LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Watertown, CT

Miranda Erikson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
12 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with teens, adults, and families who feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that aren’t working. My approach is supportive, structured, and down-to-earth, focused on helping you feel understood while building practical tools for real life. You don’t have to have the right words or know where to start—we’ll figure it out together. We’ll do meaningful work, and yes, sometimes there’s room for humor too. Therapy doesn’t have to feel intimidating to be effective.
I work with teens, adults, and families who feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that aren’t working. My approach is supportive, structured, and down-to-earth, focused on helping you feel understood while building practical tools for real life. You don’t have to have the right words or know where to start—we’ll figure it out together. We’ll do meaningful work, and yes, sometimes there’s room for humor too. Therapy doesn’t have to feel intimidating to be effective.
(860) 419-4876 View (860) 419-4876
Nicole T Quarles
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with teens (14+) and adult women, including many in the queer community, especially artists, writers, and creative thinkers who are ready to understand themselves more clearly.
Together, we will work on quieting social anxiety, communicating with more confidence, and addressing people pleasing behaviors that aren't serving you. I use a strengths based approach that blends ACT, IFS, and mindfulness so growth happens on a soul level and in the everyday moments of your life.
I work with teens (14+) and adult women, including many in the queer community, especially artists, writers, and creative thinkers who are ready to understand themselves more clearly.
Together, we will work on quieting social anxiety, communicating with more confidence, and addressing people pleasing behaviors that aren't serving you. I use a strengths based approach that blends ACT, IFS, and mindfulness so growth happens on a soul level and in the everyday moments of your life.
(475) 267-6747 View (475) 267-6747
Cheyanne Inez Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Watertown, CT 06795
Life’s battles are not meant to be fought on your own. Anxiety, depression, mood swings, daily stress, relationship issues, loss, transitions..things aren’t always easy, and there is no shame in reaching out for help! I believe everyone can benefit from therapy, having a supportive environment during these hard times can make a world of difference. Leave therapy sessions feeling lighter, more relaxed, and confident with the tools we will build and coping skills you will learn.
Life’s battles are not meant to be fought on your own. Anxiety, depression, mood swings, daily stress, relationship issues, loss, transitions..things aren’t always easy, and there is no shame in reaching out for help! I believe everyone can benefit from therapy, having a supportive environment during these hard times can make a world of difference. Leave therapy sessions feeling lighter, more relaxed, and confident with the tools we will build and coping skills you will learn.
(860) 413-1976 View (860) 413-1976
Alyiah Y Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, BS
Watertown, CT 06779
As a psychotherapist and mental wellness professional, I’m here to walk with you on your journey to healing, growth, and self-discovery. Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. I specialize in supporting individuals struggling with mental health concerns, addiction, and major life transitions, as well as those seeking deeper spiritual and personal growth. Using a warm, integrative approach, I create a safe, supportive space where you can find clarity, confidence, and balance. No matter where you are on your path, I’m here to guide, uplift, and empower you every step of the way.
As a psychotherapist and mental wellness professional, I’m here to walk with you on your journey to healing, growth, and self-discovery. Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. I specialize in supporting individuals struggling with mental health concerns, addiction, and major life transitions, as well as those seeking deeper spiritual and personal growth. Using a warm, integrative approach, I create a safe, supportive space where you can find clarity, confidence, and balance. No matter where you are on your path, I’m here to guide, uplift, and empower you every step of the way.
(860) 864-4952 View (860) 864-4952
Michael Dutko
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LADC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have over 23 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and families. I specialize in the assessment and treatment of Substance Abuse Disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, ADHD, behavioral difficulties and emotional regulation. I am trained in a variety of different models including CBT/EMDR/DBT /CPT Person Centered Approaches, Prolonged Exposure Therapy and Tf-CBT.
I have over 23 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and families. I specialize in the assessment and treatment of Substance Abuse Disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, ADHD, behavioral difficulties and emotional regulation. I am trained in a variety of different models including CBT/EMDR/DBT /CPT Person Centered Approaches, Prolonged Exposure Therapy and Tf-CBT.
(959) 800-0873 View (959) 800-0873
Collin Benedict
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Watertown, CT 06795
Collin works with adolescents, young adults, adults, and families navigating anxiety, mood concerns, trauma, substance use, relationship challenges, identity exploration, and life transitions. Clients may come feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward. Collin offers a warm, nonjudgmental space to explore the experiences and patterns shaping their lives, build insight and self-understanding, and develop strengths and strategies for meaningful change.
Collin works with adolescents, young adults, adults, and families navigating anxiety, mood concerns, trauma, substance use, relationship challenges, identity exploration, and life transitions. Clients may come feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward. Collin offers a warm, nonjudgmental space to explore the experiences and patterns shaping their lives, build insight and self-understanding, and develop strengths and strategies for meaningful change.
(959) 210-6412 View (959) 210-6412
Laura Manderino-Martins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Watertown, CT 06795
I truly believe that everyone is capable of healing, they just need the right tools to be guided there. You are unique, and your story and experience matters. I am an experienced psychotherapist who has been trained in trauma & crisis management for children & adults. It would be my pleasure to assist you to find peace & well being. I use DBT, CBT, IFS & somatic experiencing to assist with feelings of anxiety, depression, difficulty focusing, stress, frustration, & perfectionism. I am an active participant in your care & offer a combination of holistic & conventional methods tailored to what best suites your needs and goals.
I truly believe that everyone is capable of healing, they just need the right tools to be guided there. You are unique, and your story and experience matters. I am an experienced psychotherapist who has been trained in trauma & crisis management for children & adults. It would be my pleasure to assist you to find peace & well being. I use DBT, CBT, IFS & somatic experiencing to assist with feelings of anxiety, depression, difficulty focusing, stress, frustration, & perfectionism. I am an active participant in your care & offer a combination of holistic & conventional methods tailored to what best suites your needs and goals.
(203) 590-8797 View (203) 590-8797
Changing Pathways LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, IMH-E
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m Kendra Cole, a LMFT and Reiki practitioner (Level I & II) who genuinely enjoys working with humans of all kinds; particularly those of the kink, poly, LGBTQIA, and neurodivergent communities, or those needing postgrad licensure supervision.
I strive to create a safe, judgment-free space — so come as you are, wherever you are. Our working rapport may not be what originally brings you into therapy, but it is often the reason clients stay when “the work” starts to get hard. Change is hard enough — let’s do it together!
I’m Kendra Cole, a LMFT and Reiki practitioner (Level I & II) who genuinely enjoys working with humans of all kinds; particularly those of the kink, poly, LGBTQIA, and neurodivergent communities, or those needing postgrad licensure supervision.
I strive to create a safe, judgment-free space — so come as you are, wherever you are. Our working rapport may not be what originally brings you into therapy, but it is often the reason clients stay when “the work” starts to get hard. Change is hard enough — let’s do it together!
(860) 764-3521 View (860) 764-3521
Jen Kempf, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Watertown, CT 06795
Feeling stuck, anxious, or questioning if you’re in the right relationship? Been with someone for years and still can't figure out if you're happy? You're not alone. So many people struggle with the uncertainty of whether they are in love or just comfortable. Can my relationship be saved? Perhaps it's been a lifetime of people pleasing because you worry too much about hurting others or don't even know what you need. Whether it's stress, feeling trapped and can't stop your brain from going in circles worrying about relationship, children, or work. Unable to focus and It’s a clear signal that something needs to change.
Feeling stuck, anxious, or questioning if you’re in the right relationship? Been with someone for years and still can't figure out if you're happy? You're not alone. So many people struggle with the uncertainty of whether they are in love or just comfortable. Can my relationship be saved? Perhaps it's been a lifetime of people pleasing because you worry too much about hurting others or don't even know what you need. Whether it's stress, feeling trapped and can't stop your brain from going in circles worrying about relationship, children, or work. Unable to focus and It’s a clear signal that something needs to change.
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Flowing River Counseling, LLC (Evette Corujo-Aird)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Watertown, CT 06795
I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families who may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or exhausted from trying to manage everything on their own. Many come to therapy with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, ADHD, OCD, relationship concerns, or major life transitions. Others may know that something is not working but have difficulty identifying exactly what needs to change. Together, we work to understand the patterns, experiences, and circumstances contributing to what you are facing and identify practical, meaningful ways to move forward.
I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families who may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or exhausted from trying to manage everything on their own. Many come to therapy with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, ADHD, OCD, relationship concerns, or major life transitions. Others may know that something is not working but have difficulty identifying exactly what needs to change. Together, we work to understand the patterns, experiences, and circumstances contributing to what you are facing and identify practical, meaningful ways to move forward.
(860) 362-3616 View (860) 362-3616
Angelo Maria Farenga
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Watertown, CT 06795
Welcome — I'm really glad you're here. With over 30 years walking alongside people through relationships, trauma, attachment, blended families, divorce and separation, and neurodiverse identities, I've come to believe healing happens best in a relationship built on warmth and trust. My approach is humanistic and integrative, honoring your whole self — your history, your culture, your story. As we get started, I'll ease you into the process gently, one step at a time, so you always feel supported, never rushed.
Welcome — I'm really glad you're here. With over 30 years walking alongside people through relationships, trauma, attachment, blended families, divorce and separation, and neurodiverse identities, I've come to believe healing happens best in a relationship built on warmth and trust. My approach is humanistic and integrative, honoring your whole self — your history, your culture, your story. As we get started, I'll ease you into the process gently, one step at a time, so you always feel supported, never rushed.
(860) 578-8845 View (860) 578-8845
Artlighten LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC, CLAT, LMHC-QS, MHC
Watertown, CT 06795
Are you experiencing imbalance, anxiety, depression, unwanted emotions or thoughts, or having difficulty adjusting to life changes, or taking control of your life? Are you concerned for a child or spouse and aren't sure how to help them? This can feel overwhelming and impossible to solve. This dwelling is not a permanent place and you can be relieved of this. With my expertise in combining talk therapy with art therapy, I can guide you in opening new doors to mindfulness, self-expression and healing. Art Therapists are trained extensively in the use of art materials so that you may use them in a safe and healing manner.
Are you experiencing imbalance, anxiety, depression, unwanted emotions or thoughts, or having difficulty adjusting to life changes, or taking control of your life? Are you concerned for a child or spouse and aren't sure how to help them? This can feel overwhelming and impossible to solve. This dwelling is not a permanent place and you can be relieved of this. With my expertise in combining talk therapy with art therapy, I can guide you in opening new doors to mindfulness, self-expression and healing. Art Therapists are trained extensively in the use of art materials so that you may use them in a safe and healing manner.
(860) 483-3954 View (860) 483-3954
Desiree Scime
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC
2 Endorsed
Watertown, CT 06795
Are you questioning what comes next or feeling unsure about how to move forward? Do you feel overwhelmed, empty, or as though the things that once brought you joy no longer hold meaning? Are you struggling to find meaning in your relationships? Is alcohol or substance use causing hardship to you or your loved ones? With over thirty years of experience in the mental health and substance use fields, I am here to help.
Are you questioning what comes next or feeling unsure about how to move forward? Do you feel overwhelmed, empty, or as though the things that once brought you joy no longer hold meaning? Are you struggling to find meaning in your relationships? Is alcohol or substance use causing hardship to you or your loved ones? With over thirty years of experience in the mental health and substance use fields, I am here to help.
(203) 446-2985 View (203) 446-2985
Hype Healing: CT Holistic Therapy & Advocacy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Watertown, CT 06795
Do you feel like the world is too loud and your voice too small? Whether navigating the heavy fog of depression, the hum of anxiety, or the overwhelming "What now?"—I see you. I’m Shana Marques, an LCSW, Certified School Social Worker, and a dedicated advocate for those who feel unseen. I founded Hype Healing to look at the "whole human." As a true empath and believer in change, I am here to be the person who "hypes" you up—reminding you that even the smallest progress is a victory and that resilience is your birthright. My practice is deeply person-centered: I meet you exactly where you are, in your rawest moments, no judgement.
Do you feel like the world is too loud and your voice too small? Whether navigating the heavy fog of depression, the hum of anxiety, or the overwhelming "What now?"—I see you. I’m Shana Marques, an LCSW, Certified School Social Worker, and a dedicated advocate for those who feel unseen. I founded Hype Healing to look at the "whole human." As a true empath and believer in change, I am here to be the person who "hypes" you up—reminding you that even the smallest progress is a victory and that resilience is your birthright. My practice is deeply person-centered: I meet you exactly where you are, in your rawest moments, no judgement.
(475) 252-9270 View (475) 252-9270
Thomas Allen
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Watertown, CT 06795
I work best with children, teens, parents, and families who are ready for support but may not know where to start. Many are dealing with anxiety, frustration, school stress, conflict at home, identity concerns, or emotional ups and downs that affect daily life. Parents may feel concerned about their child’s behavior, emotions, or communication. Teens may feel misunderstood or overwhelmed. I also have a strong passion for supporting Black, Brown, and people of color in a space that honors their lived experiences and identity.
I work best with children, teens, parents, and families who are ready for support but may not know where to start. Many are dealing with anxiety, frustration, school stress, conflict at home, identity concerns, or emotional ups and downs that affect daily life. Parents may feel concerned about their child’s behavior, emotions, or communication. Teens may feel misunderstood or overwhelmed. I also have a strong passion for supporting Black, Brown, and people of color in a space that honors their lived experiences and identity.
(475) 251-8352 View (475) 251-8352
Brendan Stack
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LADC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, panic attacks, or substance use, feel free to contact me via phone call, text, or email. I’ll respond back within 2 hours, Monday – Sunday. My office hours are 8am EST to 5pm EST. Struggling through serious relationship problems? I’ve helped dozens of couples and perhaps I can help you. Is your teen son or daughter having difficulties adjusting to the school year and feeling down? Call me anytime at 518-610-4528 and we can schedule a free consultation to discuss your individual needs.
If you are suffering from depression, anxiety, panic attacks, or substance use, feel free to contact me via phone call, text, or email. I’ll respond back within 2 hours, Monday – Sunday. My office hours are 8am EST to 5pm EST. Struggling through serious relationship problems? I’ve helped dozens of couples and perhaps I can help you. Is your teen son or daughter having difficulties adjusting to the school year and feeling down? Call me anytime at 518-610-4528 and we can schedule a free consultation to discuss your individual needs.
(203) 601-7438 View (203) 601-7438
Krista Lee
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you experiencing distressing symptoms that are making it hard to get through the day? I want to assist you in creating peace in your life. I would love to assist you in achieving your goals, and exploring skills that can help you cope with symptoms that may be effecting your daily life. It's possible to feel relief from these symptoms- including worry, anxiety, depression, grief, school concerns, & parenting challenges. I am here to help. I specialize in treating individuals experiencing extreme stress, mood disorders, chronic illness and chronic pain, and a variety of conditions and situations that can be difficult to manage.
Are you experiencing distressing symptoms that are making it hard to get through the day? I want to assist you in creating peace in your life. I would love to assist you in achieving your goals, and exploring skills that can help you cope with symptoms that may be effecting your daily life. It's possible to feel relief from these symptoms- including worry, anxiety, depression, grief, school concerns, & parenting challenges. I am here to help. I specialize in treating individuals experiencing extreme stress, mood disorders, chronic illness and chronic pain, and a variety of conditions and situations that can be difficult to manage.
(475) 290-6148 View (475) 290-6148
Amy N Dunn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The work we do in therapy can be so powerful and impactful. I utilize our therapeutic connection, along with a flexible combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy to inform treatment and guide you toward your goals. Whether you struggle with relationships, juggling the many hats you wear, or working through some uncomfortable thoughts, I recognize that every person’s story is so intricately unique, and I aim to support you in making the changes necessary on your path to healing.
The work we do in therapy can be so powerful and impactful. I utilize our therapeutic connection, along with a flexible combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy to inform treatment and guide you toward your goals. Whether you struggle with relationships, juggling the many hats you wear, or working through some uncomfortable thoughts, I recognize that every person’s story is so intricately unique, and I aim to support you in making the changes necessary on your path to healing.
(203) 590-9849 View (203) 590-9849
Dr. Barrie Birge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MFT, CHyp
Serves Area
If you or your relationship feels stuck and need help breaking harmful, recursive patterns (usually generational) to feel loving, prosperous, and healthy, reach out. Because once you grasp that your personal beliefs (again, often generational) create your emotions and that those emotions result in your behaviors, you can transform yourself and your relationships. I will help you replace outdated negative beliefs with healthy new ones. You will learn how to communicate and express emotions effectively. You will learn how to navigate life by becoming aware that you are playing the game of life; you just need to understand the rules.
If you or your relationship feels stuck and need help breaking harmful, recursive patterns (usually generational) to feel loving, prosperous, and healthy, reach out. Because once you grasp that your personal beliefs (again, often generational) create your emotions and that those emotions result in your behaviors, you can transform yourself and your relationships. I will help you replace outdated negative beliefs with healthy new ones. You will learn how to communicate and express emotions effectively. You will learn how to navigate life by becoming aware that you are playing the game of life; you just need to understand the rules.
(203) 344-7396 View (203) 344-7396
Deborah A Oberman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW , CSW, CHT, MBA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Learning to live your best life can be challenging but it can also be self-actualizing. We can help clients from ages 14 to 100 assist in finding a life worth living. We each have specializations that cover the life span from teen age issues to aging. Our couples counseling is unique in that we have two clinicians in each session, so everyone will feel heard. We also specialize helping people to work on weight related issues. We work in conjunction with 12 steps, medications prescribed by your physician or weight surgery to make life long changes.
Learning to live your best life can be challenging but it can also be self-actualizing. We can help clients from ages 14 to 100 assist in finding a life worth living. We each have specializations that cover the life span from teen age issues to aging. Our couples counseling is unique in that we have two clinicians in each session, so everyone will feel heard. We also specialize helping people to work on weight related issues. We work in conjunction with 12 steps, medications prescribed by your physician or weight surgery to make life long changes.
(203) 635-0591 View (203) 635-0591

See more therapy options for Watertown

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.