LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Holladay, UT

Photo of Riley Jay Barrington, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Riley Jay Barrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117
I also work largely with the LGBTQ+ population, primarily with men experiencing sexual shame, spiritual conflicts, concerns, anxiety, depression, insecurities, and relationship issues.
I offer an empathic, client-directed approach and love helping clients build better versions of themselves. I meet clients where they are and provide a space where they can explore their unique life experiences and find their path forward. I have worked in the mental health field for 8+ years, beginning with getting a Bachelor’s degree in psychology from BYU.
I also work largely with the LGBTQ+ population, primarily with men experiencing sexual shame, spiritual conflicts, concerns, anxiety, depression, insecurities, and relationship issues.
I offer an empathic, client-directed approach and love helping clients build better versions of themselves. I meet clients where they are and provide a space where they can explore their unique life experiences and find their path forward. I have worked in the mental health field for 8+ years, beginning with getting a Bachelor’s degree in psychology from BYU.
(208) 391-7804 View (208) 391-7804
Photo of Bruno Leonardo Santos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bruno Leonardo Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84124  (Online Only)
I have a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of life, including mental health issues, life and faith transitions, and complex interpersonal dynamics. I am focused on improving relationships for individuals and couples and fostering a healthy exploration of sexual health and well-being. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I also offer a compassionate and understanding hand to those wrestling with identity confusion, helping them move toward a path of acceptance and pride.
I have a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of life, including mental health issues, life and faith transitions, and complex interpersonal dynamics. I am focused on improving relationships for individuals and couples and fostering a healthy exploration of sexual health and well-being. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I also offer a compassionate and understanding hand to those wrestling with identity confusion, helping them move toward a path of acceptance and pride.
(385) 526-5056 View (385) 526-5056
Photo of Stevan Lopes, ACMHC, Counselor
Stevan Lopes
Counselor, ACMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holladay, UT 84124
As a Queer, BIPOC, Utah native with an LDS background, I understand the unique and diverse aspects of our culture. It comes with its own set of challenges, whether related to religion, racial identity, sexuality, emotional expression and vulnerability, or the sense of isolation that can sometimes accompany being part of this community. If you find yourself overwhelmed by emotions, struggling to connect with others, feeling stressed, or just barely hanging on, I am here to help.
As a Queer, BIPOC, Utah native with an LDS background, I understand the unique and diverse aspects of our culture. It comes with its own set of challenges, whether related to religion, racial identity, sexuality, emotional expression and vulnerability, or the sense of isolation that can sometimes accompany being part of this community. If you find yourself overwhelmed by emotions, struggling to connect with others, feeling stressed, or just barely hanging on, I am here to help.
(385) 380-3696 View (385) 380-3696
Photo of Elana Olson - Green Willow Counseling , LCSW, LMFT, CSW, MSW, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Green Willow Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, CSW, MSW, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holladay, UT 84117
At Green Willow we specialize in working with teens and adults who are struggling with childhood trauma and abuse, PTSD, relationships, women's specific concerns, depression, anxiety, stress, LGBTQ, and life adjustment concerns. We work with adolescents and adults who are struggling with mood disorders, family dynamics, coping skills, and emotional dysregulation. We provide a peaceful and supportive environment to explore past traumas, discuss current concerns, and plan for a more fulfilling future. We believe that each of us has the capacity for healing and growth, and that within us we contain the answers for a more joyful life.
At Green Willow we specialize in working with teens and adults who are struggling with childhood trauma and abuse, PTSD, relationships, women's specific concerns, depression, anxiety, stress, LGBTQ, and life adjustment concerns. We work with adolescents and adults who are struggling with mood disorders, family dynamics, coping skills, and emotional dysregulation. We provide a peaceful and supportive environment to explore past traumas, discuss current concerns, and plan for a more fulfilling future. We believe that each of us has the capacity for healing and growth, and that within us we contain the answers for a more joyful life.
(385) 376-1848 View (385) 376-1848
Photo of Lara LaBar, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lara LaBar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84124
As a queer ex-LDS woman, I recognize that it can be challenging in Utah to find a therapist who feels "safe enough" to open up to in therapy.
What values would you like to be moving towards in your life? What are you hoping to move away from? I love supporting humans who are attempting to answer these questions. I specialize in supporting folks who are exploring sexual concerns (I am kink and ENM competent and affirming), individuals and couples exploring non-traditional relationships, queer & gender-diverse folks, and people who are navigating major life transitions like faith crises and divorce.
As a queer ex-LDS woman, I recognize that it can be challenging in Utah to find a therapist who feels "safe enough" to open up to in therapy.
What values would you like to be moving towards in your life? What are you hoping to move away from? I love supporting humans who are attempting to answer these questions. I specialize in supporting folks who are exploring sexual concerns (I am kink and ENM competent and affirming), individuals and couples exploring non-traditional relationships, queer & gender-diverse folks, and people who are navigating major life transitions like faith crises and divorce.
(801) 903-2751 View (801) 903-2751
Photo of Donald Kirk Best, CMHC, Counselor
Donald Kirk Best
Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holladay, UT 84121
Available everywhere in Utah through video conferencing. Many people struggle with feeling different, strange, or like others do not relate to them well. Many people feel like they have to hide who they are and have no place to be themselves. Many new clients worry about being pushed to confront truths and emotions before they are ready. I seek to first get clients ready to change then support them as they lead the way. This goes for the person with depression who needs to reshape their relationships; the person with PTSD facing their painful past; and the gay person grappling with the consequences of coming out or not.
Available everywhere in Utah through video conferencing. Many people struggle with feeling different, strange, or like others do not relate to them well. Many people feel like they have to hide who they are and have no place to be themselves. Many new clients worry about being pushed to confront truths and emotions before they are ready. I seek to first get clients ready to change then support them as they lead the way. This goes for the person with depression who needs to reshape their relationships; the person with PTSD facing their painful past; and the gay person grappling with the consequences of coming out or not.
(435) 236-3488 View (435) 236-3488
Photo of Steiner May, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steiner May
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117
I specialize in working with mood disorders and empowering adolescents and young adults to navigate life's challenges with resilience and self-awareness. I have experience working with adolescents, young adults, adults, neurodivergence, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
I specialize in working with mood disorders and empowering adolescents and young adults to navigate life's challenges with resilience and self-awareness. I have experience working with adolescents, young adults, adults, neurodivergence, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
(801) 876-1320 View (801) 876-1320
Photo of Mary Martineau, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Martineau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117
LGBTQ+ Ally.
The grief we experience can overwhelm us. Grief at times can be seen only as the loss of someone. I believe in a holistic approach that grief can be the loss of a job, the life that we thought we would have, divorce, ending of a friendship or relationship and much more. Our grief is also complicated when we experience symptoms of trauma. I offer evidence-based treatments using body/mind techniques that are designed to assist your natural body processes to achieve growth and healing. We will work together to move through the life journey with a trauma informed lens that takes in account the past, present, and future.
LGBTQ+ Ally.
The grief we experience can overwhelm us. Grief at times can be seen only as the loss of someone. I believe in a holistic approach that grief can be the loss of a job, the life that we thought we would have, divorce, ending of a friendship or relationship and much more. Our grief is also complicated when we experience symptoms of trauma. I offer evidence-based treatments using body/mind techniques that are designed to assist your natural body processes to achieve growth and healing. We will work together to move through the life journey with a trauma informed lens that takes in account the past, present, and future.
(801) 803-5285 View (801) 803-5285
Photo of Xander Gordon, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Xander Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117
Are you taking care of your mental health?! Self-care is a buzz word especially since a global pandemic shocked us all out of complacency and feelings of safety. I believe mental health is a daily practice like diet, fitness, sleep and mindfulness that we all need regularly. An experienced guide and wellness partner can make all the difference! I have years of practice working with a very diverse population. As a gay man living in Utah I understand the challenges experienced by ‘unseen’ individuals and I have experience working with a varied group of individuals. Certified in Mind Body Medicine and EMDR. Trauma proficient.
Are you taking care of your mental health?! Self-care is a buzz word especially since a global pandemic shocked us all out of complacency and feelings of safety. I believe mental health is a daily practice like diet, fitness, sleep and mindfulness that we all need regularly. An experienced guide and wellness partner can make all the difference! I have years of practice working with a very diverse population. As a gay man living in Utah I understand the challenges experienced by ‘unseen’ individuals and I have experience working with a varied group of individuals. Certified in Mind Body Medicine and EMDR. Trauma proficient.
(385) 485-5983 View (385) 485-5983
Photo of Mary Waters, ACMHC , Counselor
Mary Waters
Counselor, ACMHC
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117
This includes women, racial and religious minorities, cultural minorities, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
I have worked with clients in processing trauma, grief, and inter-relationship issues, such as emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, codependency, marriage/partner concerns, separation/divorce, parenting, sexual concerns, self-esteem, perfectionism, identity questions, and life transitions. I specialize in faith concerns, including religious trauma, faith crisis/transition, and shifts in faith or religious affiliation. I look forward to working with people on their faith journey, whether they wish to remain in their current faith or transition into a post-faith identity.
This includes women, racial and religious minorities, cultural minorities, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
I have worked with clients in processing trauma, grief, and inter-relationship issues, such as emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, codependency, marriage/partner concerns, separation/divorce, parenting, sexual concerns, self-esteem, perfectionism, identity questions, and life transitions. I specialize in faith concerns, including religious trauma, faith crisis/transition, and shifts in faith or religious affiliation. I look forward to working with people on their faith journey, whether they wish to remain in their current faith or transition into a post-faith identity.
(208) 391-7804 View (208) 391-7804
Photo of Van C Evans - Van C. Evans, PhD Clinical Psychotherapy, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Van C. Evans, PhD Clinical Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117
This includes resolving conflicts between spirituality & sexuality, being gay in an LDS community, disclosing infidelity, sex and porn addiction, and discretion in therapy.
Over the years, I have developed my gift of diagnosis which helps me to understand my patients in an accurate and easy to understand manner for them. Then we grieve together the past and implement interventions and boundaries for a healthy future. Psychotherapy is proven to be more enduring than drug therapy, and my approach towards treating my patients is to avoid medication where possible.
This includes resolving conflicts between spirituality & sexuality, being gay in an LDS community, disclosing infidelity, sex and porn addiction, and discretion in therapy.
Over the years, I have developed my gift of diagnosis which helps me to understand my patients in an accurate and easy to understand manner for them. Then we grieve together the past and implement interventions and boundaries for a healthy future. Psychotherapy is proven to be more enduring than drug therapy, and my approach towards treating my patients is to avoid medication where possible.
(801) 876-1896 View (801) 876-1896
Photo of Shannon Hickman, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Hickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holladay, UT 84117  (Online Only)
Other common presenting concerns are: BDSM, open relationships, transgender care, cross-dressing, intersex conditions.
Sex and intimacy are at the core of human experience. When things are going well, sex may feel easy and natural but when challenges arise it may feel strained and may become a source of pain and frustration. As a trained sex therapist I am able to help with a variety of sexual concerns such as: abuse, affairs, communication problems, couples counseling, delayed ejaculation, desire, erectile difficulties, fetishes, gender identity/gender care, gay/lesbian issues, infidelity, libido, no sex/low sex relationships, orgasm difficulties, painful intercourse, pelvic pain, premature ejaculation, religious values conflicts, sex addiction/out of control sexual behavior.
Other common presenting concerns are: BDSM, open relationships, transgender care, cross-dressing, intersex conditions.
Sex and intimacy are at the core of human experience. When things are going well, sex may feel easy and natural but when challenges arise it may feel strained and may become a source of pain and frustration. As a trained sex therapist I am able to help with a variety of sexual concerns such as: abuse, affairs, communication problems, couples counseling, delayed ejaculation, desire, erectile difficulties, fetishes, gender identity/gender care, gay/lesbian issues, infidelity, libido, no sex/low sex relationships, orgasm difficulties, painful intercourse, pelvic pain, premature ejaculation, religious values conflicts, sex addiction/out of control sexual behavior.
(801) 441-3626 View (801) 441-3626
Photo of Julie Warr Green, LCSW, MSW, ASUDC, CYP-500, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Warr Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, ASUDC, CYP-500
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Holladay, UT 84121
Waitlist for new clients
My role as a therapist is to create a space where you feel empowered to explore your thoughts and emotions, as well as find healing solutions to issues you may be facing. These issues may be depression, anxiety, a life change, or past trauma that you may now find yourself courageous enough to face. I have experience working with adults who live with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, maternal mental health, addiction, first responders, faith transitions, and gender transitions. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and sex positive.
My role as a therapist is to create a space where you feel empowered to explore your thoughts and emotions, as well as find healing solutions to issues you may be facing. These issues may be depression, anxiety, a life change, or past trauma that you may now find yourself courageous enough to face. I have experience working with adults who live with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, maternal mental health, addiction, first responders, faith transitions, and gender transitions. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and sex positive.
(385) 832-7955 View (385) 832-7955
Photo of Becky Bowles, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Becky Bowles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in providing support for individuals dealing with complex trauma (CPTSD), LGBTQ+ issues, relationship challenges, recovery from narcissistic relationships, emotional abuse, and gaslighting.
Living through challenging times can amplify stress and emotional struggles, making it crucial to prioritize self-care and seek support. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I am here to help you navigate through difficult emotions and relationships, empowering you to heal and thrive.
I specialize in providing support for individuals dealing with complex trauma (CPTSD), LGBTQ+ issues, relationship challenges, recovery from narcissistic relationships, emotional abuse, and gaslighting.
Living through challenging times can amplify stress and emotional struggles, making it crucial to prioritize self-care and seek support. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I am here to help you navigate through difficult emotions and relationships, empowering you to heal and thrive.
(385) 355-7494 View (385) 355-7494
Photo of Darby Mest, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darby Mest
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117
I am passionate about creating inclusive spaces and helping people on their path toward mental wellness. I enjoy working with a diverse population, including folks who identify as BIPOC and LGBTQIA2+. I use a feminist multicultural lens and believe it is imperative to recognize systems of oppression when working with clients. I work with various people and challenges, including emotional regulation, sexuality, relationships (including non-monogamy), life transitions, faith conflicts, and more. I am also a meditation and mindfulness teacher and often incorporate that into sessions. I am also offering Ketamine Assisted Services.
I am passionate about creating inclusive spaces and helping people on their path toward mental wellness. I enjoy working with a diverse population, including folks who identify as BIPOC and LGBTQIA2+. I use a feminist multicultural lens and believe it is imperative to recognize systems of oppression when working with clients. I work with various people and challenges, including emotional regulation, sexuality, relationships (including non-monogamy), life transitions, faith conflicts, and more. I am also a meditation and mindfulness teacher and often incorporate that into sessions. I am also offering Ketamine Assisted Services.
(208) 391-7804 View (208) 391-7804
Photo of Jennifer Millar Bevan, LCMHC, NCC, CTS, Counselor
Jennifer Millar Bevan
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, CTS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Holladay, UT 84117
I specialize in working with individuals living with challenges related to trauma, grief, separation and loss, as well as sensitive sexual and relational issues. I use a great deal of sensory-integration and brain-based approaches providing a non-threatening, safe, and inviting relationship with which to share some pretty "scary" stuff. I help individuals improve their relationships with themselves and others, while feeling safer, feeling better about themselves, and feeling empowered in their own voice and actions.
I specialize in working with individuals living with challenges related to trauma, grief, separation and loss, as well as sensitive sexual and relational issues. I use a great deal of sensory-integration and brain-based approaches providing a non-threatening, safe, and inviting relationship with which to share some pretty "scary" stuff. I help individuals improve their relationships with themselves and others, while feeling safer, feeling better about themselves, and feeling empowered in their own voice and actions.
(801) 416-3690 View (801) 416-3690
Photo of Cindy Powell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cindy Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117
Do current events have you frazzled? Ever felt like you were in a relationship with someone who wasn't available? Or are you trying to rediscover yourself after divorce, having a child go off to college, or death of a loved one? I help people with all kinds of situations. Whether you are experiencing problems in a relationship, grief or bereavement, depression, anxiety, or a spiritual crisis, there is hope. I am trained in EMDR, CBT, ACT, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, psychodynamic theory, and routinely learn from experts in the field. Perhaps most important though, is that I listen.
Do current events have you frazzled? Ever felt like you were in a relationship with someone who wasn't available? Or are you trying to rediscover yourself after divorce, having a child go off to college, or death of a loved one? I help people with all kinds of situations. Whether you are experiencing problems in a relationship, grief or bereavement, depression, anxiety, or a spiritual crisis, there is hope. I am trained in EMDR, CBT, ACT, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, psychodynamic theory, and routinely learn from experts in the field. Perhaps most important though, is that I listen.
(385) 257-9399 View (385) 257-9399
Photo of Ken Roach, EdD, LCMHC, Counselor
Ken Roach
Counselor, EdD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holladay, UT 84117
Have you ever wondered, "If people knew who I really am, would they still love me?" These and other (painful) questions and doubts can be the beginning of amazing journeys of self-discovery. Deep inner work can be both difficult and rewarding. I do my best to bring to therapy an attitude of deep respect for my clients and the challenges that life brings. I believe I can help make the journeys of self-discovery more rewarding and a bit less rocky -- whether the time we work together be brief or more lengthy.
Have you ever wondered, "If people knew who I really am, would they still love me?" These and other (painful) questions and doubts can be the beginning of amazing journeys of self-discovery. Deep inner work can be both difficult and rewarding. I do my best to bring to therapy an attitude of deep respect for my clients and the challenges that life brings. I believe I can help make the journeys of self-discovery more rewarding and a bit less rocky -- whether the time we work together be brief or more lengthy.
(801) 919-8608 View (801) 919-8608
Photo of Katherine Linscott, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Katherine Linscott
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84124  (Online Only)
Experiencing trauma and grief can make us feel inherently flawed, as if we’ve failed or that life is too overwhelming. It often disrupts our relationships, increases parenting stress, diminishes interest in hobbies, and alters our connections with food, money, and time. The impact is profound and pervasive. It’s important to me that therapy should not be a one-sided conversation where the therapist seems to have it all together, leaving you feeling inadequate. I frequently tell my clients that I can be an expert of research, theories, where to go, the treatment plan, etc. but that they will always be the expert in their lives.
Experiencing trauma and grief can make us feel inherently flawed, as if we’ve failed or that life is too overwhelming. It often disrupts our relationships, increases parenting stress, diminishes interest in hobbies, and alters our connections with food, money, and time. The impact is profound and pervasive. It’s important to me that therapy should not be a one-sided conversation where the therapist seems to have it all together, leaving you feeling inadequate. I frequently tell my clients that I can be an expert of research, theories, where to go, the treatment plan, etc. but that they will always be the expert in their lives.
(385) 786-0331 View (385) 786-0331
Photo of Leann Casto - Casto Counseling & Psychotherapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Casto Counseling & Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117
Waitlist for new clients
I believe people are understandable and once we reach understanding, solutions seem evident. If you have sought help before and just didn't feel you got to the bottom of the problems or if you are new to therapy and really want deeper solutions I can help you. Psychotherapy is the science and art of clinical work. We will collaborate: you being the authority of your life, and me the authority of psychology and human emotion.
I believe people are understandable and once we reach understanding, solutions seem evident. If you have sought help before and just didn't feel you got to the bottom of the problems or if you are new to therapy and really want deeper solutions I can help you. Psychotherapy is the science and art of clinical work. We will collaborate: you being the authority of your life, and me the authority of psychology and human emotion.
(385) 722-5342 View (385) 722-5342
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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.