LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Bella Vista, AR

Photo of Allie Wakefield, MS, LPE-I
Allie Wakefield
MS, LPE-I
Verified Verified
Bella Vista, AR 72714
When times get tough, we all need compassionate support and lots of coping skills! Allow me to help you through the hard times while teaching effective strategies to calm the inner chaos. By learning to care for yourself and understand your struggles you will find true stability and control that can be sustained, no matter the circumstances. Teens, especially need to learn these skills in order to successfully launch into adulthood. I strive to equip each of my clients with a coping skills set early on in treatment. I am trained in EMDR for treating trauma. I am an ally and member of the LGBTQ+ community.
When times get tough, we all need compassionate support and lots of coping skills! Allow me to help you through the hard times while teaching effective strategies to calm the inner chaos. By learning to care for yourself and understand your struggles you will find true stability and control that can be sustained, no matter the circumstances. Teens, especially need to learn these skills in order to successfully launch into adulthood. I strive to equip each of my clients with a coping skills set early on in treatment. I am trained in EMDR for treating trauma. I am an ally and member of the LGBTQ+ community.
(417) 815-0738 View (417) 815-0738
Photo of Chloe Zahn, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Chloe Zahn
Counselor, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bella Vista, AR 72714
Chloe’s practice focuses on healing a client’s attachment and relationship wounds, providing a safe and secure presence for the client(s), and reframing or challenging a client’s inner critic. As a Certified Trauma Professional, Chloe has vast understanding of how past trauma impacts today’s well-being. She utilizes her studies as a CPT therapist and EFT techniques, along other techniques. Chloe, like all Wellness & Courage clinicians, is LGBTQIA+ friendly and affirming.
Chloe’s practice focuses on healing a client’s attachment and relationship wounds, providing a safe and secure presence for the client(s), and reframing or challenging a client’s inner critic. As a Certified Trauma Professional, Chloe has vast understanding of how past trauma impacts today’s well-being. She utilizes her studies as a CPT therapist and EFT techniques, along other techniques. Chloe, like all Wellness & Courage clinicians, is LGBTQIA+ friendly and affirming.
(479) 345-5164 View (479) 345-5164
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Steele-Wren, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Stephanie Steele-Wren
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bella Vista, AR 72714
Waitlist for new clients
I am a member of the LGBTQ+ community and offer true affirming care.
Currently, I have a waitlist for testing, so please call to be added. We contact those on the list in order whenever there is a rare cancellation. If looking for talk therapy, my wonderful colleagues at my practice usually have more immediate availability! Thanks for stopping by to read my profile and for considering me for your treatment needs. I am very authentic and transparent about who I am in my work. As a Licensed Psychologist, I provide comprehensive evals (i.e. ADHD, Autism) and focus on testing you holistically, not just for the diagnosis suspected- I want you to learn about yourself through the process.
I am a member of the LGBTQ+ community and offer true affirming care.
Currently, I have a waitlist for testing, so please call to be added. We contact those on the list in order whenever there is a rare cancellation. If looking for talk therapy, my wonderful colleagues at my practice usually have more immediate availability! Thanks for stopping by to read my profile and for considering me for your treatment needs. I am very authentic and transparent about who I am in my work. As a Licensed Psychologist, I provide comprehensive evals (i.e. ADHD, Autism) and focus on testing you holistically, not just for the diagnosis suspected- I want you to learn about yourself through the process.
(479) 227-5930 View (479) 227-5930
Photo of Kerry Marie Ryall, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kerry Marie Ryall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bella Vista, AR 72715
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families. I take an eclectic approach to therapy and focus treatment based on the needs of the family or individual. I have special training in trauma treatment with families, children, and adolescents that has been proven to be extremely effective with persons with trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, substance abuse, and behavioral issues. Therapy provides ways to express feelings, understand patterns of thinking, gain perspective on past events and current relationships, set goals, and clarify dreams for the future.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families. I take an eclectic approach to therapy and focus treatment based on the needs of the family or individual. I have special training in trauma treatment with families, children, and adolescents that has been proven to be extremely effective with persons with trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, substance abuse, and behavioral issues. Therapy provides ways to express feelings, understand patterns of thinking, gain perspective on past events and current relationships, set goals, and clarify dreams for the future.
(310) 935-3682 View (310) 935-3682
Photo of Kelly Dundon, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Dundon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bella Vista, AR 72715  (Online Only)
I offer planning and integration support for psychedelic experiences to help derive long-term benefits and transformative insights.
A cornerstone of my approach is trauma-informed care, where I create a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore and address past traumas. Whether it's navigating PTSD, anxiety, depression, or working through challenges related to personality disorders, I'm dedicated to helping clients reclaim their agency and resilience. I enjoy working with neurodivergent individuals, LGBTQAI+ -identifying folks, and women or femme-identifying individuals. My approach is grounded in authenticity, empathy, and empowerment. Together with my clients, we embark on a collaborative journey towards self-awareness, growth, and resilience.
I offer planning and integration support for psychedelic experiences to help derive long-term benefits and transformative insights.
A cornerstone of my approach is trauma-informed care, where I create a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore and address past traumas. Whether it's navigating PTSD, anxiety, depression, or working through challenges related to personality disorders, I'm dedicated to helping clients reclaim their agency and resilience. I enjoy working with neurodivergent individuals, LGBTQAI+ -identifying folks, and women or femme-identifying individuals. My approach is grounded in authenticity, empathy, and empowerment. Together with my clients, we embark on a collaborative journey towards self-awareness, growth, and resilience.
(479) 239-8759 View (479) 239-8759
Photo of Carmen Cubillo - NWA Marriage & Family Therapy, LMFT-S, LPC-S, EMDR, TA, Marriage & Family Therapist
NWA Marriage & Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, LPC-S, EMDR, TA
Verified Verified
Bella Vista, AR 72715
As a licensed Marriage & Family Therapists, I offer Individual Counseling as well. Make your relationship authentic, loving and dynamic. Experience in overcoming infidelity, emotional trauma, intimacy, blended families, premarital, dating, cohabitation and divorce issues. Depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, self esteem, compulsions. The two best predictors of client's success are a client's motivation and the relationship you and your therapist create, regardless of theory used. Might I be the right counselor for you? Deciding to participate in counseling is a journey of self discovery and a sign of courage and strength.
As a licensed Marriage & Family Therapists, I offer Individual Counseling as well. Make your relationship authentic, loving and dynamic. Experience in overcoming infidelity, emotional trauma, intimacy, blended families, premarital, dating, cohabitation and divorce issues. Depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, self esteem, compulsions. The two best predictors of client's success are a client's motivation and the relationship you and your therapist create, regardless of theory used. Might I be the right counselor for you? Deciding to participate in counseling is a journey of self discovery and a sign of courage and strength.
(479) 202-6587 View (479) 202-6587
Photo of Matthew J Sweetser, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew J Sweetser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bella Vista, AR 72714
My goal is to create a safe, relaxed, and fun environment to partner with clients on their life journeys, explore new goals, and cope with difficult life situations. I am comfortable working with a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, social skills, grief, family conflict, life changes, and relationship issues. I especially enjoy working with adolescents and their families, and individual adults.
My goal is to create a safe, relaxed, and fun environment to partner with clients on their life journeys, explore new goals, and cope with difficult life situations. I am comfortable working with a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, social skills, grief, family conflict, life changes, and relationship issues. I especially enjoy working with adolescents and their families, and individual adults.
(479) 755-4795 View (479) 755-4795
Photo of Katherine D Rogers - Katherine Rogers Counseling, LLC, MS, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine Rogers Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bella Vista, AR 72714
Sometimes, in our lives we hold onto unresolved issues from the past, which can resurface in many different forms. Anxiety, sadness, depression, and anger usually have "roots" digging deep into our pasts. Choosing to suppress or push disturbing feelings aside may work for a period of time, but will not resolve the underlying issue. As a result, ineffective, and often destructive coping patterns develop. Talking with me can break this pattern and lead to a more fulfilling life.
Sometimes, in our lives we hold onto unresolved issues from the past, which can resurface in many different forms. Anxiety, sadness, depression, and anger usually have "roots" digging deep into our pasts. Choosing to suppress or push disturbing feelings aside may work for a period of time, but will not resolve the underlying issue. As a result, ineffective, and often destructive coping patterns develop. Talking with me can break this pattern and lead to a more fulfilling life.
(479) 802-3558 View (479) 802-3558
Photo of Charis Parker, LPC, Counselor
Charis Parker
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bella Vista, AR 72714
Neurodiversity is more common than you might think. Roughly 15-20% of the world's population experiences neruodivergence; however, there is still not enough support for neurodivergent individuals. Charis is passionate about helping clients with neurodiversity such as ADHD, OCD, sensory needs, and various learning disorders. In addition, she has experience working with clients with anxiety, trauma, sleep disturbances, depression, grief and loss, relational concerns and behavioral issues. Charis enjoys working with adolescents, teens and adults and is trained in EMDR, TheraPlay, DBT, and TF-CBT.
Neurodiversity is more common than you might think. Roughly 15-20% of the world's population experiences neruodivergence; however, there is still not enough support for neurodivergent individuals. Charis is passionate about helping clients with neurodiversity such as ADHD, OCD, sensory needs, and various learning disorders. In addition, she has experience working with clients with anxiety, trauma, sleep disturbances, depression, grief and loss, relational concerns and behavioral issues. Charis enjoys working with adolescents, teens and adults and is trained in EMDR, TheraPlay, DBT, and TF-CBT.
(479) 349-4816 View (479) 349-4816
Photo of Taylor Goff, LAC, EdS, Counselor
Taylor Goff
Counselor, LAC, EdS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bella Vista, AR 72714
I truly enjoy working with clients ready for change, excited to break free from cycles that control their life. Wrestling with trauma, anxiety, relationships, sexual health concerns and/or pelvic pain, they are excited for a new chapter. They seek authenticity, vulnerability and the ability to advocate for themselves moving forward. They crave a life infused with hope, where their true selves can thrive, free from stigmas. Their motivation stems from a deep-seated belief in their worthiness of profound change. Collaboratively, we set goals to create safety and healing, free from stigma.
I truly enjoy working with clients ready for change, excited to break free from cycles that control their life. Wrestling with trauma, anxiety, relationships, sexual health concerns and/or pelvic pain, they are excited for a new chapter. They seek authenticity, vulnerability and the ability to advocate for themselves moving forward. They crave a life infused with hope, where their true selves can thrive, free from stigmas. Their motivation stems from a deep-seated belief in their worthiness of profound change. Collaboratively, we set goals to create safety and healing, free from stigma.
(479) 662-1741 View (479) 662-1741
Photo of Whitney Ghassani, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Whitney Ghassani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bella Vista, AR 72714
I believe that we are all equipped with an inner guidance system that pushes us to grow anytime we are out of alignment with our highest selves. Oftentimes, this guidance comes in the form of pain or emotional discomfort. Many of us may identify this pain as depression or anxiety symptoms, feelings of inadequacy, low-self-esteem, grief, anger, fear, or hopelessness. The ways in which we respond to our pain has tremendous implications for future healing and overall quality of life. Action is necessary in order to create change. If you have arrived at this page then you have already begun taking action to improve your circumstances.
I believe that we are all equipped with an inner guidance system that pushes us to grow anytime we are out of alignment with our highest selves. Oftentimes, this guidance comes in the form of pain or emotional discomfort. Many of us may identify this pain as depression or anxiety symptoms, feelings of inadequacy, low-self-esteem, grief, anger, fear, or hopelessness. The ways in which we respond to our pain has tremendous implications for future healing and overall quality of life. Action is necessary in order to create change. If you have arrived at this page then you have already begun taking action to improve your circumstances.
(479) 888-5546 View (479) 888-5546
Photo of Christin Bridges, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christin Bridges
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bella Vista, AR 72714
I want to help you live a full and meaningful life. The ways in which we interact with difficult thoughts and emotions can impact every part of our lives. I want to help you learn a new way of interacting with thoughts and feelings. I am best suited for individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety and/or loss. We will work together to increase psychological flexibility, which can reduce symptoms/ suffering and help you live a full, rich and meaningful life.
I want to help you live a full and meaningful life. The ways in which we interact with difficult thoughts and emotions can impact every part of our lives. I want to help you learn a new way of interacting with thoughts and feelings. I am best suited for individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety and/or loss. We will work together to increase psychological flexibility, which can reduce symptoms/ suffering and help you live a full, rich and meaningful life.
(501) 200-9236 View (501) 200-9236
Photo of Amy Mills, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Mills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bella Vista, AR 72714  (Online Only)
(870) 359-8487 View (870) 359-8487

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shelley E Simmons, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelley E Simmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
I especially welcome those in the LGBTQIA+ community--and those who are questioning their sexuality or gender.
My style is client-centered, authentic and strengths-based. I will be a catalyst for helping you to see and understand yourself, so that you can live your life at your highest potential. Through active listening, empathy, and validation of experience, we will uncover the courage and skills you have within you in order to achieve positive, lasting change.
I especially welcome those in the LGBTQIA+ community--and those who are questioning their sexuality or gender.
My style is client-centered, authentic and strengths-based. I will be a catalyst for helping you to see and understand yourself, so that you can live your life at your highest potential. Through active listening, empathy, and validation of experience, we will uncover the courage and skills you have within you in order to achieve positive, lasting change.
(479) 364-6375 View (479) 364-6375
Photo of Shakira Michelle Eakins, LCSW, RYT, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shakira Michelle Eakins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pea Ridge, AR 72751  (Online Only)
My primary areas of focus include Black, Indigenous, and People of Color and LGBTQIA+ individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, childhood emotional wounds, and other challenges that affect their ability to feel safe and connected.
I work closely with clients to help them connect deeply with themselves and their community. I see clients 18+ virtually who are residents of Arkansas and Oklahoma. My mission is to develop healthy therapeutic relationships and build community through individual counseling and community yoga. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Yoga Teacher, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with 13+ years' experience providing therapy, advocating for the oppressed, and collaborating with community partners. I also provide workshops for other professionals in many different settings.
My primary areas of focus include Black, Indigenous, and People of Color and LGBTQIA+ individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, childhood emotional wounds, and other challenges that affect their ability to feel safe and connected.
I work closely with clients to help them connect deeply with themselves and their community. I see clients 18+ virtually who are residents of Arkansas and Oklahoma. My mission is to develop healthy therapeutic relationships and build community through individual counseling and community yoga. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Yoga Teacher, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with 13+ years' experience providing therapy, advocating for the oppressed, and collaborating with community partners. I also provide workshops for other professionals in many different settings.
View
Photo of Shelby Freeman, MS, LPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelby Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
As a trained EMDR practitioner and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, one of my specialities is working at the intersection of trauma and LGBTQ+ identities.
I offer a safe and affirming space for individuals navigating trauma, attachment difficulties, anxiety, spirituality, and gender identity. With expertise in trauma recovery, religious and relationship abuse, LGBTQ+ issues, and the complexities surrounding transgender experiences, I provide personalized support to help you heal, grow, and thrive. Whether you’re seeking to process past traumas or embark on a journey of self-discovery, I am here to walk alongside you every step of the way. Lets work together to cultivate resilience, empowerment, and a renewed sense of self!
As a trained EMDR practitioner and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, one of my specialities is working at the intersection of trauma and LGBTQ+ identities.
I offer a safe and affirming space for individuals navigating trauma, attachment difficulties, anxiety, spirituality, and gender identity. With expertise in trauma recovery, religious and relationship abuse, LGBTQ+ issues, and the complexities surrounding transgender experiences, I provide personalized support to help you heal, grow, and thrive. Whether you’re seeking to process past traumas or embark on a journey of self-discovery, I am here to walk alongside you every step of the way. Lets work together to cultivate resilience, empowerment, and a renewed sense of self!
(479) 326-7803 View (479) 326-7803
Photo of Lauren Garrett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Garrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
Lauren is passionate about helping clients find patterns and make connections. She is a very engaged therapist who asks unique questions to bring you clarity and a fresh perspective. Her clinical interests include trauma, family conflict, relationship dynamics, attachment, anxiety, and identity exploration. Her therapeutic approach is psychodynamic therapy, which recognizes the profound impact our past experiences have on our present thoughts and behaviors. Lauren studied social work at NYU and NYU Shanghai, and received training at The New School University. She is a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and values a diverse clientele.
Lauren is passionate about helping clients find patterns and make connections. She is a very engaged therapist who asks unique questions to bring you clarity and a fresh perspective. Her clinical interests include trauma, family conflict, relationship dynamics, attachment, anxiety, and identity exploration. Her therapeutic approach is psychodynamic therapy, which recognizes the profound impact our past experiences have on our present thoughts and behaviors. Lauren studied social work at NYU and NYU Shanghai, and received training at The New School University. She is a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and values a diverse clientele.
(479) 847-1769 View (479) 847-1769
Photo of Jason LeCompte, MAMFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason LeCompte
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a proud founding member of the Bentonville Counseling Collective, a one-of-a-kind counseling practice in NWA. We are individual counselors working together to provide excellent, affordable, and tailored therapy for a vast array of clients. For the past several years we have worked with individuals, couples, and families on many different issues including depression, anxiety, infidelity, trauma, grief, LGBTQ issues, and many others. Whatever the challenge, the Bentonville Counseling Collective can help you overcome it, and help you be happier and more fulfilled in your life.
I'm a proud founding member of the Bentonville Counseling Collective, a one-of-a-kind counseling practice in NWA. We are individual counselors working together to provide excellent, affordable, and tailored therapy for a vast array of clients. For the past several years we have worked with individuals, couples, and families on many different issues including depression, anxiety, infidelity, trauma, grief, LGBTQ issues, and many others. Whatever the challenge, the Bentonville Counseling Collective can help you overcome it, and help you be happier and more fulfilled in your life.
(479) 431-2362 View (479) 431-2362
Photo of Sean Millhouse, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sean Millhouse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
My areas of focus include helping clients through depression, anxiety, grief, life changes, relationship challenges, and LGBTQ+ issues.
I believe that we are the storytellers of our lives. Along the way, we may get lost due to hardship, trauma, loss, and the disconnection from our core values. In my work as a therapist, I am dedicated to helping you rewrite your story from a place of compassion, empowerment, curiosity, and acceptance. Sometimes we need to reset or rediscover our internal compass, and I would be honored to help you find your way on your path to healing and contentment.
My areas of focus include helping clients through depression, anxiety, grief, life changes, relationship challenges, and LGBTQ+ issues.
I believe that we are the storytellers of our lives. Along the way, we may get lost due to hardship, trauma, loss, and the disconnection from our core values. In my work as a therapist, I am dedicated to helping you rewrite your story from a place of compassion, empowerment, curiosity, and acceptance. Sometimes we need to reset or rediscover our internal compass, and I would be honored to help you find your way on your path to healing and contentment.
(479) 239-9221 View (479) 239-9221
Photo of Stephanie Curtis, LPC-S, LMHC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Curtis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMHC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
I have experience helping people with life adjustments, trauma, grief, substance use, LGBTQ+ concerns, and career counseling.
I believe everyone has the ability to heal and your relationship with yourself is your greatest asset. As a compassionate counselor, I am here to support you on your individual journey to emotional well-being. My role as your therapist will be to help facilitate change in areas you want to see improvement in by providing a safe and inviting environment. I use a variety of validating approaches which can empower and motivate you in the therapeutic process.
I have experience helping people with life adjustments, trauma, grief, substance use, LGBTQ+ concerns, and career counseling.
I believe everyone has the ability to heal and your relationship with yourself is your greatest asset. As a compassionate counselor, I am here to support you on your individual journey to emotional well-being. My role as your therapist will be to help facilitate change in areas you want to see improvement in by providing a safe and inviting environment. I use a variety of validating approaches which can empower and motivate you in the therapeutic process.
(479) 239-9091 View (479) 239-9091

See more therapy options for Bella Vista

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.