LGBTQ+ Therapists in Lakeland, FL
See all therapists in LakelandNot accepting new clients
Araceli Gauna-Scattolini
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, PMH-C, NCC
Verified
4 Endorsed
Verified
4 Endorsed
I am a bilingual therapist with experience working with children as young as 10 years old, adolescents, and adults. My approach to counseling is client-centered and collaborative, meaning that you are involved in every aspect of your treatment, and we work as a team to help you reach your goals. One of my biggest passions is advocating for the
LGBTQ
+ community. Part of my advocacy efforts include a FREE
queer
support group for high school teens.
Kayla Renaud
Counselor, LMHC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Kayla serves members of the
LGBTQIA
+ community (adolescents and adults), those practicing consensual non-monogamy (18+), and those who practice BDSM/kink (18+).
Are you ready to embark on a voyage to awaken your true self and reach your full potential? Voyage Counseling is ready to help you navigate big changes in your life as a trusted member of your crew. Voyage Counseling knows that you have the vision of the route you want to take in life, and is here to help support you with tools and knowledge to help you reach your goals. Kayla Renaud (she/her) is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida with an office for private practice in the heart of Downtown Lakeland. Kayla is also happy to see clients throughout Florida, via TeleHealth.
Amber Wakeman
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MCAP
Verified
Verified
I am proud to offer culturally-informed therapy for individuals in the
LGBTQ
+ community and am honored to support these individuals and their families.
Many teens and adults struggle with identity issues, anxiety, and feeling depressed. Imagine feeling comfortable with who you are, better able to manage your distress, and hopeful for your future. There are ways to change patterns over time, and I would be honored to help you or your loved one feel better.
Deborah J Wilk
Counselor, LMHC
Verified
Verified
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor which has successfully worked with all lifestyles. In my counseling practice, I specialize in helping individuals experiencing low self-esteem, depression, anger, phobias, anxiety, worry, grief, trauma, addictions, relationship issues,
LGBTQ
+, gender issues, and much more.
Jason C Weiland
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified
6 Endorsed
Verified
6 Endorsed
I help you adjust to life's emotional journey by addressing Stress, Depression, Grief/Loss,
LGBTQ
issues, Anxiety and Relationship issues.
Does your work and home life make you feel like you want to run away and hide? Is your life satisfaction at an all-time low? No surprise...you're stressed out, overwhelmed, anxious and seriously wondering what's the point?!?! Your digital life is a mess, all while juggling endless emails, daunting deadlines, tiresome meetings...and then faking a smile for the latest selfie. Even in the rare breakaway with your co-workers or friends, you find them judging that bald spot on the sides of your head where you're tearing your hair out over all the stress.
Carolina Diaz
MA, LMHC, CCISM
Verified
Verified
Carolina helps couples and families improve their communication and emotional connection, and is
LGBT
, kink, and poly knowledgeable and friendly.
At some point in our lives we reach a point where either the tools we have been using are no longer working for us, or, we are unable to see the path forward. Sometimes we find ourselves in situations in life and we are not quite sure how we got there, or we find ourselves reacting to things in a way that we don't quite understand. In a safe, open, judgement free environment, Carolina will work with you to find solutions and improvements, leading you back to your path and where you want to be.
Chasity Fowlkes (Chandler)
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, ICADC, CST, CDWF
Verified
15 Endorsed
Verified
15 Endorsed
I specialize in trauma, substance abuse, sexual issues/sex therapy,
LGBTQ
+ issues & mental health with 20 years experience in the helping field.
Are you feeling emotionally or physically disconnected from your partner? Is communication not clear? Passion & intimacy gone within your relationship? Are you having some difficulty with your sexual behaviors, urges or desires? Unsure of your sexuality? Are you a therapist or professional helper? Feeling disconnected in a relationship can leave you feeling unloved, undesirable and alone. Having sexual issues can be embarrassing and alienating. Not being accepted due to your sexuality can be hurtful. My affirming and empathetic approach can help you gain a sense of normalcy, dig deeper and begin to make the changes you desire.
Adlin Loperena
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, RCSWI
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
My areas of interest include anxiety, depression, and
LGBTQ
+ community issues.
If you're reading this, then the path to healing has begun. I would like to help you work through this journey by providing a safe space where you can express yourself without judgment. Our ability to communicate is one of our biggest challenges within our relationships. Are you having trouble getting along with those around you? Do you feel unheard or misunderstood? If you've answered YES, I'd like to give you the opportunity to explore this in a way which will allow you to feel heard and understood. Effective discussions are important, but so is positive self-talk. Is your self-esteem allowing you to be the best version of you?
Miranda Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
As a neurodivergent and
LGBTQIA
+ affirmative therapist, I aim to offer a safe space for clients to explore your strengths and achieve your goals.
Accepting new clients! Are you feeling overwhelmed with day to day tasks? Is anxiety taking over? Do you feel alone and find yourself questioning your worth? Do you find yourself asking “Why does this feel so hard?” “Am I good enough?” “Did I put the clothes in the dryer?” You "know" what you are "should do," but starting is hard. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, relationship issues, or life stressors, I'm here to support you. It takes courage to take that first step towards healing. You don't have to face it alone.
Kate Cohen-Posey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC
Verified
Verified
Kate has been in practice since 1973. During this time she has integrated many approaches: cognitive/ behavioral, mindfulness, ego state, hypnosis, EDMR, brainspotting, art, and neuroscience based therapies. Her methods are especially helpful for symptoms of trauma, anxiety, grief, interpersonal, and family problems. It is her pleasure to help patients discover the resources they have within to manage life's challenges. She is a certified supervisor for licensure.
Daniela Suarez
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
If you are reading this, that means that you have already chosen to make the decision to ask for help. And sometimes, that is the hardest part. I'm glad you're here. I am a bilingual therapist who has experience working alongside children, teens, young adults and adults.
15 Second Videos
Jason C Weiland
Maurice J Donaldson
Cue Counseling Center
Rachel Mottern
Serenity Space Therapy
Samantha Clark
Megan C Holleran
Roz DeAngelis-Tyre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified
Verified
Hi there! I am a LCSW with over 12 years experience helping clients from all walks of life. I accept kids, teens and adults. There is no judgement in my talk space no matter what you bring into the room. Life can throw us some pretty challenging stuff at times, or maybe you experienced challenges for a very long time. Whether it's something that has just surfaced or something you have been working on for a long time, we can work on it together.
Cody Lane Goers
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified
Verified
Beginning the therapy journey can be difficult and finding the right therapist for yourself is important. Therapy allows us the space to process our difficulties, to talk through difficult decisions and figure out the path that we are wanting to take. I believe human connection is what leads to the most success in therapy and finding that right person can feel overwhelming. I would be honored to help you to achieve the goals that you have set for counseling.
Gina Claxton - Qualified Lcsw Supervisor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP
Verified
Verified
It is easy to feel anxious, depressed, have low self esteem, or grief. Maybe you are in a difficult relationship where your needs aren't being met, or are recovering from some form of infidelity. I believe healing can be found with self exploration, conversation and the support of a compassionate therapist. I work to make sure you feel safe to take time, breathe, feel free to process your thoughts (big or small), cry, shout, and laugh. It is through this process I hope you will find healing and strength.
Bianca K Strudwick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Verified
I am passionate about working with young adults and adults who are seeking to learn effective, practical, and sustainable techniques to improve their lives. I help my clients get untangled from self-limiting beliefs and societal expectations, transform their relationships with themselves and others, find their true selves, and design a life that feels more authentic and meaningful to them. My approach to counseling is nonjudgemental, warm and relational, eclectic and collaborative. I strive to create an inclusive safe space of compassion, and acceptance where everyone is welcome.
Stephanie Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Experiencing trauma can cause depression, anxiety, and many other physical and emotional symptoms. I have specialized in working with trauma survivors for the past 15 years and have helped many children and adults overcome symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Whenever you're ready, we can work through any trauma that you have experienced, no matter how scary or how long ago, you don't have to stay stuck or afraid. I have worked with children and adults living with conditions and life experiences that hold them back and I would be honored to help guide you with moving forward.
Jason Tanner MA, LMHC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified
3 Endorsed
Verified
3 Endorsed
Life's challenges can be overwhelming when you're facing them alone. I'm here to really listen, to be supportive, and to help you grow to be the person you want to be.
Maurice J Donaldson
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Are constant issues between you and your partner leading your relationship to a place of hopelessness? Are feelings of unhappiness causing you to lack motivation in doing the things you once enjoyed? Are unpleasant memories of a traumatic event creating nightmares or keeping you on edge? If this describes you, I believe I can help. Managing conflict in healthy ways helps restore hope in a relationship. Feeling good about yourself and the joys of life increase happiness and motivation to do what you desire. Learning to reduce stress levels in exposure to trauma helps you relax and focus on healing your mind, body, and spirit.
Bob Scarff
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified
Verified
Life is challenging. Often more is expected of us while we struggle to manage those demands. This is made even more difficult when dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, and other emotions that can drain us physically and influence our thoughts and behaviors. You don't have to face this alone. We can work together to help you find peace of mind through processing core issues and developing skills to meet future challenges.
Amanda G Johnson
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS
Verified
Verified
Relationships should be where we find love, safety, and fulfillment. It is terrifying and heartbreaking to think that your marriage might end. There is a distance between you and your spouse that can no longer be ignored. Your family needs help to build and improve your connection with one another. Feeling desperate for a solution. You want so much more for yourself, your family, and/or your marriage.
See more therapy options for
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.