LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Carefree, AZ

Photo of Leanne Tanis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP
Leanne Tanis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP
Carefree, AZ 85377
You keep it all together for everyone else, but inside you feel anxious, disconnected, or on edge. I help adults heal the lasting impact of childhood trauma and emotional neglect so they can feel safe, connected, and confident in relationships. Together, we’ll identify the patterns that keep you stuck, regulate your nervous system, and create real emotional freedom. These patterns aren’t your fault. They began as protection — shaped by early experiences of feeling unseen, unsafe, or not enough. Now, those same patterns block the closeness and peace you want most.
You keep it all together for everyone else, but inside you feel anxious, disconnected, or on edge. I help adults heal the lasting impact of childhood trauma and emotional neglect so they can feel safe, connected, and confident in relationships. Together, we’ll identify the patterns that keep you stuck, regulate your nervous system, and create real emotional freedom. These patterns aren’t your fault. They began as protection — shaped by early experiences of feeling unseen, unsafe, or not enough. Now, those same patterns block the closeness and peace you want most.
(602) 833-1065 View (602) 833-1065
Photo of Linda Ann Herbert - Herbert Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LCSW
Herbert Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LCSW
Carefree, AZ 85377
Compassionate, experienced therapist offering in-person sessions in Carefree, AZ and telehealth in OH, CO, TX, and FL. I help adults navigate depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, PTSD, relationship challenges, grief, and life transitions—including growing up in an alcoholic family and questioning your own patterns. When we work together, you’ll have a safe, supportive space to share openly, gain clarity, and build skills you can use in everyday life. My approach blends psychodynamic, trauma-informed, and cognitive-behavioral therapy—always tailored to your needs, goals, and pace. Therapy is a partnership, and my goal is to help.
Compassionate, experienced therapist offering in-person sessions in Carefree, AZ and telehealth in OH, CO, TX, and FL. I help adults navigate depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, PTSD, relationship challenges, grief, and life transitions—including growing up in an alcoholic family and questioning your own patterns. When we work together, you’ll have a safe, supportive space to share openly, gain clarity, and build skills you can use in everyday life. My approach blends psychodynamic, trauma-informed, and cognitive-behavioral therapy—always tailored to your needs, goals, and pace. Therapy is a partnership, and my goal is to help.
(602) 456-5232 View (602) 456-5232
Photo of Vallery Coats, Counselor, EdD, MC, LPC
Vallery Coats
Counselor, EdD, MC, LPC
Serves Area
Welcome! I am Dr. Vallery Coats. Most people who contact a therapist are looking for effective, compassionate help for themselves or their relationship. Individuals contact me because they are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, old wounds, career decisions, family estrangments, or unresolved issues. Couples contact me for objective help with communication, intimacy, infidelity, in-laws, money disagreements, or ongoing arguing, I offer useable tools that give you relief pretty quickly and also help you make lasting changes.
Welcome! I am Dr. Vallery Coats. Most people who contact a therapist are looking for effective, compassionate help for themselves or their relationship. Individuals contact me because they are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, old wounds, career decisions, family estrangments, or unresolved issues. Couples contact me for objective help with communication, intimacy, infidelity, in-laws, money disagreements, or ongoing arguing, I offer useable tools that give you relief pretty quickly and also help you make lasting changes.
(480) 418-8998 View (480) 418-8998
Photo of Haley Ahmann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Haley Ahmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex positive, and non-traditional relationships.
When the most private parts of your life—your romantic relationship and your physical intimacy—feel broken, it colors every other part of your world. Whether you are navigating the devastation of an affair, struggling with a painful gap in desire, or feeling the weight of past trauma showing up in your relationship or in the bedroom, you don’t just need a place to talk. You need a path forward. I am a Certified Sex Therapist, who specializes in using effective therapies like the Gottman Method for communication issues and EMDR for trauma.
I am LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex positive, and non-traditional relationships.
When the most private parts of your life—your romantic relationship and your physical intimacy—feel broken, it colors every other part of your world. Whether you are navigating the devastation of an affair, struggling with a painful gap in desire, or feeling the weight of past trauma showing up in your relationship or in the bedroom, you don’t just need a place to talk. You need a path forward. I am a Certified Sex Therapist, who specializes in using effective therapies like the Gottman Method for communication issues and EMDR for trauma.
(520) 341-2490 View (520) 341-2490
Photo of Jennifer Salas, Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Jennifer Salas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
15 Endorsed
Serves Area
Bilingual (English and Spanish). Serving mental health counseling and Immigration Evaluation clients in AZ via Telehealth. Healing is truly possible! Each person has immense strength and resilience. My passion involves walking alongside clients to build upon areas of hope for improved well-being. People do not need to go through these things alone. I strive to provide quality, trustworthy, and professional guidance to my clients in a collaborative manner. I have years of experience assisting those who have gone through trauma, sexuality-based issues, and those struggling to manage difficult emotions, thoughts, and relationships.
Bilingual (English and Spanish). Serving mental health counseling and Immigration Evaluation clients in AZ via Telehealth. Healing is truly possible! Each person has immense strength and resilience. My passion involves walking alongside clients to build upon areas of hope for improved well-being. People do not need to go through these things alone. I strive to provide quality, trustworthy, and professional guidance to my clients in a collaborative manner. I have years of experience assisting those who have gone through trauma, sexuality-based issues, and those struggling to manage difficult emotions, thoughts, and relationships.
(602) 786-8961 View (602) 786-8961

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Elizabeth Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Elizabeth Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Online Only
In the queer community, therapeutic supports are most important and vital for survival.
Finding our own path, understanding who we are, and accepting ourselves can help us grow. In addition to narrative therapy, I incorporate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help you stay present and recognize that you are enough as you are. Each session will offer practical skills you can use for your healing, with a clear plan of action to work together.
In the queer community, therapeutic supports are most important and vital for survival.
Finding our own path, understanding who we are, and accepting ourselves can help us grow. In addition to narrative therapy, I incorporate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help you stay present and recognize that you are enough as you are. Each session will offer practical skills you can use for your healing, with a clear plan of action to work together.
(520) 210-4913 View (520) 210-4913
Photo of Kelly Bishop-Diaz - A Thoughtful Spot, PLLC, Kelly Bishop-Diaz, Ph.D., Psychologist, PhD
I am open-minded and also an ally of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello! Clients often come to therapy searching for better ways of coping with stress, anxiety, depression, & to process their thoughts & feelings in a supportive environment. They are frequently interested in improving relationships, leaving abusive partners, experiencing more happiness and fulfillment in life, & attaining meaningful goals. As each person is an individual, therapy is tailored to your unique needs and wants. I provide therapy to individuals & couples. Clients often say I'm easy to talk to, compassionate, and accepting. I hope you will agree. My office is in my home which offers comfort and privacy.
I am open-minded and also an ally of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello! Clients often come to therapy searching for better ways of coping with stress, anxiety, depression, & to process their thoughts & feelings in a supportive environment. They are frequently interested in improving relationships, leaving abusive partners, experiencing more happiness and fulfillment in life, & attaining meaningful goals. As each person is an individual, therapy is tailored to your unique needs and wants. I provide therapy to individuals & couples. Clients often say I'm easy to talk to, compassionate, and accepting. I hope you will agree. My office is in my home which offers comfort and privacy.
(701) 214-6506 View (701) 214-6506
Photo of Joanna L. Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor, M.Ed., LPC, E-RYT
Joanna L. Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, M.Ed., LPC, E-RYT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently accepting new clients and select insurance plans. Many of my clients are insightful and self-aware, yet still feel stuck in patterns of overwhelm, emotional fatigue, disconnection, or inner conflict. There may be a history of trauma, chronic stress, relationship challenges, or maladaptive coping patterns that once felt protective but no longer feel sustainable. While insight may be present, it has not yet translated into lasting relief or a felt sense of steadiness. Together, we move beyond understanding alone to foster deeper healing, integration, and meaningful, lasting change through a collaborative, mind-body approach.
Currently accepting new clients and select insurance plans. Many of my clients are insightful and self-aware, yet still feel stuck in patterns of overwhelm, emotional fatigue, disconnection, or inner conflict. There may be a history of trauma, chronic stress, relationship challenges, or maladaptive coping patterns that once felt protective but no longer feel sustainable. While insight may be present, it has not yet translated into lasting relief or a felt sense of steadiness. Together, we move beyond understanding alone to foster deeper healing, integration, and meaningful, lasting change through a collaborative, mind-body approach.
(520) 201-5951 View (520) 201-5951
Photo of Kathryn Heltzel - Gender Identity Center, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Gender Identity Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
4 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
We are a therapy practice devoted to supporting teens, adults, and families who are transgender, non-binary, gender fluid, gender queer, or just wanting to explore gender identity.
We are a diverse team of therapists that understand the pain of gender dysphoria. We see our clients as creative and intelligent people who are on a journey of exploring identity and knowing one's true self. We have fun and together build confidence and self esteem. Our passion is all about creating a safe space and a healthy relational bond.
We are a therapy practice devoted to supporting teens, adults, and families who are transgender, non-binary, gender fluid, gender queer, or just wanting to explore gender identity.
We are a diverse team of therapists that understand the pain of gender dysphoria. We see our clients as creative and intelligent people who are on a journey of exploring identity and knowing one's true self. We have fun and together build confidence and self esteem. Our passion is all about creating a safe space and a healthy relational bond.
(602) 691-6496 View (602) 691-6496
Photo of Morgan Musick, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Morgan Musick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m Morgan, a queer and neurodivergent therapist providing LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy for adults across Arizona.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and grounded, with space to move at a pace that feels supportive and respectful. I view therapy as a shared, human process, not something done to you. I integrate IFS, EMDR, DBT, and CBT, blending insight with practical tools you can actually use in everyday life. Come hang with me :)
I’m Morgan, a queer and neurodivergent therapist providing LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy for adults across Arizona.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and grounded, with space to move at a pace that feels supportive and respectful. I view therapy as a shared, human process, not something done to you. I integrate IFS, EMDR, DBT, and CBT, blending insight with practical tools you can actually use in everyday life. Come hang with me :)
(602) 962-7539 View (602) 962-7539
Photo of Joyce Luna Zymeck, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Joyce Luna Zymeck
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Are you feeling stressed, sad, in pain, anxious…or all of the above? Do you think you "should" feel happy, but you don't--and you're not sure why or what to do about it? Or maybe you're grieving a loss or a trauma & feeling lost yourself. No matter what you're facing, I'm here to help!! Since 2007, I've counseled diverse people from all walks of life. I use empathy, honesty, humor, & compassion in all my work. Combined with your innate wisdom & your courage in starting this process, we'll develop a safe, supportive therapeutic alliance that allows you to heal your past & live a happier, healthier, & brighter present & future.
Are you feeling stressed, sad, in pain, anxious…or all of the above? Do you think you "should" feel happy, but you don't--and you're not sure why or what to do about it? Or maybe you're grieving a loss or a trauma & feeling lost yourself. No matter what you're facing, I'm here to help!! Since 2007, I've counseled diverse people from all walks of life. I use empathy, honesty, humor, & compassion in all my work. Combined with your innate wisdom & your courage in starting this process, we'll develop a safe, supportive therapeutic alliance that allows you to heal your past & live a happier, healthier, & brighter present & future.
(520) 729-2140 View (520) 729-2140
Photo of Patience Pearson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Patience Pearson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tempe, AZ 85282
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I bring a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by marginalized groups and strive to offer a safe, affirming environment where you can explore your experiences and work toward healing.
My approach is trauma-informed and grounded in evidence-based techniques like EMDR, CBT, DBT, solution-focused strategies, and mindfulness practices. Together, we will develop tools to help you face life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I bring a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by marginalized groups and strive to offer a safe, affirming environment where you can explore your experiences and work toward healing.
My approach is trauma-informed and grounded in evidence-based techniques like EMDR, CBT, DBT, solution-focused strategies, and mindfulness practices. Together, we will develop tools to help you face life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.
(480) 531-7582 View (480) 531-7582
Photo of Olivia Wilde, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Olivia Wilde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
8 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m especially passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ youth and adults, and I’m trained to write gender readiness letters for those pursuing Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy (GAHT).
Many of my clients face challenges rooted in discrimination, systemic injustice, and generational trauma. Our sessions together are a safe space to explore your inner world - thoughts, emotions, and learned responses. Nothing is too scary to share here. Healing begins when we understand the patterns that shape us.
I’m especially passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ youth and adults, and I’m trained to write gender readiness letters for those pursuing Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy (GAHT).
Many of my clients face challenges rooted in discrimination, systemic injustice, and generational trauma. Our sessions together are a safe space to explore your inner world - thoughts, emotions, and learned responses. Nothing is too scary to share here. Healing begins when we understand the patterns that shape us.
(928) 981-1836 View (928) 981-1836
Photo of Dr. Carolyn J Brown, Psychologist, PsyD, CHT
Dr. Carolyn J Brown
Psychologist, PsyD, CHT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Danielle LaPorte asked the question best, “Can you remember who you were before the world told you who you should be?” Can you remember when you loved and accepted yourself unapologetically, and embraced all the things about you that make you unique? As we age, we gain knowledge from life experiences and through those experiences we can soar to greatness or we can break and lose sight of who we really are, and become someone we were never meant to be. When we become someone less than who we were meant to be we can begin to experience anxiety, depression, substance abuse, loss of relationships and functional distress.
Danielle LaPorte asked the question best, “Can you remember who you were before the world told you who you should be?” Can you remember when you loved and accepted yourself unapologetically, and embraced all the things about you that make you unique? As we age, we gain knowledge from life experiences and through those experiences we can soar to greatness or we can break and lose sight of who we really are, and become someone we were never meant to be. When we become someone less than who we were meant to be we can begin to experience anxiety, depression, substance abuse, loss of relationships and functional distress.
(480) 780-1934 View (480) 780-1934
Photo of Amy Campbell, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Amy Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85215
“The only impossible journey is the one you never begin.” - Tony Robbins. Let me help you achieve your goals. For the past 12 years, I have helped clients achieve a life of hope and purpose. My educational background includes a bachelor's in criminal justice and a master's in clinical mental health counseling. My professional background prior to therapy was in law enforcement.
“The only impossible journey is the one you never begin.” - Tony Robbins. Let me help you achieve your goals. For the past 12 years, I have helped clients achieve a life of hope and purpose. My educational background includes a bachelor's in criminal justice and a master's in clinical mental health counseling. My professional background prior to therapy was in law enforcement.
(480) 331-3010 View (480) 331-3010
Photo of Sofia Softas-Nall, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, LPC-S, MA, MS
Sofia Softas-Nall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, LPC-S, MA, MS
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, PTSD, EMDR, OCD, LGBTQ+ concerns, marital stress, chronic health conditions, pain, women's issues, multicultural counseling, and athletes/sport psychology.
I am level II trained in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused (EFT) Couples Therapy, Existential Therapy, Mindfulness, and Multicultural Counseling.
I specialize in working with life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, PTSD, EMDR, OCD, LGBTQ+ concerns, marital stress, chronic health conditions, pain, women's issues, multicultural counseling, and athletes/sport psychology.
I am level II trained in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused (EFT) Couples Therapy, Existential Therapy, Mindfulness, and Multicultural Counseling.
(480) 864-4326 View (480) 864-4326
Photo of Charmaine Fuller, Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC
Charmaine Fuller
Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC
6 Endorsed
Online Only
My areas of expertise are in religious trauma and faith crises, autism and ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
As a counselor and volunteer in behavioral health, I have worked with a variety of clients and issues including burnout, overachievers, religious deconstruction, faith crises, religious trauma, gender, sex, BDSM/kink, sexuality, relationships, neurodivergence, women's issues, ethical non-monogamy, and more. I love working with people who are deconstructing their old stories, identities, and systems and trying to figure out who and what they are. I am well-informed on transgender issues and am gender and non-binary affirming.
My areas of expertise are in religious trauma and faith crises, autism and ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
As a counselor and volunteer in behavioral health, I have worked with a variety of clients and issues including burnout, overachievers, religious deconstruction, faith crises, religious trauma, gender, sex, BDSM/kink, sexuality, relationships, neurodivergence, women's issues, ethical non-monogamy, and more. I love working with people who are deconstructing their old stories, identities, and systems and trying to figure out who and what they are. I am well-informed on transgender issues and am gender and non-binary affirming.
(520) 210-5921 View (520) 210-5921
Photo of Emily J. Fitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Emily J. Fitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have a passion for working with trauma as it manifests through anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and disordered eating. I utilize my training in Somatic Experiencing, Jungian Psychology, and small group dynamics to empower adolescents and adults to create and lead their ideal lives. I deeply enjoy helping clients discover the love for themselves–body, mind, spirit, heart—they have been seeking elsewhere, often all their lives.
I have a passion for working with trauma as it manifests through anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and disordered eating. I utilize my training in Somatic Experiencing, Jungian Psychology, and small group dynamics to empower adolescents and adults to create and lead their ideal lives. I deeply enjoy helping clients discover the love for themselves–body, mind, spirit, heart—they have been seeking elsewhere, often all their lives.
(630) 999-2080 View (630) 999-2080
Photo of Samantha Bell, Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, NCC
Samantha Bell
Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you in a dark place and seeking a sense of healing but unsure what to do? Are you afraid to look in the mirror because you have lost sight of the person staring back at you? At some point we have all been in that dark place, but I want to empower you to finally look in the mirror to see yourself again. I have a love for individuals that have been the strong friend. The ones who have been the caretakers or the people pleasers in their family or friend group. The ones who often feel forgotten about. So much so, you have forgotten about yourself and your identity. Together, we will work to restore the balance.
Are you in a dark place and seeking a sense of healing but unsure what to do? Are you afraid to look in the mirror because you have lost sight of the person staring back at you? At some point we have all been in that dark place, but I want to empower you to finally look in the mirror to see yourself again. I have a love for individuals that have been the strong friend. The ones who have been the caretakers or the people pleasers in their family or friend group. The ones who often feel forgotten about. So much so, you have forgotten about yourself and your identity. Together, we will work to restore the balance.
(520) 502-6642 View (520) 502-6642
Photo of Alyssa Palty, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Alyssa Palty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
7 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm especially passionate about supporting Neurodivergence, LGBTQ+, and religious transitions/trauma.
The people I work with tend to be deeply feeling, thoughtful, and insightful humans who are looking for more than surface level solutions. These people often think and feel even to the point of overwhelm—and want to understand themselves in a way that leads to real change. Together, we explore the patterns, beliefs, and emotional experiences that are keeping you stuck in anxiety, depression, disconnection, uncertainty, or just that frustrating sense of “meh. We will explore and discover ways to connect deeper to yourself and those you want to be in community with.
I'm especially passionate about supporting Neurodivergence, LGBTQ+, and religious transitions/trauma.
The people I work with tend to be deeply feeling, thoughtful, and insightful humans who are looking for more than surface level solutions. These people often think and feel even to the point of overwhelm—and want to understand themselves in a way that leads to real change. Together, we explore the patterns, beliefs, and emotional experiences that are keeping you stuck in anxiety, depression, disconnection, uncertainty, or just that frustrating sense of “meh. We will explore and discover ways to connect deeper to yourself and those you want to be in community with.
(520) 214-0742 View (520) 214-0742

See more therapy options for Carefree

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.