LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 27614
I work with adults of all ages, especially Black and brown men, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and college students. As a personal witness to the lack of competent mental health care, especially for queer Black men, I work towards closing that gap. My work with clients encompasses career transitions, relocation, relationship issues, life transitions, living with physical disabilities, suicidal ideations, and depression.
I work with adults of all ages, especially Black and brown men, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and college students. As a personal witness to the lack of competent mental health care, especially for queer Black men, I work towards closing that gap. My work with clients encompasses career transitions, relocation, relationship issues, life transitions, living with physical disabilities, suicidal ideations, and depression.
Frances De Los Santos
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MEd, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614 (Online Only)
I work with adult clients with various backgrounds and experiences focusing on concerns of depression, relationship challenges, neurodivergence, cultural and LGBTQ+ identity, sexuality, burnout, life transitions, and self-acceptance.
Do you sometimes worry if who you are is "wrong," stuck focusing on harmful messages or unrealistic expectations? Do you feel a little lost in who you are and what you want, then find thinking about it gets overwhelming? If there are times when life feels heavy or you feel like hiding away until you're "put together," you are not alone. It helps to have a space to put life's many complexities aside - to take the rules, systemic barriers, and needs of yourself and others, put them all down, breathe, and unpack. Looking for that space is a big step. I'm here to create that space with you.
I work with adult clients with various backgrounds and experiences focusing on concerns of depression, relationship challenges, neurodivergence, cultural and LGBTQ+ identity, sexuality, burnout, life transitions, and self-acceptance.
Do you sometimes worry if who you are is "wrong," stuck focusing on harmful messages or unrealistic expectations? Do you feel a little lost in who you are and what you want, then find thinking about it gets overwhelming? If there are times when life feels heavy or you feel like hiding away until you're "put together," you are not alone. It helps to have a space to put life's many complexities aside - to take the rules, systemic barriers, and needs of yourself and others, put them all down, breathe, and unpack. Looking for that space is a big step. I'm here to create that space with you.
Caroline Rusk
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614 (Online Only)
Before becoming a licensed therapist, I've worked with adolescents in high school settings, coached women’s soccer, and worked with college students at the NC State LGBTQ Pride Center.
I work with individuals (12+) on topics of LGBTQ+ concerns, anxiety, depression, emotional trauma, and family/relationship challenges. As someone who grew up in a large, blended, family, I have a deep appreciation for complex family dynamics and the challenges of adjustment. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I understand the difficulty of being in spaces where one cannot fully express their authentic self. My previous experience within a strict evangelical organization offers me perspective on healing from religious trauma. These lived experiences developed a natural compassion for others with these and other layered identities.
Before becoming a licensed therapist, I've worked with adolescents in high school settings, coached women’s soccer, and worked with college students at the NC State LGBTQ Pride Center.
I work with individuals (12+) on topics of LGBTQ+ concerns, anxiety, depression, emotional trauma, and family/relationship challenges. As someone who grew up in a large, blended, family, I have a deep appreciation for complex family dynamics and the challenges of adjustment. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I understand the difficulty of being in spaces where one cannot fully express their authentic self. My previous experience within a strict evangelical organization offers me perspective on healing from religious trauma. These lived experiences developed a natural compassion for others with these and other layered identities.
Gabby Boatwright
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27614 (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people to find and use their voice, particularly adults, adolescents, people in the LGBTQ+ community, and those who struggle with ADHD.
My goal as a therapist is to give people a safe space to be themselves. Life is tough sometimes, and having support is important to the healing and self-discovery processes. I learned through my own life’s challenges the value in having someone to be an accepting, empathetic listener who helps you unpack the bags that weigh you down.
I specialize in helping people to find and use their voice, particularly adults, adolescents, people in the LGBTQ+ community, and those who struggle with ADHD.
My goal as a therapist is to give people a safe space to be themselves. Life is tough sometimes, and having support is important to the healing and self-discovery processes. I learned through my own life’s challenges the value in having someone to be an accepting, empathetic listener who helps you unpack the bags that weigh you down.
My specialty areas include LGBTQ+ concerns, identity concerns, life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief, and personal growth.
I love the Shannon L. Alder quote "Courage doesn't happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life." Taking the first step toward change is scary and difficult. I strive to make a safe space where these steps can be taken in a judgment-free environment. It's important to feel heard and have your experience valued.
My specialty areas include LGBTQ+ concerns, identity concerns, life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief, and personal growth.
I love the Shannon L. Alder quote "Courage doesn't happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life." Taking the first step toward change is scary and difficult. I strive to make a safe space where these steps can be taken in a judgment-free environment. It's important to feel heard and have your experience valued.
Finally, I have extensive experience in working with the LGBTQ community as well as those with severe depression and anxiety.
Everyone has the potential to unlock who they want to become and achieve a balanced life. If this is your first time seeking a therapist or if you have been in therapy before, I find ways to help client's feel comfortable to be able to speak freely to reach their goals. Having experience in working with children and adults in different capacities over my career, it has become my desire to help those I work with find their own potential and assist in empowerment. I have an extensive background in woking with those with a variety of mental health issues in the community mental health setting and hospital setting.
Finally, I have extensive experience in working with the LGBTQ community as well as those with severe depression and anxiety.
Everyone has the potential to unlock who they want to become and achieve a balanced life. If this is your first time seeking a therapist or if you have been in therapy before, I find ways to help client's feel comfortable to be able to speak freely to reach their goals. Having experience in working with children and adults in different capacities over my career, it has become my desire to help those I work with find their own potential and assist in empowerment. I have an extensive background in woking with those with a variety of mental health issues in the community mental health setting and hospital setting.
As a professional counselors for over 25 years and a gay man, I seek to use my training and experience to become an intentional advocate for all communities. With a clear focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, I work with adolescents and adults with issues related to adult children of alcoholics, recovery, identity exploration, self-esteem, personal growth, LGBTQIA+ issues, neurodiversity and adults with ADD, family and relationship conflict, grief and loss, sexual dysfunction, sexuality issues, depression, anxiety, and individuation.
As a professional counselors for over 25 years and a gay man, I seek to use my training and experience to become an intentional advocate for all communities. With a clear focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, I work with adolescents and adults with issues related to adult children of alcoholics, recovery, identity exploration, self-esteem, personal growth, LGBTQIA+ issues, neurodiversity and adults with ADD, family and relationship conflict, grief and loss, sexual dysfunction, sexuality issues, depression, anxiety, and individuation.
We address a wide array of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, racial trauma, oppression and discrimination, career counseling, career conflict, PTSD, life transitions, relationship conflict, ADHD, substance use, bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, and more.
Has finding an inclusive therapist been a challenge for you? Do you need a counselor who understands experiences around BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodiversity, ability differences, and any other wonderful traits that make you who you are? As therapists at Nour Counseling, we self-identify with historically marginalized backgrounds, and have a special passion for supporting our communities. You can come to each therapy session resting assured that your therapist recognizes how the intersection of your various identities impacts the way you experience the world and presenting concerns. We celebrate folx who identify as bicultural, Black, African American, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ability diverse, and all who have been historically marginalized because… Everyone means everyone.
We address a wide array of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, racial trauma, oppression and discrimination, career counseling, career conflict, PTSD, life transitions, relationship conflict, ADHD, substance use, bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, and more.
Has finding an inclusive therapist been a challenge for you? Do you need a counselor who understands experiences around BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodiversity, ability differences, and any other wonderful traits that make you who you are? As therapists at Nour Counseling, we self-identify with historically marginalized backgrounds, and have a special passion for supporting our communities. You can come to each therapy session resting assured that your therapist recognizes how the intersection of your various identities impacts the way you experience the world and presenting concerns. We celebrate folx who identify as bicultural, Black, African American, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ability diverse, and all who have been historically marginalized because… Everyone means everyone.
I have worked with mostly queer, trans, and transitioning adults and teenagers (16+) navigating relationship problems, identity questions, anxiety, school/work issues, and depression.
My name is Hope (they/them) and I am a Black, queer, nonbinary Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) who provides individual therapy virtually across North Carolina. My therapy style is person centered infused with warmth and openness. I deeply value and honor the relationship we build together. My focus is to journey alongside you and provide supportive tools and practices tailored to your needs.
I have worked with mostly queer, trans, and transitioning adults and teenagers (16+) navigating relationship problems, identity questions, anxiety, school/work issues, and depression.
My name is Hope (they/them) and I am a Black, queer, nonbinary Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) who provides individual therapy virtually across North Carolina. My therapy style is person centered infused with warmth and openness. I deeply value and honor the relationship we build together. My focus is to journey alongside you and provide supportive tools and practices tailored to your needs.
Patrick T. Hefferan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614 (Online Only)
I am passionate about combining diverse resources and therapeutic tools in working with clients with Marriage and Family Issues, ADHD, Impulse Control (related to internet and video games), Depression,Anxiety, LGBT Issues, Stress Reduction, Grief, and Life Transitions.
My clients consider me to be an empathic listener, a keen observer, and a calming presence. I bring a warm smile, a curious, gentle, friendly manner, a ready laugh, and a healthy self into my therapy sessions every day. I sincerely care about the people I work with and work hard to create a warm and trusting environment for clients of all ages. Forming and nurturing relationships is my strength. It's within the context of a healthy relationship that emotional and mental healing occurs. I'm trained to facilitate treatment for internet and technology compulsions and addictions including gaming, online pornography, and related issues.
I am passionate about combining diverse resources and therapeutic tools in working with clients with Marriage and Family Issues, ADHD, Impulse Control (related to internet and video games), Depression,Anxiety, LGBT Issues, Stress Reduction, Grief, and Life Transitions.
My clients consider me to be an empathic listener, a keen observer, and a calming presence. I bring a warm smile, a curious, gentle, friendly manner, a ready laugh, and a healthy self into my therapy sessions every day. I sincerely care about the people I work with and work hard to create a warm and trusting environment for clients of all ages. Forming and nurturing relationships is my strength. It's within the context of a healthy relationship that emotional and mental healing occurs. I'm trained to facilitate treatment for internet and technology compulsions and addictions including gaming, online pornography, and related issues.
Dr. Benton is the owner of Oak City Psychology. She is a Licensed Psychologist and a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS). Dr. Benton also specializes in working with people who identify as LGBTQ+ and women who have lost a pregnancy. While these are her primary specialties, she enjoys working with anyone who is open to examining their own life and making changes. Dr. Benton believes that each of us possess our own wisdom. Unfortunately, there are times when we are unable to access that wisdom. That's where therapy can help.
Dr. Benton is the owner of Oak City Psychology. She is a Licensed Psychologist and a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS). Dr. Benton also specializes in working with people who identify as LGBTQ+ and women who have lost a pregnancy. While these are her primary specialties, she enjoys working with anyone who is open to examining their own life and making changes. Dr. Benton believes that each of us possess our own wisdom. Unfortunately, there are times when we are unable to access that wisdom. That's where therapy can help.
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Katherine E. Walker
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614
Specialties include depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, work-life balance, stress management, grief / loss, assertiveness, problem-solving / decision-making skills, couples communication / relationship conflict, health / wellness goals, and LGBT issues.
Combining a number of evidenced-based and complementary therapeutic approaches, I work with clients to achieve a greater sense of awareness, empowerment, and develop better solutions and strategies to resolve their intrapersonal and interpersonal issues and problems. I believe that, as people become more aware and accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding peace and contentment in their lives. Together we will work to identify goals, explore areas where you feel stuck or lost, approach it in a way that feels safe and manageable, and strive to improve resiliency, adaptability, assertiveness, and empowerment.
Specialties include depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, work-life balance, stress management, grief / loss, assertiveness, problem-solving / decision-making skills, couples communication / relationship conflict, health / wellness goals, and LGBT issues.
Combining a number of evidenced-based and complementary therapeutic approaches, I work with clients to achieve a greater sense of awareness, empowerment, and develop better solutions and strategies to resolve their intrapersonal and interpersonal issues and problems. I believe that, as people become more aware and accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding peace and contentment in their lives. Together we will work to identify goals, explore areas where you feel stuck or lost, approach it in a way that feels safe and manageable, and strive to improve resiliency, adaptability, assertiveness, and empowerment.
Kandice Van Beerschoten Sex Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614 (Online Only)
Also, I work with a variety of sexual issues, those who identify as LGBTQ+, and trauma.
Have you lost control? Do you put the needs of others first? Is it hard for you to say "no" to people? Do you feel disconnected? Are your relationships suffering? Your sex life? You're exhausted, ready for something to change, but need to feel confident that your therapist will understand not only your issues, but your lifestyle. If this sounds familiar, then I would love to help you. For two decades, I've worked with people just like you, helping them sort through the intricacies of life and relationships. It's easy to get stuck when you start making changes, but therapy is a great way to move forward.
Also, I work with a variety of sexual issues, those who identify as LGBTQ+, and trauma.
Have you lost control? Do you put the needs of others first? Is it hard for you to say "no" to people? Do you feel disconnected? Are your relationships suffering? Your sex life? You're exhausted, ready for something to change, but need to feel confident that your therapist will understand not only your issues, but your lifestyle. If this sounds familiar, then I would love to help you. For two decades, I've worked with people just like you, helping them sort through the intricacies of life and relationships. It's easy to get stuck when you start making changes, but therapy is a great way to move forward.
Meghan Sabba Hall Rauen
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614
Waitlist for new clients
I have clinical experience working with children, teens, adults, multicultural, and LGBTQ+ population struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, PTSD, behavioral issues, academic/school problems, ADD/ADHD, sexual/gender identity issues, personality issues, domestic issues, adjustment issues, and health/medical issues. I also have expertise working multiculturally and with individuals of the Abrahamic traditions, folks from Jewish, Christian and Islamic faith traditions, and counseling for these faiths.
I have clinical experience working with children, teens, adults, multicultural, and LGBTQ+ population struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, PTSD, behavioral issues, academic/school problems, ADD/ADHD, sexual/gender identity issues, personality issues, domestic issues, adjustment issues, and health/medical issues. I also have expertise working multiculturally and with individuals of the Abrahamic traditions, folks from Jewish, Christian and Islamic faith traditions, and counseling for these faiths.
Therapy is more than a comfy couch and a good listener; it’s a safe space to examine, reflect, goal-set, and learn new skills to align with such goals. My hope for you is that when you step into my office you feel supported in a non-judgmental collaborative setting while being provided space for autonomy, diversity, free-thinking, authenticity, and mutual respect. I specialize in treating clients with trauma-related disorders, anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, as well as grief, and loss. I am most passionate about working with members of the trans community as well as all individuals within the LGBTQIA+ umbrella.
Therapy is more than a comfy couch and a good listener; it’s a safe space to examine, reflect, goal-set, and learn new skills to align with such goals. My hope for you is that when you step into my office you feel supported in a non-judgmental collaborative setting while being provided space for autonomy, diversity, free-thinking, authenticity, and mutual respect. I specialize in treating clients with trauma-related disorders, anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, as well as grief, and loss. I am most passionate about working with members of the trans community as well as all individuals within the LGBTQIA+ umbrella.
Alex Bass is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) with over 4 years of experience in mental health. Alex strives to create a welcoming and supportive environment for you to be your authentic self. Alex specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, coping skills, self-esteem, and relationship issues. Alex is passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults from various backgrounds. Alex completed his Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Western Carolina University.
Alex Bass is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) with over 4 years of experience in mental health. Alex strives to create a welcoming and supportive environment for you to be your authentic self. Alex specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, coping skills, self-esteem, and relationship issues. Alex is passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults from various backgrounds. Alex completed his Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Western Carolina University.
I specialize in supporting adults navigating ADHD, anxiety, intricate family dynamics, and complex trauma. I recognize that reaching out for help can feel unfamiliar and even daunting at times. That’s why I invite you to start with a brief conversation where we can explore your needs and concerns in a comfortable and non-judgmental space. Together, we can work through the challenges you're facing, and I’m confident that our collaboration will empower you to make meaningful progress toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.
I specialize in supporting adults navigating ADHD, anxiety, intricate family dynamics, and complex trauma. I recognize that reaching out for help can feel unfamiliar and even daunting at times. That’s why I invite you to start with a brief conversation where we can explore your needs and concerns in a comfortable and non-judgmental space. Together, we can work through the challenges you're facing, and I’m confident that our collaboration will empower you to make meaningful progress toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Mary M Lloyd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614 (Online Only)
Areas of expertise include treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions and addiction.
What can we do to bring about change in our life? Working with a therapist can have far reaching benefits. Through compassionate and collaborative exploration, my goal is to help you build increased self-awareness and form new understandings of your past and present. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for in-depth work with children, adolescents, adults and couples.
Areas of expertise include treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions and addiction.
What can we do to bring about change in our life? Working with a therapist can have far reaching benefits. Through compassionate and collaborative exploration, my goal is to help you build increased self-awareness and form new understandings of your past and present. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for in-depth work with children, adolescents, adults and couples.
I provide services for clients who I believe have the capacity to resolve their own problems with my assistance. I offer a professional relationship with my clients to assist them in exploring and resolving difficult issues. I believe that as people become more accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding happiness and contentment in their lives. Self-awareness and self-acceptance are goals that sometimes take a long time to achieve. While some clients may need only a few counseling sessions to feel complete, others may require months. I offer a caring, empathic space to explore, heal and to try new ways of being.
I provide services for clients who I believe have the capacity to resolve their own problems with my assistance. I offer a professional relationship with my clients to assist them in exploring and resolving difficult issues. I believe that as people become more accepting of themselves, they are more capable of finding happiness and contentment in their lives. Self-awareness and self-acceptance are goals that sometimes take a long time to achieve. While some clients may need only a few counseling sessions to feel complete, others may require months. I offer a caring, empathic space to explore, heal and to try new ways of being.
Life can bring waves of transition; many are excellent, and others are more complex. I enjoy partnering with older adults and their families to provide support and explore ways to improve the quality of life for all. Typical areas of exploration may include retirement, end of life, grief, loss of independence, caregiver stress, role reversal/confusion, depression, isolation, anxiety, and life inventory. I offer a holistic and client-centered approach embracing empowerment, narratives, and strengths to rebalance joy and fulfillment as life transitions.
Life can bring waves of transition; many are excellent, and others are more complex. I enjoy partnering with older adults and their families to provide support and explore ways to improve the quality of life for all. Typical areas of exploration may include retirement, end of life, grief, loss of independence, caregiver stress, role reversal/confusion, depression, isolation, anxiety, and life inventory. I offer a holistic and client-centered approach embracing empowerment, narratives, and strengths to rebalance joy and fulfillment as life transitions.
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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.