LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Richmond, TX

Photo of Elisa Beagle, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elisa Beagle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77407  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with mood/personality disorders, life transitions, LGBTQ+ community, family/relationship conflict, and complex trauma/abuse, identity issues, and depression.
As a therapist and a therapy-goer, I first would like to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards improving your life! If you are seeking clarity, self-exploration and self-discovery, and/or looking to acquire coping skills to navigate all the things life incorporates in a safe, unbiased, non-judgmental and relatable space you have found it!
I specialize in working with mood/personality disorders, life transitions, LGBTQ+ community, family/relationship conflict, and complex trauma/abuse, identity issues, and depression.
As a therapist and a therapy-goer, I first would like to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards improving your life! If you are seeking clarity, self-exploration and self-discovery, and/or looking to acquire coping skills to navigate all the things life incorporates in a safe, unbiased, non-judgmental and relatable space you have found it!
(346) 209-0749 View (346) 209-0749
Photo of Amy R. Shore, MA, MEd, LPC, LMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy R. Shore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77469
My specialties include TEENS & TWEENS ( anxiety, identity, ADHD, depression, cutting), LIFE TRANSITIONS (birth, death, grief/loss, infertility, marriage, divorce, adulting), all aspects of ADOPTION (adoptees, adoptive parents, birth parents), and LGBTQ clients (coming out, family issues, gender fluidity, body dysmorphia, transgender & transitioning).
ONLINE SESSIONS available around your schedule. Anxiety, social anxiety, depression, stress, grief, loss, and self-esteem issues that manifest themselves in a variety of ways -- I am experienced and passionate about helping clients of all ages and stages in life deal with what is interrupting the rhythm of their lives. Life is not easy, and there are bumps in the road. Trauma needs to be processed - whether it happened yesterday or years ago - in order for you to move forward. Together we can tackle the tough stuff. Peace of mind is just around the corner!
My specialties include TEENS & TWEENS ( anxiety, identity, ADHD, depression, cutting), LIFE TRANSITIONS (birth, death, grief/loss, infertility, marriage, divorce, adulting), all aspects of ADOPTION (adoptees, adoptive parents, birth parents), and LGBTQ clients (coming out, family issues, gender fluidity, body dysmorphia, transgender & transitioning).
ONLINE SESSIONS available around your schedule. Anxiety, social anxiety, depression, stress, grief, loss, and self-esteem issues that manifest themselves in a variety of ways -- I am experienced and passionate about helping clients of all ages and stages in life deal with what is interrupting the rhythm of their lives. Life is not easy, and there are bumps in the road. Trauma needs to be processed - whether it happened yesterday or years ago - in order for you to move forward. Together we can tackle the tough stuff. Peace of mind is just around the corner!
(713) 936-5511 View (713) 936-5511
Photo of LaSharta Pearson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaSharta Pearson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77406
LaSharta Pearson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 6 years of experience in the mental health field. She has experience treating anxiety/panic disorders, depressive disorders, adjustment disorders (major life change, divorce), bipolar disorders, personality disorders, issues with parent/child relationships, substance use issues, LGBTQIA+-related needs, postpartum depression, psychosis, and schizophrenia. Over the course of her life, LaSharta has found multiple ways to serve her community and brings that experience to her mind-care work, including her time spent as a corrections officer and as a member of the US Air Force.
LaSharta Pearson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 6 years of experience in the mental health field. She has experience treating anxiety/panic disorders, depressive disorders, adjustment disorders (major life change, divorce), bipolar disorders, personality disorders, issues with parent/child relationships, substance use issues, LGBTQIA+-related needs, postpartum depression, psychosis, and schizophrenia. Over the course of her life, LaSharta has found multiple ways to serve her community and brings that experience to her mind-care work, including her time spent as a corrections officer and as a member of the US Air Force.
(346) 482-3320 View (346) 482-3320
Photo of Jennifer J. Ponce de Leon, MA, LPC-A
Jennifer J. Ponce de Leon
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here! Taking the first step of finding a therapist can be tough and overwhelming. I'm hoping to make your journey a little easier so i'd like to share a bit about the work I do. I enjoy working with individuals aged 6-40 on a variety of concerns. Some of those concerns include anxiety, depression, high functioning ASD, LGBTQIA+ issues, disordered eating, and OCD. If you’re looking for a compassionate therapist who is eager to help you find solutions, reach out and see how I can help!
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here! Taking the first step of finding a therapist can be tough and overwhelming. I'm hoping to make your journey a little easier so i'd like to share a bit about the work I do. I enjoy working with individuals aged 6-40 on a variety of concerns. Some of those concerns include anxiety, depression, high functioning ASD, LGBTQIA+ issues, disordered eating, and OCD. If you’re looking for a compassionate therapist who is eager to help you find solutions, reach out and see how I can help!
(346) 536-5236 View (346) 536-5236
Photo of Maria Cardenas Cardona, MS, LPC-A, LPC Intern
Maria Cardenas Cardona
LPC Intern, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406
I'm a LPC Associate who is passionate about providing counseling that is inclusive, diverse, and accessible. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with concerns regarding anxiety, depression, domestic abuse, educational and learning disabilities, OCD, self-esteem, self-harm, and stress. I'm also bilingual and specialize in working with immigrants and the LGBTQIA+ population. I understand therapy can be intimidating, which is why I strive to be gender affirming, sexuality affirming, anti-racist, and culturally mindful in determining an effective therapeutic approach.
I'm a LPC Associate who is passionate about providing counseling that is inclusive, diverse, and accessible. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with concerns regarding anxiety, depression, domestic abuse, educational and learning disabilities, OCD, self-esteem, self-harm, and stress. I'm also bilingual and specialize in working with immigrants and the LGBTQIA+ population. I understand therapy can be intimidating, which is why I strive to be gender affirming, sexuality affirming, anti-racist, and culturally mindful in determining an effective therapeutic approach.
(832) 720-6785 View (832) 720-6785
Photo of Tamsin E Jimenez, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tamsin E Jimenez
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406
Humor has long been considered an essential element of healing. I place great value on the coupling of feelings. The deep coexisting alongside the light. Our stories are equally diverse and important, but the therapeutic relationship doesn't have to feel frigid. On the contrary, warmth signals affirmation and perhaps a kind of acceptance we have reasoned to be unattainable. I consider building rapport to be the first step in laying the foundation of our safe space. Every single person, regardless of background, beliefs, persuasions, affiliations, or afflictions, deserves to feel validated and worthy. You are not alone.
Humor has long been considered an essential element of healing. I place great value on the coupling of feelings. The deep coexisting alongside the light. Our stories are equally diverse and important, but the therapeutic relationship doesn't have to feel frigid. On the contrary, warmth signals affirmation and perhaps a kind of acceptance we have reasoned to be unattainable. I consider building rapport to be the first step in laying the foundation of our safe space. Every single person, regardless of background, beliefs, persuasions, affiliations, or afflictions, deserves to feel validated and worthy. You are not alone.
(832) 342-9470 View (832) 342-9470
Photo of Ioana Avery, LMFT-A, CST-C, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ioana Avery
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A, CST-C, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406
You have this intense void inside of you and nothing can fulfil it. Your better half that was once a match made in heaven became your worst enemy. You feel like you are stuck in a Groundhog Day where somebody else has pressed repeat: shuffling kids from an activity to another, endless nights spent on job demands, exhausted has become your middle name. You have been trying so hard to cope: God knows how many self help books, meditation practices, yoga classes, self-medicating with alcohol, adult sites you have been trying! Yet nothing seems to work and you find yourself feeling stuck.
You have this intense void inside of you and nothing can fulfil it. Your better half that was once a match made in heaven became your worst enemy. You feel like you are stuck in a Groundhog Day where somebody else has pressed repeat: shuffling kids from an activity to another, endless nights spent on job demands, exhausted has become your middle name. You have been trying so hard to cope: God knows how many self help books, meditation practices, yoga classes, self-medicating with alcohol, adult sites you have been trying! Yet nothing seems to work and you find yourself feeling stuck.
(281) 214-8574 View (281) 214-8574
Photo of Jennifer Malave Supervised By Lisa Salazar Dmft#20179, LPC-A, MA, CSC, NCC, LPC Intern
Jennifer Malave Supervised By Lisa Salazar Dmft#20179
LPC Intern, LPC-A, MA, CSC, NCC
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77406  (Online Only)
Utilizing a client-centered approach, I work with clients as individuals, couples, or groups, whose experiences include, but are not limited to, Anxiety, Stress and Anger Management, Work-Life Balance, Time Management and Organization, Life Transition and Assimilation, Depression and Grief, Infertility, and Perinatal/Postnatal Trauma or Loss.
Brene Brown once said, "The truth is that falling hurts. The dare is to keep being brave and feel your way back up." Sometimes, this can be a daunting realization, but you don't have to do it alone! My own experiences with grief, loss, infertility, anxiety and other life changes have shown me a level of familiarity and connection that cannot be taught, allowing me to connect with others in need of support. I received my Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2022, am an LPC-Associate, supervised by Lisa Salazar, DMFT, LPC-S and it would be an honor to walk alongside in your journey to peace and healing!
Utilizing a client-centered approach, I work with clients as individuals, couples, or groups, whose experiences include, but are not limited to, Anxiety, Stress and Anger Management, Work-Life Balance, Time Management and Organization, Life Transition and Assimilation, Depression and Grief, Infertility, and Perinatal/Postnatal Trauma or Loss.
Brene Brown once said, "The truth is that falling hurts. The dare is to keep being brave and feel your way back up." Sometimes, this can be a daunting realization, but you don't have to do it alone! My own experiences with grief, loss, infertility, anxiety and other life changes have shown me a level of familiarity and connection that cannot be taught, allowing me to connect with others in need of support. I received my Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2022, am an LPC-Associate, supervised by Lisa Salazar, DMFT, LPC-S and it would be an honor to walk alongside in your journey to peace and healing!
(346) 613-0003 View (346) 613-0003
Photo of Desiree St Pierre, MS, LPC-A, NCC
Desiree St Pierre
LPC Associate, MS, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77406
There is hope – and I am so glad you are now taking the first step toward feeling better. In the golden years of my life, I know the struggles life can bring and am passionate about helping others work through and heal from life’s challenges. I care about how you feel and what life has handed you. I would love to help support you in creating a roadmap to the life you deserve - a happier, brighter, healthier, balanced, calm, and whole life.
There is hope – and I am so glad you are now taking the first step toward feeling better. In the golden years of my life, I know the struggles life can bring and am passionate about helping others work through and heal from life’s challenges. I care about how you feel and what life has handed you. I would love to help support you in creating a roadmap to the life you deserve - a happier, brighter, healthier, balanced, calm, and whole life.
(346) 746-7970 View (346) 746-7970
Photo of Keriomi Timpson-Bey - RiseTherapy.org, LCSW, PhD, CART, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
RiseTherapy.org
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD, CART
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77406  (Online Only)
Seeking help during challenging times takes courage and strength; your commitment to taking the first step in your counseling journey is all you need at this moment. Therapy doesn't indicate a sign of failure or weakness; instead, it represents a healthy way to cope with life’s stressors, difficulties, and disruptions. My goal is to help you develop a deeper understanding and awareness of yourself, achieve symptom relief, and address your problems at the root to make meaningful and lasting change. I promise to listen with compassion, empathy, sensitivity, and always support your highest potential.
Seeking help during challenging times takes courage and strength; your commitment to taking the first step in your counseling journey is all you need at this moment. Therapy doesn't indicate a sign of failure or weakness; instead, it represents a healthy way to cope with life’s stressors, difficulties, and disruptions. My goal is to help you develop a deeper understanding and awareness of yourself, achieve symptom relief, and address your problems at the root to make meaningful and lasting change. I promise to listen with compassion, empathy, sensitivity, and always support your highest potential.
(832) 500-8140 View (832) 500-8140
Photo of Cassie Grochett, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cassie Grochett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77406
My scope of practice includes a wide range of issues such as interpersonal trauma, complex trauma, cultural/identity based trauma, gender confirmation, substance addiction, process addictions, intimate partner violence, grief, divorce, sexual violence, depression, anxiety, emotion regulation, co-occurring disorders, dual diagnosis, self-harm behaviors, and relationship concerns.
My scope of practice includes a wide range of issues such as interpersonal trauma, complex trauma, cultural/identity based trauma, gender confirmation, substance addiction, process addictions, intimate partner violence, grief, divorce, sexual violence, depression, anxiety, emotion regulation, co-occurring disorders, dual diagnosis, self-harm behaviors, and relationship concerns.
(281) 374-1734 View (281) 374-1734
Photo of Anum Ali, MS, LPC, NCC
Anum Ali
MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77469  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I’m Anum, a licensed therapist providing support to individuals in Texas and Florida. Imagine therapy as a personalized compass, guiding you through the landscapes of your inner world from the comfort of your own space. I’m here to help you navigate your unique path to healing and growth, no matter where you are on your journey.
Hello and welcome! I’m Anum, a licensed therapist providing support to individuals in Texas and Florida. Imagine therapy as a personalized compass, guiding you through the landscapes of your inner world from the comfort of your own space. I’m here to help you navigate your unique path to healing and growth, no matter where you are on your journey.
(281) 957-2830 View (281) 957-2830
Photo of Ariana Detert, MSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ariana Detert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77406  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor with over 19 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked in several areas which include schools, court systems, home health, outpatient mental health centers, and oncology. I have spent my career working in a wide range of areas that include but are not limited to relationships, parent/child dynamics, family conflicts, adolescence, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, caregivers, chronic illness, and health issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor with over 19 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked in several areas which include schools, court systems, home health, outpatient mental health centers, and oncology. I have spent my career working in a wide range of areas that include but are not limited to relationships, parent/child dynamics, family conflicts, adolescence, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, caregivers, chronic illness, and health issues.
(281) 916-1716 View (281) 916-1716
Photo of Dr. Brandon Sylvester, PsyD, LCDC-I, Psychologist
Dr. Brandon Sylvester
Psychologist, PsyD, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77407
Some of life's challenges require help. It takes courage, wisdom, and strength to recognize and act on that knowledge. My name is Dr. Brandon Sylvester and my experience focuses on helping adolescents and adults overcome emotional and behavioral difficulties. I believe that when we know better, we do better; so I focus on bringing awareness to unhealthy patterns. I work in close collaboration with you to design a plan for treatment and work side by side with you as we implement each step of the plan.
Some of life's challenges require help. It takes courage, wisdom, and strength to recognize and act on that knowledge. My name is Dr. Brandon Sylvester and my experience focuses on helping adolescents and adults overcome emotional and behavioral difficulties. I believe that when we know better, we do better; so I focus on bringing awareness to unhealthy patterns. I work in close collaboration with you to design a plan for treatment and work side by side with you as we implement each step of the plan.
(281) 738-2091 View (281) 738-2091
Photo of Imani Vital, LPC-A, Pre-Licensed Professional
Imani Vital
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77469
Hello! I am Imani Vital, a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate with a special focus on children and adolescents. I utilize play therapy, person-centered, CBT, DBT, and solution focused to create a safe and engaging environment for children to express themselves and work through their presenting challenges. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, collaborative, and effective therapy to all clients to help them navigate life’s challenges and achieve their fullest potential.
Hello! I am Imani Vital, a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate with a special focus on children and adolescents. I utilize play therapy, person-centered, CBT, DBT, and solution focused to create a safe and engaging environment for children to express themselves and work through their presenting challenges. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, collaborative, and effective therapy to all clients to help them navigate life’s challenges and achieve their fullest potential.
(346) 460-4271 View (346) 460-4271
Photo of Sanya Ali, MEd, LPC-A
Sanya Ali
LPC-Associate, MEd, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77407  (Online Only)
There are many experiences and moments in our lives that leave us helpless and in a state of distress. Are you experiencing a loss of a loved one? A stressful change in life or work? A strain or conflict in your marriage? A hard time stepping away from alcohol or substances? I am here to listen and help.
There are many experiences and moments in our lives that leave us helpless and in a state of distress. Are you experiencing a loss of a loved one? A stressful change in life or work? A strain or conflict in your marriage? A hard time stepping away from alcohol or substances? I am here to listen and help.
(979) 459-9036 View (979) 459-9036
Photo of Tammie Betts, LPC, LCDCI, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammie Betts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77407
My name is Tammie Betts and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of Healthy Reflections Counseling Services PLLC. If you are struggling to break through the barriers that prevent you from being your best self; I can help you. I have helped individuals navigate a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, family and relationship conflict, substance use and physical and emotional trauma.
My name is Tammie Betts and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of Healthy Reflections Counseling Services PLLC. If you are struggling to break through the barriers that prevent you from being your best self; I can help you. I have helped individuals navigate a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, family and relationship conflict, substance use and physical and emotional trauma.
(832) 479-3129 View (832) 479-3129
Photo of Danielle D Young - Renewed Mind Counseling & Wellness, PLLC, MA, LPC, NCC, LCDC-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renewed Mind Counseling & Wellness, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77469
Being understood, being heard and validation of our experiences and feelings is something that we all strive for. I am a passionate mental health counseling professional who offers compassionate and authentic psycho-therapeutic services in a safe, nurturing and collaborative environment. It is my belief that all individuals have the capability to bring about positive change in their lives. My goal is to guide you through appropriate processes and techniques to help you gain the clarity and emotional balance needed to uncover your ideal catalyst for change. I offer individual, couples, family and group therapy.
Being understood, being heard and validation of our experiences and feelings is something that we all strive for. I am a passionate mental health counseling professional who offers compassionate and authentic psycho-therapeutic services in a safe, nurturing and collaborative environment. It is my belief that all individuals have the capability to bring about positive change in their lives. My goal is to guide you through appropriate processes and techniques to help you gain the clarity and emotional balance needed to uncover your ideal catalyst for change. I offer individual, couples, family and group therapy.
(832) 219-6287 View (832) 219-6287
Photo of Meka Dorough, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meka Dorough
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, TX 77406
Life tends to create challenges that may seem impossible to overcome. However, given the proper tools, we all have the ability to restructure our lives. My goal is to provide a collaborative approach to find a healthy balance in your life. In an environment free from judgment, I will provide a safe space where you can explore and address problems and concerns in your life.
Life tends to create challenges that may seem impossible to overcome. However, given the proper tools, we all have the ability to restructure our lives. My goal is to provide a collaborative approach to find a healthy balance in your life. In an environment free from judgment, I will provide a safe space where you can explore and address problems and concerns in your life.
(832) 219-7347 View (832) 219-7347
Photo of Dawn Balkcom, MEd
Dawn Balkcom
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, TX 77469  (Online Only)
My name is Dawn, and I graduated from Lamar University in 2024. I have been happily married for 21 years and am the proud mother of four wonderful children. During my internship, I had the opportunity to work with individuals and couples navigating various life challenges. Accompanying clients on their mental health journeys has provided me with immense fulfillment and joy. In my free time, I enjoy gardening and reading.
My name is Dawn, and I graduated from Lamar University in 2024. I have been happily married for 21 years and am the proud mother of four wonderful children. During my internship, I had the opportunity to work with individuals and couples navigating various life challenges. Accompanying clients on their mental health journeys has provided me with immense fulfillment and joy. In my free time, I enjoy gardening and reading.
(979) 730-3713 View (979) 730-3713
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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.