LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Avondale Estates, GA
Julius Jessup Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LCSW
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Developing my own internal resources has helped me to move through some very difficult times as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
I seek to create a safe and inclusive space for black-bodied individuals, LGBTQ+ folks, survivors of trauma, sex workers, and clients who are struggling with relationship and intimacy issues. My approach to mental health care is rooted in anti-oppressive and decolonizing frameworks. The treatment modalities that I use have been found to be effective across many cultures, ages, genders, and experiences. I am here to support my clients in rediscovering themselves, strengthening their mind-body connection, and living the life they have always wanted.
Developing my own internal resources has helped me to move through some very difficult times as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
I seek to create a safe and inclusive space for black-bodied individuals, LGBTQ+ folks, survivors of trauma, sex workers, and clients who are struggling with relationship and intimacy issues. My approach to mental health care is rooted in anti-oppressive and decolonizing frameworks. The treatment modalities that I use have been found to be effective across many cultures, ages, genders, and experiences. I am here to support my clients in rediscovering themselves, strengthening their mind-body connection, and living the life they have always wanted.
Felicia Kanu
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
My therapy is informed by intersectional and decolonized theories and politics such as: Black Feminism Theory, Queer Sexualities, Fat Liberation, Ethical Non-Monogamy and non-hierarchical forms of relationships, Disability Justice, Sex Positivity, and Liberation Health Model.
I am a Black queer cis woman. I hold space as a guide and a supporter in my individual and couples therapy sessions. I strive to make therapy accessible with clear, direct communication, warm energy, and pre-emptive radically inclusive stance. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Smith College School for Social Work. As a master-level social worker, I am currently pursuing my licensure in the state of Georgia under supervision at Heartwork. At Heartwork Counseling Center, we do not take insurance. We do offer a sliding scale. My fee is $150. I offer in-person sessions in Decatur, GA.
My therapy is informed by intersectional and decolonized theories and politics such as: Black Feminism Theory, Queer Sexualities, Fat Liberation, Ethical Non-Monogamy and non-hierarchical forms of relationships, Disability Justice, Sex Positivity, and Liberation Health Model.
I am a Black queer cis woman. I hold space as a guide and a supporter in my individual and couples therapy sessions. I strive to make therapy accessible with clear, direct communication, warm energy, and pre-emptive radically inclusive stance. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Smith College School for Social Work. As a master-level social worker, I am currently pursuing my licensure in the state of Georgia under supervision at Heartwork. At Heartwork Counseling Center, we do not take insurance. We do offer a sliding scale. My fee is $150. I offer in-person sessions in Decatur, GA.
Miranda Barzey
Counselor, LAPC, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Waitlist for new clients
On a personal note, I'm a queer Jewish nonbinary woman who's big on crafting, reading sci-fi and fantasy, playing Dungeons & Dragons and cozy switch games, and thrifting.
I specialize in child centered play therapy with young children ages 2-7 and person centered counseling for adults 20-40. I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, neurodivergence, gender and sexual identity exploration, suicide, coping with oppression, and adjusting to life changes. My door is wide open to anyone in the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, and polyamorous individuals/families, or anyone looking to do the brave work of understanding themselves more deeply.
On a personal note, I'm a queer Jewish nonbinary woman who's big on crafting, reading sci-fi and fantasy, playing Dungeons & Dragons and cozy switch games, and thrifting.
I specialize in child centered play therapy with young children ages 2-7 and person centered counseling for adults 20-40. I help clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, neurodivergence, gender and sexual identity exploration, suicide, coping with oppression, and adjusting to life changes. My door is wide open to anyone in the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, and polyamorous individuals/families, or anyone looking to do the brave work of understanding themselves more deeply.
Kate Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Personally and professionally, I'm part of the LGBTQ+ and adoptee communities.
I am not currently accepting new clients.....Researching therapists can be a daunting task, especially when you're used to tackling life's challenges on your own. Lately, something has shifted. Anxiety has you feeling emotionally drained and overwhelmed. It's time to acknowledge that seeking support for yourself is not only acceptable but necessary. You deserve the time and quiet that therapy provides.
Personally and professionally, I'm part of the LGBTQ+ and adoptee communities.
I am not currently accepting new clients.....Researching therapists can be a daunting task, especially when you're used to tackling life's challenges on your own. Lately, something has shifted. Anxiety has you feeling emotionally drained and overwhelmed. It's time to acknowledge that seeking support for yourself is not only acceptable but necessary. You deserve the time and quiet that therapy provides.
Latechia Hogue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Oh how I loved everybody else when I finally got to talk about myself. - Dar Williams. This practice provides a space for clients to feel safe enough to take off the mask without judgement. What about the anxious, depressed, angry, shamed and stuck parts of ourselves? They desire to be seen as well. I am here to stand witness with you. I work with women, particularly women of color, and the men who love them. I am proudly LGBTQ allied. I work with individuals and couples. All are welcome.
Oh how I loved everybody else when I finally got to talk about myself. - Dar Williams. This practice provides a space for clients to feel safe enough to take off the mask without judgement. What about the anxious, depressed, angry, shamed and stuck parts of ourselves? They desire to be seen as well. I am here to stand witness with you. I work with women, particularly women of color, and the men who love them. I am proudly LGBTQ allied. I work with individuals and couples. All are welcome.
Her approach is more spiritual with the blending of holistic counseling and transpersonal therapy.
Kimberly Swanson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2018. Kimberly has several years of experience working with families with anxiety, depression, PSTD, and other life stressors ranging from coping with a chronic illness to going through relationship issues. Her approach to counseling is to guide and help you determine the best approach for improving your well-being. Kimberly tends to use person-centered, solution-focused, along with cognitive-behavioral therapy approaches; however, she can modify her therapeutic techniques to meet the needs of each client.
Her approach is more spiritual with the blending of holistic counseling and transpersonal therapy.
Kimberly Swanson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2018. Kimberly has several years of experience working with families with anxiety, depression, PSTD, and other life stressors ranging from coping with a chronic illness to going through relationship issues. Her approach to counseling is to guide and help you determine the best approach for improving your well-being. Kimberly tends to use person-centered, solution-focused, along with cognitive-behavioral therapy approaches; however, she can modify her therapeutic techniques to meet the needs of each client.
I have been in the mental health field for over 25 years and a licensed professional counselor for 9 years. I believe a person has the answers to whatever it is that concerns them about themselves, but they may not have identified the question. Once the question or the why has been identified a person begins adapting to resolve it. I use tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness exercises to assist my clients in living an intentional life.
I have been in the mental health field for over 25 years and a licensed professional counselor for 9 years. I believe a person has the answers to whatever it is that concerns them about themselves, but they may not have identified the question. Once the question or the why has been identified a person begins adapting to resolve it. I use tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness exercises to assist my clients in living an intentional life.
Rashida Whitley is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2014. She studied at University of Kentucky and Georgia State. Rashida is trained in DBT and has used the technique to assist clients with borderline personality disorder. She has also been trained in TF CBT and has been able to treat adults and children coping with trauma. Rashida has experience treating adults and children with ADHD, mood disorders, and anxiety. Lastly, she has provided treatment focusing on coping with societal issues, gender identity, and gender-based issues.
Rashida Whitley is a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in Georgia who has been practicing since 2014. She studied at University of Kentucky and Georgia State. Rashida is trained in DBT and has used the technique to assist clients with borderline personality disorder. She has also been trained in TF CBT and has been able to treat adults and children coping with trauma. Rashida has experience treating adults and children with ADHD, mood disorders, and anxiety. Lastly, she has provided treatment focusing on coping with societal issues, gender identity, and gender-based issues.
Bertrina Olivia West Al-Mahdi
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Life is often tough & can be very stressful & overwhelming. Challenges are often thrown our way & we struggle with finding ways to cope. Hi, my name is Dr. O, I am a U. S. Navy veteran with a doctorate degree in International Psychologist. I am the Clinical Director of Out of the Box, CCC, a mom, a wife, & I'm here to help. I understand the difficulties of navigating the challenges of life while trying to hold it all together. I specialize in working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, and children facing emotional, cognitive, & social challenges as a result of trauma. When most people think about trauma, they usually
Life is often tough & can be very stressful & overwhelming. Challenges are often thrown our way & we struggle with finding ways to cope. Hi, my name is Dr. O, I am a U. S. Navy veteran with a doctorate degree in International Psychologist. I am the Clinical Director of Out of the Box, CCC, a mom, a wife, & I'm here to help. I understand the difficulties of navigating the challenges of life while trying to hold it all together. I specialize in working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, and children facing emotional, cognitive, & social challenges as a result of trauma. When most people think about trauma, they usually
I have been counseling clients for over 25 years, helping people from all walks of life to overcome barriers to living a healthier and happier life. Whether you are struggling with addiction issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, sexual identity issues, relationship issues, feeling overwhelmed by life's demands, or seeking a deeper sense of purpose and meaning, we can work together to find solutions. Life can be full of pain and struggle, but it is also full of beauty and inspiration. If you have become overwhelmed by the struggle, let's begin today to lighten your burden.
I have been counseling clients for over 25 years, helping people from all walks of life to overcome barriers to living a healthier and happier life. Whether you are struggling with addiction issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, sexual identity issues, relationship issues, feeling overwhelmed by life's demands, or seeking a deeper sense of purpose and meaning, we can work together to find solutions. Life can be full of pain and struggle, but it is also full of beauty and inspiration. If you have become overwhelmed by the struggle, let's begin today to lighten your burden.
Lisa Cottrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002 (Online Only)
When you need support, guidance, and a safe place in which to heal or to process the many stressors of these challenging times, it is important that you find a loving, insightful and highly trained therapist that feels right for you. Clients tell me that I put them at ease with my accepting and non-judgmental attitude. At the same time, I point out options you may not have considered and teach you new ways of dealing with your problems. I have over 20 years experience guiding clients into health and happiness. I appreciate you having the courage and self-compassion to get help.
When you need support, guidance, and a safe place in which to heal or to process the many stressors of these challenging times, it is important that you find a loving, insightful and highly trained therapist that feels right for you. Clients tell me that I put them at ease with my accepting and non-judgmental attitude. At the same time, I point out options you may not have considered and teach you new ways of dealing with your problems. I have over 20 years experience guiding clients into health and happiness. I appreciate you having the courage and self-compassion to get help.
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Julius Jessup Peterson
Miranda Barzey
Latechia Hogue
Michelle Harris Wierson
Amy Lynne Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
While I greatly enjoy working with all adults around a multitude of life challenges, I have particular passion for working with elders and their families, as well as those affected by chronic and terminal illness (based on work and personal experience). I also particularly enjoy helping people find and express their authentic voices.
While I greatly enjoy working with all adults around a multitude of life challenges, I have particular passion for working with elders and their families, as well as those affected by chronic and terminal illness (based on work and personal experience). I also particularly enjoy helping people find and express their authentic voices.
Michelle Harris Wierson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Psychologist who has spent the last 30 years helping people transform their lives. Using a multi-faceted approach, therapy is tailored to the needs of the person or family, in order to bring the most meaningful and lasting change. I offer support, compassion, practical techniques, and persistence in my work – along with a good dose of creativity and life wisdom. In life, there are times when we feel strong, and other times when we feel broken. Psychotherapy is an interesting process, because the point of entry can happen at either time and be successful. No matter what, it takes courage to start the process.
I am a Licensed Psychologist who has spent the last 30 years helping people transform their lives. Using a multi-faceted approach, therapy is tailored to the needs of the person or family, in order to bring the most meaningful and lasting change. I offer support, compassion, practical techniques, and persistence in my work – along with a good dose of creativity and life wisdom. In life, there are times when we feel strong, and other times when we feel broken. Psychotherapy is an interesting process, because the point of entry can happen at either time and be successful. No matter what, it takes courage to start the process.
Debbie James
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002 (Online Only)
Working from a perspective of radical acceptance, I am looking forward to working with clients who are currently navigating challenging life transitions. I am adept at working with adolescents and young adults, primarily around issues of perfectionism, anxiety, and self-esteem. As a former Division I athlete, I have the skills and experience to work closely with clients who are currently negotiating the stressful and unique challenges associated with high level athletics, at the high school, collegiate, or professional level.
Working from a perspective of radical acceptance, I am looking forward to working with clients who are currently navigating challenging life transitions. I am adept at working with adolescents and young adults, primarily around issues of perfectionism, anxiety, and self-esteem. As a former Division I athlete, I have the skills and experience to work closely with clients who are currently negotiating the stressful and unique challenges associated with high level athletics, at the high school, collegiate, or professional level.
No two people are the same- not even two therapy sessions, with the same person, are the same. So, describing what therapy is like with me on a web site is a little like describing what "all rivers" look like. What I can say is I will prioritize that you are heard, valued, and encouraged, and I will collaborate with you on what works best for you-whether that's finding strategies to cope with something current or finally addressing a concern that has developed over time. I will also met you with integrity and offer you the best of who I am and what the field of psychology has to offer.
No two people are the same- not even two therapy sessions, with the same person, are the same. So, describing what therapy is like with me on a web site is a little like describing what "all rivers" look like. What I can say is I will prioritize that you are heard, valued, and encouraged, and I will collaborate with you on what works best for you-whether that's finding strategies to cope with something current or finally addressing a concern that has developed over time. I will also met you with integrity and offer you the best of who I am and what the field of psychology has to offer.
Michielle Maggard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
My specialty is working with women going through many of life's transitions, including, adolescence, adulthood, relationships, marriage/divorce, motherhood, and trauma.
I work best with clients that have decided that they are ready to make a change in their lives. These clients recognize that they have been struggling for quite some time and are finally at a point in their lives where they are ready to make some changes. Even if they aren't aware what those changes look like, they know that they need to start thinking differently. This is where I come in. I am here to help facilitate the growth, self awareness, and steps needed to produce these changes that will translate to self-actualization.
My specialty is working with women going through many of life's transitions, including, adolescence, adulthood, relationships, marriage/divorce, motherhood, and trauma.
I work best with clients that have decided that they are ready to make a change in their lives. These clients recognize that they have been struggling for quite some time and are finally at a point in their lives where they are ready to make some changes. Even if they aren't aware what those changes look like, they know that they need to start thinking differently. This is where I come in. I am here to help facilitate the growth, self awareness, and steps needed to produce these changes that will translate to self-actualization.
Meredith L Albert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Psychotherapy is my second career. I come from a rich background in entrepreneurship and business management which makes me more focused on goal-setting that underpins my action-oriented approach. I work collaboratively with clients to define actionable goals and identify issues (conscious and unconscious) that act as barriers to long term psycho-emotional health. Philosophically, I embrace the idea that individuals often have the answers they seek to difficult questions. The real challenge may be finding the stillness to settle inner conflicts or competing thoughts (expectations, judgments, etc.) long enough to uncover personal truths.
Psychotherapy is my second career. I come from a rich background in entrepreneurship and business management which makes me more focused on goal-setting that underpins my action-oriented approach. I work collaboratively with clients to define actionable goals and identify issues (conscious and unconscious) that act as barriers to long term psycho-emotional health. Philosophically, I embrace the idea that individuals often have the answers they seek to difficult questions. The real challenge may be finding the stillness to settle inner conflicts or competing thoughts (expectations, judgments, etc.) long enough to uncover personal truths.
Leslie M. Sessley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Are you struggling with life balance since your loved one has become ill? Are you now caring for an aging parent that didn't take care of you? Is talking with your family about your aging loved one challenging or stressful? As we age, so do our families of origin. Sometimes we are called back to our families of origin to help aging family members - like our siblings or parents. This can be challenging for many people. When we are called back to help, things like old wounds, family dysfunction and confusion on where to go for help can arise. Therapy can help bring clarity.
Are you struggling with life balance since your loved one has become ill? Are you now caring for an aging parent that didn't take care of you? Is talking with your family about your aging loved one challenging or stressful? As we age, so do our families of origin. Sometimes we are called back to our families of origin to help aging family members - like our siblings or parents. This can be challenging for many people. When we are called back to help, things like old wounds, family dysfunction and confusion on where to go for help can arise. Therapy can help bring clarity.
Align Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Hi, I'm Melanie Storrusten, LCSW. At Align Wellness, we work in modalities that utilize the mind-body connection to access healing at deeper levels. The work we love most is walking alongside brave journeyers who are ready and willing to face both their shadow and their light. If you are ready for this work of deeper healing, we would be honored to work with you. I personally currently provide Clinical Supervision and Consultation services for other therapists, short-term discernment sessions for folks facing big life decisions, and lead community rituals to process big emotions together.
Hi, I'm Melanie Storrusten, LCSW. At Align Wellness, we work in modalities that utilize the mind-body connection to access healing at deeper levels. The work we love most is walking alongside brave journeyers who are ready and willing to face both their shadow and their light. If you are ready for this work of deeper healing, we would be honored to work with you. I personally currently provide Clinical Supervision and Consultation services for other therapists, short-term discernment sessions for folks facing big life decisions, and lead community rituals to process big emotions together.
Melissa Dickinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Therapy and coaching are professional connected relationships where you explore new options with room to grow. I work with you to create a safe space, so that we can make real progress on the issues that matter to you.
Therapy and coaching are professional connected relationships where you explore new options with room to grow. I work with you to create a safe space, so that we can make real progress on the issues that matter to you.
See more therapy options for Avondale Estates
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Avondale Estates
- Atlanta
- Brookhaven
- Chamblee
- Clarkston
- Decatur
- Lithonia
- Redan
- Sandy Springs
- Scottdale
- Stone Mountain
- Stonecrest
- Tucker
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.