LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in McKinney, TX
Seeking mental health is an important step towards general well-being. Just as you would not be expected to simply “tough out” a broken leg, for instance, neither should you do the same for depression, anxiety, or even more importantly, finding yourself at a crossroads and uncertain what to do next. I am here to lend a non-judgmental ear, and to help you move through difficult aspects of your life. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, uncertainty about paths forward in life, and addiction for adults, and with a particular interest in the LGBTQ population.
Seeking mental health is an important step towards general well-being. Just as you would not be expected to simply “tough out” a broken leg, for instance, neither should you do the same for depression, anxiety, or even more importantly, finding yourself at a crossroads and uncertain what to do next. I am here to lend a non-judgmental ear, and to help you move through difficult aspects of your life. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, uncertainty about paths forward in life, and addiction for adults, and with a particular interest in the LGBTQ population.
JoAngeli Z Kasper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070 (Online Only)
These challenges may include managing chronic mental illnesses like bipolar disorder, anxiety, or depression; dealing with sexual or physical abuse and neglect; or navigating family crises, such as supporting an LGBTQ teen.
As a first-generation Latinx, Mexican American woman, I have struggled, fought, and overcome many challenges, and I consider it a privilege to assist others on their journeys. Everyone needs someone who "breathes life" into them, offering affirmation, understanding, and connection, especially when dealing with intimate issues. I work with individuals and families facing various challenges, including school, work, relationships, and crises of faith, with a special focus on those who have endured traumatic experiences, whether adults or children.
These challenges may include managing chronic mental illnesses like bipolar disorder, anxiety, or depression; dealing with sexual or physical abuse and neglect; or navigating family crises, such as supporting an LGBTQ teen.
As a first-generation Latinx, Mexican American woman, I have struggled, fought, and overcome many challenges, and I consider it a privilege to assist others on their journeys. Everyone needs someone who "breathes life" into them, offering affirmation, understanding, and connection, especially when dealing with intimate issues. I work with individuals and families facing various challenges, including school, work, relationships, and crises of faith, with a special focus on those who have endured traumatic experiences, whether adults or children.
Kristie always works LGBTQ, low self-esteem, Anger outbursts, depression, anxiety, and general life changes.
Kristie Keeling is supervised by Kacey Vasquez, LPC-S. Earning a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus in play therapy from the University of North Texas at Dallas. Upon graduation, she was inducted into the International Counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society. With over 15 years of experience working one on one with children prior to graduate school, Kristie developed a passion early on for child development and play therapy. Specializing in kids from the ages of two to sixteen with learning and developmental disabilities such as ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia and Dyscalculia.
Kristie always works LGBTQ, low self-esteem, Anger outbursts, depression, anxiety, and general life changes.
Kristie Keeling is supervised by Kacey Vasquez, LPC-S. Earning a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a focus in play therapy from the University of North Texas at Dallas. Upon graduation, she was inducted into the International Counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society. With over 15 years of experience working one on one with children prior to graduate school, Kristie developed a passion early on for child development and play therapy. Specializing in kids from the ages of two to sixteen with learning and developmental disabilities such as ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia and Dyscalculia.
Break away from the usual counseling approach with a neurodivergent, client-centered, and LGBTQ-affirming counselor. Using a blend of professional expertise and personal understanding, I specialize in ADHD, autistic adults, trauma, and dissociation (DID/OSDD). Learn to navigate your goals, responsibilities, and relationships with newfound confidence as we celebrate your authentic self and empower you to advocate for your needs.
Break away from the usual counseling approach with a neurodivergent, client-centered, and LGBTQ-affirming counselor. Using a blend of professional expertise and personal understanding, I specialize in ADHD, autistic adults, trauma, and dissociation (DID/OSDD). Learn to navigate your goals, responsibilities, and relationships with newfound confidence as we celebrate your authentic self and empower you to advocate for your needs.
Hello! I work with children, teens, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, grief, low self-esteem, body image, life transitions, gender identity, and sexuality. I utilize affirming counseling practices with all clients, and especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families.
Hello! I work with children, teens, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, grief, low self-esteem, body image, life transitions, gender identity, and sexuality. I utilize affirming counseling practices with all clients, and especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and their families.
Hayley Lastovica
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Waitlist for new clients
My passion as a therapist is supporting young adults in navigating their lives & mental health. I help with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, substance use, relationships, & life transitions. My specialties are complex trauma & working with the LGBTQIA+ community. I try to bring practicality & humor to my sessions while creating a safe & inviting space. I will also challenge you to go deeper. I want us to explore what has brought you to therapy instead of sticking to the surface. We will work together to empower you to understand patterns of behavior, let go of what no longer serves you, & cultivate your strengths.
My passion as a therapist is supporting young adults in navigating their lives & mental health. I help with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, substance use, relationships, & life transitions. My specialties are complex trauma & working with the LGBTQIA+ community. I try to bring practicality & humor to my sessions while creating a safe & inviting space. I will also challenge you to go deeper. I want us to explore what has brought you to therapy instead of sticking to the surface. We will work together to empower you to understand patterns of behavior, let go of what no longer serves you, & cultivate your strengths.
Jennifer Sandlin
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Jennifer Sandlin provides a safe non-judgmental space for all clients, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community and adults with ADHD, to explore the concerns that bring them to therapy. She works with clients to create a therapeutic alliance where they can feel comfortable processing trauma. She is passionate about removing barriers to mental health care and normalizing treatment instead of silence.
Jennifer Sandlin provides a safe non-judgmental space for all clients, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community and adults with ADHD, to explore the concerns that bring them to therapy. She works with clients to create a therapeutic alliance where they can feel comfortable processing trauma. She is passionate about removing barriers to mental health care and normalizing treatment instead of silence.
I specialize and enjoy working with neurodiverse adolescents and adults that have challenges or identities related to autism, anxiety, ADHD, and the LGTBQ community. I lead groups for transgender youth and for parents of transgender people. I value a holistic, collaborative approach that takes into consideration every aspect of the client’s life (e.g., medical history, religion/spirituality, psycho-social stressors, family dynamics). I utilize evidenced-based treatments that include cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness and interpersonal strategies to help each individual better manage their symptoms.
I specialize and enjoy working with neurodiverse adolescents and adults that have challenges or identities related to autism, anxiety, ADHD, and the LGTBQ community. I lead groups for transgender youth and for parents of transgender people. I value a holistic, collaborative approach that takes into consideration every aspect of the client’s life (e.g., medical history, religion/spirituality, psycho-social stressors, family dynamics). I utilize evidenced-based treatments that include cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness and interpersonal strategies to help each individual better manage their symptoms.
Taylor Buckner
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I am passionate about working with adults who are seeking help for trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA affirming care, mood disorders, and trauma-informed parenting. I also work with veterans who are struggling to transition back to civilian life. I served in the U.S. Navy as a Hospital Corpsman and trained as a behavioral health technician which was an invaluable experience that solidified my journey to working in mental health. I enjoy fostering a healing environment for my clients and watching them grow into finding self-discovery.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Heidi Johanson, LPC-S. I am passionate about working with adults who are seeking help for trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA affirming care, mood disorders, and trauma-informed parenting. I also work with veterans who are struggling to transition back to civilian life. I served in the U.S. Navy as a Hospital Corpsman and trained as a behavioral health technician which was an invaluable experience that solidified my journey to working in mental health. I enjoy fostering a healing environment for my clients and watching them grow into finding self-discovery.
John Trader
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070 (Online Only)
Hello there. My name is John Trader and I have been a mental health counselor for over a decade. I am devoted to helping people with trauma be able to examine how it continues to affect their lives. I love to see breakthroughs with individuals and couples. I am passionate about creating safe spaces for people to explore neurodivergence and sexual identity. I am LGBTQIA+ and anti-racist. As a clinician, I believe that couples and individuals have the ability to work through life's difficulties by bringing safety and acceptance to the therapeutic process.
Hello there. My name is John Trader and I have been a mental health counselor for over a decade. I am devoted to helping people with trauma be able to examine how it continues to affect their lives. I love to see breakthroughs with individuals and couples. I am passionate about creating safe spaces for people to explore neurodivergence and sexual identity. I am LGBTQIA+ and anti-racist. As a clinician, I believe that couples and individuals have the ability to work through life's difficulties by bringing safety and acceptance to the therapeutic process.
Jason is trained and specializes in the treatment of Anxiety, Adjustment Disorders, Anger Management, ADHD, Codependency, Depression, End of Life Concerns, Family Therapy, LGBTQIA+, Gender Identity, Sexuality, Grief/Loss/Bereavement, Men’s Issues, Mood Disorders, Panic Disorders, Trauma, Post-Partum Depression, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, and Stress Management. He enjoys working with adolescents, adults of all ages and couple’s therapy.
Jason is trained and specializes in the treatment of Anxiety, Adjustment Disorders, Anger Management, ADHD, Codependency, Depression, End of Life Concerns, Family Therapy, LGBTQIA+, Gender Identity, Sexuality, Grief/Loss/Bereavement, Men’s Issues, Mood Disorders, Panic Disorders, Trauma, Post-Partum Depression, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, and Stress Management. He enjoys working with adolescents, adults of all ages and couple’s therapy.
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Toneisha has significant experience working with teens in abusive situations and LGBT concerns.
Toneisha is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and supervisor with over 15 years of experience working with preteens, teens, adults, and older adults. Toneisha has a warm and friendly personality which makes you feel welcomed and at ease when you enter the therapy room. She is eager to help clients develop problem solving abilities and coping skills and assist them in finding and utilizing resources available to them.
Toneisha has significant experience working with teens in abusive situations and LGBT concerns.
Toneisha is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and supervisor with over 15 years of experience working with preteens, teens, adults, and older adults. Toneisha has a warm and friendly personality which makes you feel welcomed and at ease when you enter the therapy room. She is eager to help clients develop problem solving abilities and coping skills and assist them in finding and utilizing resources available to them.
Scott D Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75072 (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience, I considering myself a tough and compassionate therapist who will help you get to the truth. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism.
With over a decade of experience, I considering myself a tough and compassionate therapist who will help you get to the truth. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism.
I also work with clients with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, substance abuse, suicidal ideations, LGBTQIA+.
Mental health is a critical component of our overall health, and we are most often aware of this during times of struggle or transition. While these experiences may feel overwhelming and at times even painful, you no longer have to face these trials alone. You and I will join this journey together and work to achieve the more satisfying, meaningful, and mentally healthy life that you were meant to live.
I also work with clients with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, substance abuse, suicidal ideations, LGBTQIA+.
Mental health is a critical component of our overall health, and we are most often aware of this during times of struggle or transition. While these experiences may feel overwhelming and at times even painful, you no longer have to face these trials alone. You and I will join this journey together and work to achieve the more satisfying, meaningful, and mentally healthy life that you were meant to live.
Scott D Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75072 (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience, I considering myself a tough and compassionate therapist who will help you get to the truth. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism.
With over a decade of experience, I considering myself a tough and compassionate therapist who will help you get to the truth. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism.
Shea Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071 (Online Only)
I am secular (non-religious) and LGBTQ+ affirming, and I often work with adults wanting to process their family issues (like a narcissistic or emotionally immature parent), or processing topics related to faith transition/ deconstruction or complex trauma from faith or family experiences. I also offer space to process things like anxiety, stress and relationships. I believe in the power of the therapist-client relationship and the importance of having a safe, supportive space that allows you to sort through your thoughts and feelings.
I am secular (non-religious) and LGBTQ+ affirming, and I often work with adults wanting to process their family issues (like a narcissistic or emotionally immature parent), or processing topics related to faith transition/ deconstruction or complex trauma from faith or family experiences. I also offer space to process things like anxiety, stress and relationships. I believe in the power of the therapist-client relationship and the importance of having a safe, supportive space that allows you to sort through your thoughts and feelings.
Scott Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75072 (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience, I considering myself a tough and compassionate therapist who will help you get to the truth. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism.
With over a decade of experience, I considering myself a tough and compassionate therapist who will help you get to the truth. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism.
Natalie takes great pride in continuing to develop her cultural awareness and also works closely with the LGBTQ+ community.
Natalie Cole has been a practicing Licensed Professional Counselor since 2002. Natalie takes great pride in her work and customizes therapy to best meet the needs of each client. Natalie has significant experience in working with adolescents through adults and couples. Natalie is a Texas Family Law Mediator and works with high conflict families, couples, and even parents and teens to help them navigate the difficulties that can arise through troubled relationships. Natalie has significant experience in working with issues such as depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, trauma, grief/loss, infertility, teen issues, and divorce.
Natalie takes great pride in continuing to develop her cultural awareness and also works closely with the LGBTQ+ community.
Natalie Cole has been a practicing Licensed Professional Counselor since 2002. Natalie takes great pride in her work and customizes therapy to best meet the needs of each client. Natalie has significant experience in working with adolescents through adults and couples. Natalie is a Texas Family Law Mediator and works with high conflict families, couples, and even parents and teens to help them navigate the difficulties that can arise through troubled relationships. Natalie has significant experience in working with issues such as depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, trauma, grief/loss, infertility, teen issues, and divorce.
Hi, I'm Melissa Galica, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 5 years of experience in the state of Texas. I typically work with young adults 18-26, mothers (prenatal, postpartum), the LGBTQIA+ community, and those suffering from religious trauma. As a counselor, the therapies I use often include CBT, DBT, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, and narrative therapy. I hold the strong belief that people are perfectly imperfect. They are beautiful and spectacular but can also become stuck, unable to live a fulfilling life. That’s where I come in.
Hi, I'm Melissa Galica, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 5 years of experience in the state of Texas. I typically work with young adults 18-26, mothers (prenatal, postpartum), the LGBTQIA+ community, and those suffering from religious trauma. As a counselor, the therapies I use often include CBT, DBT, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, and narrative therapy. I hold the strong belief that people are perfectly imperfect. They are beautiful and spectacular but can also become stuck, unable to live a fulfilling life. That’s where I come in.
I received my Masters from University of Texas at Arlington in 2012. I have extensive experience and training in medical social work, dual diagnosis, and depressive disorders. I work with clients on a diverse spectrum of topics: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life stages, attachment and codependency, alcoholism, substance abuse, individuals living with disabilities, LGBT, gender dysphoria, and caregivers of people suffering from mental illness.
I received my Masters from University of Texas at Arlington in 2012. I have extensive experience and training in medical social work, dual diagnosis, and depressive disorders. I work with clients on a diverse spectrum of topics: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life stages, attachment and codependency, alcoholism, substance abuse, individuals living with disabilities, LGBT, gender dysphoria, and caregivers of people suffering from mental illness.
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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.