LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 98466
Michael 'bucky' Hourigan
Counselor, MM, MT-BC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466
If you are someone who "breaks the mold," or someone who always felt out of place, I am here to help explore that experience. Whether you identify as LGBTQ+, Neurodiverse, or even a "gamer," you have unique parts of yourself that require an understanding that one size does not fit all. Depression, anxiety, and trauma responses can all be a result of living in a world that might not understand you; I want to create a therapeutic space where you feel safe to be authentically you.
If you are someone who "breaks the mold," or someone who always felt out of place, I am here to help explore that experience. Whether you identify as LGBTQ+, Neurodiverse, or even a "gamer," you have unique parts of yourself that require an understanding that one size does not fit all. Depression, anxiety, and trauma responses can all be a result of living in a world that might not understand you; I want to create a therapeutic space where you feel safe to be authentically you.
Josh Specht
Counselor, MEd, LMHCA
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98466
As a Queer clinician, Josh specializes in working with Queer-identified adolescents and young adults as well as their families in the exploration of various topics including gender and sexual identity, self-esteem, and developing positive coping mechanisms. In his work, Josh always strives to utilize a non-judgmental, strengths-based approach to cultivate a space where his clients feel accepted, celebrated, and empowered with the confidence to continue along their unique and precious paths towards self-actualization.
As a Queer clinician, Josh specializes in working with Queer-identified adolescents and young adults as well as their families in the exploration of various topics including gender and sexual identity, self-esteem, and developing positive coping mechanisms. In his work, Josh always strives to utilize a non-judgmental, strengths-based approach to cultivate a space where his clients feel accepted, celebrated, and empowered with the confidence to continue along their unique and precious paths towards self-actualization.
Ivy Davis Zolle
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CDBT, CATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466
I specialize in therapy for LGBTQIA+ offering affirming care to understand your identities and become more yourself.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Perhaps you are wanting to discover more about who you really are. Therapy is not a one-sided conversation, with little opportunity for interaction or getting to experience each other as real people. I can assure you that I am as real as it gets! I will work with you to create a supportive relationship that will allow us to face the problems you are experiencing and create a path to healing. It is through connection and trust that healing happens.
I specialize in therapy for LGBTQIA+ offering affirming care to understand your identities and become more yourself.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Perhaps you are wanting to discover more about who you really are. Therapy is not a one-sided conversation, with little opportunity for interaction or getting to experience each other as real people. I can assure you that I am as real as it gets! I will work with you to create a supportive relationship that will allow us to face the problems you are experiencing and create a path to healing. It is through connection and trust that healing happens.
Pride Counseling NW
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466
Areas of Focus: Therapy for LGBTQ-specific issues, Gender Identity and Transgender support, Depression and Anxiety, Trauma, Low Self Esteem, Relationship Issues, Sex & Intimacy, Parenting, Grief & Bereavement, Stress Management, Goal Setting & Barrier Reduction, Adolescent Therapy, Therapy for Couples, Therapy for Poly folks, Therapy for Kinky folks.
Pride Counseling NW provides therapy for couples, individuals, and families of ALL kinds. If you're feeling powerless in the face of your problems, unhappy in your relationships, and "stuck" in your life, we'd like to help. Let's talk about what you're good at. Let's talk about what you want. Let's talk about how to get there.
Areas of Focus: Therapy for LGBTQ-specific issues, Gender Identity and Transgender support, Depression and Anxiety, Trauma, Low Self Esteem, Relationship Issues, Sex & Intimacy, Parenting, Grief & Bereavement, Stress Management, Goal Setting & Barrier Reduction, Adolescent Therapy, Therapy for Couples, Therapy for Poly folks, Therapy for Kinky folks.
Pride Counseling NW provides therapy for couples, individuals, and families of ALL kinds. If you're feeling powerless in the face of your problems, unhappy in your relationships, and "stuck" in your life, we'd like to help. Let's talk about what you're good at. Let's talk about what you want. Let's talk about how to get there.
Bruce Wilson
Counselor, MEd, MDiv, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466
I specialize in working with grief support, relationship issues, LGBTQ issues, anxiety and depression.
I work with clients who are interested in investing in themselves and learning about thier Sexuality, Grief, Depression, Anxiety, and Adjustment issues. I am passionate about working with clients to help them tap into their own internal resources to fix, heal, and grow into their best selves.
I specialize in working with grief support, relationship issues, LGBTQ issues, anxiety and depression.
I work with clients who are interested in investing in themselves and learning about thier Sexuality, Grief, Depression, Anxiety, and Adjustment issues. I am passionate about working with clients to help them tap into their own internal resources to fix, heal, and grow into their best selves.
Lou Bradford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fircrest, WA 98466
Hi! I'm Lou. I work with queer and trans young adults. Therapy can be challenging, but it can also be beautiful and healing. It is my goal to meet you with compassion, support, and a safe space to help you through whatever difficulties or pain you may be experiencing. As a part of the Queer and trans community, I understand how important representation and connection is. Of course, we all have our own unique stories. Your story is not my story, and my story is not yours. However, I find that it is incredibly helpful (and dare I say, healing even) to have that common understanding and shared experience with my clients.
Hi! I'm Lou. I work with queer and trans young adults. Therapy can be challenging, but it can also be beautiful and healing. It is my goal to meet you with compassion, support, and a safe space to help you through whatever difficulties or pain you may be experiencing. As a part of the Queer and trans community, I understand how important representation and connection is. Of course, we all have our own unique stories. Your story is not my story, and my story is not yours. However, I find that it is incredibly helpful (and dare I say, healing even) to have that common understanding and shared experience with my clients.
Kelly V Holmes
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, SUDPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am LGBTQIA & gender-affirming.
We each have the ability to adapt, overcome adversity, feel joy and sorrow, love, and reach our highest potential. Stressful life events, trauma, loss, conflicts, illness, and transitions can overwhelm our ability to cope. Healing becomes blocked. We become stuck. We protect and defend ourselves to avoid ever feeling that pain again. Solutions that once worked become part of the problem. When the traumatic wound is triggered, we experience intense emotion and distorted ways of thinking. In therapy, we journey together to uncover and remove the blocks to healing, transforming pain and loss into meaning, awareness, and choice.
I am LGBTQIA & gender-affirming.
We each have the ability to adapt, overcome adversity, feel joy and sorrow, love, and reach our highest potential. Stressful life events, trauma, loss, conflicts, illness, and transitions can overwhelm our ability to cope. Healing becomes blocked. We become stuck. We protect and defend ourselves to avoid ever feeling that pain again. Solutions that once worked become part of the problem. When the traumatic wound is triggered, we experience intense emotion and distorted ways of thinking. In therapy, we journey together to uncover and remove the blocks to healing, transforming pain and loss into meaning, awareness, and choice.
Alyssa Bicheray
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466
I am a licensed therapist practicing in Pierce County since 2013. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Washington as well as a minor in Criminal Justice. I went on to get my Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Saint Martin’s University. I work with clients from teen years into middle adulthood. My areas of expertise are managing depression and anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem, relationships, sexuality/LGBTQA, life changes, communication, personal exploration. I have completed additional education on body inclusiveness, shame and resilience, complex trauma, and eating disorders.
I am a licensed therapist practicing in Pierce County since 2013. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Washington as well as a minor in Criminal Justice. I went on to get my Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Saint Martin’s University. I work with clients from teen years into middle adulthood. My areas of expertise are managing depression and anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, self-esteem, relationships, sexuality/LGBTQA, life changes, communication, personal exploration. I have completed additional education on body inclusiveness, shame and resilience, complex trauma, and eating disorders.
Integrated Therapy Services NW, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98466
This includes our Bloom – Perinatal Wellness Program which addresses any stage of the reproductive journey, the Pride Program which provides support & tailored counseling for the LGBTQ+ community, and more.
Integrated Therapy Services (ITS) is dedicated to serving our community by supporting individuals, couples, and families through their lifelong journey of emotional growth and personal development. Our providers come together from the fields of Marriage and Family Therapy, Social Work, and Mental Health Counseling to provide the highest quality mental health services based in the most advance research in a warm and inviting environment. We deliver innovative and personalized treatment with compassion and care. Telehealth or in-person available.
This includes our Bloom – Perinatal Wellness Program which addresses any stage of the reproductive journey, the Pride Program which provides support & tailored counseling for the LGBTQ+ community, and more.
Integrated Therapy Services (ITS) is dedicated to serving our community by supporting individuals, couples, and families through their lifelong journey of emotional growth and personal development. Our providers come together from the fields of Marriage and Family Therapy, Social Work, and Mental Health Counseling to provide the highest quality mental health services based in the most advance research in a warm and inviting environment. We deliver innovative and personalized treatment with compassion and care. Telehealth or in-person available.
Kristina Betz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466 (Online Only)
I currently am accepting individual clients as well as couples/relationships. I work with all identities. Everyone is welcome in this space; I believe that each person has innate abilities and strengths to help them overcome challenges to improve their lives and relationships. I fully support and affirm BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, polyamorous, kink, BDSM, and other marginalized communities. As a relationship therapy specialist, I know that enriching connections to Self, Partners, Family, and Community are key to achieving a high quality of life.
I currently am accepting individual clients as well as couples/relationships. I work with all identities. Everyone is welcome in this space; I believe that each person has innate abilities and strengths to help them overcome challenges to improve their lives and relationships. I fully support and affirm BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, polyamorous, kink, BDSM, and other marginalized communities. As a relationship therapy specialist, I know that enriching connections to Self, Partners, Family, and Community are key to achieving a high quality of life.
Marilyn Boyle (Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy)
Counselor, MA, MTS, LMHC
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98466 (Online Only)
More specialties are grief, life transitions, aging, religious/spiritual trauma, LGBTQ+, psychedelic preparation and integration.
You might be sad, depressed, stressed, anxious, scared, overwhelmed with it all. Maybe your relationship is hurting or you're feeling stuck in your life. Maybe you're dealing with a death loss or life transition. You don't have to go through your current life challenges alone. As a psychotherapist & grief coach for 38+ years, I've helped thousands of people move out of emotional pain and toward happier lives. If you're ready for growth and transformation on your journey toward wholeness, I can help. If you're curious and want to try something new, I can provide ketamine sessions to gently catalyze your process.
More specialties are grief, life transitions, aging, religious/spiritual trauma, LGBTQ+, psychedelic preparation and integration.
You might be sad, depressed, stressed, anxious, scared, overwhelmed with it all. Maybe your relationship is hurting or you're feeling stuck in your life. Maybe you're dealing with a death loss or life transition. You don't have to go through your current life challenges alone. As a psychotherapist & grief coach for 38+ years, I've helped thousands of people move out of emotional pain and toward happier lives. If you're ready for growth and transformation on your journey toward wholeness, I can help. If you're curious and want to try something new, I can provide ketamine sessions to gently catalyze your process.
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Life Path Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98466
I have a special interest in working with clients who are poor; under educated; of senior age; veterans; or who are part of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) community.
Hello, I'm Shawn Berthel, (M.S., LCMHC). In my private practice, I believe you can be helped to make shifts in your behavior and thinking processes, to create awareness of your issues, and to change the areas you wish to correct. You will be encouraged to empower yourself, and become a partner in your own self-care. These changes may be slow or difficult at first. However, I know that you have the innate power to maximize your strengths and seek out necessary support, so you can move forward positively into a new life filled with opportunity.
I have a special interest in working with clients who are poor; under educated; of senior age; veterans; or who are part of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) community.
Hello, I'm Shawn Berthel, (M.S., LCMHC). In my private practice, I believe you can be helped to make shifts in your behavior and thinking processes, to create awareness of your issues, and to change the areas you wish to correct. You will be encouraged to empower yourself, and become a partner in your own self-care. These changes may be slow or difficult at first. However, I know that you have the innate power to maximize your strengths and seek out necessary support, so you can move forward positively into a new life filled with opportunity.
Aimee Acebedo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98466
I use an integrative clinical approach that is trauma focused, strength based, family centered, and LGBTQ+ affirmative to support and assist clients in meeting desired goals.
A strong belief in prevention and early intervention of adverse childhood experiences inspires my work with children, parents, and families. Adverse childhood experiences can have lasting impact and influence our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in the present. A strong component of my clinical practice is finding and building resiliency in the presence of adverse childhood experiences.
I use an integrative clinical approach that is trauma focused, strength based, family centered, and LGBTQ+ affirmative to support and assist clients in meeting desired goals.
A strong belief in prevention and early intervention of adverse childhood experiences inspires my work with children, parents, and families. Adverse childhood experiences can have lasting impact and influence our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in the present. A strong component of my clinical practice is finding and building resiliency in the presence of adverse childhood experiences.
Krista Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466 (Online Only)
**Accepting new clients** Do you feel that you, or someone you know, are not living the most gratifying life? I work with both kids and adults on reaching their best potential. Whether working through trauma, depression, anxiety, adjusting, or discovering yourself, I would be happy to walk with you along the journey. I will collaborate with you to explore what you need. I have extensive experience working with trauma and LGBTQ+ related concerns, and enjoy researching them in my spare time. I work with individuals, relationship systems, and family systems.
**Accepting new clients** Do you feel that you, or someone you know, are not living the most gratifying life? I work with both kids and adults on reaching their best potential. Whether working through trauma, depression, anxiety, adjusting, or discovering yourself, I would be happy to walk with you along the journey. I will collaborate with you to explore what you need. I have extensive experience working with trauma and LGBTQ+ related concerns, and enjoy researching them in my spare time. I work with individuals, relationship systems, and family systems.
Simone Bullinger
Counselor, MACP, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98466 (Online Only)
I am a mixed-race, queer womxn of Nigerian and German heritage residing upon unceded Coast Salish and Duwamish lands. I am a person-centered and holistically focused therapist who is committed to centering the experiences of Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and Queer Folk, although I serve individuals, couples, and youth from all walks of life. I embrace a holistic view of well-being. I believe that connection to self, others, nature, and the transcendent can contribute to a healthy state of being. I utilize the application of Liberation, and social justice frameworks while adapting and incorporating new techniques as needed.
I am a mixed-race, queer womxn of Nigerian and German heritage residing upon unceded Coast Salish and Duwamish lands. I am a person-centered and holistically focused therapist who is committed to centering the experiences of Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and Queer Folk, although I serve individuals, couples, and youth from all walks of life. I embrace a holistic view of well-being. I believe that connection to self, others, nature, and the transcendent can contribute to a healthy state of being. I utilize the application of Liberation, and social justice frameworks while adapting and incorporating new techniques as needed.
Adventure Beyond Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466
Whether you are looking for a new way to go about therapy or would like something standard, I am here for you. Therapy doesn't always have to be rigid and serious. We are never too old to play and look at things from a different angle. I like to be hands-on and weave in play, art, TT-RPG and gaming therapy, pop culture, and the outdoors into my modalities. Therapy can be different for you and together we will create an individual treatment just for you. I welcome a non-judgmental, casual and warming approach to the therapeutic relationship.
Whether you are looking for a new way to go about therapy or would like something standard, I am here for you. Therapy doesn't always have to be rigid and serious. We are never too old to play and look at things from a different angle. I like to be hands-on and weave in play, art, TT-RPG and gaming therapy, pop culture, and the outdoors into my modalities. Therapy can be different for you and together we will create an individual treatment just for you. I welcome a non-judgmental, casual and warming approach to the therapeutic relationship.
Thomas Roe
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98466
Dr. Roe works with individuals who are looking to grow, heal, and thrive. He believes intersections of identity and culture are important. Dr. Roe considers social justice an important aspect to his work. He uses a variety of collaborative approaches in therapy depending on the nature of the work, identities present in the room, and cultural considerations. Some of these approaches and interventions include cognitive-behavioral(CBT), psychodynamic, motivational interviewing, interpersonal process, humanistic, and feminist modalities. Dr. Roe is a Brazilian-American father, a dog lover, and PNW local.
Dr. Roe works with individuals who are looking to grow, heal, and thrive. He believes intersections of identity and culture are important. Dr. Roe considers social justice an important aspect to his work. He uses a variety of collaborative approaches in therapy depending on the nature of the work, identities present in the room, and cultural considerations. Some of these approaches and interventions include cognitive-behavioral(CBT), psychodynamic, motivational interviewing, interpersonal process, humanistic, and feminist modalities. Dr. Roe is a Brazilian-American father, a dog lover, and PNW local.
Joel Hencken
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98466
I feel very fortunate that in clinical psychology I have found a field where I have been glad to go to work since I saw my first client in 1974. My training has been "˜eclectic'. My undergrad work was in philosophy of science at University of Michigan. After a short stint in medical school, I went to San Diego State University, where my professors were Rogerians, cognitivists and behaviorists (that was before the latter two got hyphenated and finally acronym-ized into CBT), plus one crypto-Freudian who spoke little but offered the most amazing insights. I also had some years of personal psychoanalysis.
I feel very fortunate that in clinical psychology I have found a field where I have been glad to go to work since I saw my first client in 1974. My training has been "˜eclectic'. My undergrad work was in philosophy of science at University of Michigan. After a short stint in medical school, I went to San Diego State University, where my professors were Rogerians, cognitivists and behaviorists (that was before the latter two got hyphenated and finally acronym-ized into CBT), plus one crypto-Freudian who spoke little but offered the most amazing insights. I also had some years of personal psychoanalysis.
Leslie Hendrix
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98466
Leslie Hendrix is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate in Washington who has been practicing since 2023. Leslie provides bilingual sessions available in conversational Spanish. She is able to offer a multi-cultural lens to sessions. Outside of work, Leslie enjoys reading, crafting, and spending time with her four dogs and young son.
Leslie Hendrix is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate in Washington who has been practicing since 2023. Leslie provides bilingual sessions available in conversational Spanish. She is able to offer a multi-cultural lens to sessions. Outside of work, Leslie enjoys reading, crafting, and spending time with her four dogs and young son.
W Michael Rogers
Psychologist, PsyD, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University Place, WA 98466
Welcome! A good fit is the most important thing in counseling. Positive and sustainable change can happen only when safety is experienced. I am a licensed psychologist and an authentic person. I strive to be present and to listen to you in session. Psychotherapy is developed individually in a safe, supportive, empowering way, in a collaborative environment, and at a pace that feels safe and supportive to you. Assessment services are also offered, including personality, brief cognitive, ADHD/ADD, and disability. Please review my website for additional information (www.drmichaelrogers.com).
Welcome! A good fit is the most important thing in counseling. Positive and sustainable change can happen only when safety is experienced. I am a licensed psychologist and an authentic person. I strive to be present and to listen to you in session. Psychotherapy is developed individually in a safe, supportive, empowering way, in a collaborative environment, and at a pace that feels safe and supportive to you. Assessment services are also offered, including personality, brief cognitive, ADHD/ADD, and disability. Please review my website for additional information (www.drmichaelrogers.com).
See more therapy options for 98466
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.