Health Counseling Services is a group practice staffed by a mixed group of licensed clinicians trained to handle every area of life. We work with children who present with aggressive and disruptive behaviors, including ADHD, individuals involved in the criminal justice system, struggling with drug, recovery and family related problems. Our clients receives support for Anger Management, marriage, trauma, and parenting. Our clinicians utilize an eclectic approach to address your needs. We also offer medication therapy for ADHD, bipolar, anxiety and other mood disorders where needed.
(646) 681-7762 View (646) 681-7762
Photo of Jennifer L Derri - Blossoming Cherry Mental Health Counseling, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Blossoming Cherry Mental Health Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Valley Stream, NY 11580
We are a diverse team dedicated to enhancing therapy experiences for clients in our community by focusing on depth approaches and offering unique opportunities for adding to the therapy experience. Whether it’s creating art, playing chess, building Legos, taking a therapy walk, or joining a therapy group, we are active participants in helping you see change in your life. We do believe experiences of trauma, oppression, and neglect shape you, but we also believe you have an incredible ability to heal. Our therapy community welcomes children, teens, young adults, older adults, couples, and families of all ages and identities.
We are a diverse team dedicated to enhancing therapy experiences for clients in our community by focusing on depth approaches and offering unique opportunities for adding to the therapy experience. Whether it’s creating art, playing chess, building Legos, taking a therapy walk, or joining a therapy group, we are active participants in helping you see change in your life. We do believe experiences of trauma, oppression, and neglect shape you, but we also believe you have an incredible ability to heal. Our therapy community welcomes children, teens, young adults, older adults, couples, and families of all ages and identities.
(516) 219-1096 View (516) 219-1096
Photo of LaShaun Dean, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaShaun Dean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Stream, NY 11580  (Online Only)
Are you currently, struggling with depression, anxiety, sexuality, trauma, substance use, mental health, and work and life stress? Are you seeking to process your thoughts and feelings, overcome your trauma, and create a better future for yourself? Do you want to develop healthier coping strategies, explore boundary setting, and maintain your relationships that are most important to you? Finding a balance in life is often hard and poses challenges to even the strongest people.
Are you currently, struggling with depression, anxiety, sexuality, trauma, substance use, mental health, and work and life stress? Are you seeking to process your thoughts and feelings, overcome your trauma, and create a better future for yourself? Do you want to develop healthier coping strategies, explore boundary setting, and maintain your relationships that are most important to you? Finding a balance in life is often hard and poses challenges to even the strongest people.
(516) 908-9962 View (516) 908-9962
Photo of René Rivera, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
René Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11581
Waitlist for new clients
I appreciate you for taking the time and effort to read my page – thank you! I identify as a Latinx licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of indirect and direct clinical practice experience. My overall life experiences and professional muscle is not one dimensional or in other words - I have mastered an ability to connect and meet individuals, families, and communities exactly where they are in their struggles and life stories to support the internal muscle of change. I have also learned to adapt ethical standards, evidenced base interventions and core values to further enhance my professional skill set.
I appreciate you for taking the time and effort to read my page – thank you! I identify as a Latinx licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of indirect and direct clinical practice experience. My overall life experiences and professional muscle is not one dimensional or in other words - I have mastered an ability to connect and meet individuals, families, and communities exactly where they are in their struggles and life stories to support the internal muscle of change. I have also learned to adapt ethical standards, evidenced base interventions and core values to further enhance my professional skill set.
(347) 508-9048 View (347) 508-9048
Photo of Don Sinkfield - Help to Adjust, LMHC, CAMS 2
Help to Adjust
LMHC, CAMS 2
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11580
Relational issues are our specialty. We help people who are having trouble navigating relationships and all kinds of life adjustments. In fact, the practice is named "Help to Adjust" because throughout life people must effectively cope (adjust) to all kinds of struggles that occur. Our counselors and coaches are trained to assist with the tools that we all need.
Relational issues are our specialty. We help people who are having trouble navigating relationships and all kinds of life adjustments. In fact, the practice is named "Help to Adjust" because throughout life people must effectively cope (adjust) to all kinds of struggles that occur. Our counselors and coaches are trained to assist with the tools that we all need.
(516) 715-4405 View (516) 715-4405
Photo of Trudy Ann Gayle, PhD, Psychologist
Trudy Ann Gayle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11580  (Online Only)
I provide support and guidance for transforming the issues that stand in the way of you achieving your goals in positive and warm environment.
———We accept all major insurances—- I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 13 years of experience providing therapy. How would your life change if you could tap into your full potential? What if you could have anything you want for your life? Today you are one step closer to a new you. I believe that people can reach their potential with hard work and support. I work with clients to help them feel empowered. As a person-centered, interpersonal therapist, I help clients find, develop, and cultivate the good that already exists within them. My ultimate goal is being a transparent therapist while providing warmth.
I provide support and guidance for transforming the issues that stand in the way of you achieving your goals in positive and warm environment.
———We accept all major insurances—- I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 13 years of experience providing therapy. How would your life change if you could tap into your full potential? What if you could have anything you want for your life? Today you are one step closer to a new you. I believe that people can reach their potential with hard work and support. I work with clients to help them feel empowered. As a person-centered, interpersonal therapist, I help clients find, develop, and cultivate the good that already exists within them. My ultimate goal is being a transparent therapist while providing warmth.
(516) 604-5726 View (516) 604-5726
Photo of Rachel Fryman, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Fryman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Stream, NY 11580  (Online Only)
Rachel works with amazing people who are struggling with life transitions, relationships, and the toll that distracted living is taking on their personal and professional lives.
Dr. Rachel Fryman is a therapist with 15+ years of experience. She is the founder of TheraListen, an insurance based group practice offering tele-therapy to New Yorkers. Rachel is committed to providing accessible, affordable, evidence based therapy with her colleagues at TheraListen. The practice is currently accepting new patients for teletherapy appointments from anywhere in New York State and is in network with Aetna, NYSHIP, Northwell and United Healthcare.
Rachel works with amazing people who are struggling with life transitions, relationships, and the toll that distracted living is taking on their personal and professional lives.
Dr. Rachel Fryman is a therapist with 15+ years of experience. She is the founder of TheraListen, an insurance based group practice offering tele-therapy to New Yorkers. Rachel is committed to providing accessible, affordable, evidence based therapy with her colleagues at TheraListen. The practice is currently accepting new patients for teletherapy appointments from anywhere in New York State and is in network with Aetna, NYSHIP, Northwell and United Healthcare.
(516) 875-2075 View (516) 875-2075
Photo of Cristal Ortiz, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cristal Ortiz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Stream, NY 11580
I'm dedicated to helping you build stronger relationships, regulate your emotions, and navigate life's challenges with confidence. Do you find it difficult to maintain healthy connections or manage stress, anxiety, or depression? Together, we can uncover the root causes of these struggles and leverage your strengths to create personalized strategies for growth and healing. Everyone deserves a safe and supportive space to explore their feelings and improve their relationships.
I'm dedicated to helping you build stronger relationships, regulate your emotions, and navigate life's challenges with confidence. Do you find it difficult to maintain healthy connections or manage stress, anxiety, or depression? Together, we can uncover the root causes of these struggles and leverage your strengths to create personalized strategies for growth and healing. Everyone deserves a safe and supportive space to explore their feelings and improve their relationships.
(516) 212-6486 View (516) 212-6486
Photo of Sabrina Sabella-Arce - J and S Mental Health Counseling , LMHC, Counselor
J and S Mental Health Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Stream, NY 11580
I specialize in anxiety, depression, school related issues and peer relationships among teenagers and young adults. I offer an integrative style of cognitive behavioral therapy, existentialism, mindfulness and supportive counseling. I also specialize in and offer family counseling to aid families in developing effective communication strategies and minimize conflict at home.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, school related issues and peer relationships among teenagers and young adults. I offer an integrative style of cognitive behavioral therapy, existentialism, mindfulness and supportive counseling. I also specialize in and offer family counseling to aid families in developing effective communication strategies and minimize conflict at home.
(516) 788-8546 View (516) 788-8546
Photo of Dr. Natalie Anika Cort -  Cort Consulting & Counseling, LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Cort Consulting & Counseling, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11580  (Online Only)
Reach out is you’re feeling burnt out and drained as well as if you’re going through a life transition (e.
My desire is to provide socioculturally reparative professional coaching to women of color in order to diminish racism’s personal impact and to enhance professional success. I focus on fostering a culture of pride, belongingness, validation, and healing to buffer against racially disempowering experiences in predominantly White professional spaces.
Reach out is you’re feeling burnt out and drained as well as if you’re going through a life transition (e.
My desire is to provide socioculturally reparative professional coaching to women of color in order to diminish racism’s personal impact and to enhance professional success. I focus on fostering a culture of pride, belongingness, validation, and healing to buffer against racially disempowering experiences in predominantly White professional spaces.
(516) 212-9406 View (516) 212-9406
Photo of Joanna Reynolds, LMHC, Counselor
Joanna Reynolds
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11580
I am a therapist with over 18 years of experience and there is no problem, issue, or group of people that I haven't worked with in my career. At a Long Island hospital I am in charge of training and supervising new therapists and I have taught in a CUNY graduate school program for mental health counselors.
I am a therapist with over 18 years of experience and there is no problem, issue, or group of people that I haven't worked with in my career. At a Long Island hospital I am in charge of training and supervising new therapists and I have taught in a CUNY graduate school program for mental health counselors.
(347) 708-8673 View (347) 708-8673
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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.