LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 21203
Amber Hager
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21203 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience supporting trans and non-binary folks and their partners and can provide support for transition, including writing letters of support for gender affirming medical care.
Supporting the LGBTQ+ community is my therapeutic strength and passion and I provide affirming individual and relationship therapy. Authenticity, congruence, and acceptance are foundations in my work and I am here to help you navigate the concerns that are bringing you to therapy with a warm and open style, sprinkled with humor and compassionate challenge. I can assist you in improving your relationship with yourself, partners, and family by gaining insight into interpersonal patterns, anxieties, and/or trauma responses that may be impacting relationships.
I have extensive experience supporting trans and non-binary folks and their partners and can provide support for transition, including writing letters of support for gender affirming medical care.
Supporting the LGBTQ+ community is my therapeutic strength and passion and I provide affirming individual and relationship therapy. Authenticity, congruence, and acceptance are foundations in my work and I am here to help you navigate the concerns that are bringing you to therapy with a warm and open style, sprinkled with humor and compassionate challenge. I can assist you in improving your relationship with yourself, partners, and family by gaining insight into interpersonal patterns, anxieties, and/or trauma responses that may be impacting relationships.
Maryland Therapy Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CCTP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21203 (Online Only)
We are LGBTQIA+ affirming and Social Justice oriented in both our personal lives and our practice.
Our mission at Maryland Therapy Collective is to provide trauma-informed, evidence-based, inclusive, and client-centered treatment to help our clients live healthier and more fulfilling lives. We incorporate this approach by tailoring treatment to each client’s individual needs. We believe that our clients have the power to make the changes they want in their lives, and we are here to help guide and support them through that process.
We are LGBTQIA+ affirming and Social Justice oriented in both our personal lives and our practice.
Our mission at Maryland Therapy Collective is to provide trauma-informed, evidence-based, inclusive, and client-centered treatment to help our clients live healthier and more fulfilling lives. We incorporate this approach by tailoring treatment to each client’s individual needs. We believe that our clients have the power to make the changes they want in their lives, and we are here to help guide and support them through that process.
Shannon Julianne Toy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21203
Please call me Julianne. I graduated with a Master of Education from Concordia University in 2015 and a Masters in Social Work from Simmons University in 2018. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Virginia, Maryland, and Michigan. I work with a wide range of ages and populations including adolescents, adults, and families. I also specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ population.
Please call me Julianne. I graduated with a Master of Education from Concordia University in 2015 and a Masters in Social Work from Simmons University in 2018. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Virginia, Maryland, and Michigan. I work with a wide range of ages and populations including adolescents, adults, and families. I also specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ population.
Dr. Benjamin Dukes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, RDT, RYT
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21203 (Online Only)
Looking for a safe, affirming, and nonjudgmental space to be seen, heard, and acknowledged for exactly who you are while identifying your unique path to wellbeing? Well, you may have come to the right place! I utilize an eclectic, integrative approach to help clients become the most authentic version of themselves by guiding them to: (1) reveal the parts of themselves that have been hidden away (for whatever reason), (2) embrace the beauty of who they are today and offer opportunities for reframing their past (as appropriate), and (3) empower clients to choose how they want to show up in their lives going forward.
Looking for a safe, affirming, and nonjudgmental space to be seen, heard, and acknowledged for exactly who you are while identifying your unique path to wellbeing? Well, you may have come to the right place! I utilize an eclectic, integrative approach to help clients become the most authentic version of themselves by guiding them to: (1) reveal the parts of themselves that have been hidden away (for whatever reason), (2) embrace the beauty of who they are today and offer opportunities for reframing their past (as appropriate), and (3) empower clients to choose how they want to show up in their lives going forward.
Danice Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21203 (Online Only)
Are you feeling worried all of the time?Do you feel sad, stuck, and unmotivated? Tired of repeating the cycle of unhealthy relationships? Have you told your trauma narrative countless times but still feel stuck? I work with adult survivors of childhood trauma. My areas of interest and experience includes mood disorders, eating disorders and body image issues. I emphasize with my clients that the goal isn’t to reach a certain number on the scale but to develop a healthy relationship with their body. I want to help my clients view their body as something to care for instead of something to avoid or punish.
Are you feeling worried all of the time?Do you feel sad, stuck, and unmotivated? Tired of repeating the cycle of unhealthy relationships? Have you told your trauma narrative countless times but still feel stuck? I work with adult survivors of childhood trauma. My areas of interest and experience includes mood disorders, eating disorders and body image issues. I emphasize with my clients that the goal isn’t to reach a certain number on the scale but to develop a healthy relationship with their body. I want to help my clients view their body as something to care for instead of something to avoid or punish.
At some point, everyone has experienced some sort of emotional distress whether it be the illness or death of a loved one, the pain of a divorce, a traumatic experience from childhood, or even the demands of everyday life. If you're thinking you may need some help to get through something new or something from the past, you're probably right. I want to help. I am extremely dedicated to helping my clients heal, improve their lives, and reach their own personal goals. If you're concerned that you might be "too much" for a psychotheraist, I definitely want to help. Everyone desires to heal from their emotional distress.
At some point, everyone has experienced some sort of emotional distress whether it be the illness or death of a loved one, the pain of a divorce, a traumatic experience from childhood, or even the demands of everyday life. If you're thinking you may need some help to get through something new or something from the past, you're probably right. I want to help. I am extremely dedicated to helping my clients heal, improve their lives, and reach their own personal goals. If you're concerned that you might be "too much" for a psychotheraist, I definitely want to help. Everyone desires to heal from their emotional distress.
Relational Excellence, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21203
Are you looking for a different way to relate to the world? Are there areas in your life that you would like to change? Do you need help trying to find or take a different path? If so, come talk to the staff at Relational Excellence, LLC. We are a distinguished leader and provider of clinical services with medication management services. Our service offerings include individual and group options to help you meet your treatment needs. Our mission is to engage interactively and respectfully with every person, family, or agency that we come in contact with. We seek to inspire change in everyone that we serve.
Are you looking for a different way to relate to the world? Are there areas in your life that you would like to change? Do you need help trying to find or take a different path? If so, come talk to the staff at Relational Excellence, LLC. We are a distinguished leader and provider of clinical services with medication management services. Our service offerings include individual and group options to help you meet your treatment needs. Our mission is to engage interactively and respectfully with every person, family, or agency that we come in contact with. We seek to inspire change in everyone that we serve.
As a licensed art therapist, I believe in the power of cultivating a strong therapist-client relationship and safe space for expression. By utilizing a strengths based, humanistic and client centered approach, I feel that we can work together as a team, to confront the complexities of the human existence. Using creative modalities as tools fosters connection with yourself and the world around you. I have worked in a variety of different settings with children, adolescents and adults. Throughout our work together, I will use CBT, mindfulness, DBT, strengths based, and solution focused approaches.
As a licensed art therapist, I believe in the power of cultivating a strong therapist-client relationship and safe space for expression. By utilizing a strengths based, humanistic and client centered approach, I feel that we can work together as a team, to confront the complexities of the human existence. Using creative modalities as tools fosters connection with yourself and the world around you. I have worked in a variety of different settings with children, adolescents and adults. Throughout our work together, I will use CBT, mindfulness, DBT, strengths based, and solution focused approaches.
Kaniya Alston
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21203 (Online Only)
Life challenges are inevitable, and therapy is a great way to help you navigate them. No situation is too hard; therefore, I welcome you to join a comfortable and safe space to be yourself and receive support and guidance on your journey. After working diligently, you will enjoy the incredible reward of seeing all the pieces come together. With evidence-based practices and spiritual development, you will be able to identify any symptom, behavior, or challenge that you feel may be limiting you.
Life challenges are inevitable, and therapy is a great way to help you navigate them. No situation is too hard; therefore, I welcome you to join a comfortable and safe space to be yourself and receive support and guidance on your journey. After working diligently, you will enjoy the incredible reward of seeing all the pieces come together. With evidence-based practices and spiritual development, you will be able to identify any symptom, behavior, or challenge that you feel may be limiting you.
I believe that healing is a collaborative journey of connection, growth, and transformation, and that every individual has the innate ability to heal and grow to live a valued and meaningful life. I am passionate about creating a safe and compassionate space where you will feel seen and valued, partnering with you to foster a deeper connection with yourself and others. Together, we will celebrate both progress and the quest for greater well-being while honoring your unique path as you build strength and resilience to move from surviving to thriving.
I believe that healing is a collaborative journey of connection, growth, and transformation, and that every individual has the innate ability to heal and grow to live a valued and meaningful life. I am passionate about creating a safe and compassionate space where you will feel seen and valued, partnering with you to foster a deeper connection with yourself and others. Together, we will celebrate both progress and the quest for greater well-being while honoring your unique path as you build strength and resilience to move from surviving to thriving.
Tiffani Smithson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21203 (Online Only)
I know that asking for help can feel like a burden sometimes. Do you feel like you have to be “everything” to everyone but feel alone when your in need? Are you struggling to say “no” then resent your yes? Do you put everyone before you and then don't have enough time for you or your dreams? Do you feel “stuck” after giving so much and then realize your not making progress in your life? More often than we realize, we tend to lose ourselves giving what we don’t have while trying to manage it all; parenthood, relationships, careers, and life situations. We then become overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, or stuck about our next move.
I know that asking for help can feel like a burden sometimes. Do you feel like you have to be “everything” to everyone but feel alone when your in need? Are you struggling to say “no” then resent your yes? Do you put everyone before you and then don't have enough time for you or your dreams? Do you feel “stuck” after giving so much and then realize your not making progress in your life? More often than we realize, we tend to lose ourselves giving what we don’t have while trying to manage it all; parenthood, relationships, careers, and life situations. We then become overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, or stuck about our next move.
Are you having trouble defining the meaning of different life events? Do you find yourself having difficulty connecting with others? Maybe you are too trusting, too soon? Are you frequently struggling with feelings of loneliness, shame, or guilt? I can support you in finding the healing you’ve been seeking.
Are you having trouble defining the meaning of different life events? Do you find yourself having difficulty connecting with others? Maybe you are too trusting, too soon? Are you frequently struggling with feelings of loneliness, shame, or guilt? I can support you in finding the healing you’ve been seeking.
Amira M Bailey
Counselor, MS, BS, NCC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21203 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
In the balancing act of our energetic, emotional, spiritual, and psychological spaces, we often find ourselves struggling to produce the desired outcomes. We fight the transformational opportunities and trade them for outdated mindsets. We find ourselves repeating life lessons and losing inspiration along the way. What is the purpose? What is your meaning? Why do you persevere? Our internal motivations are responsible for our behaviors, but many of them are imbedded in the subconscious in need of a surface boost! With insight, we may heal.
In the balancing act of our energetic, emotional, spiritual, and psychological spaces, we often find ourselves struggling to produce the desired outcomes. We fight the transformational opportunities and trade them for outdated mindsets. We find ourselves repeating life lessons and losing inspiration along the way. What is the purpose? What is your meaning? Why do you persevere? Our internal motivations are responsible for our behaviors, but many of them are imbedded in the subconscious in need of a surface boost! With insight, we may heal.
See more therapy options for 21203
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.