LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Schoolcraft, MI
Andrea VanLopik Dillon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Schoolcraft, MI 49087 (Online Only)
Teens and adults go through many changes, especially in our world today. My speciality is helping individuals adjust to life changes that lead to depression, rage, and anxiety. We can make transitions smoother and less daunting by creating new ways to adapt and strategically view the problem.
Teens and adults go through many changes, especially in our world today. My speciality is helping individuals adjust to life changes that lead to depression, rage, and anxiety. We can make transitions smoother and less daunting by creating new ways to adapt and strategically view the problem.
Julie Meredith Davis
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Schoolcraft, MI 49087
As I think about how change occurs for a person, I am struck by the recognition that life is full of opportunities for change, for individual growth. Sometimes these opportunities are not clear to the person because the trauma, personal or relational difficulty, fear, depression, or anxiety being experienced can be so overwhelming that one's ability to take action is clouded. In my work, I have become very mindful of the resiliency of the human spirit. I have witnessed this resiliency in times of trauma, pain, and loss. My goal is to provide you with a safe space to address your concerns.
As I think about how change occurs for a person, I am struck by the recognition that life is full of opportunities for change, for individual growth. Sometimes these opportunities are not clear to the person because the trauma, personal or relational difficulty, fear, depression, or anxiety being experienced can be so overwhelming that one's ability to take action is clouded. In my work, I have become very mindful of the resiliency of the human spirit. I have witnessed this resiliency in times of trauma, pain, and loss. My goal is to provide you with a safe space to address your concerns.
Dallas Kroll
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schoolcraft, MI 49087
Welcome, I’m glad you are here. Deciding to make changes in your life and asking for help is a big and sometimes scary step. I am here to help you with that. We are here to explore your uniquely you story. Counseling is a journey. Like all journeys, it is unique and special. Some paths may be tougher than others. Some people may encounter some bad weather along the way. However, more often than not, the view is always worth the journey. My goal as a therapist is to walk the path with you as a guide, not as an expert. You get to determine the path; I help navigate the tough times.
Welcome, I’m glad you are here. Deciding to make changes in your life and asking for help is a big and sometimes scary step. I am here to help you with that. We are here to explore your uniquely you story. Counseling is a journey. Like all journeys, it is unique and special. Some paths may be tougher than others. Some people may encounter some bad weather along the way. However, more often than not, the view is always worth the journey. My goal as a therapist is to walk the path with you as a guide, not as an expert. You get to determine the path; I help navigate the tough times.
Elaine Bussema
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Schoolcraft, MI 49087
Change can be scary, it can also be really good/exciting! I am a solution-focused therapist with a collaborative, non-judgemental, and client centered approach to treatment. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore their challenges and make progress towards creating healthy and satisfying lives.
Change can be scary, it can also be really good/exciting! I am a solution-focused therapist with a collaborative, non-judgemental, and client centered approach to treatment. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore their challenges and make progress towards creating healthy and satisfying lives.
More Therapists Nearby
Ben Weigel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
The wealth of my experience has been in working with adolescents and adults that struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, self-harm, bullying, behavioral problems, anger management, LGBTQIA+ issues, relational problems, issues related to sexuality, and physical/emotional/sexual abuse.
Life is full of challenges, which at times, may seem overwhelming. I applaud your courage as you take the first step towards personal growth and empowerment by reaching out for help. You are the expert of your life, and my goal is to meet you where you are at. Together, we can find which road works best for you and I will walk beside you on your journey of self-discovery. It is my belief that everyone has tremendous potential and that we all have something unique to give to ourselves, our loved ones and the world as a whole.
The wealth of my experience has been in working with adolescents and adults that struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, self-harm, bullying, behavioral problems, anger management, LGBTQIA+ issues, relational problems, issues related to sexuality, and physical/emotional/sexual abuse.
Life is full of challenges, which at times, may seem overwhelming. I applaud your courage as you take the first step towards personal growth and empowerment by reaching out for help. You are the expert of your life, and my goal is to meet you where you are at. Together, we can find which road works best for you and I will walk beside you on your journey of self-discovery. It is my belief that everyone has tremendous potential and that we all have something unique to give to ourselves, our loved ones and the world as a whole.
Travis Guerrero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
For many of us who have felt different, including those in the LGBTQIA+, we live with the collective trauma of existing in a system that isn’t built for us to thrive as our authentic selves. My hope is that through our collaboration we will be able to explore and identify the experiences and traumas that have led you to seek therapy services, understand how these problem areas don’t impact what is the most obvious, but also understand that sometimes these problems go much deeper, and lastly work through the things we discover to help you push through the discomfort to empower you to live authentically.
For many of us who have felt different, including those in the LGBTQIA+, we live with the collective trauma of existing in a system that isn’t built for us to thrive as our authentic selves. My hope is that through our collaboration we will be able to explore and identify the experiences and traumas that have led you to seek therapy services, understand how these problem areas don’t impact what is the most obvious, but also understand that sometimes these problems go much deeper, and lastly work through the things we discover to help you push through the discomfort to empower you to live authentically.
Robert Parsons
Counselor, M A, LLPC, CRC, CVRT
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
The path to a quality world can be intimidating for people. I understand how it can feel like it is one that you are on alone. My work with diverse groups: adolescents, people that identify as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples, and people with disabilities (PWDs) informs me of some of these challenges. My experience supporting clients in their path to wellness through anxiety, depression, trauma, disability acceptance, adoption/reunification, incarceration, personality disorders and relationship/intimacy challenges makes me confident in the progress we can achieve in counseling together.
The path to a quality world can be intimidating for people. I understand how it can feel like it is one that you are on alone. My work with diverse groups: adolescents, people that identify as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples, and people with disabilities (PWDs) informs me of some of these challenges. My experience supporting clients in their path to wellness through anxiety, depression, trauma, disability acceptance, adoption/reunification, incarceration, personality disorders and relationship/intimacy challenges makes me confident in the progress we can achieve in counseling together.
Danielle Mott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I primarily work with the LGBTQ+ community and girls and women on issues including relationships, self-esteem, and life transitions.
I value openness to new experiences, to different ways of thinking, to honest conversations, to more authentic ways of living. My goal is for the therapy environment to be characterized by openness, where there are no taboo topics and you’re supported in talking about anything. I’m committed to providing an open, affirming therapy experience, where therapy helps you open doors to more genuine and more effective ways of engaging in life.
I primarily work with the LGBTQ+ community and girls and women on issues including relationships, self-esteem, and life transitions.
I value openness to new experiences, to different ways of thinking, to honest conversations, to more authentic ways of living. My goal is for the therapy environment to be characterized by openness, where there are no taboo topics and you’re supported in talking about anything. I’m committed to providing an open, affirming therapy experience, where therapy helps you open doors to more genuine and more effective ways of engaging in life.
Amanda Frey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49024
Waitlist for new clients
2024 Update: I can take BCBS or self-pay, with availability about a week out (probably for a short time!). To stay true to my specialization and passion, I only accept new clients for relationship counseling purposes (or through a personalized referral). This can be for couples or individual counseling that centers around relationship issues. I also work closely with the queer community (LGBTQ+, nonmonogamy, kink-friendly, etc.), and I love helping clients create and maintain boundaries while becoming their authentic selves.
2024 Update: I can take BCBS or self-pay, with availability about a week out (probably for a short time!). To stay true to my specialization and passion, I only accept new clients for relationship counseling purposes (or through a personalized referral). This can be for couples or individual counseling that centers around relationship issues. I also work closely with the queer community (LGBTQ+, nonmonogamy, kink-friendly, etc.), and I love helping clients create and maintain boundaries while becoming their authentic selves.
Sam Darrow
Counselor, MA, LLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008 (Online Only)
As a queer, non-binary counselor, Sam knows how important it is to receive affirming healthcare.
Sam Darrow (they/them/theirs) is a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor (LLPC) who has earned certification from the National Board of Certified Counselors. They received their Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Western Michigan University. They provide counseling to individuals ages 14 and older, couples, and groups.
As a queer, non-binary counselor, Sam knows how important it is to receive affirming healthcare.
Sam Darrow (they/them/theirs) is a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor (LLPC) who has earned certification from the National Board of Certified Counselors. They received their Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Western Michigan University. They provide counseling to individuals ages 14 and older, couples, and groups.
Danielle Snow
LLMSW, MA
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49024
As a fat, queer, nonbinary person, my approach to therapy is informed by values in anti-oppression, anti-racism, queer and intersectional feminist theory, fat liberation, disability justice, and trauma-informed care.
Are you feeling like you’re stuck in survival mode? Does it feel overwhelming to experience your emotions? You are not alone. I am passionate about working with people on reconnecting to themselves, their bodies, and their emotions so they can live the lives they want to live. I respect the vulnerability and courage it takes to navigate one’s healing journey, and I see each person as the expert of their own life. In therapy, I aim to co-create a shame-free space with clients where we can explore, understand, and develop strategies for easing life’s challenges. My therapy style is centered in Somatic-Based Therapies and Mindfulness.
As a fat, queer, nonbinary person, my approach to therapy is informed by values in anti-oppression, anti-racism, queer and intersectional feminist theory, fat liberation, disability justice, and trauma-informed care.
Are you feeling like you’re stuck in survival mode? Does it feel overwhelming to experience your emotions? You are not alone. I am passionate about working with people on reconnecting to themselves, their bodies, and their emotions so they can live the lives they want to live. I respect the vulnerability and courage it takes to navigate one’s healing journey, and I see each person as the expert of their own life. In therapy, I aim to co-create a shame-free space with clients where we can explore, understand, and develop strategies for easing life’s challenges. My therapy style is centered in Somatic-Based Therapies and Mindfulness.
Tristen Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49024 (Online Only)
My therapeutic knowledge includes depression, anxiety, self-esteem, attachment, domestic violence, trauma, family conflict, relationships, LGBTQ+, and kink/BDSM informed treatment.
Immediate evening availability. Connection has been a continuous theme in my life. Becoming a therapist was an easy choice - it reflects a core part of me that enjoys getting to know people at a real level. I've particularly enjoyed my work with depression, anxiety, and self-esteem; relationship and family conflict; and LGBTQ+ and intimacy. While my clients have shared they enjoy my keen observations, reflective nature, and sometimes challenging inquiries, they also appreciate my lightheartedness and positive energy. I work to provide a safe, nonjudgemental environment and view YOU as the expert in your own life.
My therapeutic knowledge includes depression, anxiety, self-esteem, attachment, domestic violence, trauma, family conflict, relationships, LGBTQ+, and kink/BDSM informed treatment.
Immediate evening availability. Connection has been a continuous theme in my life. Becoming a therapist was an easy choice - it reflects a core part of me that enjoys getting to know people at a real level. I've particularly enjoyed my work with depression, anxiety, and self-esteem; relationship and family conflict; and LGBTQ+ and intimacy. While my clients have shared they enjoy my keen observations, reflective nature, and sometimes challenging inquiries, they also appreciate my lightheartedness and positive energy. I work to provide a safe, nonjudgemental environment and view YOU as the expert in your own life.
Marisa Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49024
Waitlist for new clients
I incorporate components of sand-tray, play therapy, expressive arts, DBT, and IFS to treat those who have dealt with traumas, life adjustments, LGBTQIA+ concerns, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts/self-harm, depression, and anxiety.
I work with children (5+), teens and adults on processing traumatic experiences, regulating emotions, navigating sensitive nervous systems, and strengthening relationships through laughter, creativity, art, and play.
I incorporate components of sand-tray, play therapy, expressive arts, DBT, and IFS to treat those who have dealt with traumas, life adjustments, LGBTQIA+ concerns, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts/self-harm, depression, and anxiety.
I work with children (5+), teens and adults on processing traumatic experiences, regulating emotions, navigating sensitive nervous systems, and strengthening relationships through laughter, creativity, art, and play.
Lauren Fesler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
I work with women, men, the elderly, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I strive to create an open space for you to share your story and be your authentic self. I will work to support you as you navigate your healing journey. You have the right to be heard, feel empowered, and have your beliefs acknowledged. I work off of the empowerment framework pulling techniques from different modalities to tailor sessions to clients’ specific needs
I work with women, men, the elderly, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I strive to create an open space for you to share your story and be your authentic self. I will work to support you as you navigate your healing journey. You have the right to be heard, feel empowered, and have your beliefs acknowledged. I work off of the empowerment framework pulling techniques from different modalities to tailor sessions to clients’ specific needs
Kristen (Kris) Badra
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LLP, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Waitlist for new clients
I’m culturally aware, LGBTQ allied, and holistically oriented.
Counseling is a journey that is often filled with self-discovery, new awareness, and difficult choices. Telling your story can bring relief and a new way of looking at the world, and more importantly, a new way of looking at your life. Looking at where you might want to go in your life, or how you want to have better control over your emotions, behaviors, and thoughts are the challenges I’ll help you discover and manage. I have been working in the mental health and substance abuse field for 30 years and bring a variety of therapy techniques, expertise, and life experience to my work with clients.
I’m culturally aware, LGBTQ allied, and holistically oriented.
Counseling is a journey that is often filled with self-discovery, new awareness, and difficult choices. Telling your story can bring relief and a new way of looking at the world, and more importantly, a new way of looking at your life. Looking at where you might want to go in your life, or how you want to have better control over your emotions, behaviors, and thoughts are the challenges I’ll help you discover and manage. I have been working in the mental health and substance abuse field for 30 years and bring a variety of therapy techniques, expertise, and life experience to my work with clients.
Joyce Obermeyer Pines
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, CAADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I welcome the LGBT community and have background in transgender issues.
I assist individuals and families in solving problems as they work toward recovery from addiction and other mental health conditions. I can serve as a guide, resource and source of strength for those who wish to undertake this journey. For individuals, I have an extensive background in substance use and other mental disorders and can help you work through the problems associated with those disorders. For families, I can also assist in helping parents, spouses and/or children understand what is happening to their loved one and provide coping skills for the challenges presented by the problems of the mind.
I welcome the LGBT community and have background in transgender issues.
I assist individuals and families in solving problems as they work toward recovery from addiction and other mental health conditions. I can serve as a guide, resource and source of strength for those who wish to undertake this journey. For individuals, I have an extensive background in substance use and other mental disorders and can help you work through the problems associated with those disorders. For families, I can also assist in helping parents, spouses and/or children understand what is happening to their loved one and provide coping skills for the challenges presented by the problems of the mind.
Elizabeth (Liesje) Brennan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, DP-C
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49024 (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include: depression, anxiety, neurodivergent family systems support, relationship challenges, substance abuse and dependency, post traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, body image, chronic pain, somatic disorders, and working with the LGBTQ+ population.
Therapy can be quite difficult. Having a safe environment to talk about and process life's difficulties is so very important. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step I'm here to support and empower you. You can expect me to patiently walk with you through whatever difficulties you are facing and help you learn more about yourself, respect your uniqueness, and invest in your emotional well-being. I will hold space for you. I believe in the power of creativity to help us heal and grow.
My areas of specialty include: depression, anxiety, neurodivergent family systems support, relationship challenges, substance abuse and dependency, post traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, body image, chronic pain, somatic disorders, and working with the LGBTQ+ population.
Therapy can be quite difficult. Having a safe environment to talk about and process life's difficulties is so very important. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step I'm here to support and empower you. You can expect me to patiently walk with you through whatever difficulties you are facing and help you learn more about yourself, respect your uniqueness, and invest in your emotional well-being. I will hold space for you. I believe in the power of creativity to help us heal and grow.
Scott Phillip Baron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008 (Online Only)
We have a strong commitment to social justice and serving socially vulnerable groups such as those in transgender communities.
Therapy is a way to live a more satisfying life. I strive to help those experiencing life's transitions, such as in career, relationships, personal identity, family, and/or other turning points. I also work with the very perceptive and their particular challenges. Additionally, my background connects me with medical/care-givers. Through understanding, and the integration of various approaches, primarily relational psychoanalytic, we can navigate through those challenges. I serve a variety of clientele of various cultural, ethnic, gender, and other identities.
We have a strong commitment to social justice and serving socially vulnerable groups such as those in transgender communities.
Therapy is a way to live a more satisfying life. I strive to help those experiencing life's transitions, such as in career, relationships, personal identity, family, and/or other turning points. I also work with the very perceptive and their particular challenges. Additionally, my background connects me with medical/care-givers. Through understanding, and the integration of various approaches, primarily relational psychoanalytic, we can navigate through those challenges. I serve a variety of clientele of various cultural, ethnic, gender, and other identities.
Victoria Cane
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49006
My areas of expertise include treatment of eating disorders and specific work with athletes, issues of over-control and maladaptive perfectionism, LGBT-affirmative therapy, and mood disorders.
I am a licensed psychologist with a background in community mental health and university counseling practicing privately since 2011. I take a holistic approach to therapeutic work, using the context of culture, personal development, and multiple dimensions of identity. I also specialize in evidence-based therapies including dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), behavioral activation for depression, radically open dbt (RODBT) for issues of over-control, and prolonged exposure for PTSD. I am board certified as a DBT therapist through the Linehan Institute and infuse elements of DBT like mindfulness practice into my general work.
My areas of expertise include treatment of eating disorders and specific work with athletes, issues of over-control and maladaptive perfectionism, LGBT-affirmative therapy, and mood disorders.
I am a licensed psychologist with a background in community mental health and university counseling practicing privately since 2011. I take a holistic approach to therapeutic work, using the context of culture, personal development, and multiple dimensions of identity. I also specialize in evidence-based therapies including dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), behavioral activation for depression, radically open dbt (RODBT) for issues of over-control, and prolonged exposure for PTSD. I am board certified as a DBT therapist through the Linehan Institute and infuse elements of DBT like mindfulness practice into my general work.
Jessica Rabe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
I am an LGBTQ+ affirming clinician.
I am here to help you through the toughest moments in your life; you do not have be alone in your struggles. My goal is to help individuals learn coping skills, emotional regulation skills and strategies to improve their mental health. I will support you in your therapeutic journey through a person-in-environment approach and trauma informed lens.
I am an LGBTQ+ affirming clinician.
I am here to help you through the toughest moments in your life; you do not have be alone in your struggles. My goal is to help individuals learn coping skills, emotional regulation skills and strategies to improve their mental health. I will support you in your therapeutic journey through a person-in-environment approach and trauma informed lens.
See more therapy options for Schoolcraft
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Schoolcraft
- Allegan
- Battle Creek
- Coloma
- Kalamazoo
- Mattawan
- Otsego
- Paw Paw
- Plainwell
- Portage
- Richland
- Three Rivers
- Vicksburg
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.