LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Polk County, FL
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.
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.
I have a passion for working with the LGBT+, ENM/Polyamorous, minority, and Kink communities.
I can offer empathetic, judgement free, and knowledgeable care to people of all walks of life. I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, and other techniques. I believe in going where the client leads, because it is first and foremost about them! I am straight forward and love to use humor, when appropriate.
I have a passion for working with the LGBT+, ENM/Polyamorous, minority, and Kink communities.
I can offer empathetic, judgement free, and knowledgeable care to people of all walks of life. I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, and other techniques. I believe in going where the client leads, because it is first and foremost about them! I am straight forward and love to use humor, when appropriate.
Kevin Berry
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33801
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with our LGBTQIA+ community, as well as with all individuals and couples.
I am able to use a range of therapeutic practices, such as CBT, DBT, Reality Therapy, Guided meditation, Imago Relationship Therapy & Gottman Theory to aid my clients. I hope you will allow me the opportunity to help you on your journey toward healing.
I am passionate about working with our LGBTQIA+ community, as well as with all individuals and couples.
I am able to use a range of therapeutic practices, such as CBT, DBT, Reality Therapy, Guided meditation, Imago Relationship Therapy & Gottman Theory to aid my clients. I hope you will allow me the opportunity to help you on your journey toward healing.
Daniela Suarez
Registered Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33805
Queer Affirming, LGBTQIA+ Affirming, Trans Ally, Social Justice, Inclusive, Equity, BIPOC.
My approach to therapy is person-centered, focusing on taking into account that the client-therapist relationship is unique and should always benefit you. At Kinti Counseling, LLC, we believe that healing should be accessible, equitable & sincere. We are dedicated to personalized care that helps you navigate life's challenges & rediscover inner strength!
Queer Affirming, LGBTQIA+ Affirming, Trans Ally, Social Justice, Inclusive, Equity, BIPOC.
My approach to therapy is person-centered, focusing on taking into account that the client-therapist relationship is unique and should always benefit you. At Kinti Counseling, LLC, we believe that healing should be accessible, equitable & sincere. We are dedicated to personalized care that helps you navigate life's challenges & rediscover inner strength!
Javier Rosario
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
If you’re struggling with chronic illness, LGBTQ-related issues, or navigating stress and anxiety, you’re not alone.
I offer a supportive, individualized, and judgment-free space focused on your health and healing. My specialty includes a strengths-based, culturally competent, and solution-focused approach, utilizing multi-system, trauma-informed care. Together, we’ll explore various aspects of your life, fostering resilience as you navigate your unique challenges.
If you’re struggling with chronic illness, LGBTQ-related issues, or navigating stress and anxiety, you’re not alone.
I offer a supportive, individualized, and judgment-free space focused on your health and healing. My specialty includes a strengths-based, culturally competent, and solution-focused approach, utilizing multi-system, trauma-informed care. Together, we’ll explore various aspects of your life, fostering resilience as you navigate your unique challenges.
My approach is person-centered and inclusive, and I also offer care in areas like mood disorders, stress management, LGBTQ+ affirming therapy, addiction, and trauma.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the daily challenges of managing a chronic illness or struggling with the emotional toll it takes on your mental health? Perhaps your pain or flare-ups are impacting your mood and leaving you anxious or frustrated. Whether you're navigating the complexities of physical or mental health, you may be seeking a space where your experiences are validated, and your sense of self is strengthened. I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with chronic illness and medical trauma, helping you explore the connection between your mind and body.
My approach is person-centered and inclusive, and I also offer care in areas like mood disorders, stress management, LGBTQ+ affirming therapy, addiction, and trauma.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the daily challenges of managing a chronic illness or struggling with the emotional toll it takes on your mental health? Perhaps your pain or flare-ups are impacting your mood and leaving you anxious or frustrated. Whether you're navigating the complexities of physical or mental health, you may be seeking a space where your experiences are validated, and your sense of self is strengthened. I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with chronic illness and medical trauma, helping you explore the connection between your mind and body.
I identify as a Black LGBTQ+ woman, pronouns "she/her
I work with a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and more. I typically take an integrative approach, combining cognitive behavioral therapy techniques with supportive therapy interventions to best meet your needs.
I identify as a Black LGBTQ+ woman, pronouns "she/her
I work with a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and more. I typically take an integrative approach, combining cognitive behavioral therapy techniques with supportive therapy interventions to best meet your needs.
Better Together Marriage and Family Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Lakeland, FL 33803
Waitlist for new clients
I am a supporter of the LGBTQIA community and even though I'm heterosexual, I have family members and close friends in the community.
I am licensed in the state of Florida since 2011 and I am also a Qualified Supervisor for RCI's. Relationships are a full time job and can be overwhelming yet so worth it. My professional mission is to provide my clients with the tools that they need to make everyday life fulfilling and purposeful. My specialty is working with couples to overcome barriers and to find their love again. Its important to note that yes couples are Better Together but in reality sometimes they are better a part and co parenting at a distance. I welcome all couples!Let's work together, the Best is Yet to come!
I am a supporter of the LGBTQIA community and even though I'm heterosexual, I have family members and close friends in the community.
I am licensed in the state of Florida since 2011 and I am also a Qualified Supervisor for RCI's. Relationships are a full time job and can be overwhelming yet so worth it. My professional mission is to provide my clients with the tools that they need to make everyday life fulfilling and purposeful. My specialty is working with couples to overcome barriers and to find their love again. Its important to note that yes couples are Better Together but in reality sometimes they are better a part and co parenting at a distance. I welcome all couples!Let's work together, the Best is Yet to come!
Your friendly neighborhood therapist, and I help millennial and LGBTQ+ professionals whose lives have been impacted by anxiety, addiction and trauma.
Here's where I come in. I help you: create safety and meaning, challenge negative beliefs about yourself, others and the world; develop healthy coping skills, heal from trauma and reignite passion in your life, career, and relationships. You'll find a non-judgemental space where we can dig deep and explore what's been keeping you stuck.
Your friendly neighborhood therapist, and I help millennial and LGBTQ+ professionals whose lives have been impacted by anxiety, addiction and trauma.
Here's where I come in. I help you: create safety and meaning, challenge negative beliefs about yourself, others and the world; develop healthy coping skills, heal from trauma and reignite passion in your life, career, and relationships. You'll find a non-judgemental space where we can dig deep and explore what's been keeping you stuck.
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.
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.
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQ+-related issues, relationship issues, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, & trauma and abuse.
I incorporate Mind-Body Medicine techniques in therapy to help release stored trauma if clients feel these techniques are useful. My reason for entering the field of Mental Health counseling is because I wanted to become the person, I needed but didn't have when I was young.
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQ+-related issues, relationship issues, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, & trauma and abuse.
I incorporate Mind-Body Medicine techniques in therapy to help release stored trauma if clients feel these techniques are useful. My reason for entering the field of Mental Health counseling is because I wanted to become the person, I needed but didn't have when I was young.
Meet Our LGBTQ+ Therapists
I support clients who experience distress as a result of relationship conflict, workplace stress, grief, or mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, OCD, LGBT issues, substance abuse, and more.
I create an environment where you can feel heard and understood. Your session allows you to vent and speak your mind. It's okay to be yourself without feeling judged, and talk about things that are important to you. The goal is for you to leave the session feeling empowered, hopeful, and encouraged.
I support clients who experience distress as a result of relationship conflict, workplace stress, grief, or mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, OCD, LGBT issues, substance abuse, and more.
I create an environment where you can feel heard and understood. Your session allows you to vent and speak your mind. It's okay to be yourself without feeling judged, and talk about things that are important to you. The goal is for you to leave the session feeling empowered, hopeful, and encouraged.
I am proud to offer culturally-informed therapy for individuals in the LGBTQ+ community and am honored to support these individuals and their families.
Serving the state of Florida (virtually) and Central Florida (in-person). Many people struggle with anxiety, feeling depressed, and self-esteem. Life can start to feel unmanageable at times. Imagine feeling comfortable with who you are, better equipped to handle 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.
I am proud to offer culturally-informed therapy for individuals in the LGBTQ+ community and am honored to support these individuals and their families.
Serving the state of Florida (virtually) and Central Florida (in-person). Many people struggle with anxiety, feeling depressed, and self-esteem. Life can start to feel unmanageable at times. Imagine feeling comfortable with who you are, better equipped to handle 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.
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.
My guiding principle is to meet clients where they are and help them grow and develop the skillset they need to reach their full potential. All services are tailored to meet each client's unique needs using the appropriate mental health counseling modalities.
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.
My guiding principle is to meet clients where they are and help them grow and develop the skillset they need to reach their full potential. All services are tailored to meet each client's unique needs using the appropriate mental health counseling modalities.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and bereavement, with populations including Individual, child/adolescent, couples counseling, and marital/family conflict, as well as unique training and insight into issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community.
My name is Christopher Santini and I am an LCSW in the state of Florida. As a clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience, I have had the privilege of working with culturally, economically, and ethnically diverse individuals, families, couples, and groups from all walks of life. I have practiced domestically and internationally including, NYC, California, and most recently in Dublin, Ireland. I have found using teletherapy to be very convenient for clients with challenging schedules. Taking the step to enter into therapy can be a difficult but rewarding one.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and bereavement, with populations including Individual, child/adolescent, couples counseling, and marital/family conflict, as well as unique training and insight into issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community.
My name is Christopher Santini and I am an LCSW in the state of Florida. As a clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience, I have had the privilege of working with culturally, economically, and ethnically diverse individuals, families, couples, and groups from all walks of life. I have practiced domestically and internationally including, NYC, California, and most recently in Dublin, Ireland. I have found using teletherapy to be very convenient for clients with challenging schedules. Taking the step to enter into therapy can be a difficult but rewarding one.
I also identify with and specialize in working with LGBT persons.
My biggest strengths are in using a warm, empathic, and personal approach, sometimes applying humor when helpful, but also in helping clients understand and articulate what is really troubling them. My niche is working with substance abuse, LGBT persons, depression, and anxiety. I understand these issues in ways many other therapists do not.
I also identify with and specialize in working with LGBT persons.
My biggest strengths are in using a warm, empathic, and personal approach, sometimes applying humor when helpful, but also in helping clients understand and articulate what is really troubling them. My niche is working with substance abuse, LGBT persons, depression, and anxiety. I understand these issues in ways many other therapists do not.
I have extensive experience in Couples, Families, Blended Families, LGBTQ+ Couples and Families, Open Relationships and Non-Monogamy.
Welcome! I have been practicing counseling since 1997. I am licensed in Florida, New York, and Massachusetts; I received my first graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy in 1999 at Nova Southeastern University in Florida, and continued on to NYU's School of Social Work, receiving my MSW in 2003. My style is warm, attentive, collaborative and nonjudgmental. I am also able to be very active and directive and consider myself a good leader. I can be fair and not align with one person over the other and help lead you to new ways of being in relationship.
I have extensive experience in Couples, Families, Blended Families, LGBTQ+ Couples and Families, Open Relationships and Non-Monogamy.
Welcome! I have been practicing counseling since 1997. I am licensed in Florida, New York, and Massachusetts; I received my first graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy in 1999 at Nova Southeastern University in Florida, and continued on to NYU's School of Social Work, receiving my MSW in 2003. My style is warm, attentive, collaborative and nonjudgmental. I am also able to be very active and directive and consider myself a good leader. I can be fair and not align with one person over the other and help lead you to new ways of being in relationship.
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 all get to a place where the tools we have been using are no longer working for us, where we feel stuck, where we are unable to see the path forward. You might be in a relationship that is changing or having trouble communicating. You might be burning out at work, overwhelmed and lost as to what to do next. In a safe, open, judgement free environment, Carolina will team up with you to figure out your path forward and get you back on track, headed in the right direction.
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 all get to a place where the tools we have been using are no longer working for us, where we feel stuck, where we are unable to see the path forward. You might be in a relationship that is changing or having trouble communicating. You might be burning out at work, overwhelmed and lost as to what to do next. In a safe, open, judgement free environment, Carolina will team up with you to figure out your path forward and get you back on track, headed in the right direction.
Sonica Sharma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
My clients are often BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, children of immigrants, and cycle-breakers—people who’ve learned to survive by staying small, silent, or hyper-independent.
Together, we create space to unpack the cultural and relational layers that shape your anxiety, burnout, or inner critic. I bring a trauma-informed, decolonized lens to therapy that blends cognitive, somatic, and parts work (IFS). This is a space where your full self gets to show up—where you’re not "too much," "too sensitive," or too anything.
My clients are often BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, children of immigrants, and cycle-breakers—people who’ve learned to survive by staying small, silent, or hyper-independent.
Together, we create space to unpack the cultural and relational layers that shape your anxiety, burnout, or inner critic. I bring a trauma-informed, decolonized lens to therapy that blends cognitive, somatic, and parts work (IFS). This is a space where your full self gets to show up—where you’re not "too much," "too sensitive," or too anything.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and who is poly/kink friendly, I strive to create a welcoming space for all.
Through a blend of Narrative Therapy, Solutions-Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I help clients explore their stories, identify patterns, and develop practical tools for change. These approaches are designed to empower you by shifting your perspective, improving coping strategies, and fostering healthier ways of thinking and being.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and who is poly/kink friendly, I strive to create a welcoming space for all.
Through a blend of Narrative Therapy, Solutions-Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I help clients explore their stories, identify patterns, and develop practical tools for change. These approaches are designed to empower you by shifting your perspective, improving coping strategies, and fostering healthier ways of thinking and being.
See more therapy options for Polk County
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.