LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 23233
I am passionate about supporting and advocating for LGBTQIA+ folks' unique needs, narratives, experiences, and rights.
Welcome! I'm glad you've found me, and I hope something on my page resonates with you. It is important for me to share that I am a queer therapist - as in I am queer myself and prioritize and adore working with folks in the queer community. I utilize a person-centered, humanistic, strengths-based approach with my clients. My overall desire is to foster and build a safe place where you and I can collaboratively create a trusting therapeutic relationship where tough topics can be processed. Whether implementing “traditional” talk therapy, art therapy, or yoga, I operate from a body-positive, humanistic, trauma-informed perspective.
I am passionate about supporting and advocating for LGBTQIA+ folks' unique needs, narratives, experiences, and rights.
Welcome! I'm glad you've found me, and I hope something on my page resonates with you. It is important for me to share that I am a queer therapist - as in I am queer myself and prioritize and adore working with folks in the queer community. I utilize a person-centered, humanistic, strengths-based approach with my clients. My overall desire is to foster and build a safe place where you and I can collaboratively create a trusting therapeutic relationship where tough topics can be processed. Whether implementing “traditional” talk therapy, art therapy, or yoga, I operate from a body-positive, humanistic, trauma-informed perspective.
Rebekkah Witten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23233 (Online Only)
I'm on a quest to help you be happier, healthier, and more connected to yourself and those around you. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or "like an outsider," or at odds with people in your life, I am here to provide support. I have experience supporting people through challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, trauma, relationship concerns, grief, and substance abuse concerns. I provide a safe space for members of the LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, polyamorous, and kink communities.
I'm on a quest to help you be happier, healthier, and more connected to yourself and those around you. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or "like an outsider," or at odds with people in your life, I am here to provide support. I have experience supporting people through challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, trauma, relationship concerns, grief, and substance abuse concerns. I provide a safe space for members of the LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, polyamorous, and kink communities.
Sarahbeth Spasojevich
Resident in Counseling, MEd, MA, MBA, NCC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23233
Waitlist for new clients
I'm experienced with ENM and LGBTQ+ relationships, and certified in Level 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapy, 'Prepare/Enrich,' Gottman's 'Bringing Baby Home,' and Level 2 Trauma-Informed therapy.
I help couples uncover underlying needs and emotions that drive their conflicts, increasing connection and reducing tension. I also support individuals dealing with religious trauma, sexual shame, and recovering from high-control relationships or loved ones with personality disorders. Our work can explore how attachment, grief, identity processing, and trauma may have shaped your life. Together, we'll uncover your authentic self beyond your life experiences, working towards greater internal peace. You deserve to be seen, heard, and valued. You are safe to be honest with me, even with the difficult truths. I'd love to help.
I'm experienced with ENM and LGBTQ+ relationships, and certified in Level 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapy, 'Prepare/Enrich,' Gottman's 'Bringing Baby Home,' and Level 2 Trauma-Informed therapy.
I help couples uncover underlying needs and emotions that drive their conflicts, increasing connection and reducing tension. I also support individuals dealing with religious trauma, sexual shame, and recovering from high-control relationships or loved ones with personality disorders. Our work can explore how attachment, grief, identity processing, and trauma may have shaped your life. Together, we'll uncover your authentic self beyond your life experiences, working towards greater internal peace. You deserve to be seen, heard, and valued. You are safe to be honest with me, even with the difficult truths. I'd love to help.
Cara Marinucci
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, FAMI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23233
I also have expertise in working with LGBTQ persons, those in recovery, spiritual and religious questioners, and writers, artists, and musicians.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am continually inspired by the transformative moment that happens in the counseling process. There is a sacredness in being present to another as a guide on this journey we call life. Whether it is exploring inner resources for healing and growth or the possibilities for deep and lasting change, it is an honor to work with people that are desiring a better way to be themselves in the world. My own journey has taught me that being truly present and engaged allows space for the unknown to be revealed, acknowledged, and eventually integrated into the service of the whole self.
I also have expertise in working with LGBTQ persons, those in recovery, spiritual and religious questioners, and writers, artists, and musicians.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am continually inspired by the transformative moment that happens in the counseling process. There is a sacredness in being present to another as a guide on this journey we call life. Whether it is exploring inner resources for healing and growth or the possibilities for deep and lasting change, it is an honor to work with people that are desiring a better way to be themselves in the world. My own journey has taught me that being truly present and engaged allows space for the unknown to be revealed, acknowledged, and eventually integrated into the service of the whole self.
Lori Reibach
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23233
Waitlist for new clients
I treat many individuals with eating disorders, trauma, neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ folks, and relational issues.
I believe that in order to succesfully grow and make changes in your life you need support, validation, and resources. It is my goal to meet you where you are at when you are feeling most hopeless, anxious, and lost. I believe everyone has unique strengths to create change in their lives. Therapy is a way to explore and challenge yourself. Together we can find ways to reconnect to an empowered and resilient whole self. Together we can create a space where you can be vulnerable.
I treat many individuals with eating disorders, trauma, neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ folks, and relational issues.
I believe that in order to succesfully grow and make changes in your life you need support, validation, and resources. It is my goal to meet you where you are at when you are feeling most hopeless, anxious, and lost. I believe everyone has unique strengths to create change in their lives. Therapy is a way to explore and challenge yourself. Together we can find ways to reconnect to an empowered and resilient whole self. Together we can create a space where you can be vulnerable.
Licensed Professional Counselor since 2016, but has been in the mental health field since 2000. I live in Lynchburg, VA and have my whole life. I have a passion for helping people feel comfortable in their own skin. I am an Ally and have a Transgender Son. I work from a CBT approach with Trauma Informed Care. I am very open minded and laid back. There is nothing that is off limits when a client needs to process. It their Journey and I am here to help along the way. I Love Horror Films, Being on the River, doing Jeep Events, and spending time with my chosen people.
Licensed Professional Counselor since 2016, but has been in the mental health field since 2000. I live in Lynchburg, VA and have my whole life. I have a passion for helping people feel comfortable in their own skin. I am an Ally and have a Transgender Son. I work from a CBT approach with Trauma Informed Care. I am very open minded and laid back. There is nothing that is off limits when a client needs to process. It their Journey and I am here to help along the way. I Love Horror Films, Being on the River, doing Jeep Events, and spending time with my chosen people.
Christine Oglesby Family Therapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23233
individuals, families, the LGBTQ+, veterans, and former inmates coping with re-entry issues and their families.
I feel a genuine responsibility on my part to respect the courage it takes to entrust me; to ask for help. In sharing your life story with me, my responsibility is to hear where you are & where you want to be, not to be judgmental but w/mindfulness, dignity & respect. I will work with individuals, couples, co-parents & families reunify & restore healthy interactions. Since 2003, I have extensive experience working w/ trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, co-parenting, LGBTQ+, family pxs. There is hope to resolve difficult problems, move beyond them & create a new life narrative of empowerment. Flex. hrs: Th-Su inc evenings & weekends!
individuals, families, the LGBTQ+, veterans, and former inmates coping with re-entry issues and their families.
I feel a genuine responsibility on my part to respect the courage it takes to entrust me; to ask for help. In sharing your life story with me, my responsibility is to hear where you are & where you want to be, not to be judgmental but w/mindfulness, dignity & respect. I will work with individuals, couples, co-parents & families reunify & restore healthy interactions. Since 2003, I have extensive experience working w/ trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, co-parenting, LGBTQ+, family pxs. There is hope to resolve difficult problems, move beyond them & create a new life narrative of empowerment. Flex. hrs: Th-Su inc evenings & weekends!
I am LGBTQIA+ affirming as well!.
I obtained my MSW from Virginia Commonwealth University. I have spent my career working with older adults and their families, helping to ease the transitions that come with aging. Also, I have experience helping individuals of almost all ages and walks of life navigate life’s challenges.
I am LGBTQIA+ affirming as well!.
I obtained my MSW from Virginia Commonwealth University. I have spent my career working with older adults and their families, helping to ease the transitions that come with aging. Also, I have experience helping individuals of almost all ages and walks of life navigate life’s challenges.
I love supporting folks on their journey of self-realization, self-acceptance, and self-love. Life is hard. We aren't designed to do it alone. Whether you have an extensive trauma history or are experiencing an exciting life change, I am here to help you understand yourself and your needs better. One of my favorite parts of being a therapist is getting to know people and seeing them learn to embrace their imperfections with kindness. I enjoy working with children, teens, and emerging adults (generally ages 4 to 24). I also recently became an ADHD- Certified Clinical Services Provider.
I love supporting folks on their journey of self-realization, self-acceptance, and self-love. Life is hard. We aren't designed to do it alone. Whether you have an extensive trauma history or are experiencing an exciting life change, I am here to help you understand yourself and your needs better. One of my favorite parts of being a therapist is getting to know people and seeing them learn to embrace their imperfections with kindness. I enjoy working with children, teens, and emerging adults (generally ages 4 to 24). I also recently became an ADHD- Certified Clinical Services Provider.
Therapy is a collaborative process to improving your well-being. I enjoy working with individuals who are looking to improve their mental well-being as well as relationships and other aspects of life. You may need support, psychoeducation, and the opportunity to explore your past and present and how it affects you. My clients may be new to mental health treatment and seeking help to accept and manage the challenges of their diagnosis.
Therapy is a collaborative process to improving your well-being. I enjoy working with individuals who are looking to improve their mental well-being as well as relationships and other aspects of life. You may need support, psychoeducation, and the opportunity to explore your past and present and how it affects you. My clients may be new to mental health treatment and seeking help to accept and manage the challenges of their diagnosis.
Wendy Couch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23233 (Online Only)
Limited openings at this time- - I'm Wendy, and I am here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth. Whether you're navigating through challenging emotions or stressors, seeking direction through life transitions, or working to enhance your overall mental health, you've taken a big step in coming here today. I am dedicated to creating a supportive therapeutic relationship built on trust, transparency, and authenticity. My approach integrates trauma informed and evidence-based practices with personalized care, tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.
Limited openings at this time- - I'm Wendy, and I am here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth. Whether you're navigating through challenging emotions or stressors, seeking direction through life transitions, or working to enhance your overall mental health, you've taken a big step in coming here today. I am dedicated to creating a supportive therapeutic relationship built on trust, transparency, and authenticity. My approach integrates trauma informed and evidence-based practices with personalized care, tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.
Hannah Mason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23233
Are you feeling apprehensive about starting your therapeutic journey? I understand! I will take the time to get to know you as an individual in order to best support your needs. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and sometimes it just takes a little support from a neutral party to work through challenges. If you're wondering "what" to do next, "how" to overcome a particular challenge, or are hoping to "learn" new skills to manage your anxieties - please reach out! A good therapist will partner with you and help you feel empowered to take on whatever life throws at you.
Are you feeling apprehensive about starting your therapeutic journey? I understand! I will take the time to get to know you as an individual in order to best support your needs. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and sometimes it just takes a little support from a neutral party to work through challenges. If you're wondering "what" to do next, "how" to overcome a particular challenge, or are hoping to "learn" new skills to manage your anxieties - please reach out! A good therapist will partner with you and help you feel empowered to take on whatever life throws at you.
Overwhelmed students and young adults often wonder, “Can someone help me without making me feel even worse than I do right now?” or “I just need to get through these next crucial years...but this is so hard, I'm not even sure that can happen.” People ages 13 to 24 are faced with constant decision making, competitive peer environments, and finish lines that keep moving. Families also get swept up in the pressure of watching their loved ones encounter diverse and time sensitive obstacles.
Overwhelmed students and young adults often wonder, “Can someone help me without making me feel even worse than I do right now?” or “I just need to get through these next crucial years...but this is so hard, I'm not even sure that can happen.” People ages 13 to 24 are faced with constant decision making, competitive peer environments, and finish lines that keep moving. Families also get swept up in the pressure of watching their loved ones encounter diverse and time sensitive obstacles.
Veronica King, PhD is a licensed Clinical Psychologist. DGE Psychological Services P.C. is a group she opened to provide services for adults, couples, and families with a wide range of mental health issues. The practice also includes SAP evaluations for those who are employed by a DOT regulated agency.
Veronica King, PhD is a licensed Clinical Psychologist. DGE Psychological Services P.C. is a group she opened to provide services for adults, couples, and families with a wide range of mental health issues. The practice also includes SAP evaluations for those who are employed by a DOT regulated agency.
My name is Deb Sabatino and I am and Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. I use a gentle wholistic approach which is trauma-informed when working with clients. My speciality is working with young adults ages 18-30 who are experiencing anxiety due to life transitions. I also specialize in relationship trauma and helping clients restore themselves back to health after they have experienced abuse of any kind. I have experience working with Military, Law Enforcement and their families.
My name is Deb Sabatino and I am and Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. I use a gentle wholistic approach which is trauma-informed when working with clients. My speciality is working with young adults ages 18-30 who are experiencing anxiety due to life transitions. I also specialize in relationship trauma and helping clients restore themselves back to health after they have experienced abuse of any kind. I have experience working with Military, Law Enforcement and their families.
Therapy is a process that begins with building a healthy therapeutic relationship. I offer my clients warmth,respect,compassion,honesty and humor so they can work to resolve trauma and painful experiences,develop new and healthier patterns in relationships,increase their understanding of themselves,or find ways to cope with and overcome obstacles like depression,anxiety,substance abuse,and low self esteem. I work with adults,families and couples. I also have a special interest in helping adolescents and their families manage the challenges of the teen years.
Therapy is a process that begins with building a healthy therapeutic relationship. I offer my clients warmth,respect,compassion,honesty and humor so they can work to resolve trauma and painful experiences,develop new and healthier patterns in relationships,increase their understanding of themselves,or find ways to cope with and overcome obstacles like depression,anxiety,substance abuse,and low self esteem. I work with adults,families and couples. I also have a special interest in helping adolescents and their families manage the challenges of the teen years.
Marriage counseling is my area of specialty. I'm a marriage and family therapist who has made relationship dynamics my exclusive focus and expertise. I specialize in working with couples who have experienced infidelity in their marriage, where one partner has had an affair. I also work with communication blockages, fighting all the time, lack of intimacy, and loss of the "loving feeling" for each other. Please visit my webpage at Well Marriage Center to learn all about my philosophy and marriage-friendly approach (one- click link on the left under my picture).
Marriage counseling is my area of specialty. I'm a marriage and family therapist who has made relationship dynamics my exclusive focus and expertise. I specialize in working with couples who have experienced infidelity in their marriage, where one partner has had an affair. I also work with communication blockages, fighting all the time, lack of intimacy, and loss of the "loving feeling" for each other. Please visit my webpage at Well Marriage Center to learn all about my philosophy and marriage-friendly approach (one- click link on the left under my picture).
Abigail Starns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23233
Waitlist for new clients
Are you interested in examining your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to make positive change? I am committed to providing a safe & affirming space to harness strengths, explore current patterns, & see where there could be space for growth. I have worked with individuals on the Autism Spectrum & those with depressive, anxious, & trauma-related symptoms. I acknowledge that treatment of these challenges is not "one size fits all", & pride myself on my experience working with folks in the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals in polyamorous relationships, & those with different health conditions & ability statuses.
Are you interested in examining your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to make positive change? I am committed to providing a safe & affirming space to harness strengths, explore current patterns, & see where there could be space for growth. I have worked with individuals on the Autism Spectrum & those with depressive, anxious, & trauma-related symptoms. I acknowledge that treatment of these challenges is not "one size fits all", & pride myself on my experience working with folks in the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals in polyamorous relationships, & those with different health conditions & ability statuses.
Mary Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23233 (Online Only)
“Something feels off.” If you’ve felt this before, know that you are not alone. Many of my clients come to me with this feeling. I help people of all ages who are going through life transitions. I also see people experiencing anxiety or depression and help them work through buried or minimized traumas. My clients often feel like something is wrong with them or feel like outsiders. They are people who think about the bigger picture in life but may not know how to apply that to their lives.
“Something feels off.” If you’ve felt this before, know that you are not alone. Many of my clients come to me with this feeling. I help people of all ages who are going through life transitions. I also see people experiencing anxiety or depression and help them work through buried or minimized traumas. My clients often feel like something is wrong with them or feel like outsiders. They are people who think about the bigger picture in life but may not know how to apply that to their lives.
Lynne Penn-Leon Lcsw-C Executive Director
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23233 (Online Only)
My Team in MD & VA for Clients! With a 5 out of 5 rating, Pivot's Potential, LLC works with people just like you settling minds and bodies & getting your life back! We work with older adolescents & adults and come from a strength perspective. We believe that every person has strengths yet to be discovered. We offer an integrated, team approach which is solution-focused, lending itself to short-term work. Therapy is a collaborative process, where client and therapist come together to find solutions. Specializing in trauma, anxiety & depression, we provide clients with useful tools in the first 6 session to provide symptom relief.
My Team in MD & VA for Clients! With a 5 out of 5 rating, Pivot's Potential, LLC works with people just like you settling minds and bodies & getting your life back! We work with older adolescents & adults and come from a strength perspective. We believe that every person has strengths yet to be discovered. We offer an integrated, team approach which is solution-focused, lending itself to short-term work. Therapy is a collaborative process, where client and therapist come together to find solutions. Specializing in trauma, anxiety & depression, we provide clients with useful tools in the first 6 session to provide symptom relief.
See more therapy options for 23233
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.