LGBTQ Issues

Just like any other group, the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQ) community faces mental health issues and unique challenges. However, LGBTQ individuals are almost 3 times more likely than others to experience a mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety. Additionally, more than half of individuals who identify as transgender experience depression or anxiety. The LGBTQ community is also at a higher risk for suicide. Young people are even more at risk, as they may experience a lack of support at home and fear, hatred or prejudice in school. If you are a member of the LGBTQ community and are facing mental health challenges, you don’t have to suffer in silence. Reach out to one of TherapyDen’s LGBTQ experts and get help today.

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Meet the specialists

 

Working with LGBTQIA+ relationships, identities, transitions and queer explorations requires the ability to listen deeply, not only to the experiences and narratives of the clients in my office, but the experiences, struggles and stories of survival and thriving that are common to those who live beyond the margins of heteronormativity. I have been working with queer communities and issues since the 1980's. You will never have to educate me not will you have to hide who you are in my practice.

— Joseph Winn, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Concord, MA

As a progressive children's therapist practicing existential therapy, I affirm and address LGBTQ+ issues with sensitivity and inclusivity. I create a safe space for exploring gender and sexual identities, validating their experiences, and promoting self-acceptance. By addressing existential concerns specific to LGBTQ+ individuals, such as authenticity and belonging, we navigate the challenges they may face. Together, we explore their unique journey, empowering them to embrace their true selves.

— Melanie Bikis, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
 

How comfortable are you with yourself? Are you secure with who you are and the path you are traveling in life? Are you struggling with your sexuality and/or gender? LGBTQI Counseling can help you to overcome your fears, discomfort, and concerns you may be experiencing. We, as a society, have become remarkably evolved in the past 10 years. Many of us have personal and professional relationships with people who identify as gay, lesbian, binary, transgender, and so on.

— Cassie Konnoly, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Lacey, WA

My expertise with LGBTQ issues includes the following: I identify as a member of the LGBTQ+ community; and my year-long internship was with Seattle Counseling Service, the oldest LGBTQ-focused community mental health agency in the world. In addition to these experiences, the majority of my clients in my private practice have identified as LGBTQ+.

— Kelley O'Hanlon, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Redmond, WA
 

As a queer person in a straight-passing relationship, I recognize the privilege I bring to the therapy room. I work to continuously develop my knowledge base about both queer issues as well expansive relationships by engaging in continuing education, consultation, & clinical work. I see a large number of LGBTQ folx and and strive to use my privileges to fight against oppressive sociopolitical dynamics.

— Olivia Carollo, Clinical Psychologist in Chicago, IL

The LGBTQ+ community experiences both love and troubles that are unique. As someone a part of the community, I have seen firsthand many aspects of life that straight cisgender simply don't understand because they've never had to interact with living in the same way. My experiences and trainings have helped me build a practice that is open and inclusive to all people who identify somewhere on the LGBTQ+ spectrum and I specialize in sexuality and gender exploration.

— Lance Madow, Associate Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
 

I currently receive supervision and training from advanced clinicians who specialize in LGBTQ+ care. As a graduate intern, I received training and professional experience working at DC's major LGBTQ+ health center, Whitman Walker. In all, I work with clients struggling with identity formation, gender transition, internalized homophobia, and relationship issues.

— Mary Alice Reilly, Clinical Social Worker in Silver Spring, MD

When we are wrestling with core parts of our identity, like gender and sexual identity, it can feel impossible to connect with the world around us, much less connect with and center ourselves. I can help you explore what truly matters to you in both your relationships with others and your relationship with yourself. In our work together, we can help you more deeply value and trust yourself, as we give value and space to these parts of yourself that the culture around you has beaten down.

— Greg Kilpatrick, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
 

Aurora's clinicians participate in a monthly LGBTQ+ supervision designed to increase practical expertise and referrals of LGBTQ+ clients we are able to serve. A number of our clinicians identify as queer/LGBTQ+ and/or queer/LGBTQ+-friendly. We have a robust list of organizations, material and colleagues who offer LGBTQ+ resources that complement outpatient services we offer.

— Aurora Counseling Associates, Psychotherapist in Natick, MA

I provide stigma-free, affirming, high-quality individual therapy to those in the LGBTQ+ community. I am committed to helping you feel safe, valued, and deeply respected. Some feel confused about their sexual orientation or sexuality. Others simply want help from someone who understands the challenges, stigma, and discrimination they face. Whatever your reason is for seeking therapy, you'll be in good hands with a provider who can help you address your needs.

— Eric van der Voort, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
 

I identify as a queer non-binary person and member of the LGBTQ+ community. I have experience working with fellow community members on sense of identity, relational concerns, life transitions and everyday stressors.

— Linda Pozen, Therapist in St. Paul, MN

As a member of the LGBTQ community myself, I not only feel a professional but also a personal responsibility to support this often under-served community, to provide a space of safety and security to explore issues connected to sexual identity, and of course issues NOT related to sexual identity that can be made that much more challenging for people who are in sexual minority communities. Providing an empowered space for clients to explore content is a cornerstone in my work.

— Joey Salvatore, Counselor in Bethesda, MD
 

I have both lived experience as well as formal education on LGBTQ+ issues and concerns. During my undergraduate experience, I served as an LGBTQ+ Peer Educator, providing educational workshops and advocating for LGBTQ+ students on campus. In addition, I actively participated on multiple panels as well as Safe Zone trainings to continue my advocacy and education.

— Sam Diamond, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charleston, SC

Are you so stressed out by questions about your gender identity and gender expression?  Does the gender dysphoria hit you at your core leading to depression and anxiety? Are you fed up with correcting people when they mis-gender you or use your “dead name" because it really hurts. I help transgender folks during all stages of transitioning, from pre-transitioning to post surgery. Call today for a free 15-min consultation.

— Lisabeth Wotherspoon, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Rochester, NH
 

Have worked with many college-aged folks, but open to working with any age who is working through discovering their gender or sexual identity, while living in an invalidating world/family system.

— Christine Adams, Psychotherapist in Durham, NC

Experience working with teens, parents, and adults processing gender/sexuality/identity concerns, who are navigating personal, academic, and professional relationships, as well as hormone replacement therapy and gender affirmative care.

— Elsa Lau, Clinical Psychologist in New York City, NY
 

There is so much complexity in our sexuality. And, there is so much complexity in navigating a minority sexual identity in our modern world. I would like to give you the opportunity to be surrounded by acceptance and explore your identity. Whether you are questioning your identity or dealing with discrimination, I would like to help you work through the difficult parts and celebrate the joy.

— Madrid Mitton, Student Therapist in fort collins, CO

I am welcome those who identify as gender & sexual minorities, including those in the trans, queer, polyamorous/ENM, and kink/BDSM communities.

— Jasmine Gelber, Licensed Master of Social Work in New York, NY
 

I created a gender affirming health program at my last job, was a PrEP prescriber, and have lived experience as a gay woman. I've heard many, many, many stories and know what a diverse community we are! There is no one way to be any kind of person, and that includes LGBTQ.

— Jo Bauer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Tacoma, WA