LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Saint Petersburg, FL
Lou Bardach
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33707
I am a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern (RCSWI) working primarily with adults to heal the effects of childhood trauma & other adverse childhood experiences. Being raised in abusive, chaotic, or neglectful environments can result in anxiety, depression, panic attacks, self-esteem issues, relationship/codependency issues, addictions & compulsions, and critical judgment toward oneself and others. I see a wide diversity of clients, but as a gay man experienced in working with LGBTQ+ individuals, I'm particularly interested in helping others heal from the compounding wounds of homophobia and other social oppression.
I am a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern (RCSWI) working primarily with adults to heal the effects of childhood trauma & other adverse childhood experiences. Being raised in abusive, chaotic, or neglectful environments can result in anxiety, depression, panic attacks, self-esteem issues, relationship/codependency issues, addictions & compulsions, and critical judgment toward oneself and others. I see a wide diversity of clients, but as a gay man experienced in working with LGBTQ+ individuals, I'm particularly interested in helping others heal from the compounding wounds of homophobia and other social oppression.
Abigail Maher
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33705 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community & have lived experience as a queer person. My main focus is providing a safe, empathic environment for you to truly explore yourself and every facet of your experience. This includes exploring sources of pain and hurt, as well as celebrating sources of hope and joy. I believe that one of the most powerful things we can do is learn to understand ourselves, accept ourselves, practice compassion for ourselves, and move forward in life allowing ourselves to be as authentic as possible.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community & have lived experience as a queer person. My main focus is providing a safe, empathic environment for you to truly explore yourself and every facet of your experience. This includes exploring sources of pain and hurt, as well as celebrating sources of hope and joy. I believe that one of the most powerful things we can do is learn to understand ourselves, accept ourselves, practice compassion for ourselves, and move forward in life allowing ourselves to be as authentic as possible.
Aaron Warren
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
I also have special training in LGBTQIA+, spirituality and religious trauma.
Overwhelmed? At a loss? Welcome, and congratulations on taking your first step towards a healthy and thriving life. I'm Aaron, a Marriage and Family Therapist here in the Sunshine State and it is my personal mission to be open, inclusive, and supportive of all people. I'm trained in diverse relationships, lifestyles and challenges. While I have a wide range of experience, I currently specialize in relationship counseling (couples, pods, open, monogamous, etc.), LGBTQIA+ persons/trauma, religious trauma/ spirituality, and adoptive families. My goal is to join with you, so you can grow to live a thriving life!
I also have special training in LGBTQIA+, spirituality and religious trauma.
Overwhelmed? At a loss? Welcome, and congratulations on taking your first step towards a healthy and thriving life. I'm Aaron, a Marriage and Family Therapist here in the Sunshine State and it is my personal mission to be open, inclusive, and supportive of all people. I'm trained in diverse relationships, lifestyles and challenges. While I have a wide range of experience, I currently specialize in relationship counseling (couples, pods, open, monogamous, etc.), LGBTQIA+ persons/trauma, religious trauma/ spirituality, and adoptive families. My goal is to join with you, so you can grow to live a thriving life!
Mark Muse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey towards embracing your true self and overcoming life's challenges? As a licensed clinical social worker with a decade of experience, specializing in LGBTQIA+ issues, gender-affirming care, and trauma, I am here to guide and support you every step of the way. With years of dedicated practice in both group and private settings, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, nonjudgmental, and affirming therapy. My approach is rooted in the belief that you are the expert of your own life. I am here to meet you where you are and honor your unique experiences.
Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey towards embracing your true self and overcoming life's challenges? As a licensed clinical social worker with a decade of experience, specializing in LGBTQIA+ issues, gender-affirming care, and trauma, I am here to guide and support you every step of the way. With years of dedicated practice in both group and private settings, I am deeply committed to providing compassionate, nonjudgmental, and affirming therapy. My approach is rooted in the belief that you are the expert of your own life. I am here to meet you where you are and honor your unique experiences.
Amyn Ali
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, CRC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33713
Queer Mind Counseling was founded to create a judgment-free zone for people to learn and grow.
If you are reading this, I want to recognize these steps; looking to grow and searching for assistance aren't always easy. I aim to be an open and straightforward person and try to balance giving credit when credit is due with helping people stay accountable and recognize where they can grow. Positivity and humor are important aspects I draw into therapy, with the understanding there is a time and place for each. Every person is unique and it's my joy to be a part of your journey and hear your story. For each client, I curate an approach appropriate drawing from different systems; therapy isn't one size fits all.
Queer Mind Counseling was founded to create a judgment-free zone for people to learn and grow.
If you are reading this, I want to recognize these steps; looking to grow and searching for assistance aren't always easy. I aim to be an open and straightforward person and try to balance giving credit when credit is due with helping people stay accountable and recognize where they can grow. Positivity and humor are important aspects I draw into therapy, with the understanding there is a time and place for each. Every person is unique and it's my joy to be a part of your journey and hear your story. For each client, I curate an approach appropriate drawing from different systems; therapy isn't one size fits all.
Jacob Lundy - Accepting New Clients
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33711
Hi! I think therapists all provide something a bit different, so it's important to try and find the right fit. My approach has been successful with couples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and adults who have a history of feeling misunderstood. My experience also extends to individuals on the autism spectrum, trauma, navigating communication, and boundary difficulties.
Hi! I think therapists all provide something a bit different, so it's important to try and find the right fit. My approach has been successful with couples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and adults who have a history of feeling misunderstood. My experience also extends to individuals on the autism spectrum, trauma, navigating communication, and boundary difficulties.
Ashlyn Brooks
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33705 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed mental health counselor, in MA and FL, who has experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship and communication challenges, life transitions, and substance use.
Do you feel that you are hard on yourself, or that distressing thoughts take up your time and mental energy? Are you wanting to feel more connected in your mind, body, and personal relationships? If you are seeking a safe place where you are able to begin your healing journey, then welcome to my practice. I work with adults and believe that taking an eclectic approach can help foster a greater sense of awareness and allow you to feel more connected in your mind, body, and personal relationships.
I am a licensed mental health counselor, in MA and FL, who has experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship and communication challenges, life transitions, and substance use.
Do you feel that you are hard on yourself, or that distressing thoughts take up your time and mental energy? Are you wanting to feel more connected in your mind, body, and personal relationships? If you are seeking a safe place where you are able to begin your healing journey, then welcome to my practice. I work with adults and believe that taking an eclectic approach can help foster a greater sense of awareness and allow you to feel more connected in your mind, body, and personal relationships.
Christina Gallardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702 (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, and working with LGBTQ+ folks.
Do you wake up every morning promising yourself that today will be the day you figure out what you need to feel better, only to lay your head down at night exhausted from repeating the same patterns? Are you stuck in a cycle of anxiety or depression and feel like you are just trying to get through each day? You don’t have to be alone in your pain any longer. Healing and happiness are possible with the help of therapy. As your therapist, I will walk alongside you and together we will examine the roadblocks in your life, identify the skills and tools you need to make changes, and use them to create a happier, fuller life.
I specialize in anxiety, and working with LGBTQ+ folks.
Do you wake up every morning promising yourself that today will be the day you figure out what you need to feel better, only to lay your head down at night exhausted from repeating the same patterns? Are you stuck in a cycle of anxiety or depression and feel like you are just trying to get through each day? You don’t have to be alone in your pain any longer. Healing and happiness are possible with the help of therapy. As your therapist, I will walk alongside you and together we will examine the roadblocks in your life, identify the skills and tools you need to make changes, and use them to create a happier, fuller life.
I specialize in working with Gay/ Queer men, individuals that are in the recovery process from substance use, and males around issues of masculinity, sex, and emotional vulnerability I have expertise in and experience with: Masculinity and other male issues Sex and sexuality Ethically non- monogamous/ polyamory relationships / Kink Substance abuse issues.
Human connection is the catalyst needed to explore any underlining psychic distress. In my psychotherapy practice, I prioritize fostering a collaborative relationship to provide emotional and personal safety, allowing you to dive beneath the surface to better understand the underlying causes of your personal distress. The goal is, through exploration, to create opportunities for you to become more self-aware of your own thoughts and feelings, empowering you to re-create new ways of connecting to yourself and loved ones
I specialize in working with Gay/ Queer men, individuals that are in the recovery process from substance use, and males around issues of masculinity, sex, and emotional vulnerability I have expertise in and experience with: Masculinity and other male issues Sex and sexuality Ethically non- monogamous/ polyamory relationships / Kink Substance abuse issues.
Human connection is the catalyst needed to explore any underlining psychic distress. In my psychotherapy practice, I prioritize fostering a collaborative relationship to provide emotional and personal safety, allowing you to dive beneath the surface to better understand the underlying causes of your personal distress. The goal is, through exploration, to create opportunities for you to become more self-aware of your own thoughts and feelings, empowering you to re-create new ways of connecting to yourself and loved ones
Patrick Tully - Psychotherapist (CA / TX / FL)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
As a cis gay man, I empathize and support your journey.
You are exhausted as you try to manage it all with your inner critic snapping at you. I help LGBTQIA+ people feel affirmed, and people in highly demanding careers. My style is warm and inviting. Figuring life out can be draining and anxiety can rise. Improve self-esteem as we navigate the journey together! I'm gay myself, so I understand how weird this world can feel. Let's work together to bring back a sense of ease and calm. You can learn how to deal with stress, overwhelm, and feelings of unease. Website: PatrickTullyTherapy.com
As a cis gay man, I empathize and support your journey.
You are exhausted as you try to manage it all with your inner critic snapping at you. I help LGBTQIA+ people feel affirmed, and people in highly demanding careers. My style is warm and inviting. Figuring life out can be draining and anxiety can rise. Improve self-esteem as we navigate the journey together! I'm gay myself, so I understand how weird this world can feel. Let's work together to bring back a sense of ease and calm. You can learn how to deal with stress, overwhelm, and feelings of unease. Website: PatrickTullyTherapy.com
I work with a wide variety of relationship types, styles, and forms, including LGBTQ+ and those who engage in non-monogamy.
One life is One story, is it time to change yours? I aim to help folks take life to the next level, whether it's improving relationships, healing old wounds, or making meaning out of life. I like to integrate both concrete and abstract methods to help folks with work towards their hopes and dreams. Sessions are through telehealth to people across NY and FL. >Appts Avail: Mondays 11am biwkly, Mondays 12noon wkly, Wednesdays 2pm biwkly, Thursdays 4pm biwkly. <
I work with a wide variety of relationship types, styles, and forms, including LGBTQ+ and those who engage in non-monogamy.
One life is One story, is it time to change yours? I aim to help folks take life to the next level, whether it's improving relationships, healing old wounds, or making meaning out of life. I like to integrate both concrete and abstract methods to help folks with work towards their hopes and dreams. Sessions are through telehealth to people across NY and FL. >Appts Avail: Mondays 11am biwkly, Mondays 12noon wkly, Wednesdays 2pm biwkly, Thursdays 4pm biwkly. <
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Ian Aiuto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701 (Online Only)
I am dedicated to providing compassionate and inclusive therapy for all individuals, and I have extensive experience in the LGBTQ+ community and identity affirmation. I blend compassion with graceful confrontation in therapy, using psychoeducation, skills instruction, and guidance to help clients practice new skills. I celebrate wins and navigate challenges, addressing anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship challenges. Embracing a sex-positive and kink-aware approach, I create an affirming, non-judgmental space where everyone is welcome to explore and grow.
I am dedicated to providing compassionate and inclusive therapy for all individuals, and I have extensive experience in the LGBTQ+ community and identity affirmation. I blend compassion with graceful confrontation in therapy, using psychoeducation, skills instruction, and guidance to help clients practice new skills. I celebrate wins and navigate challenges, addressing anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship challenges. Embracing a sex-positive and kink-aware approach, I create an affirming, non-judgmental space where everyone is welcome to explore and grow.
Beyond The Matter Counseling Services
Counselor, LMHC, QualSup, Veteran
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701 (Online Only)
Areas of expertise include trauma, relationship/intimacy issues, emotional difficulties, phase-of-life challenges, personal growth and development, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Greetings! I'm Maria Giuliana, founder of Beyond The Matter Counseling and Consulting Services LLC. I'm committed to caring for the whole person. I use an existential-humanistic-integrative approach that is trauma-informed, multi-culturally competent, and offer a safe space for all. I provide individual, couples counseling, and clinical supervision services via telehealth only. I'm a 20-year Navy Veteran who understands the unique stresses and the full impact of the military lifestyle on our active, retired, and veteran service members and their families. Together, we'll develop tools to better navigate your course.
Areas of expertise include trauma, relationship/intimacy issues, emotional difficulties, phase-of-life challenges, personal growth and development, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Greetings! I'm Maria Giuliana, founder of Beyond The Matter Counseling and Consulting Services LLC. I'm committed to caring for the whole person. I use an existential-humanistic-integrative approach that is trauma-informed, multi-culturally competent, and offer a safe space for all. I provide individual, couples counseling, and clinical supervision services via telehealth only. I'm a 20-year Navy Veteran who understands the unique stresses and the full impact of the military lifestyle on our active, retired, and veteran service members and their families. Together, we'll develop tools to better navigate your course.
My name is Don Ford and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have helped individuals who have experienced a variety of clinical symptoms and disorders including substance abuse, addictions, trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, low self-esteem, and LGBTQIA+ concerns. Book with me now by clicking on my website. I work collaboratively with my clients to empower, motivate, and support them in their journey to meeting their therapeutic goals. I help individuals of all ages struggling with life dissatisfaction to develop the skills and experience to live healthy, productive, and positive lives.
My name is Don Ford and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have helped individuals who have experienced a variety of clinical symptoms and disorders including substance abuse, addictions, trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, low self-esteem, and LGBTQIA+ concerns. Book with me now by clicking on my website. I work collaboratively with my clients to empower, motivate, and support them in their journey to meeting their therapeutic goals. I help individuals of all ages struggling with life dissatisfaction to develop the skills and experience to live healthy, productive, and positive lives.
Demetric Watkins
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33711 (Online Only)
I work with individuals dealing with many issues, including anxiety, depression, identity, trauma, and adjustment concerns. I help individuals longing for peace and resolve to inner conflict by helping them gain true clarity and confidence in themselves. I support them in coping with the challenges that life undoubtedly throws at us, including managing and reducing fear and anxiety. Diverse and LGBTQ+ clients are welcome.
I work with individuals dealing with many issues, including anxiety, depression, identity, trauma, and adjustment concerns. I help individuals longing for peace and resolve to inner conflict by helping them gain true clarity and confidence in themselves. I support them in coping with the challenges that life undoubtedly throws at us, including managing and reducing fear and anxiety. Diverse and LGBTQ+ clients are welcome.
Michael Blake-Edwards
Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701 (Online Only)
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBT-related issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss.
I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBT-related issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss.
I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Alex Mabie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33716
It matters to me that no one experiences suffering alone. In my work I strive to help you overcome any challenge you face. I have passion and experience working with Parental Counseling, Trans Care, and Couples Counseling. I especially take pride in my work with clients who have had difficulty finding help elsewhere.
It matters to me that no one experiences suffering alone. In my work I strive to help you overcome any challenge you face. I have passion and experience working with Parental Counseling, Trans Care, and Couples Counseling. I especially take pride in my work with clients who have had difficulty finding help elsewhere.
Erin Scully
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33709 (Online Only)
I also specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community including transgender individuals.
Erin Scully is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level 2 (CCTP-II) who specializes in LGBTQIA+ issues, gender identity, transgender health, trauma-related disorders, and mental wellness for first responders and medical providers. She works in collaboration with her clients to find the best route to healing. Her style is integrative and involves mindfulness, art, yoga, spirituality, and traditional talk therapy. She is always open to suggestions and feedback.
I also specialize in working with the LGBTQIA+ community including transgender individuals.
Erin Scully is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level 2 (CCTP-II) who specializes in LGBTQIA+ issues, gender identity, transgender health, trauma-related disorders, and mental wellness for first responders and medical providers. She works in collaboration with her clients to find the best route to healing. Her style is integrative and involves mindfulness, art, yoga, spirituality, and traditional talk therapy. She is always open to suggestions and feedback.
DeAnn Fleming
Counselor, LMHC, LCPC, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
I also love working with LGBTQIA+, and consensual non-monogomy as a subspecialty.
Are you feeling stuck? Has overwhelm, anxiety and/or depression, taken over your life? Are you struggling in your relationships, at work, or feeling negative towards yourself? Have you tried other therapists and struggled to find a good fit? I have specialized training with PTSD, mood disorders, personality disorder diagnoses and anxiety. I can also help with management of shock trauma, childhood trauma including trauma bonding, sexual assault, addiction and pervasive feelings of self hate. Lets connect! I am here to help.
I also love working with LGBTQIA+, and consensual non-monogomy as a subspecialty.
Are you feeling stuck? Has overwhelm, anxiety and/or depression, taken over your life? Are you struggling in your relationships, at work, or feeling negative towards yourself? Have you tried other therapists and struggled to find a good fit? I have specialized training with PTSD, mood disorders, personality disorder diagnoses and anxiety. I can also help with management of shock trauma, childhood trauma including trauma bonding, sexual assault, addiction and pervasive feelings of self hate. Lets connect! I am here to help.
Meredith Mechanik
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, MEd, RCSWI
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33711
Additionally, as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, I recognize the importance of mental health support in identity exploration.
As a therapist and native Floridian, I am passionate about support and advocacy for individuals in our community. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based and compassionate; I trust my clients as the experts on their own lives, and I strive to support their growth by building on their strengths. I enjoy working with young adults, mothers, and couples. Additionally, as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, I recognize the importance of mental health support in identity exploration.
Additionally, as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, I recognize the importance of mental health support in identity exploration.
As a therapist and native Floridian, I am passionate about support and advocacy for individuals in our community. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based and compassionate; I trust my clients as the experts on their own lives, and I strive to support their growth by building on their strengths. I enjoy working with young adults, mothers, and couples. Additionally, as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, I recognize the importance of mental health support in identity exploration.
See more therapy options for Saint Petersburg
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Saint Petersburg
- Apollo Beach
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- Pinellas Park
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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.