LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in 84117
Riley Jay Barrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117
I also work largely with the LGBTQ+ population, primarily with men experiencing sexual shame, spiritual conflicts, concerns, anxiety, depression, insecurities, and relationship issues.
I offer an empathic, client-directed approach and love helping clients build better versions of themselves. I meet clients where they are and provide a space where they can explore their unique life experiences and find their path forward. I have worked in the mental health field for 8+ years, beginning with getting a Bachelor’s degree in psychology from BYU.
I also work largely with the LGBTQ+ population, primarily with men experiencing sexual shame, spiritual conflicts, concerns, anxiety, depression, insecurities, and relationship issues.
I offer an empathic, client-directed approach and love helping clients build better versions of themselves. I meet clients where they are and provide a space where they can explore their unique life experiences and find their path forward. I have worked in the mental health field for 8+ years, beginning with getting a Bachelor’s degree in psychology from BYU.
Susie Horne | Well Life Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Millcreek, UT 84117 (Online Only)
I enjoy working with clients who feel marginalized by society (especially the LGBTQ+ Community), those who have complex trauma histories, and clients seeking support with grief and loss.
While you are uniquely special, your struggles are more common than you think. We all have challenges, and often in very universal ways. It’s all part of the human experience. I believe in the power of processing feelings and experiences as a way of helping us make sense of them. It can be profoundly healing to have a safe space in which to be affirmed and productively challenged. Together we can explore issues related to ambivalence, shame, resilience, boundaries, connection, confidence, and self-development in order to help you fully show up in your life.
I enjoy working with clients who feel marginalized by society (especially the LGBTQ+ Community), those who have complex trauma histories, and clients seeking support with grief and loss.
While you are uniquely special, your struggles are more common than you think. We all have challenges, and often in very universal ways. It’s all part of the human experience. I believe in the power of processing feelings and experiences as a way of helping us make sense of them. It can be profoundly healing to have a safe space in which to be affirmed and productively challenged. Together we can explore issues related to ambivalence, shame, resilience, boundaries, connection, confidence, and self-development in order to help you fully show up in your life.
Emilia Kongaika
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW-I
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84117
Emilia (Emi) Fryar is a CSW-I with LifeStance Health. She is originally from Portland, Oregon, but has lived in various states and countries. She completed her Bachelor's in Social Work in Hawai'i, minoring in Psychology and American Sign Language, and completed her Master's in Social Work from Boise State. Emi's majority of experience lies with youth, teens, and young adults. She enjoys working with those navigating educational, vocational, relationship, and faith crises and transitions. She is LGBTQIA+ affirmative. Emi incorporates CBT, mindfulness, and trauma-informed practices such as EMDR in her care.
Emilia (Emi) Fryar is a CSW-I with LifeStance Health. She is originally from Portland, Oregon, but has lived in various states and countries. She completed her Bachelor's in Social Work in Hawai'i, minoring in Psychology and American Sign Language, and completed her Master's in Social Work from Boise State. Emi's majority of experience lies with youth, teens, and young adults. She enjoys working with those navigating educational, vocational, relationship, and faith crises and transitions. She is LGBTQIA+ affirmative. Emi incorporates CBT, mindfulness, and trauma-informed practices such as EMDR in her care.
Bruno Leonardo Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84117
I have a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of life, including mental health issues, life and faith transitions, and complex interpersonal dynamics. I am focused on improving relationships for individuals and couples and fostering a healthy exploration of sexual health and well-being. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I also offer a compassionate and understanding hand to those wrestling with identity confusion, helping them move toward a path of acceptance and pride.
I have a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of life, including mental health issues, life and faith transitions, and complex interpersonal dynamics. I am focused on improving relationships for individuals and couples and fostering a healthy exploration of sexual health and well-being. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I also offer a compassionate and understanding hand to those wrestling with identity confusion, helping them move toward a path of acceptance and pride.
Becky Bowles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117
Living during times of crisis can be more stressful and overwhelming, which can make dealing with stress, anxiety, depression and relationship issues even harder. Asking for help, and taking time to take care of you is a healthy and important part of handling it all. With all of us going through so much, it's even more important than ever to take good care of ourselves. My specialties are healing CPTSD, LGBTQ+, relationship issues, recovering from narcissistic relationships, emotional abuse, and gaslighting. LDS faith and religious crisis/transition, and living a life of authenticity are also a big part of my work.
Living during times of crisis can be more stressful and overwhelming, which can make dealing with stress, anxiety, depression and relationship issues even harder. Asking for help, and taking time to take care of you is a healthy and important part of handling it all. With all of us going through so much, it's even more important than ever to take good care of ourselves. My specialties are healing CPTSD, LGBTQ+, relationship issues, recovering from narcissistic relationships, emotional abuse, and gaslighting. LDS faith and religious crisis/transition, and living a life of authenticity are also a big part of my work.
Tiana Saitman
Counselor, ACMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84117
Waitlist for new clients
I also assist clients in complex relationship dynamics, and provide support to LGBTQIA+ individuals.
My therapeutic passion revolves around fostering genuine connection and understanding while collaboratively seeking solutions for my clients. I am driven by the desire to empower individuals to discover their own path to happiness and well-being. I work with a variety of clients, which include adolescents and young adults navigating life transitions, healing from traumatic experiences, or grappling with anxiety disorders.
I also assist clients in complex relationship dynamics, and provide support to LGBTQIA+ individuals.
My therapeutic passion revolves around fostering genuine connection and understanding while collaboratively seeking solutions for my clients. I am driven by the desire to empower individuals to discover their own path to happiness and well-being. I work with a variety of clients, which include adolescents and young adults navigating life transitions, healing from traumatic experiences, or grappling with anxiety disorders.
Natasha Helfer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST-S
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84117
Are you, or is someone you love, facing a faith transition that is affecting your relationships and other areas of your life? Are you LGBT+ and looking for services that will support your journey? Do you have sexuality concerns or are you looking for a sex-positive perspective? Are you dealing with issues that require sexual healing?
Are you, or is someone you love, facing a faith transition that is affecting your relationships and other areas of your life? Are you LGBT+ and looking for services that will support your journey? Do you have sexuality concerns or are you looking for a sex-positive perspective? Are you dealing with issues that require sexual healing?
Xander Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117 (Online Only)
Are you taking care of your mental health?! Self-care is a buzz word especially since a global pandemic shocked us all out of complacency and feelings of safety. I believe mental health is a daily practice like diet, fitness, sleep and mindfulness that we all need to engage in regularly. An experienced guide and wellness partner can make all the difference! I have 16 years of practice working with a very diverse population. As a gay man living in Utah I understand the challenge of unseen individuals and I have experience working with a varied group of individuals. Certified in Mind Body Medicine and EMDR. Trauma proficient.
Are you taking care of your mental health?! Self-care is a buzz word especially since a global pandemic shocked us all out of complacency and feelings of safety. I believe mental health is a daily practice like diet, fitness, sleep and mindfulness that we all need to engage in regularly. An experienced guide and wellness partner can make all the difference! I have 16 years of practice working with a very diverse population. As a gay man living in Utah I understand the challenge of unseen individuals and I have experience working with a varied group of individuals. Certified in Mind Body Medicine and EMDR. Trauma proficient.
Integrated Healers Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84117
We have 50+ years of combined education and experience in health care, and offer individual, couples, family and group psychotherapy, coaching, psychedelic journeying and integration, yoga, meditation, annual check-ups, medication management, including medical cannabis and more! We are LGBTQIA+ and non-monogamy friendly.
Hello there! We're the Integrated Healers! The I.H.C. was founded by Lizzie Bosen, LCSW Owner/Psychotherapist and Coach of Her Wellness Therapy in 2023. Our mission is to bring anti-oppressive, integrated, and affordable health care to those who seek it. We offer western and eastern approaches, plant medicines, and holistic practices to treat root issues. The collective meets ethical code, and best practice requirements per the NASW, and allows healers the support, clinical supervision/internships, and resources to thrive, which in turn help our clients to heal and thrive too.
We have 50+ years of combined education and experience in health care, and offer individual, couples, family and group psychotherapy, coaching, psychedelic journeying and integration, yoga, meditation, annual check-ups, medication management, including medical cannabis and more! We are LGBTQIA+ and non-monogamy friendly.
Hello there! We're the Integrated Healers! The I.H.C. was founded by Lizzie Bosen, LCSW Owner/Psychotherapist and Coach of Her Wellness Therapy in 2023. Our mission is to bring anti-oppressive, integrated, and affordable health care to those who seek it. We offer western and eastern approaches, plant medicines, and holistic practices to treat root issues. The collective meets ethical code, and best practice requirements per the NASW, and allows healers the support, clinical supervision/internships, and resources to thrive, which in turn help our clients to heal and thrive too.
Daniel R Peterson
Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117 (Online Only)
I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ issues, religious trauma, substance abuse recovery, and generalized mental health concerns.
I hope to create a space for clients who are looking to understand themselves through integration and living by their values. I'm open to anyone in the process who is striving to be honest and curious about their journey!
I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ issues, religious trauma, substance abuse recovery, and generalized mental health concerns.
I hope to create a space for clients who are looking to understand themselves through integration and living by their values. I'm open to anyone in the process who is striving to be honest and curious about their journey!
Kimberly Solomon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84117
I am experienced in working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello there, welcome! You have taken a courageous first step. I understand that each of our path's to healing are different and unique. I am devoted to helping individuals explore and navigate these paths in order to have the best outcome, to heal, enjoy life, and gain a better understanding and love of self. You are capable of having the life you want. I am here to help in your healing process. I strongly believe that with a good therapeutic relationship, change is possible.
I am experienced in working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello there, welcome! You have taken a courageous first step. I understand that each of our path's to healing are different and unique. I am devoted to helping individuals explore and navigate these paths in order to have the best outcome, to heal, enjoy life, and gain a better understanding and love of self. You are capable of having the life you want. I am here to help in your healing process. I strongly believe that with a good therapeutic relationship, change is possible.
15 Second Videos
Joseph Gouveia
Her Wellness Therapy
Melinda Stonecliffe
Samantha Carter
Rob Shaffer
Jordan Rullo
Megan D Daybell
Lexis Ely
Dawn K Dickinson
Julia Taylor
Camilla Olsen
Brandon Yabko
Hunter Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holladay, UT 84117
I have experience working with adolescents, teenagers, young adults, adults, and LGBTQIA+ individuals; I also have experience working with life transitions, trauma, PTSD, and people experiencing anxiety/depression.
In my office you can expect a warm and empathetic approach where I provide evidence-based interventions such as ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) to assist our work together. I believe that therapy is about teamwork, and I welcome your input throughout the therapeutic process. Together, we'll work towards achieving your goals, fostering growth, and making healthy changes. Central to my practice is meeting you where you are, viewing you holistically, and recognizing your inherent strengths.
I have experience working with adolescents, teenagers, young adults, adults, and LGBTQIA+ individuals; I also have experience working with life transitions, trauma, PTSD, and people experiencing anxiety/depression.
In my office you can expect a warm and empathetic approach where I provide evidence-based interventions such as ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) to assist our work together. I believe that therapy is about teamwork, and I welcome your input throughout the therapeutic process. Together, we'll work towards achieving your goals, fostering growth, and making healthy changes. Central to my practice is meeting you where you are, viewing you holistically, and recognizing your inherent strengths.
Jen Panahinia - Earthshine Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MS, CMHC
Verified Verified
Millcreek, UT 84117
Waitlist for new clients
I pay particular attention to issues related to the BIPOC, AAPI, and LGBTQIA+ communities.
I value diversity and inclusion and am dedicated to offering a safe space for my clients to come as they are. I find that clients who work best with me are those willing to be challenged and are hoping to gain a deeper understanding of themselves. My focus is on insight-oriented therapy with the goal of developing better understanding of one's internal processes (thoughts, emotions) as they relate to external factors such as relationships, daily stressors, communication, and life choices.
I pay particular attention to issues related to the BIPOC, AAPI, and LGBTQIA+ communities.
I value diversity and inclusion and am dedicated to offering a safe space for my clients to come as they are. I find that clients who work best with me are those willing to be challenged and are hoping to gain a deeper understanding of themselves. My focus is on insight-oriented therapy with the goal of developing better understanding of one's internal processes (thoughts, emotions) as they relate to external factors such as relationships, daily stressors, communication, and life choices.
Mary Waters
Counselor, ACMHC
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117
This includes women, racial and religious minorities, cultural minorities, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
I have worked with clients in processing trauma, grief, and inter-relationship issues, such as emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, codependency, marriage/partner concerns, separation/divorce, parenting, sexual concerns, self-esteem, perfectionism, identity questions, and life transitions. I specialize in faith concerns, including religious trauma, faith crisis/transition, and shifts in faith or religious affiliation. I look forward to working with people on their faith journey, whether they wish to remain in their current faith or transition into a post-faith identity.
This includes women, racial and religious minorities, cultural minorities, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
I have worked with clients in processing trauma, grief, and inter-relationship issues, such as emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, codependency, marriage/partner concerns, separation/divorce, parenting, sexual concerns, self-esteem, perfectionism, identity questions, and life transitions. I specialize in faith concerns, including religious trauma, faith crisis/transition, and shifts in faith or religious affiliation. I look forward to working with people on their faith journey, whether they wish to remain in their current faith or transition into a post-faith identity.
Van C. Evans, PhD Clinical Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117
This includes resolving conflicts between spirituality & sexuality, being gay in an LDS community, disclosing infidelity, sex and porn addiction, and discretion in therapy.
Over the years, I have developed my gift of diagnosis which helps me to understand my patients in an accurate and easy to understand manner for them. Then we grieve together the past and implement interventions and boundaries for a healthy future. Psychotherapy is proven to be more enduring than drug therapy, and my approach towards treating my patients is to avoid medication where possible.
This includes resolving conflicts between spirituality & sexuality, being gay in an LDS community, disclosing infidelity, sex and porn addiction, and discretion in therapy.
Over the years, I have developed my gift of diagnosis which helps me to understand my patients in an accurate and easy to understand manner for them. Then we grieve together the past and implement interventions and boundaries for a healthy future. Psychotherapy is proven to be more enduring than drug therapy, and my approach towards treating my patients is to avoid medication where possible.
Shannon Hickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holladay, UT 84117 (Online Only)
Other common presenting concerns are: BDSM, open relationships, transgender care, cross-dressing, intersex conditions.
Sex and intimacy are at the core of human experience. When things are going well, sex may feel easy and natural but when challenges arise it may feel strained and may become a source of pain and frustration. As a trained sex therapist I am able to help with a variety of sexual concerns such as: abuse, affairs, communication problems, couples counseling, delayed ejaculation, desire, erectile difficulties, fetishes, gender identity/gender care, gay/lesbian issues, infidelity, libido, no sex/low sex relationships, orgasm difficulties, painful intercourse, pelvic pain, premature ejaculation, religious values conflicts, sex addiction/out of control sexual behavior.
Other common presenting concerns are: BDSM, open relationships, transgender care, cross-dressing, intersex conditions.
Sex and intimacy are at the core of human experience. When things are going well, sex may feel easy and natural but when challenges arise it may feel strained and may become a source of pain and frustration. As a trained sex therapist I am able to help with a variety of sexual concerns such as: abuse, affairs, communication problems, couples counseling, delayed ejaculation, desire, erectile difficulties, fetishes, gender identity/gender care, gay/lesbian issues, infidelity, libido, no sex/low sex relationships, orgasm difficulties, painful intercourse, pelvic pain, premature ejaculation, religious values conflicts, sex addiction/out of control sexual behavior.
C. Nicole Lovejoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84117 (Online Only)
I am committed to assisting individuals in living authentically without regrets. My approach is rooted mindfulness based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and strength based perspective. I am trained in hypnosis through American Society of Clinical Hypnosis and have found this to be a very helpful tool. I use a holistic approach in working with my clients with the goal of teaching them to use their mind body and spirit for healing and growth. I have extensive knowledge in addiction, codependency, trauma, depression and anxiety. I am comfortable working with adults, families, couples and LGBTQ community.
I am committed to assisting individuals in living authentically without regrets. My approach is rooted mindfulness based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and strength based perspective. I am trained in hypnosis through American Society of Clinical Hypnosis and have found this to be a very helpful tool. I use a holistic approach in working with my clients with the goal of teaching them to use their mind body and spirit for healing and growth. I have extensive knowledge in addiction, codependency, trauma, depression and anxiety. I am comfortable working with adults, families, couples and LGBTQ community.
Carey Milne
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holladay, UT 84117 (Online Only)
I have experience working with many clients who are LDS and I am LGBT+ affirmative.
Accepting new clients. I provide therapy for individuals, couples, and families via Telehealth (video) and view this process as a collaborative one. We all experience struggles in life. If you find that coping with these is proving more difficult than you thought (or strategies you have tried are not helping), you may want to consider therapy. I aim to provide a safe, empathic, and confidential atmosphere so that we can explore your concerns, away from your every day environment. You do not have to face life's challenges alone. It is truly an honor to listen to the experiences and stories my clients choose to share.
I have experience working with many clients who are LDS and I am LGBT+ affirmative.
Accepting new clients. I provide therapy for individuals, couples, and families via Telehealth (video) and view this process as a collaborative one. We all experience struggles in life. If you find that coping with these is proving more difficult than you thought (or strategies you have tried are not helping), you may want to consider therapy. I aim to provide a safe, empathic, and confidential atmosphere so that we can explore your concerns, away from your every day environment. You do not have to face life's challenges alone. It is truly an honor to listen to the experiences and stories my clients choose to share.
Shawna Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Holladay, UT 84117
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include working with life transitions, depression and anxiety, family and relationship issues, healing from trauma and abuse, LGBTQIA+, adoption and attachment issues, self-harm and suicidal ideation, personal Growth and self-belief.
Are you seeking more peace, healing or growth in your life? Do you find yourself asking "What do I want to create in my life? What do I want to move away from?" I believe everyone has intrinsic value and the right to define your own happiness. I feel privileged to walk through the change process with you and help create a safe space to do that. Together we can identify your goals and desires and find ways for you to thrive in the life that you choose. I have special interest in women’s issues including relationships, life changes, trauma, and empowering women to reach their full potential.
My specialties include working with life transitions, depression and anxiety, family and relationship issues, healing from trauma and abuse, LGBTQIA+, adoption and attachment issues, self-harm and suicidal ideation, personal Growth and self-belief.
Are you seeking more peace, healing or growth in your life? Do you find yourself asking "What do I want to create in my life? What do I want to move away from?" I believe everyone has intrinsic value and the right to define your own happiness. I feel privileged to walk through the change process with you and help create a safe space to do that. Together we can identify your goals and desires and find ways for you to thrive in the life that you choose. I have special interest in women’s issues including relationships, life changes, trauma, and empowering women to reach their full potential.
Glade Woolstenhulme
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Millcreek, UT 84117
He continues to practice his lifelong dedication of serving and providing healing and compassion to the LGBTQA+ .
Glade is a Certified Social Worker (CSW) with seven years of experience working in various Dual-Diagnose mental health, and substance abuse centers across the country. Glade specializes in a Multicultural Clinical Practice and has a deep awareness of his social and cultural identities. He utilizes person-in-environment as an organizing perspective, his multi-cultural social work practice addresses the bio-psycho-social and spiritual functioning of individuals, couples, families, and groups.
He continues to practice his lifelong dedication of serving and providing healing and compassion to the LGBTQA+ .
Glade is a Certified Social Worker (CSW) with seven years of experience working in various Dual-Diagnose mental health, and substance abuse centers across the country. Glade specializes in a Multicultural Clinical Practice and has a deep awareness of his social and cultural identities. He utilizes person-in-environment as an organizing perspective, his multi-cultural social work practice addresses the bio-psycho-social and spiritual functioning of individuals, couples, families, and groups.
See more therapy options for 84117
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.