Photo of Stephanie Dunn, Pre-Licensed Professional in 05404, VT
Stephanie Dunn
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winooski, VT 05404
Waitlist for new clients
Currently building a waitlist with openings expected in late May. As a therapist, I value the pursuit of both acceptance and change. I believe we can all benefit from developing greater self-compassion, and learning new strategies that can help us grow. I aim to support people to feel empowered in their relationships with themselves and others so that they can navigate life with greater confidence. In our work together, I will support you in reaching your personal and interpersonal goals by providing a warm, nonjudgmental space for you to process your experience and develop concrete skills.
Currently building a waitlist with openings expected in late May. As a therapist, I value the pursuit of both acceptance and change. I believe we can all benefit from developing greater self-compassion, and learning new strategies that can help us grow. I aim to support people to feel empowered in their relationships with themselves and others so that they can navigate life with greater confidence. In our work together, I will support you in reaching your personal and interpersonal goals by providing a warm, nonjudgmental space for you to process your experience and develop concrete skills.
(802) 210-3803 x11 View (802) 210-3803 x11
Photo of Emily McDonald, Counselor in 05404, VT
Emily McDonald
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winooski, VT 05404
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes, the things that we think of as our "shortcomings" or "flaws" are actually just a product of modern day society, where we are often told how we should behave, think, and feel from moment to moment. My goal is to help you discover your true needs, desires, and feelings, and distinguish them from those imposed onto you by external pressures. I strive to create a supportive therapeutic space for all teenagers and adults regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, ​race, ethnicity, religion, class, ability status and age.
Sometimes, the things that we think of as our "shortcomings" or "flaws" are actually just a product of modern day society, where we are often told how we should behave, think, and feel from moment to moment. My goal is to help you discover your true needs, desires, and feelings, and distinguish them from those imposed onto you by external pressures. I strive to create a supportive therapeutic space for all teenagers and adults regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, ​race, ethnicity, religion, class, ability status and age.
(802) 200-2728 View (802) 200-2728
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.