Transgender Therapists in Cary, NC

Photo of Cat Salemi, MA
Cat Salemi
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511  (Online Only)
You’ve been looking a therapist who doesn’t try to put you in a box, and is genuinely curious about YOUR lived experience. You want therapy to be based on an empathic connection, with goals for how you want to heal or grow. You want your experience navigating your gender, sexuality, neurodiversity, and experience living in this society to be deeply witnessed. I’m experienced in helping individuals with ADHD and on the autism spectrum, using a non-pathological and neurodiversity-based approach. I am passionate about helping transgender, non-binary, and neurodiverse individuals find happiness and live life as their authentic selves.
You’ve been looking a therapist who doesn’t try to put you in a box, and is genuinely curious about YOUR lived experience. You want therapy to be based on an empathic connection, with goals for how you want to heal or grow. You want your experience navigating your gender, sexuality, neurodiversity, and experience living in this society to be deeply witnessed. I’m experienced in helping individuals with ADHD and on the autism spectrum, using a non-pathological and neurodiversity-based approach. I am passionate about helping transgender, non-binary, and neurodiverse individuals find happiness and live life as their authentic selves.
(984) 600-6458 View (984) 600-6458
Photo of Meena Statz, CRC, LCMHC, LPC, LPCC
Meena Statz
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, CRC, LCMHC, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with South Asian and African American women (ages 25-50) living in NC, WI, and MN who are ready to address and treat anxiety, depression, OCD, or trauma. My main areas of interest are the effects of the immigrant experience and biculturalism on mental health and wellness. I also am well versed in queer, transgender, and non-binary needs in treatment. Therapy with me provides clients with a culturally sensitive experience, as I work with clients closely to create a practice that incorporates evidence based practices in a non-oppressive environment.
I work with South Asian and African American women (ages 25-50) living in NC, WI, and MN who are ready to address and treat anxiety, depression, OCD, or trauma. My main areas of interest are the effects of the immigrant experience and biculturalism on mental health and wellness. I also am well versed in queer, transgender, and non-binary needs in treatment. Therapy with me provides clients with a culturally sensitive experience, as I work with clients closely to create a practice that incorporates evidence based practices in a non-oppressive environment.
(262) 383-4589 View (262) 383-4589
Photo of Karen L Bieniek, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen L Bieniek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513
Waitlist for new clients
I like to use my education and experience to help clients ages 18 and older with a variety of issues, including depression across the lifespan, anxiety, marital and couple issues, sexual disorders, sexual orientation, gender dysphoria, and sexual health and wellness, primarily providing counseling services for individuals and couples.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University College of Behavioral Sciences, Twin Cities, Eagan, MN. I also have been a Licensed Practical Nurse, since 1990. I have completed education in sex therapy, from University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menamonie, WI. I have been working since 2014 as a therapist. I also have experience working with veterans, and have worked in both acute inpatient psychiatric hospital and outpatient intensive therapy.
I like to use my education and experience to help clients ages 18 and older with a variety of issues, including depression across the lifespan, anxiety, marital and couple issues, sexual disorders, sexual orientation, gender dysphoria, and sexual health and wellness, primarily providing counseling services for individuals and couples.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University College of Behavioral Sciences, Twin Cities, Eagan, MN. I also have been a Licensed Practical Nurse, since 1990. I have completed education in sex therapy, from University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menamonie, WI. I have been working since 2014 as a therapist. I also have experience working with veterans, and have worked in both acute inpatient psychiatric hospital and outpatient intensive therapy.
(919) 635-9072 View (919) 635-9072
Photo of Emily Carter Cox, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Carter Cox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513
I have experience with both transgender and LGBTQ+ clients and Christian-identifying clients as well.
I love working with parents (new and old!), college students, and children ages 0-18. I’m the best fit for clients who are looking for longer term therapy so they can really understand themselves and their relationships better. My therapeutic approaches depend on the client's needs and typically include play, art, and talk therapy. I'm a psychodynamic therapist, which means we might end up talking about past relationships, dreams, and underlying reasons for why we do the things we do.
I have experience with both transgender and LGBTQ+ clients and Christian-identifying clients as well.
I love working with parents (new and old!), college students, and children ages 0-18. I’m the best fit for clients who are looking for longer term therapy so they can really understand themselves and their relationships better. My therapeutic approaches depend on the client's needs and typically include play, art, and talk therapy. I'm a psychodynamic therapist, which means we might end up talking about past relationships, dreams, and underlying reasons for why we do the things we do.
(984) 464-6759 View (984) 464-6759
Photo of Bennett Wood, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bennett Wood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518
I'm a therapist because I value complexity. We each have our own vision for a life that feels vibrant, authentic, and fulfilling. As your therapist, it's my job to walk with you through the process of learning about yourself, growing, and getting more of what you want out of life. I work primarily with queer and trans people age 16 and older but offer therapy services to clients of all backgrounds. I also offer autism and ADHD assessments for adolescents and adults.
I'm a therapist because I value complexity. We each have our own vision for a life that feels vibrant, authentic, and fulfilling. As your therapist, it's my job to walk with you through the process of learning about yourself, growing, and getting more of what you want out of life. I work primarily with queer and trans people age 16 and older but offer therapy services to clients of all backgrounds. I also offer autism and ADHD assessments for adolescents and adults.
(984) 217-4931 View (984) 217-4931
Photo of Anna Christopher, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Christopher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27513
Hello! I am an LCSWA practicing in Cary, NC. I specialize in working with adult individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, life transitions, and interpersonal relationship issues. In the therapy space you can expect me to center you in your own therapeutic journey. I recognize that the therapy experience is different for everyone, and I enjoy building a supportive therapeutic relationship with my clients that fosters an empathetic space for growth and self-actualization. I am a gender-affirming provider who will advocate for my clients as necessary in medical spaces.
Hello! I am an LCSWA practicing in Cary, NC. I specialize in working with adult individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, life transitions, and interpersonal relationship issues. In the therapy space you can expect me to center you in your own therapeutic journey. I recognize that the therapy experience is different for everyone, and I enjoy building a supportive therapeutic relationship with my clients that fosters an empathetic space for growth and self-actualization. I am a gender-affirming provider who will advocate for my clients as necessary in medical spaces.
(919) 823-3163 x244 View (919) 823-3163 x244
Photo of Dawn Marie Johnson, MA, LPC,  NJ, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dawn Marie Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NJ, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
Welcome! I'm passionate about helping women navigate the complexities of life. As a seasoned therapist specializing in women's mental health, I provide a safe and nurturing space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. Whether you're facing career transitions, relationship challenges, or grappling with existential questions, I'm here to support you every step of the way. With a deep understanding of the unique struggles that women encounter during this pivotal stage of life, I offer personalized therapy tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Welcome! I'm passionate about helping women navigate the complexities of life. As a seasoned therapist specializing in women's mental health, I provide a safe and nurturing space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. Whether you're facing career transitions, relationship challenges, or grappling with existential questions, I'm here to support you every step of the way. With a deep understanding of the unique struggles that women encounter during this pivotal stage of life, I offer personalized therapy tailored to your specific needs and goals.
(919) 367-1167 View (919) 367-1167
Photo of Julie Heustis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Heustis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27518
The process of finding a therapist can be tough to navigate. I offer a free 20 minute phone consultation so we can have a chance to connect, ask questions and see if it seems like a good fit for you. My style is warm and authentic and focused on what goals people have for counseling. I provide a supportive space for people to explore gender identity and expression and honor what feels most authentic to them. I meet regularly with people in the LGBTQ community and work to connect people with additional supports and resources if needed.
The process of finding a therapist can be tough to navigate. I offer a free 20 minute phone consultation so we can have a chance to connect, ask questions and see if it seems like a good fit for you. My style is warm and authentic and focused on what goals people have for counseling. I provide a supportive space for people to explore gender identity and expression and honor what feels most authentic to them. I meet regularly with people in the LGBTQ community and work to connect people with additional supports and resources if needed.
(919) 948-2723 View (919) 948-2723
Photo of Michelle Topal, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Topal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27512
Appointments Available. If you are looking for someone who understands the stress for many of us in these divisive, uncertain political times & is easy to talk to? Or are along the sexual or gender continuum (LGBTQ+/TGD), looking for someone who gets it? Or are having problems in your most important relationship(s)... I'm here to help. As an out queer person, I've been helping the LGBTQ+ community, as well as teens, parents, & partners, feel heard, cared for, accepted & understood for over 30 years. I create an authentic, safe, affirming space to explore & grow. I look forward to being an encouraging voice to help you find your own.
Appointments Available. If you are looking for someone who understands the stress for many of us in these divisive, uncertain political times & is easy to talk to? Or are along the sexual or gender continuum (LGBTQ+/TGD), looking for someone who gets it? Or are having problems in your most important relationship(s)... I'm here to help. As an out queer person, I've been helping the LGBTQ+ community, as well as teens, parents, & partners, feel heard, cared for, accepted & understood for over 30 years. I create an authentic, safe, affirming space to explore & grow. I look forward to being an encouraging voice to help you find your own.
(919) 885-1200 View (919) 885-1200
Photo of Haley Rognstad, MS, LCMHC, NARM
Haley Rognstad
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NARM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27513  (Online Only)
New Client opening as of 9/4/2024. I am passionate about assisting my clients in unlocking their inner wisdom and striving for balance in their lives. I enjoy working with adults of all gender identities, sexual orientations, and cultural backgrounds. I have experience assisting individuals with trauma and complex trauma (relational, physical, sexual, and emotional), spiritual trauma, childhood trauma, chronic pain, neurodivergence and adult diagnosed/self-diangosed autism, difficult life transitions, and LGBTQIA+ specific stressors. I work through an antiopppresive, health at every size, and neurodivergent affirming lens.
New Client opening as of 9/4/2024. I am passionate about assisting my clients in unlocking their inner wisdom and striving for balance in their lives. I enjoy working with adults of all gender identities, sexual orientations, and cultural backgrounds. I have experience assisting individuals with trauma and complex trauma (relational, physical, sexual, and emotional), spiritual trauma, childhood trauma, chronic pain, neurodivergence and adult diagnosed/self-diangosed autism, difficult life transitions, and LGBTQIA+ specific stressors. I work through an antiopppresive, health at every size, and neurodivergent affirming lens.
(919) 504-5737 View (919) 504-5737
Photo of Jo McBride, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jo McBride
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518
Are negative thoughts taking over your life? Is something causing stress in your life? Perhaps you have goals you want to reach or habits you want to adopt or drop, but nothing you try seems to work. Maybe you feel unaccepted by others or struggle to set and keep boundaries. If this sounds like you, I am here to help! Although I work with many types of clients, I particularly enjoy working with fellow members of the LGBTQ+ community and the neurodivergent community.
Are negative thoughts taking over your life? Is something causing stress in your life? Perhaps you have goals you want to reach or habits you want to adopt or drop, but nothing you try seems to work. Maybe you feel unaccepted by others or struggle to set and keep boundaries. If this sounds like you, I am here to help! Although I work with many types of clients, I particularly enjoy working with fellow members of the LGBTQ+ community and the neurodivergent community.
(919) 736-6852 View (919) 736-6852
Photo of Gayla Jones - Gayla Jones, PhD,LCMHC/Finding The Balance Therapy, PhD, LCMHC
Gayla Jones, PhD,LCMHC/Finding The Balance Therapy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518  (Online Only)
My theoretical approach to counseling emphasizes the collaboration between therapist and client together; the client is helped to discover misconceptions about themselves as it relates to his/her thoughts and beliefs using therapeutic techniques of practice and developing coping skills to be used in "the moment." I'm an empathetic, accepting, and genuine, who focuses on encouragement of a person’s self-awareness, exploration of the here and now and assist in resolving problems. Integrating techniques proven to be evidenced based practices based on clients individual needs to promote positive outcomes of where the client wants to be.
My theoretical approach to counseling emphasizes the collaboration between therapist and client together; the client is helped to discover misconceptions about themselves as it relates to his/her thoughts and beliefs using therapeutic techniques of practice and developing coping skills to be used in "the moment." I'm an empathetic, accepting, and genuine, who focuses on encouragement of a person’s self-awareness, exploration of the here and now and assist in resolving problems. Integrating techniques proven to be evidenced based practices based on clients individual needs to promote positive outcomes of where the client wants to be.
(984) 600-7191 View (984) 600-7191
Photo of Ellie Mental Health Raleigh Blue Ridge Rd Outpatient Mental Health - Ellie Mental Health Raleigh Blue Ridge Rd, LCMHC, NCC
Ellie Mental Health Raleigh Blue Ridge Rd
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27513
We want to help clients from all walks of life and from all different backgrounds. We approach therapy from a holistic, integrative, and supportive framework where we meet clients where they are. We are trans/queer inclusive, culturally sensitive, and trauma informed. We work with a multitude of issues including identity concerns, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and mood dysregulation.
We want to help clients from all walks of life and from all different backgrounds. We approach therapy from a holistic, integrative, and supportive framework where we meet clients where they are. We are trans/queer inclusive, culturally sensitive, and trauma informed. We work with a multitude of issues including identity concerns, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and mood dysregulation.
(984) 368-4609 View (984) 368-4609
Photo of Jasmin K Ahluwalia, MSW, LCSW, CST, L2 IFST, L1 CGT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasmin K Ahluwalia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CST, L2 IFST, L1 CGT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511  (Online Only)
“You are perfect the way you are and you can always grow and do better” This statement is central to my approach and the kind of space I create for my clients. Life can be challenging, overwhelming, and stressful, but self-acceptance and self-love free us to build the skills we need to cope with relationships, family, work, and life. This journey is not easy. It requires self-reflection, awareness, exploration of thoughts and feelings, and a willingness to change. As a therapist, I believe that our mental health, sex life, and relationships are all interconnected and approach therapy from a holistic perspective.
“You are perfect the way you are and you can always grow and do better” This statement is central to my approach and the kind of space I create for my clients. Life can be challenging, overwhelming, and stressful, but self-acceptance and self-love free us to build the skills we need to cope with relationships, family, work, and life. This journey is not easy. It requires self-reflection, awareness, exploration of thoughts and feelings, and a willingness to change. As a therapist, I believe that our mental health, sex life, and relationships are all interconnected and approach therapy from a holistic perspective.
(984) 459-7635 View (984) 459-7635
Photo of A.r. Ditesheim, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A.r. Ditesheim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
Are societal pressures and expectations keeping you from living your most authentic life? Perhaps you're navigating a life transition that has you exploring your values, relationships, or upbringing. Maybe you're feeling disconnected from yourself, your partner, or your family. Whatever brings you here, I believe everyone deserves a space to reconcile, grow, and redefine what it means to live a fulfilling life that truly resonates with them. My passion lies in helping clients confront the complexities of being human in a world that often pushes us into rigid molds of how we should live, feel, and act.
Are societal pressures and expectations keeping you from living your most authentic life? Perhaps you're navigating a life transition that has you exploring your values, relationships, or upbringing. Maybe you're feeling disconnected from yourself, your partner, or your family. Whatever brings you here, I believe everyone deserves a space to reconcile, grow, and redefine what it means to live a fulfilling life that truly resonates with them. My passion lies in helping clients confront the complexities of being human in a world that often pushes us into rigid molds of how we should live, feel, and act.
(984) 207-3813 View (984) 207-3813
Photo of Nandana Surana, MEd, EdS, LPA, Psychologist
Nandana Surana
Psychologist, MEd, EdS, LPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
Over the last decade, my focus has been on helping my clients address mental blockers that stand in the way of achieving their potential. I have worked with clients across a spectrum of stressors ranging from anxiety and depression to complex emotional and behavioral disorders, learning disabilities, autism, developmental delays, and life transitions. I bring a culturally sensitive approach to psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and consultation.
Over the last decade, my focus has been on helping my clients address mental blockers that stand in the way of achieving their potential. I have worked with clients across a spectrum of stressors ranging from anxiety and depression to complex emotional and behavioral disorders, learning disabilities, autism, developmental delays, and life transitions. I bring a culturally sensitive approach to psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and consultation.
(984) 231-8356 View (984) 231-8356
Photo of Janaya Sadler - Urban Healing Counseling, PLLC, LCSW
Urban Healing Counseling, PLLC
LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27518
Starting therapy can be intimidating, but we promise that healing is possible. Urban Healing Counseling, PLLC is an innovative group psychotherapy practice. We provide outpatient counseling services for adults and teens. We also provide group therapy. We work with individuals who experience anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and a wide range of other emotional and mental health issues. We have a special interest in working with clients who are struggling with self-esteem issues, perfectionism, control issues, “the need to please" and “finding purpose”.
Starting therapy can be intimidating, but we promise that healing is possible. Urban Healing Counseling, PLLC is an innovative group psychotherapy practice. We provide outpatient counseling services for adults and teens. We also provide group therapy. We work with individuals who experience anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and a wide range of other emotional and mental health issues. We have a special interest in working with clients who are struggling with self-esteem issues, perfectionism, control issues, “the need to please" and “finding purpose”.
(984) 222-3006 View (984) 222-3006
Photo of Kristen Bounds, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kristen Bounds
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
When you think about what makes a successful relationship, whose voice do you hear? Whose relationships do you picture? Who gets to determine what is successful? These questions are essential to consider, and what if the answer to all of them was you? Embracing the idea that there is no one "right" way to be in a relationship can be liberating, but it can also be challenging to put your own beliefs and desires first.
When you think about what makes a successful relationship, whose voice do you hear? Whose relationships do you picture? Who gets to determine what is successful? These questions are essential to consider, and what if the answer to all of them was you? Embracing the idea that there is no one "right" way to be in a relationship can be liberating, but it can also be challenging to put your own beliefs and desires first.
(919) 629-1803 View (919) 629-1803
Photo of William Lehrer, LCMHC
William Lehrer
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
Hi, my name is William. I am a gender affirming, culturally competent therapist that works with both individuals and families. I want to thank you for taking this step to receive the support that you deserve! I work with a range of clients including those struggling with depression and anxiety, issues with social skills, transitioning from adolescence to adulthood, parenting skills, general stress, and LGBTQ and gender concerns. I am passionate about working with neurodivergent clients, including people on the Autism spectrum, and their parents/guardians.
Hi, my name is William. I am a gender affirming, culturally competent therapist that works with both individuals and families. I want to thank you for taking this step to receive the support that you deserve! I work with a range of clients including those struggling with depression and anxiety, issues with social skills, transitioning from adolescence to adulthood, parenting skills, general stress, and LGBTQ and gender concerns. I am passionate about working with neurodivergent clients, including people on the Autism spectrum, and their parents/guardians.
(984) 689-1904 View (984) 689-1904
Photo of Ariel Dale, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ariel Dale
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
My approach to therapy is non judgemental, trauma-informed, and LGBTQIA+/gender affirming. I specialize in working with clients who are exploring gender or sexual identities, childhood trauma, PTSD, individuals late diagnosed with ADHD or seeking ADHD diagnosis, depression, borderline personality disorder, and anxiety. I work with children, adults and couples to support you through difficult moments, explore how the past impacts you today, strengthen your relationships, and build awareness and understanding of your emotions.
My approach to therapy is non judgemental, trauma-informed, and LGBTQIA+/gender affirming. I specialize in working with clients who are exploring gender or sexual identities, childhood trauma, PTSD, individuals late diagnosed with ADHD or seeking ADHD diagnosis, depression, borderline personality disorder, and anxiety. I work with children, adults and couples to support you through difficult moments, explore how the past impacts you today, strengthen your relationships, and build awareness and understanding of your emotions.
(984) 265-2361 View (984) 265-2361
Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.