Transgender Therapists in Knoxville, TN

Photo of Alexa Borrows, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexa Borrows
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37934  (Online Only)
My goal is to empower you to identify and overcome personal obstacles that are preventing you from getting the most out of life. I strive to create a warm, empathetic, understanding and, most importantly, collaborative environment. Working together, we will tackle life’s challenges—whether they may be problems of anxiety, self-esteem, or unhealthy patterns of behavior. I specialize in treating adults with anxiety, OCD, phobias, eating disorders, and life transitions. I also work with transgender individuals. My background is in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and my hope is to help you live a more meaningful life.
My goal is to empower you to identify and overcome personal obstacles that are preventing you from getting the most out of life. I strive to create a warm, empathetic, understanding and, most importantly, collaborative environment. Working together, we will tackle life’s challenges—whether they may be problems of anxiety, self-esteem, or unhealthy patterns of behavior. I specialize in treating adults with anxiety, OCD, phobias, eating disorders, and life transitions. I also work with transgender individuals. My background is in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and my hope is to help you live a more meaningful life.
(865) 205-0788 View (865) 205-0788
Photo of Shana V Hamilton-Lockwood, PhD, Psychologist
Shana V Hamilton-Lockwood
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37921  (Online Only)
I also specialize in gay, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, queer and transgender identities.
I strive to provide a safe space for all clients to explore the issues bringing them to therapy and what underlies those issues. As a multicultural/relational therapist identities that are important to you provide a background for therapy (race, religion, culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, political affiliations, gender identity, gender, sex, ableness, etc.) as those identities make up who you are. Relationships and how you relate with others are also important. I treat anxiety, depression, grief/loss, phases of life issues, family issues, women's issues and men's issues. I am also a sex and gender specialist.
I also specialize in gay, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, queer and transgender identities.
I strive to provide a safe space for all clients to explore the issues bringing them to therapy and what underlies those issues. As a multicultural/relational therapist identities that are important to you provide a background for therapy (race, religion, culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, political affiliations, gender identity, gender, sex, ableness, etc.) as those identities make up who you are. Relationships and how you relate with others are also important. I treat anxiety, depression, grief/loss, phases of life issues, family issues, women's issues and men's issues. I am also a sex and gender specialist.
(865) 503-6256 View (865) 503-6256
Photo of Emu Aragon, MS, LPCMHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emu Aragon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37901  (Online Only)
This includes Persons of Color (Black, Indigenous, Latine/a/o, Asian, Middle Eastern, and multiracial individuals) as well as Queer and Transgender folx (LGBTQIA2S+).
Clients I see are typically wrestling with experiences that have impacted the way they view themselves, relationships, and the world around them. These experiences often leave us feeling wounded, unable to reconnect with ourselves or others. If this resonates with you, we might be a good fit for each other. As a wounded healer myself I seek to support you on your road to healing in a way that honors your unique set of values, beliefs, and cultural identity. I strive to take the time to get to know you, helping you to feel seen, heard, and understood. Who you want to be is possible. Your story, as it is, doesn't have to define you.
This includes Persons of Color (Black, Indigenous, Latine/a/o, Asian, Middle Eastern, and multiracial individuals) as well as Queer and Transgender folx (LGBTQIA2S+).
Clients I see are typically wrestling with experiences that have impacted the way they view themselves, relationships, and the world around them. These experiences often leave us feeling wounded, unable to reconnect with ourselves or others. If this resonates with you, we might be a good fit for each other. As a wounded healer myself I seek to support you on your road to healing in a way that honors your unique set of values, beliefs, and cultural identity. I strive to take the time to get to know you, helping you to feel seen, heard, and understood. Who you want to be is possible. Your story, as it is, doesn't have to define you.
(423) 592-8163 View (423) 592-8163
Photo of Meg Miller, MEd, (Temp), Pre-Licensed Professional
Meg Miller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, (Temp)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
Your identity as LGBTQ+, kinky, non-monogamous, transgender, disabled, or neurodivergent will be respected and dignified here.
Whether you're looking for mental health counseling, sex therapy, or both, it would be my honor to work with you. I have experience working with a myriad of sexual difficulties as well as struggles with anxiety, depression, shame, identity, relationship issues and more. Using existential talk therapy, I take a unique approach to uniting many different parts of the self and helping clients create the life that they want without embarrassment or shame.
Your identity as LGBTQ+, kinky, non-monogamous, transgender, disabled, or neurodivergent will be respected and dignified here.
Whether you're looking for mental health counseling, sex therapy, or both, it would be my honor to work with you. I have experience working with a myriad of sexual difficulties as well as struggles with anxiety, depression, shame, identity, relationship issues and more. Using existential talk therapy, I take a unique approach to uniting many different parts of the self and helping clients create the life that they want without embarrassment or shame.
(423) 397-4211 View (423) 397-4211
Photo of Karen R Swanay, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen R Swanay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
My ideal client is one who knows they need to make changes and are willing to do the work of therapy. My practice is specialized to help those with OCD, anxiety, and related disorders but I am also a gender therapist. My office is a safe space where you can be you.
My ideal client is one who knows they need to make changes and are willing to do the work of therapy. My practice is specialized to help those with OCD, anxiety, and related disorders but I am also a gender therapist. My office is a safe space where you can be you.
(850) 279-5084 View (850) 279-5084
Photo of Megan Hay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Hay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37914  (Online Only)
Hello there, my name is Megan. Feel free to grab a chair and let's talk! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 15 years of experience. As a dedicated mental health therapist, I am committed to guiding individuals through the unique challenges that arise when navigating the complexities of both physical health and mental well-being. In this therapeutic space, we embark on a collaborative exploration, fostering a profound understanding of the intricate relationship between mind and body.
Hello there, my name is Megan. Feel free to grab a chair and let's talk! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 15 years of experience. As a dedicated mental health therapist, I am committed to guiding individuals through the unique challenges that arise when navigating the complexities of both physical health and mental well-being. In this therapeutic space, we embark on a collaborative exploration, fostering a profound understanding of the intricate relationship between mind and body.
(931) 535-5229 View (931) 535-5229
Photo of Kate Kleinfelter, PhD, Psychologist
Kate Kleinfelter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37920  (Online Only)
Hi – my name is Dr. Kleinfelter (or “Dr. K.”). I am a clinical psychologist who has worked with teenagers and families for over 30 years. I mainly serve ages 11 to 25 (and their families) )who struggle w/ depression, anxiety, trauma, & school avoidance. But I also see adults with identity or phase of life concerns, including senior citizens. My primary specialty areas are Autism Level 1 (Neuro-divergent), LGBTQI+ and gender affirming care (including letters if needed). I stay updated on research & use "what works," so that you can feel better as soon as possible. References upon request.
Hi – my name is Dr. Kleinfelter (or “Dr. K.”). I am a clinical psychologist who has worked with teenagers and families for over 30 years. I mainly serve ages 11 to 25 (and their families) )who struggle w/ depression, anxiety, trauma, & school avoidance. But I also see adults with identity or phase of life concerns, including senior citizens. My primary specialty areas are Autism Level 1 (Neuro-divergent), LGBTQI+ and gender affirming care (including letters if needed). I stay updated on research & use "what works," so that you can feel better as soon as possible. References upon request.
(803) 882-2482 View (803) 882-2482
Photo of Matthew Lonski (He They), MS Ed, LCPC, LPCMHSP, Counselor
Matthew Lonski (He They)
Counselor, MS Ed, LCPC, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37901  (Online Only)
Are you looking for support and guidance on your journey? You don’t have to do it alone. Showing your true colors can feel vulnerable, so it is my intention to hold space in which you can feel safe to be yourself without judgement. My practice is defined by a genuine desire to help you feel comfortable in your own skin. Therapy can act as an anchor, providing the stability and support to explore your identity safely. I will be there every step of the way to support you in forging new paths and helping you discover and build the life you have always imagined.
Are you looking for support and guidance on your journey? You don’t have to do it alone. Showing your true colors can feel vulnerable, so it is my intention to hold space in which you can feel safe to be yourself without judgement. My practice is defined by a genuine desire to help you feel comfortable in your own skin. Therapy can act as an anchor, providing the stability and support to explore your identity safely. I will be there every step of the way to support you in forging new paths and helping you discover and build the life you have always imagined.
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Photo of David Hutsell, PsyD, Psychologist
David Hutsell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37902  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself questioning why things feel less exciting or vibrant lately? Struggling to challenge long-standing patterns that don’t serve you as well as they used to? Are you looking for a therapist who values transparency, warmth, curiosity, and humor (plus a touch of irreverence)? If so, I may be a good fit for what you’re looking for. I’m a queer, nonbinary psychologist who’s passionate about helping people slow down to become more attuned to their minds & bodies, find empowerment through identity, and foster a greater sense of self-compassion & be less judge’y of themselves.
Do you find yourself questioning why things feel less exciting or vibrant lately? Struggling to challenge long-standing patterns that don’t serve you as well as they used to? Are you looking for a therapist who values transparency, warmth, curiosity, and humor (plus a touch of irreverence)? If so, I may be a good fit for what you’re looking for. I’m a queer, nonbinary psychologist who’s passionate about helping people slow down to become more attuned to their minds & bodies, find empowerment through identity, and foster a greater sense of self-compassion & be less judge’y of themselves.
(302) 200-3509 View (302) 200-3509
Photo of Jackson (Jack) Garner, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jackson (Jack) Garner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37901  (Online Only)
Do you identify as gender diverse/non-conforming? Are you questioning or discovering your gender, do you need a safe space to process gender related concerns, or just seeking a referral letter? Jack is a licensed therapist in the states of IN, KY, TN, & IL. Their practice provides Individual Counseling, Holistic Life Coaching, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and WPATH Referral Letters for medical transition steps (Note: All letters are written per WPATH standards and provided under an Informed Consent Model, meaning just one session with NO additional fees).
Do you identify as gender diverse/non-conforming? Are you questioning or discovering your gender, do you need a safe space to process gender related concerns, or just seeking a referral letter? Jack is a licensed therapist in the states of IN, KY, TN, & IL. Their practice provides Individual Counseling, Holistic Life Coaching, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and WPATH Referral Letters for medical transition steps (Note: All letters are written per WPATH standards and provided under an Informed Consent Model, meaning just one session with NO additional fees).
(931) 538-3486 View (931) 538-3486
Photo of Christopher D Watkins, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher D Watkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Waitlist for new clients
I use a Cyclical Psychodynamic approach. This is an integrative approach to therapy, which combines empirically supported therapies- relational psychodynamics, cognitive-behavioral therapy, attachment theory, and family systems theory. It works by creating corrective emotional experiences in therapy and developing new ways of interacting with others outside of therapy. This process facilitates increased awareness, resilience, better strategies, and increased effectiveness.
I use a Cyclical Psychodynamic approach. This is an integrative approach to therapy, which combines empirically supported therapies- relational psychodynamics, cognitive-behavioral therapy, attachment theory, and family systems theory. It works by creating corrective emotional experiences in therapy and developing new ways of interacting with others outside of therapy. This process facilitates increased awareness, resilience, better strategies, and increased effectiveness.
(865) 264-2400 View (865) 264-2400
Photo of Laura Catherine Eddlemon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Catherine Eddlemon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the field I strive to provide informed and evidence based treatment to clients of diverse backgrounds in a safe, supportive, and accepting environment. Therapy is a unique experience in which we can create the space that we don't often make for ourselves otherwise to stay with and explore our thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I recognize that seeking support can be difficult and I truly value the positive feedback my clients have provided regarding their feelings of comfort and safety in their work with me.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the field I strive to provide informed and evidence based treatment to clients of diverse backgrounds in a safe, supportive, and accepting environment. Therapy is a unique experience in which we can create the space that we don't often make for ourselves otherwise to stay with and explore our thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I recognize that seeking support can be difficult and I truly value the positive feedback my clients have provided regarding their feelings of comfort and safety in their work with me.
(865) 761-3319 View (865) 761-3319
Photo of Crossroads Mental Wellness Center - Crossroads Mental Wellness Center, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crossroads Mental Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
Anxious, depressed, lonely, scared, angry, or hurting. We all experience these feelings, but sometimes it is necessary to seek out some assistance. We here at Crossroads believe “no one should have to journey alone”. We specialize in adolescents/teens, college aged, young professionals, marital issues (premarital also), and potential separation/divorce situations. We are out-of-network with all insurance plans, but we can assist you in filing your out-of-network benefits.
Anxious, depressed, lonely, scared, angry, or hurting. We all experience these feelings, but sometimes it is necessary to seek out some assistance. We here at Crossroads believe “no one should have to journey alone”. We specialize in adolescents/teens, college aged, young professionals, marital issues (premarital also), and potential separation/divorce situations. We are out-of-network with all insurance plans, but we can assist you in filing your out-of-network benefits.
(865) 509-8779 View (865) 509-8779
Photo of Melissa Cohen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
With over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages, I offer a nonjudgmental space for growth and healing. My specialties include eating disorders, body image, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions (college, divorce, LGBTQ+), and parent/child relationships. I use different therapy approaches such as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, compassion, as well as a non-traditional therapy called Acceptance and Integration Training (AAIT is trademarked and founded by Melanie McGhee, LCSW.).
With over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages, I offer a nonjudgmental space for growth and healing. My specialties include eating disorders, body image, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions (college, divorce, LGBTQ+), and parent/child relationships. I use different therapy approaches such as Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, compassion, as well as a non-traditional therapy called Acceptance and Integration Training (AAIT is trademarked and founded by Melanie McGhee, LCSW.).
(865) 551-6152 View (865) 551-6152
Photo of Margaret Anthony, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Anthony
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
I have worked with adolescents, adults and 65 and up patients for years. Have also worked in juvenile and adult court in the past as well as in intensive outpatient and in mental health at a hospital setting. I attended the University of Tennessee and graduated in 1997 with my Masters in Social Work. I have experience with trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, anxiety disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder. I work with Cognitive processing therapy, Cognitive Behavior therapy, Mindfulness, Exposure therapy, and behavioral therapy as well as couple's therapy.
I have worked with adolescents, adults and 65 and up patients for years. Have also worked in juvenile and adult court in the past as well as in intensive outpatient and in mental health at a hospital setting. I attended the University of Tennessee and graduated in 1997 with my Masters in Social Work. I have experience with trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, anxiety disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder. I work with Cognitive processing therapy, Cognitive Behavior therapy, Mindfulness, Exposure therapy, and behavioral therapy as well as couple's therapy.
(865) 328-4926 View (865) 328-4926
Photo of Faith Shultz, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Faith Shultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
Are you dealing with life's difficulties? Do you struggle with feeling powerless, anxious, depressed, or just "different"? You deserve to be heard and I'm here to listen.
Are you dealing with life's difficulties? Do you struggle with feeling powerless, anxious, depressed, or just "different"? You deserve to be heard and I'm here to listen.
(865) 737-1943 View (865) 737-1943
Photo of Amber Christine Bird, MEd, NCC, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber Christine Bird
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
"There is not a person on earth you would not love if you only knew their story" -M. Hinkley. I look forward to getting to know all of my clients. It is a pleasure to learn your strengths and personal goals. I believe in the therapeutic process and look forward to watching each of my clients gain self-awareness and call on their own skills and strengths to achieve the changes they want to see in their lives.
"There is not a person on earth you would not love if you only knew their story" -M. Hinkley. I look forward to getting to know all of my clients. It is a pleasure to learn your strengths and personal goals. I believe in the therapeutic process and look forward to watching each of my clients gain self-awareness and call on their own skills and strengths to achieve the changes they want to see in their lives.
(865) 383-8658 View (865) 383-8658
Photo of Anne Little-Goss, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Little-Goss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
For over 17 years Anne has had the privilege of providing therapy/coaching services to children, adolescents, and adults who have been negatively impacted by varying life circumstances. Anne is passionate about helping clients understand that a diagnosis does not define who they are, but only identifies the patterns they are struggling with. Anne believes "everyone has a story in which each chapter can create different needs and challenges". She adds, "Therapy/Coaching provides a safe and confidential space to process and learn new coping strategies or to challenge the way we look at those challenges and needs".
For over 17 years Anne has had the privilege of providing therapy/coaching services to children, adolescents, and adults who have been negatively impacted by varying life circumstances. Anne is passionate about helping clients understand that a diagnosis does not define who they are, but only identifies the patterns they are struggling with. Anne believes "everyone has a story in which each chapter can create different needs and challenges". She adds, "Therapy/Coaching provides a safe and confidential space to process and learn new coping strategies or to challenge the way we look at those challenges and needs".
(865) 217-2659 View (865) 217-2659
Photo of Hannah Kristian Monarch, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Kristian Monarch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a range of clients and issues, but specialize in complex trauma and dissociation. I also do a lot of therapy with teens, young adults, and the LGBTQIA+ community. My biggest strengths as a counselor are my compassion and open-mindedness. I meet clients where they are at, tailoring the work to your preferences and needs, whether you would benefit most from talk therapy, skill building, trauma processing, or a combination of these. This allows for individualized treatment plans and use of creative, validating techniques.
I work with a range of clients and issues, but specialize in complex trauma and dissociation. I also do a lot of therapy with teens, young adults, and the LGBTQIA+ community. My biggest strengths as a counselor are my compassion and open-mindedness. I meet clients where they are at, tailoring the work to your preferences and needs, whether you would benefit most from talk therapy, skill building, trauma processing, or a combination of these. This allows for individualized treatment plans and use of creative, validating techniques.
(865) 309-9418 View (865) 309-9418
Photo of Alex Thompson, LCSW, MSW, ADS, CSTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alex Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, ADS, CSTS
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37931  (Online Only)
Serving Tennessee and Colorado virtually. Do you feel like you are drowning in emotions and can’t catch your breath? Do you struggle feeling heard? Do you feel unsupported from other people? Are you overwhelmed with daily activities or lack motivation? Do you struggle with shame? Have you been diagnosed or suspect you have anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, grief, or relationship issues? These challenges are more common than ever. Most individuals put off help, and like cancer the situation can worsen. To improve, it can seem overwhelming. You are not alone.
Serving Tennessee and Colorado virtually. Do you feel like you are drowning in emotions and can’t catch your breath? Do you struggle feeling heard? Do you feel unsupported from other people? Are you overwhelmed with daily activities or lack motivation? Do you struggle with shame? Have you been diagnosed or suspect you have anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, grief, or relationship issues? These challenges are more common than ever. Most individuals put off help, and like cancer the situation can worsen. To improve, it can seem overwhelming. You are not alone.
(865) 375-8991 View (865) 375-8991
1
Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.