LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 22102
Dr. Geoffrey Fowler, Psy. D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who conducts psychotherapy and psychological testing for clients ages six through geriatric. His psychotherapy integrates humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, emotional-processing, and insight-gathering approaches for mood disorders, anxiety, anger, behavioral issues, and life- transition concerns. He also has experience helping clients in the LGBTQ community and clients going through transitions. His psychological testing focuses on evaluating for ADHD, emotional disorders, learning disabilities, academic achievement, and PTSD.
Dr. Geoffrey Fowler, Psy. D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who conducts psychotherapy and psychological testing for clients ages six through geriatric. His psychotherapy integrates humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, emotional-processing, and insight-gathering approaches for mood disorders, anxiety, anger, behavioral issues, and life- transition concerns. He also has experience helping clients in the LGBTQ community and clients going through transitions. His psychological testing focuses on evaluating for ADHD, emotional disorders, learning disabilities, academic achievement, and PTSD.
In therapy, we tackle life's challenges, particularly how past traumas impact the now, with a special focus on the LGBTQ+ community's unique experiences. My practice is a sanctuary for those navigating the complexities of anxiety, sadness, or feeling lost. Together, we'll explore your emotional world and life story, aiming to craft a life filled with purpose and authenticity. We aspire to turn past obstacles into stepping stones for resilience and true self-expression, fostering a journey towards healing and self-discovery.
In therapy, we tackle life's challenges, particularly how past traumas impact the now, with a special focus on the LGBTQ+ community's unique experiences. My practice is a sanctuary for those navigating the complexities of anxiety, sadness, or feeling lost. Together, we'll explore your emotional world and life story, aiming to craft a life filled with purpose and authenticity. We aspire to turn past obstacles into stepping stones for resilience and true self-expression, fostering a journey towards healing and self-discovery.
Currently pursuing a Master of Social Work degree, I have a strong background in working with the LGBTQ+ community both academically and in a therapeutic setting. I am dedicated to promoting mental health and well-being for individuals of all backgrounds and orientations. My work is guided by a commitment to fostering understanding, acceptance, and empowerment for those navigating complex issues related to sexual orientation and identity, as well as those experiencing complex trauma and substance use issues. (Openings are available!)
Currently pursuing a Master of Social Work degree, I have a strong background in working with the LGBTQ+ community both academically and in a therapeutic setting. I am dedicated to promoting mental health and well-being for individuals of all backgrounds and orientations. My work is guided by a commitment to fostering understanding, acceptance, and empowerment for those navigating complex issues related to sexual orientation and identity, as well as those experiencing complex trauma and substance use issues. (Openings are available!)
Treatment specialties include: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, LGBTQ, sexuality/identity questions, anger management, grief/loss, post-traumatic stress, and adjustment/readjustment difficulties.
Life can be overwhelming and sometimes we get "stuck" and need help navigating our way through tough obstacles. Therapy helps people identify, evaluate and solve problems effectively. We will work together to set goals, examine difficulties and find realistic solutions that provide relief and clarity. I utilize a warm interactive approach to treatment and incorporate empathy, honesty, and a sense of humor to create a comfortable environment. Because the way we think impacts the way we feel, individuals are taught skills to identify, challenge and modify negative thinking. In my work with couples, I provide strategies to improve communication, manage conflict and solidify trust.
Treatment specialties include: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, LGBTQ, sexuality/identity questions, anger management, grief/loss, post-traumatic stress, and adjustment/readjustment difficulties.
Life can be overwhelming and sometimes we get "stuck" and need help navigating our way through tough obstacles. Therapy helps people identify, evaluate and solve problems effectively. We will work together to set goals, examine difficulties and find realistic solutions that provide relief and clarity. I utilize a warm interactive approach to treatment and incorporate empathy, honesty, and a sense of humor to create a comfortable environment. Because the way we think impacts the way we feel, individuals are taught skills to identify, challenge and modify negative thinking. In my work with couples, I provide strategies to improve communication, manage conflict and solidify trust.
I work with a diverse group of clients, including children, teens, adults, couples, and families. I am able to help individuals of all ages with a wide range of issues, including depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma. With children, I also help with ADHD, emotional and behavioral problems, and selective mutism, and I help parents with parenting skills. Bilingual in English and Spanish, I enjoy working with individuals from diverse groups, including the LGBTQ community and individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds. I help adults and children alike to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.
I work with a diverse group of clients, including children, teens, adults, couples, and families. I am able to help individuals of all ages with a wide range of issues, including depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma. With children, I also help with ADHD, emotional and behavioral problems, and selective mutism, and I help parents with parenting skills. Bilingual in English and Spanish, I enjoy working with individuals from diverse groups, including the LGBTQ community and individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds. I help adults and children alike to achieve their goals and reach their full potential.
Christine Greer O'Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tysons, VA 22102 (Online Only)
Are you in your twenties or thirties and feeling lost in life? While the many changes that occur during young adulthood like graduation, new jobs, and dating can be exciting, they can also feel completely overwhelming. If you're struggling with some of these changes, you may be experiencing a quarterlife crisis. You are not alone, and we are here to help! Our therapists and career coaches at the Quarterlife Center specialize in helping young adults survive their quarterlife crisis and thrive in their lives. We are culturally competent, BIPOC allies, and LGBTQIA affirmative. All are welcome. To learn more: www.quarterlifecenter.com.
Are you in your twenties or thirties and feeling lost in life? While the many changes that occur during young adulthood like graduation, new jobs, and dating can be exciting, they can also feel completely overwhelming. If you're struggling with some of these changes, you may be experiencing a quarterlife crisis. You are not alone, and we are here to help! Our therapists and career coaches at the Quarterlife Center specialize in helping young adults survive their quarterlife crisis and thrive in their lives. We are culturally competent, BIPOC allies, and LGBTQIA affirmative. All are welcome. To learn more: www.quarterlifecenter.com.
I specialize in working with children, teens, and young adults with a broad range of emotional and behavioral concerns, including depression, anxiety, mood, trauma, self-harm, ADHD, defiance/oppositionality, stress/adjustment and life transitions. I also have specialized expertise in providing gender-affirming care and am passionate about working with individuals who identify as transgender, are gender expansive, actively exploring gender and identity, and who may be experiencing the complex emotional concerns that may coincide such as feelings of isolation and depression.
I specialize in working with children, teens, and young adults with a broad range of emotional and behavioral concerns, including depression, anxiety, mood, trauma, self-harm, ADHD, defiance/oppositionality, stress/adjustment and life transitions. I also have specialized expertise in providing gender-affirming care and am passionate about working with individuals who identify as transgender, are gender expansive, actively exploring gender and identity, and who may be experiencing the complex emotional concerns that may coincide such as feelings of isolation and depression.
Ashley-Nicole N Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW, SAP, CTMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tysons, VA 22102
In addition, I provide affirming care to members of the LGBTQIA+ communities.
Are you tired of feeling controlled by your anger, substance use, or toxic relationships? Do you feel as if getting out of bed is the hardest part of your day, feeling unable to make decisions and achieve your goals, or frustrated by chronic pain and illness? The first step in any journey is always the hardest, so congratulations on taking it and starting to consider participation in therapy. I would be honored to work with you to identify specifically what is and isn’t working in your life and discover how the skills and strengths you already possess can be applied in new ways to meet your goals.
In addition, I provide affirming care to members of the LGBTQIA+ communities.
Are you tired of feeling controlled by your anger, substance use, or toxic relationships? Do you feel as if getting out of bed is the hardest part of your day, feeling unable to make decisions and achieve your goals, or frustrated by chronic pain and illness? The first step in any journey is always the hardest, so congratulations on taking it and starting to consider participation in therapy. I would be honored to work with you to identify specifically what is and isn’t working in your life and discover how the skills and strengths you already possess can be applied in new ways to meet your goals.
Alicea Ardito
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MSCP
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22102 (Online Only)
I provide LGBTQIA+ affirming and inclusive care.
Ask yourself... What brings you here right now? What do you want to change? How do you want to feel? What could be different for you? There are infinite reasons to seek counseling. For some, it’s unmanageable feelings, reaching a breaking point, or needing support. For others, it’s the desire to make a change, create resolution, reach acceptance, or find peace. Maybe you have something you’d like to change about yourself or your relationships. Perhaps it’s time to eliminate something that isn't working for you. Whatever your reason, I’m glad you’re here.
I provide LGBTQIA+ affirming and inclusive care.
Ask yourself... What brings you here right now? What do you want to change? How do you want to feel? What could be different for you? There are infinite reasons to seek counseling. For some, it’s unmanageable feelings, reaching a breaking point, or needing support. For others, it’s the desire to make a change, create resolution, reach acceptance, or find peace. Maybe you have something you’d like to change about yourself or your relationships. Perhaps it’s time to eliminate something that isn't working for you. Whatever your reason, I’m glad you’re here.
If you are coming to therapy from a place of feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or confused, I want to assure you that you are not alone. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, and I have worked with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I use a trauma-informed, person-centered, strengths-based, feminist approach in my counseling, and I have experience using cognitive behavioral therapy as well. I have experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults both in private practice and nonprofit settings.
If you are coming to therapy from a place of feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or confused, I want to assure you that you are not alone. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, and I have worked with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I use a trauma-informed, person-centered, strengths-based, feminist approach in my counseling, and I have experience using cognitive behavioral therapy as well. I have experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults both in private practice and nonprofit settings.
Do you wonder why unhelpful patterns keep showing up in your life and relationships? Why do you put other people’s needs ahead of your own, take things so personally, have trouble opening up, suffer from analysis paralysis, feel bad about setting boundaries or communicating your needs, etc, etc? Let's understand first and see what we learn.
Do you wonder why unhelpful patterns keep showing up in your life and relationships? Why do you put other people’s needs ahead of your own, take things so personally, have trouble opening up, suffer from analysis paralysis, feel bad about setting boundaries or communicating your needs, etc, etc? Let's understand first and see what we learn.
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Amanda M McLean
Over the course of my counseling career thus far, I have worked with clients on a wide variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, life transitions, and self-esteem issues, and from a range of different backgrounds.
Kristi completed her Master's in Education and Human Development in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the George Washington University in 2015. Kristi has been an independently licensed professional counselor since 2019 and a board approved clinical supervisor since 2021. Prior to completing her master's degree, Kristi completed her undergraduate education at the Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College at Florida Atlantic University where she studied psychology and completed an undergraduate thesis on the topics of grief, burnout and death anxiety among hospice workers.
Over the course of my counseling career thus far, I have worked with clients on a wide variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, life transitions, and self-esteem issues, and from a range of different backgrounds.
Kristi completed her Master's in Education and Human Development in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the George Washington University in 2015. Kristi has been an independently licensed professional counselor since 2019 and a board approved clinical supervisor since 2021. Prior to completing her master's degree, Kristi completed her undergraduate education at the Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College at Florida Atlantic University where she studied psychology and completed an undergraduate thesis on the topics of grief, burnout and death anxiety among hospice workers.
Kristina Chong
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22102 (Online Only)
Kristina Chong is a Licensed Professional Counselor through the Virginia Board of Counseling. She graduated from Yorkville University with a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology in 2019 and originates from Western Canada. Kristina utilizes a humanistic approach with Gestalt therapy to support those who find themselves struggling with challenges ranging from anxiety, depression, coping with life changes, post-partum, infertility and grief and loss. In sessions, Kristina incorporates homework through various methods including cognitive-behavioral worksheets, grounding exercises, mindfulness, and more.
Kristina Chong is a Licensed Professional Counselor through the Virginia Board of Counseling. She graduated from Yorkville University with a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology in 2019 and originates from Western Canada. Kristina utilizes a humanistic approach with Gestalt therapy to support those who find themselves struggling with challenges ranging from anxiety, depression, coping with life changes, post-partum, infertility and grief and loss. In sessions, Kristina incorporates homework through various methods including cognitive-behavioral worksheets, grounding exercises, mindfulness, and more.
Allison Fantz is a Resident in Counseling in Virginia who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Master's of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marymount University and a Bachelor's of Arts in Sociology, Economics, and International Studies. Allison's previous experience includes one year interning with the Loudoun County Domestic Violence Intervention Program doing both individual and group counseling specializing in relational concerns, emotional regulation, adjustment, and trauma processing. Populations served include adolescents and adults individually as well as couples, families, and groups.
Allison Fantz is a Resident in Counseling in Virginia who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Master's of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marymount University and a Bachelor's of Arts in Sociology, Economics, and International Studies. Allison's previous experience includes one year interning with the Loudoun County Domestic Violence Intervention Program doing both individual and group counseling specializing in relational concerns, emotional regulation, adjustment, and trauma processing. Populations served include adolescents and adults individually as well as couples, families, and groups.
He has clinical experience working with clients with anxiety, depression, relational issues, trauma, OCD, ADHD, life/occupational stressors and transitions, sexuality/identity exploration, grief, and parenting.
Alex is a Licensed Resident in Counseling that provides services primarily for children, adolescents, and young adults, but has experience working with individuals of all ages. His goal with all clients is to provide them with a safe place to share their experiences, and fully process through any struggles they are bringing in to therapy. His approach to counseling derives from a combination of Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Relational-Cultural Therapy, and Gestalt Therapy.
He has clinical experience working with clients with anxiety, depression, relational issues, trauma, OCD, ADHD, life/occupational stressors and transitions, sexuality/identity exploration, grief, and parenting.
Alex is a Licensed Resident in Counseling that provides services primarily for children, adolescents, and young adults, but has experience working with individuals of all ages. His goal with all clients is to provide them with a safe place to share their experiences, and fully process through any struggles they are bringing in to therapy. His approach to counseling derives from a combination of Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Relational-Cultural Therapy, and Gestalt Therapy.
Kathy completed her master's in counseling and psychotherapy with the Adler Graduate School and is pursuing licensure as an LPC. She has 15 years of experience as a certified parent educator with CHADD and the Parent Encouragement Program (PEP). She works with parents to adopt a positive discipline approach and provides tools and strategies to win cooperation and increase peacefulness and respect in the family. Kathy applies neuroscience to help clients with emotional regulation and anger management to prevent disproportionate reactions.
Kathy completed her master's in counseling and psychotherapy with the Adler Graduate School and is pursuing licensure as an LPC. She has 15 years of experience as a certified parent educator with CHADD and the Parent Encouragement Program (PEP). She works with parents to adopt a positive discipline approach and provides tools and strategies to win cooperation and increase peacefulness and respect in the family. Kathy applies neuroscience to help clients with emotional regulation and anger management to prevent disproportionate reactions.
Jacob Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tysons, VA 22102 (Online Only)
My clinical speciality & publications revolve around trauma & its impact on our lives. I use EMDR, parts work and a psychodynamic approach. I particularly appreciate working with those who were chronically stressed in their childhood & doing couples intensives. I have extensive experience working with U.S. service members, business leaders with stressful jobs, intimate partner violence, and childhoods of neglect & deprivation. I also conduct research on trauma and health psychology. I do not just, "sit and listen." I play an active role in your therapy.
My clinical speciality & publications revolve around trauma & its impact on our lives. I use EMDR, parts work and a psychodynamic approach. I particularly appreciate working with those who were chronically stressed in their childhood & doing couples intensives. I have extensive experience working with U.S. service members, business leaders with stressful jobs, intimate partner violence, and childhoods of neglect & deprivation. I also conduct research on trauma and health psychology. I do not just, "sit and listen." I play an active role in your therapy.
Jillian Pelzer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22102 (Online Only)
I am a non-judgmental and open-minded therapist that wants to better the lives of each client I serve. I have expertise in treating depression, parenting problems, suicidal ideation, adjustment disorders, substance abuse, serious mental illnesses and more.
I am a non-judgmental and open-minded therapist that wants to better the lives of each client I serve. I have expertise in treating depression, parenting problems, suicidal ideation, adjustment disorders, substance abuse, serious mental illnesses and more.
I am a clinical psychologist practicing in Tysons Corner, Virginia and the Friendship Heights area of Northwest Washington, DC, and treat adolescents, adults, and couples. My approach is interactive, hopeful, and supportive. Some of my specialty areas include depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, and adolescent distress (including parent/teenager communication). I work in a collaborative and flexible manner. I help clients to gain greater insight into their behaviors, thought patterns, and emotional reactions. As self-awareness develops, clients report an increased sense of control over their choices, improved self-worth and, as a result, more rewarding relationships and fulfilling lives.
I am a clinical psychologist practicing in Tysons Corner, Virginia and the Friendship Heights area of Northwest Washington, DC, and treat adolescents, adults, and couples. My approach is interactive, hopeful, and supportive. Some of my specialty areas include depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, and adolescent distress (including parent/teenager communication). I work in a collaborative and flexible manner. I help clients to gain greater insight into their behaviors, thought patterns, and emotional reactions. As self-awareness develops, clients report an increased sense of control over their choices, improved self-worth and, as a result, more rewarding relationships and fulfilling lives.
Naoji Andrew Watson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22102
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about helping individuals and families. I have lived in many states and in Okinawa, Japan, and in Virginia most recently. My diverse military and family background led me to undergraduate studies at The Pennsylvania State University, and doctoral degree in Psychology at Argosy University where I developed a special interest in multicultural competency and mental health treatment. I have over 15 years of clinical experience and find collaborative work essential with other mental and health professionals in order to provide the highest level of care in treating the whole person.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about helping individuals and families. I have lived in many states and in Okinawa, Japan, and in Virginia most recently. My diverse military and family background led me to undergraduate studies at The Pennsylvania State University, and doctoral degree in Psychology at Argosy University where I developed a special interest in multicultural competency and mental health treatment. I have over 15 years of clinical experience and find collaborative work essential with other mental and health professionals in order to provide the highest level of care in treating the whole person.
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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.