Photo of McCloud Acosta Clinical Services - MACS (McCloud Acosta Clinical Services PLLC), Clinical Social Work/Therapist
MACS (McCloud Acosta Clinical Services PLLC)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
We are LGBTQIA+ informed and allied.
We are a Group of Trauma Specialist working with a variety of ages (8-100+) who have experienced trauma & have mental health needs. Our team of 15 therapists have a variety of specialties, experience & methods along with life experiences that can address most challenges. We love to work with clients who are ready to take the healing journey, are open, motivated & committed. Therapy is work & it is something we are honored to help you do. If you are ready to improve your life- please reach out. Virtual (in NC) and In-Person Sessions Available in Matthews & Mint Hill.
We are LGBTQIA+ informed and allied.
We are a Group of Trauma Specialist working with a variety of ages (8-100+) who have experienced trauma & have mental health needs. Our team of 15 therapists have a variety of specialties, experience & methods along with life experiences that can address most challenges. We love to work with clients who are ready to take the healing journey, are open, motivated & committed. Therapy is work & it is something we are honored to help you do. If you are ready to improve your life- please reach out. Virtual (in NC) and In-Person Sessions Available in Matthews & Mint Hill.
(704) 368-3609 View (704) 368-3609
Photo of Tori Vollmer, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Tori Vollmer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
I also work with active-duty military, veterans, Law Enforcement, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and individuals facing domestic violence issues.
Are you struggling to find solutions to your most pressing concerns? Do you find it difficult to communicate with others? Are you feeling bullied, depressed, angry, frustrated, or misunderstood? Are you struggling with understanding your or a family member's sexual identity? Have you experienced physical or verbal abuse and find the trauma is overwhelming you? Have you experienced thoughts of suicide? If any of these questions resonate with you, then let's chat a bit. It is my goal to help you identify and achieve yours!
I also work with active-duty military, veterans, Law Enforcement, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and individuals facing domestic violence issues.
Are you struggling to find solutions to your most pressing concerns? Do you find it difficult to communicate with others? Are you feeling bullied, depressed, angry, frustrated, or misunderstood? Are you struggling with understanding your or a family member's sexual identity? Have you experienced physical or verbal abuse and find the trauma is overwhelming you? Have you experienced thoughts of suicide? If any of these questions resonate with you, then let's chat a bit. It is my goal to help you identify and achieve yours!
(980) 290-7272 View (980) 290-7272
Photo of Greg St. Martin - GPS Counseling, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
GPS Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Through the person centered approach I provide Individual Therapy, LGBTQ Counseling, Couples Counseling, Play Therapy, Child Parent Relationship Training and Family Therapy.
Thank you for visiting my profile. My name is Greg St. Martin. I provide counseling to children, adolescents, adults and families. My theoretical approach is Person Centered. Person-Centered Therapy utilizes the approach that each person is unique, valued, and worthy of unconditional acceptance. I received a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Play Therapy at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2017. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina (LCMHC, 13814) and a National Certified Counselor.
Through the person centered approach I provide Individual Therapy, LGBTQ Counseling, Couples Counseling, Play Therapy, Child Parent Relationship Training and Family Therapy.
Thank you for visiting my profile. My name is Greg St. Martin. I provide counseling to children, adolescents, adults and families. My theoretical approach is Person Centered. Person-Centered Therapy utilizes the approach that each person is unique, valued, and worthy of unconditional acceptance. I received a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Play Therapy at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2017. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina (LCMHC, 13814) and a National Certified Counselor.
(704) 837-1638 View (704) 837-1638
Photo of Nikki Lowman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nikki Lowman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Nikki Lowman. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in NC. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and a trauma-informed therapist. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults (18-25). My clients have experienced traumatic events (neglect, abuse, bullying, foster care, domestic violence, sudden death of a loved one), distressing life events/major life changes (divorce of parents, frequency moves or change in homes, school changes) and/or difficult adjusting to other stressors or life changes.
Hi! My name is Nikki Lowman. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in NC. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and a trauma-informed therapist. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults (18-25). My clients have experienced traumatic events (neglect, abuse, bullying, foster care, domestic violence, sudden death of a loved one), distressing life events/major life changes (divorce of parents, frequency moves or change in homes, school changes) and/or difficult adjusting to other stressors or life changes.
(336) 872-2639 View (336) 872-2639
Photo of Jeremy W. Saunders, LCMHCA, MA
Jeremy W. Saunders
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
I have mainly worked with youth, LGBTQ+, and anxiety clients in my experience thus far.
I have a passion for working with clients from many diverse backgrounds. I grew up in a small town where mental health awareness was not always present and children, like myself, who were going through their own unique and individual challenges did not always have support or an outlet for expressing their emotions. I aim to work with clients who are searching for this same type of support environment and positive outcomes through making plans for their growth. This is in connection with using research-based mental/emotional health strategies to achieve goals and create authentic and personal changes in their lives.
I have mainly worked with youth, LGBTQ+, and anxiety clients in my experience thus far.
I have a passion for working with clients from many diverse backgrounds. I grew up in a small town where mental health awareness was not always present and children, like myself, who were going through their own unique and individual challenges did not always have support or an outlet for expressing their emotions. I aim to work with clients who are searching for this same type of support environment and positive outcomes through making plans for their growth. This is in connection with using research-based mental/emotional health strategies to achieve goals and create authentic and personal changes in their lives.
(704) 946-5439 View (704) 946-5439
Photo of Paige Shaw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paige Shaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Paige Shaw is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2019. She earned a BSW and MSW at The University of Kentucky. Paige can help a client by holding a space for them to come and share what has been on their mind, work through a specific challenge, help them learn how to regulate emotions, and/or improve communication. She offers different perspectives, coping skills, and a safe space to process. Paige meets the client where they are at with what they want to work on. This looks different for each age and individual, and she adapts to each client she is working with.
Paige Shaw is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2019. She earned a BSW and MSW at The University of Kentucky. Paige can help a client by holding a space for them to come and share what has been on their mind, work through a specific challenge, help them learn how to regulate emotions, and/or improve communication. She offers different perspectives, coping skills, and a safe space to process. Paige meets the client where they are at with what they want to work on. This looks different for each age and individual, and she adapts to each client she is working with.
(704) 610-0240 View (704) 610-0240
Photo of Boyce L Smith, MA, LCMHCA, LCAS, CCS, NCC, Counselor
Boyce L Smith
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, LCAS, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Areas of expertise include: substance use, trauma, mood/anxiety concerns, relationship issues, life changes/adjustments, grief/loss, non-monogamous and polyamorous couples, gender and sexual identity, LGBTQI+ individuals, men's issues, anger management, depression, and working with individual, couples, families.
Taking the step to seek out counseling takes tremendous courage and vulnerability. My approach in counseling is holistic and takes into account the whole body, mind, and spirit. As a therapist I treat individuals, couples, and families regardless of race, age, sexuality, gender, religion, or ethnicity. Both professionally and personally, I believe that we all have what is necessary for true growth and change. Join me on the journey of exploring your needs and goals to help you accomplish a desired outcome.
Areas of expertise include: substance use, trauma, mood/anxiety concerns, relationship issues, life changes/adjustments, grief/loss, non-monogamous and polyamorous couples, gender and sexual identity, LGBTQI+ individuals, men's issues, anger management, depression, and working with individual, couples, families.
Taking the step to seek out counseling takes tremendous courage and vulnerability. My approach in counseling is holistic and takes into account the whole body, mind, and spirit. As a therapist I treat individuals, couples, and families regardless of race, age, sexuality, gender, religion, or ethnicity. Both professionally and personally, I believe that we all have what is necessary for true growth and change. Join me on the journey of exploring your needs and goals to help you accomplish a desired outcome.
(704) 703-3298 View (704) 703-3298
Photo of Kristy Walgren - Walgren Counseling, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Walgren Counseling, PLLC
MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
At Walgren Counseling, PLLC we have 20 therapists. Although each has a unique set of training & experience, our approach to working with you is similar. We all have a holistic, client-centered, and tailored approach. Rather than identifying an ideal client, we believe in developing a relationship with you that will be most helpful to you. Our therapists strive to bring out each person's ability to find balance and healing from within. Our entire office, from office staff to clinician, is committed to making you feel well-cared for.
At Walgren Counseling, PLLC we have 20 therapists. Although each has a unique set of training & experience, our approach to working with you is similar. We all have a holistic, client-centered, and tailored approach. Rather than identifying an ideal client, we believe in developing a relationship with you that will be most helpful to you. Our therapists strive to bring out each person's ability to find balance and healing from within. Our entire office, from office staff to clinician, is committed to making you feel well-cared for.
(704) 312-4364 View (704) 312-4364
Photo of Eleena Hardzinski, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eleena Hardzinski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Are you a mom struggling with feeling so overwhelmed you question if you’re doing anything right? You spend the day driving the kids around, doing chores, and working but feel like you don’t get anything done? Do you feel you’re on edge and quickly get irritated with your family? Are resentments growing toward your loved ones and you struggle to enjoy family time? I get it. As a mom in today’s society it’s common to experience such frustration and exhaustion that all you want to do is lock yourself in the bathroom and scream. I’m here to tell you there’s hope. You CAN live your life without feeling like you want to cry every day.
Are you a mom struggling with feeling so overwhelmed you question if you’re doing anything right? You spend the day driving the kids around, doing chores, and working but feel like you don’t get anything done? Do you feel you’re on edge and quickly get irritated with your family? Are resentments growing toward your loved ones and you struggle to enjoy family time? I get it. As a mom in today’s society it’s common to experience such frustration and exhaustion that all you want to do is lock yourself in the bathroom and scream. I’m here to tell you there’s hope. You CAN live your life without feeling like you want to cry every day.
(980) 983-5843 View (980) 983-5843
Photo of Tracy Masiello Brown - Reaching Resolution, PLLC, PhD, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Reaching Resolution, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Reaching Resolution is a group practice with over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, individuals, couples, and families to help find solutions to the problems that you or your loved ones face. We use a positive, strengths-based approach, drawing from evidence-based strategies to fit your own unique situation and needs. We use a solution-focused approach to help you find positive ways to handle situations and reach the resolution that's right for you.
Reaching Resolution is a group practice with over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, individuals, couples, and families to help find solutions to the problems that you or your loved ones face. We use a positive, strengths-based approach, drawing from evidence-based strategies to fit your own unique situation and needs. We use a solution-focused approach to help you find positive ways to handle situations and reach the resolution that's right for you.
(704) 761-4176 View (704) 761-4176
Photo of Kristina Mathews Acosta, PhD, LCAS, LCMHC, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristina Mathews Acosta
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCAS, LCMHC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Does life seem a bit overwhelming? Does your mind keep racing and are you having trouble sleeping? Do you feel down? Do you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders? If you or your loved one have answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone, we can help! It is normal to have obstacles occur as we travel through life, but when it starts to interfere with our daily living we may experience frustration, sadness, confusion, and uneasiness. Getting help with these issues may lead to a more fulfilling life for you. Together, you and I will work together to meet your individual goals.
Does life seem a bit overwhelming? Does your mind keep racing and are you having trouble sleeping? Do you feel down? Do you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders? If you or your loved one have answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone, we can help! It is normal to have obstacles occur as we travel through life, but when it starts to interfere with our daily living we may experience frustration, sadness, confusion, and uneasiness. Getting help with these issues may lead to a more fulfilling life for you. Together, you and I will work together to meet your individual goals.
(704) 286-6227 View (704) 286-6227
Photo of Jessica Beyer - La Vida Counseling, PLLC, LCMHCS, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
La Vida Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Our team of therapists are ready to help for individual or couples counseling! We offer in person and virtual session! Specialties include but not limited to: trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems and transitions into college. Please visit our website at www.lavidacounseling.com for more details about our therapists and services we offer. We offer counseling services and Immigration Evaluations to clients from age 5 years-Adult and video sessions and in person sessions. ¡Se habla Español!
Our team of therapists are ready to help for individual or couples counseling! We offer in person and virtual session! Specialties include but not limited to: trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems and transitions into college. Please visit our website at www.lavidacounseling.com for more details about our therapists and services we offer. We offer counseling services and Immigration Evaluations to clients from age 5 years-Adult and video sessions and in person sessions. ¡Se habla Español!
(704) 935-4208 View (704) 935-4208
Photo of Brandy Kirby Shott, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Brandy Kirby Shott
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
I am committed to building a relationship with you in order to navigate your story. My counseling style is conversational and direct, balanced with genuine care in order to collaborate and assist you with rewriting your story and achieving your goals. I love working with adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples. Some of my specialties include trauma, anxiety, codependency, attachment, and life transitions. I believe that each of us has a wisdom within to heal; together we will help you connect with your own inner wisdom to experience wellness.
I am committed to building a relationship with you in order to navigate your story. My counseling style is conversational and direct, balanced with genuine care in order to collaborate and assist you with rewriting your story and achieving your goals. I love working with adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples. Some of my specialties include trauma, anxiety, codependency, attachment, and life transitions. I believe that each of us has a wisdom within to heal; together we will help you connect with your own inner wisdom to experience wellness.
(704) 804-0810 View (704) 804-0810
Photo of Rebecca Blanchard, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Rebecca Blanchard
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Starting therapy can be hard and you are brave to be here taking this first step. I’m passionate about helping clients and families accept themselves and each other. My goal is to create a safe space that allows you to meet yourself exactly where you are and shift the way that you or your child interacts with the world. I have experience supporting clients with anxiety, adoption/attachment needs, depression, grief/loss, mood disorders, parenting support, relationship issues, and trauma. As an EMDR trained therapist together we can process feelings, memories, and trauma that may be too difficult to manage alone.
Starting therapy can be hard and you are brave to be here taking this first step. I’m passionate about helping clients and families accept themselves and each other. My goal is to create a safe space that allows you to meet yourself exactly where you are and shift the way that you or your child interacts with the world. I have experience supporting clients with anxiety, adoption/attachment needs, depression, grief/loss, mood disorders, parenting support, relationship issues, and trauma. As an EMDR trained therapist together we can process feelings, memories, and trauma that may be too difficult to manage alone.
(704) 459-5195 View (704) 459-5195
Photo of Sarah Post, MA, LCMHC
Sarah Post
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Asking for help is hard and can be very scary, the fear of judgement, the fear of weakness, the fear of "going crazy". Yet I believe reaching out for help is one of the bravest things anyone can do. I have a passion for working with individuals with trauma. I also have a passion for working with children. It is never too late to start feeling better about being yourself, whether the work starts in childhood or later in life. I want to help people find peace in themselves whether through change or through acceptance.
Asking for help is hard and can be very scary, the fear of judgement, the fear of weakness, the fear of "going crazy". Yet I believe reaching out for help is one of the bravest things anyone can do. I have a passion for working with individuals with trauma. I also have a passion for working with children. It is never too late to start feeling better about being yourself, whether the work starts in childhood or later in life. I want to help people find peace in themselves whether through change or through acceptance.
(704) 741-1974 View (704) 741-1974
Photo of Aditi Patel, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Aditi Patel
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
As a professional counselor, YOU are my focus. I view counseling as a series of small stepping-stones, each representing success, when joined together, provide a path for change. Teamwork is the most important foundation in counseling. I am here to help guide you towards meeting goals and resolving challenges that life throws at you. As your therapist I aim to work with you to overcome any obstacles that you are facing in your life and embark with you on your journey. It is my hope that throughout our time together, you will create a path towards understanding and being able to resolve your own obstacles and challenges.
As a professional counselor, YOU are my focus. I view counseling as a series of small stepping-stones, each representing success, when joined together, provide a path for change. Teamwork is the most important foundation in counseling. I am here to help guide you towards meeting goals and resolving challenges that life throws at you. As your therapist I aim to work with you to overcome any obstacles that you are facing in your life and embark with you on your journey. It is my hope that throughout our time together, you will create a path towards understanding and being able to resolve your own obstacles and challenges.
(980) 399-4597 View (980) 399-4597
Photo of Joy P Robbins - Joy Robbins; Creative Counseling & Consulting,PLLC, LPC-S, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joy Robbins; Creative Counseling & Consulting,PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
You are one step closer to a new you! I enjoy helping adolescent and adult clients find solutions through a balance of support and challenge. When you're on my couch, I work as hard as you do. I believe in helping you change your thoughts to change your feelings to change your behaviors which will change your life! I have worked in a variety of settings: an inpatient psychiatric hospital, public schools, residential treatment, EAP and private practice. I can help you reach your potential!
You are one step closer to a new you! I enjoy helping adolescent and adult clients find solutions through a balance of support and challenge. When you're on my couch, I work as hard as you do. I believe in helping you change your thoughts to change your feelings to change your behaviors which will change your life! I have worked in a variety of settings: an inpatient psychiatric hospital, public schools, residential treatment, EAP and private practice. I can help you reach your potential!
(704) 870-4678 View (704) 870-4678
Photo of Laura Seitz - Advene Health Group, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Advene Health Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
My idea as a psychotherapist is to provide safe, comfortable & judgment-free environment for clients to work through issues. My role as a psychotherapist is to respect the goals that my clients come in with, and support the process of working toward these goals. I believe Psychotherapy can enhance one's self-awareness and the ability to recognize in one's own self-defeating and self-sabotaging patterns, and to change these patterns.
My idea as a psychotherapist is to provide safe, comfortable & judgment-free environment for clients to work through issues. My role as a psychotherapist is to respect the goals that my clients come in with, and support the process of working toward these goals. I believe Psychotherapy can enhance one's self-awareness and the ability to recognize in one's own self-defeating and self-sabotaging patterns, and to change these patterns.
(980) 247-4144 View (980) 247-4144
Photo of Michael Clark-Borenstein, MA, LCMHC, QS
Michael Clark-Borenstein
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, QS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Everyone faces difficulties throughout life, sometimes it can be tough to go through those tough times alone. I am here to give support. I want to be able to provide a space where you can feel comfortable and safe. My passion is helping those with anxiety, depression, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, and other life stressors. During the process we will go outside the office for a walk or to play games or use interactive activities inside. My certified service dog can also assist me to help make sessions more comfortable. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, and have experience working with children, adolescents, adults.
Everyone faces difficulties throughout life, sometimes it can be tough to go through those tough times alone. I am here to give support. I want to be able to provide a space where you can feel comfortable and safe. My passion is helping those with anxiety, depression, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, and other life stressors. During the process we will go outside the office for a walk or to play games or use interactive activities inside. My certified service dog can also assist me to help make sessions more comfortable. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, and have experience working with children, adolescents, adults.
(704) 769-9980 View (704) 769-9980
Photo of Kathryn Grimsley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Grimsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
My stance is non-judgmental, honest, validating & empowering. I provide my clients with tangible coping skills & feedback to produce meaningful change.
My stance is non-judgmental, honest, validating & empowering. I provide my clients with tangible coping skills & feedback to produce meaningful change.
(980) 350-0671 View (980) 350-0671
1
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.