Strother Gaines (He/Him/His)

LGSW
Accepting Clients

I'm a Queer narrative & relational therapist supporting folks through anxiety/depression, identity exploration, and complex relationships.

Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Supervised by Bradley Lake - LCSW

About My Clients

My clients are often deep thinkers, creatives, or sensitive souls navigating anxiety, identity, and complex relationships. Therapy can be a space to untangle the noise, reconnect with yourself, and begin to write a different story. I work especially well with Queer folks, people exploring ENM or kink communities, and anyone feeling stuck between who they are and who they want to be.

My Background and Approach

I’m not a blank-slate therapist. I show up with curiosity, honesty, and the occasional well-timed pop culture reference. My path here hasn’t been traditional: I've been an artistic director, a massage therapist, a teacher, a coach, and a Segway tour guide. (For Segs in the City no less...) That nonlinear path means I work especially well with people who don’t feel like they fit the mold. Whether that’s around identity, relationships, career, or what “success” is supposed to look like. I’m collaborative, direct, and not afraid of complexity. Whether you’re grappling with anxiety, burnout, identity shifts, or relational dynamics, I offer a space where all parts of you are welcome—even the ones you’re not quite sure about yet.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

I’m a Queer therapist who believes deeply in the magic of weirdos, outsiders, and anyone who’s ever been told they’re “too much.” My practice is rooted in values of liberation, authenticity, and joy—not just as personal goals, but as forms of resistance and healing. I’m proudly sex-positive, kink-aware, and affirming of ENM, Trans and NonBinary identities, and all the beautifully complex ways people show up in the world. I believe in the power of community care, creative expression, and reclaiming pleasure and play as essential parts of well-being. Outside the therapy room, you’ll find me nerding out about all kinds of games, immersive theatre, or playing with my sweet pitbull bb Noodles. If you’ve ever felt like the world wasn’t built with you in mind, you’re not alone—and you’re welcome here.

Insurance Plans Accepted
  • CareFirst
I offer online counseling in the following states:

At A Glance

  • Experience: 1 year of practice
  • Languages: English
  • Rate: $150 - 250/session

Info

Email Strother
4809 Saint Elmo Avenue
Bethesda, MD 20814

Reach out to Strother